Published April 5th, 2025

Photos by Jay Kana unless otherwise noted.

With the “Elbows Up” movement in full swing and Canadian tourism becoming increasingly popular, it’s an excellent time to discover, or rediscover, our captivating country.

So you’re looking at Canada for a summer vacation and asking yourself “what’s there to do in Nova Scotia in summer?” So, so, so much! I’ve been there and have been to various regions in my travels. Nova Scotia is fantastic for family road trips, a guys and or gals trip, a couples getaway or a solo adventure.

If one of your summer travel destinations is Nova Scotia, we’ve got a stellar list for you to either follow or include in your exploration of this beautiful part of eastern Canada.

Eastern Shore

While not one of the most popular areas of Nova Scotia, it’s one of my favourites. Experience an authentic clam digging experience in the clam flats and enjoy what you’ve dug for lunch after your morning dig. Memory Lane showcases the history of Nova Scotia and also hosts the clam digging experience.
Stay at the new Blue Forest Shores, where you’re isolated enough to appreciate the land and can fully relax and recharge.

Paddle the Atlantic Ocean with a tour hosted by the good people at Coastal Adventures for a different perspective on this shining gem in Nova Scotia.
Get your step count in with a hike at Taylor Head Provincial Park and you’ve gotta eat at Noon’s Mediterranean Kitchen…I’d go back just for that!

Halifax

There’s nothing quite like Halifax in summer. Within walking distance of a few minutes of each other are the world-famous Halifax Seaport Farmers’ Market, Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21 and the very cool and interactive Discovery Centre.
It’s a rite of passage to take the legendary Harbour Hopper tour by both land and water through their amphibious tour vehicle.
Swing by the Alexander Keith’s, one of North America’s oldest breweries, for a history lesson, brewery tour and samples.
Stroll the streets of Halifax including their lovely waterfront and support local through a variety of shops and restaurants and for a special treat, dine at Bearly’s House of Blues and Ribs for live music every night and fabulous food.
The city knows how to maximize outdoor dining, so take your pick from a plethora of patios.

Cabot Trail

At nearly 300 km, this magical part of Cape Breton, Canada should be experienced at least twice. Do the Cabot Trail drive counterclockwise for ocean views take advantage of the multiple pull-off spots for pictures and video. There are so many small communities and if you can, make time to stop at all of them. There are so many artists on the Cabot Trail that are worth checking out, one of my favourites being The Glass Artisans Studio and Gallery where there’s live glass blowing demonstrations on site!
When you go to Freya and Thor’s Gallery and Cafe in Cheticamp, ask for the owners, Erin and Matt, and tell them I sent you.

Meat Cove is a special, serene place for me and I truly do encourage you go, even for an hour. Watching and listening to the water here is unlike anywhere else in the province.

Stop in at the Glenora Distillery, North America's first distiller of single malt whisky for a tasting, stay for dinner and consider spending the night here.
The Atlantic Gondola at Cape Smokey, the beauty of Baddeck, Ingonish Beach, the Skyline Trail and so much more await you on the Cabot Trail.

Oh - when you go, if you see a restroom, use it. If you see a gas station, fill up.

Cape Breton Highlands National Park

Photos by Parks Canada

This is an excellent stop along the Cabot Trail and in fact, approximately one-third of the Cabot Trail runs through the Cape Breton Highlands National Park.
The winding roads offer some of the best driving experiences in Canada and the views are simply spectacular.
There’s nearly 1,000 square kilometres here and enjoy wonderful hiking and biking trails, eight campgrounds, swimming, educational components and more.
To get that famous picture of the trail, stop at Veteran’s Monument to capture your version of this iconic view.

Annapolis Valley

Welcome to Nova Scotia’s wine country! If wine is your thing, find your designated driver and spend a day or few touring this wonderful wine region.
Benjamin Bridge Vineyards, Bent Ridge Winery, Lightfoot and Wolfville Vineyards, Planters Ridge and others offer tours, tastings and a taste of what this remarkable region has to offer.
The Annapolis Royal Historic Gardens offers 17 acres of serenity and beauty.
Dip into Digby for both the world-famous scallops and to marvel at the majestic Digby Pines Golf Resort & Spa. and be sure to join one of the many whale watching tours.

Wolfville

Only an hour north of Halifax brings you to Wolfville, an under appreciated pice of Nova Scotia. Let’s change that!
Yes, it’s within the Annapolis Valley but is worth its own spot on this list.
Their Farmer’s Market is bustling yet approachable and in typical east coast fashion, you’ll be greeted warmly and welcomed.
For adult beverages, the Church Brewing Company, Annapolis Cider Company and Maritime Cider Express Company are must-visits.
Walk the main streets and enjoy what the local businesses have to offer.
Plus, within 450 metres of each other are a trio of excellent Farm Markets; Elderkins, Stirling’s and Hennigar’s - all worth visiting and supporting.

South Shore

Peggy’s Cove is one of the most photographed lighthouses in the world and with the new viewing deck, it’s even more accessible. Sunsets here are magical and for a true slice of serenity, sit on the rocks and listen to the ocean waves as night falls.
The colours of Lunenburg are best experience through a walking tour and be sure to grab a bite to eat on a patio from one of many restaurants.
Birchtown’s Black Loyalist Heritage Centre provides you with important historical information and the beaches of Bridgetown are exceptional, as is their range of restaurants.
If you like lobster, Barrington is the lobster capital of Canada and you’ll get your fill of fresh lobster here. Take a tour of the over 30 lighthouses between Peggy’s Cove and Barrington during your visit to admire these important pieces of maritime history.

7 Sweet Summer Spots in Nova Scotia