Nova Scotia’s Best Beaches
 (© su_anna, flickr.com)Crystal Crescent Beach |
Nova Scotia is almost completely surrounded by water and the beaches don’t disappoint.
You’ll find many places perfect for a swim, a walk along a deserted stretch of shoreline or just as a vantage point to witness see the world’s highest tides at work.
The best swimming beaches with warm water are found along Nova Scotia’s northern shoreline, around the towns of Pugwash, Tatamagouche and Pictou. Consider:
- Melmerby Beach – Just outside of New Glasgow, ‘the Merb’ is one of the most popular beaches in Nova Scotia. It’s 2km long so even on busy days you can find a quiet spot towards its ends. More…
- Caribou-Munroes Island – Perfectly located near the docks of the ferry to PEI, this is the place to hang out if you’re waiting for the boat or want a place to camp when you first arrive in Nova Scotia. More…
You can also swim along the south shore but then you’re in the Atlantic Ocean instead of more sheltered waters so it’s noticably colder! Try out:
- Rissers Beach – This sandy, white beach south of Lunenburg has lifeguards, changing rooms, showers and campsites. It’s a provincial park and also boasts a boardwalk through a marsh area, perfect for checking out local flora and fauna. More…
In Cape Breton, the water tends to be chilly but the scenery is among the most stunning in the province, especially on the Cabot Trail. Stop at:
- Ingonish Beach – Freshwater and saltwater swimming in one place. What more could you ask for? More…
Along the Bay of Fundy, the muddy waters aren’t so good for swimming but the churning action of the tides means it’s an excellent place to go rockhounding, take a hike, see boats stranded on mudflats and collect driftwood. Visit:
- Parrsboro – The beach just outside the town is one of the best places to go rockhounding and with the Fundy Geological Museum nearby, you can take your finds straight to the experts for identification! Just watch the rising tides and don’t get caught out. More…
- Advocate Harbour – This tiny fishing villages has one of the most dramatic beaches around, with driftwood piled up everywhere. It’s isolated and quiet. More…
- Five Islands – Camp at the provincial park and marvel at the towering cliffs or just stop for a walk and some clamdigging. More…
There are also some freshwater beaches. Notably:
- Dollar Lake – Between Halifax and the international airport, Dollar Lake has been a favourite of Nova Scotia families for many decades. More…
- Merrymakedge Beach – Inside Kejimkujik National Park, this beach has lifeguards, changing rooms and a canteen. More…