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Three people relax on a boat on a sunny day.

Boating on Nova Scotia's Northumberland Shore

Drop anchor and relax in Nova Scotia’s Northumberland Shore

The Northumberland Shore is the perfect region to take in a diverse range of outdoor activities and cultural exploration – or just to take it easy. With the warmest waters north of the Carolinas, it’s no wonder that beach culture defines the flavour of this sandy haven. More warm water beaches than anywhere else in the province means it’s the perfect place to kick off your shoes. But with the world-class golf courses that dot the region, you may also want to lace up your golf shoes.

Of course, beaches and golf are just the beginning of what makes this coastline so memorable. The area is also rich in history and culture. Explore the Town of Pictou, known as the birthplace of New Scotland. Step aboard the legendary Ship Hector replica and imagine what it was like for the first Scottish immigrants who voyaged across the Atlantic Ocean to put down roots here. Noticing a theme? Yes, Scottish and Celtic heritage is a big deal on the Northumberland shore – with Highland dancing, Celtic music, and crafts to be found throughout the region every day and as part of the many festivals that are held in the summer and fall seasons.

It’s not all Scottish however, fans of the grape won’t want to miss a trip to Jost Vineyards, Nova Scotia’s first winery, and one of its most celebrated. Of course, no day on the beach is complete without a feast of fresh seafood. Fortunately, fresh local lobster is a favourite here and found in restaurants throughout the region.

Northumberland Shore Top Attractions

Northumberland Shore Boating Destinations

Fox Harbour

Anchor overnight in the vicinity of the well-protected Port of Wallace and boat into the marina at Fox Harb’r Golf Resort & Spa – one of Atlantic Canada’s most upscale resorts, offering golf, day spa, skeet shooting, fine dining, and more.

A man stands with his back to the camera next to a golf cart and clubs overlooking a hole next to the water at Fox Harb'r Resort in Wallace Nova Scotia
Fox Harb'r Golf Resort & Spa

Northumberland Shore Beaches

For a day of exploration or relaxation, anchor off Melmerby Beach Provincial Park or one of the area’s many secluded island beaches, such as those you’ll find on the beautiful and sparsely populated Pictou Island.

Three people walking on the sand into the surf at Melmerby Beach Provincial Park near New Glasgow on the Northumberland Shore in Nova Scotia
Melmerby Beach

Pictou

Visit the town of Pictou and learn about the area where the first wave of Scottish immigrants landed in “New Scotland” in 1773.

A replica of the Hector, one of the ships that brought them, is open for visits at the Hector Heritage Quay.

Three women smiling as their friend takes their picture with the background of colourful buildings and the Ship Hector on the Pictou Waterfront on a summer evening in Nova Scotia
Pictou Waterfront

Suggested Northumberland Shore Itineraries

View from a resort sitting along a golf course with water views.

7 Day: Halifax to Fox Harbour

  • Halifax
  • 100 Wild Islands / Owls Head / Shelter Cove/Sally’s Cove
  • Sheet Harbour / Marie Joseph
  • Liscombe / St. Mary’s River / Guysborough
  • Fox Harbour
Learn more

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