Experience Fall in Shelburne: A Nova Scotia Coastal Escape

There’s a lot to love about Shelburne, Nova Scotia, a small town with charm that lingers long after you leave. Calm mornings, great food, local art, and historic streets make for a relaxing getaway. Plus, with nearby beaches, trails, and a golf course, its easy to have fun outside. With must-visit seasonal festivals, like the Nova Scotia Giant Pumpkin Festival & Regatta in October and Miracle on Dock Street in December, Shelburne and the surrounding area is a great year-round destination! Whether you’re visiting for the festivals, culture, food, beaches, or simply to slow down, Shelburne is the perfect place to get away. Read on and start planning your next fall adventure in Shelburne.

Stay in Waterfront Cottages & Historic Inns

Shelburne and area offers a variety of cozy waterfront cottages and historic inns, with many open year-round. For a charming downtown stay right on the historic waterfront, book a room at Albert’s Inn or The Cooper’s Inn. If you prefer something just outside town, Boulder Cove Cottages and Roseway River Cottages are ideal.

For those drawn to the ocean, Seaside Serenity Cottage and Seaside Cottages at Ginger Hill offer beautiful oceanfront stays, less than 30 minutes from Shelburne.

Two people enjoy coffee sitting in red Adirondack chairs next to the water at Boulder Cove Cottages in Shelburne, Nova Scotia. — Boulder Cove Cottages

Experience the Arts

Spend an afternoon browsing the vibrant shops on Shelburne’s waterfront, where everything is easy to explore by foot. Find unique, nature-inspired works and meet local artists at Dirt to Dishes Pottery and Studio 135.

For live performing arts, music, and film screenings, visit The Osprey Arts Centre.

Connect to African Nova Scotian History

Learn about the Black Loyalists, some of Canada’s first settlers while visiting the Black Loyalist Heritage Centre. Located in neighbouring Birchtown, this was the site of the largest free Black community in British North America. Walk the 1.5km Black Loyalist Heritage Trail to see St. Paul’s Church, the Old School House Museum, and the National Historic Monument of Canada, overlooking Birchtown Bay.

For a unique experience, take part in Taste of Birchtown for a guided tour of Black Loyalist Heritage Centre and delicious charcuterie and craft beer tasting at Boxing Rock Brewing Company.

Two people walk along the Black Loyalist Heritage Trail during fall in Birchtown, Nova Scotia — Black Loyalist Heritage Trail

Dine on Local Flavours

Shelburne’s food scene is all about fresh, local, and welcoming hospitality. For a modern take on local and international flavours, paired with inventive drinks, head to The Emerald Light Kitchen & Bar or Charlotte Lane. If delicious pub favourites are what you’re craving, The Ship’s Galley Pub & Eatery is sure to please.

And, for fresh-baked treats, comforting soups and sandwiches, and, of course, coffee, grab a seat or pick up to-go from The Beandock Coffee & Collectibles.

Walk Beautiful Beaches

A trip to Shelburne isn’t complete without some time at the beach! Sandy Point Lighthouse is one of Shelburne’s most popular destinations and perfect for a photo op. The lighthouse is located on a sand bar and at low tide, beach goers can relax on the exposed sand.

For long walks, birdwatching, and beach exploring, nearby Roseway Beach is a must-visit! Also, Crescent Beach in the neighbouring community of Lockeport is one of Nova Scotia’s most picturesque beaches with soft white sand and turquoise water.

Aerial view of Roseway Beach during sunset near Shelburne, Nova Scotia — Roseway Beach

Sip Local Wine & Craft Beer

For food and brews, paired with live music (on Fridays), head to Boxing Rock Brewing Company. Dive into the world of craft beer with their guided Tasting Room Experience. Sample six unique beers, learning about style characteristics, ingredients, and the brewing process, before pairing with a delicious charcuterie.

Just outside town, overlooking the ocean, District 33 Winery offers small-batch wines, tastings, and great views!

Two people are served glasses of wine at District 33 Winery in Shelburne, Nova Scotia — District 33 Winery

Explore the Trails

Fall is a great time for trail exploring, whether by foot, bike, or ATV. For beautiful river views and cultural history, visit Tom Tigney & Foot Bridge Walking Trails. Local residents describe walking these two trails as “going around the river”.

Enjoy views of Sable River, while learning about the area’s history from the interpretive panels. Beautiful murals by local painter and historian Bessie Robart also depict the railroad’s history.

Two people walk across a bridge crossing a river on the Tom Tigney Trail in autumn near Shelburne, Nova Scotia — Tom Tigney Trail

Go Golfing

Spend a few relaxing hours surrounded by Shelburne’s natural beauty at River Hills Golf & Country Club. This picturesque 18-hole, par 72 course along the Clyde River offers both wooded and open fairways. After your game, head to the clubhouse for a bite and brew on the deck.