Explore the Real Nova Scotia Filming Locations of Little Lorraine
Nova Scotia’s dramatic coastline takes centre stage in Little Lorraine, the 2025 crime drama inspired by Cape Breton folklore, maritime history, re...
From rugged coastlines to historic towns and hidden seaside gems, Nova Scotia has become one of Canada’s most sought‑after filming destinations. Thanks to its diverse landscapes and rich heritage, the province regularly doubles as everything from quaint New England villages to dramatic historical settings.
If you’ve ever fallen in love with a scene on screen and wished you could step right into it, you can. Here are nine must‑visit filming locations across Nova Scotia, along with what to explore while you’re there.
Peggy’s Cove
Peggy’s Cove is one of the most recognizable filming backdrops in Nova Scotia. Its iconic lighthouse and sweeping granite shoreline appear in productions like Sullivan’s Crossing, Washington Black, and Hallmark Channel’s Christmas Island.
What to do while visiting:
- Walk the famous rocks around Peggy’s Point Lighthouse and snap a photo
- Indulge in a lobster roll
- Browse local art galleries and gift shops
- Watch a dramatic sunset over the Atlantic
- Take a guided tour to experience the area more in-depth
Lunenburg
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Lunenburg’s colourful waterfront has appeared in numerous television series and movies. The town has been featured in in productions like We Were Liars, Locke & Key, Haven, Washington Black, The Sinner, and more.
What to do while visiting:
- Take a guided Lunenburg Walking Tour
- Sail on the iconic Bluenose II
- Visit the Fisheries Museum of the Atlantic
- Dine along the harbour (and spot familiar filming spots)
- Shop at local boutiques and stores
Halifax
Nova Scotia’s capital is a major filming hub. The harbour played a role in Titanic, while the city and surrounding areas appear frequently in Trailer Park Boys, Sullivan’s Crossing and the new series You’re Killing Me.
What to do while visiting:
- Stroll the Halifax Waterfront boardwalk and browse local shops, grab a bite at the variety of restaurants, take a boat tour, and visit Georges Island National Historic Site
- Visit the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic, Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21, Halifax Citadel National Historic Site, and other museums
- Relax in the Halifax Public Gardens or stroll Point Pleasant Park
- Take in live music and a local beer at a bustling pub
- Ride the ferry across the harbour to Downtown Dartmouth to explore local shops, restaurants and breweries.
Oak Island
Mystery fans will instantly recognize Oak Island from the hit TV series The Curse of Oak Island. The island’s long-running treasure hunt has attracted visitors from around the world hoping to uncover a bit of the legend themselves.
What to do while visiting:
- Join Oak Island Tours for a guided tram tour. These tours sell out so book well in advance!
- Hop aboard a Salty Dog Sea Tour to experience colourful commentary from the water
- Stay nearby at Oak Island Resort
- Visit local interpretation centres and exhibits
Fortress of Louisbourg National Historic Site
Step directly into history at this reconstructed 18th‑century French fortress. Its authenticity has made it a powerful backdrop for historical productions like The Book of Negroes, Washington Black, and Frontier.
What to do while visiting:
- Interact with costumed interpreters in the reconstructed town
- Watch cannon demonstrations and try firing a musket
- Explore nearby walking trails like Louisbourg Lighthouse Trail and Ruins Walk
Windsor
Windsor’s historic streets and small-town charm make it a natural stand‑in for countless fictional rural settings in film and TV productions. The town has played a role in multiple screen adaptations of author Stephen King’s work, like: Chapelwaite, Bag of Bones, The Mist, and The Institute. Windsor has also appeared in the TV series The Trades, Pure, and the Lizzie Borden Chronicles.
What to do while visiting:
- Visit local shops, restaurants and cafes
- Check out Fort Edward National Historic Site
- Enjoy a tasting at Schoolhouse Brewery or nearby Bent Ridge Winery
- Head to OnTree Fun & Adventure Park for high ropes climbing and zipline adventures.
Cape Forchu Lighthouse
While the Cape Forchu Lighthouse itself didn’t appear in the Academy-award nominated film, The Lighthouse starring Willem Dafoe and Robert Pattinson, Cape Forchu was the location where a large portion of the film was shot. Crews built a temporary 70-foot lighthouse set just steps from the actual Cape Forchu Lighthouse. Visitors can climb the winding 77 steps to the top where they are treated to a 360-degree bird’s eye view of the rugged surrounding coast. Walk the surrounding trails for even more scenic views and pick up local goodies in the onsite gift shop.
Ovens Natural Park
Ovens Natural Park is a stunning 180-acre coastal escape along the Atlantic near Lunenburg. The rugged coastline has been featured in productions like Locke & Key, We Were Liars, The Sinner, and Washington Black. Hike the cliff-top trails, explore the famous sea caves, and even step down into Cannon Cave to feel the power of the crashing waves. You can also kayak, try gold panning, or relax with a picnic by the sea. Make it an overnight stay and enjoy with camping, cabins, and nightly summer music.
Hubbards
This laid‑back seaside community shines on screen as the setting for the CBC series Moonshine, where it stands in for the fictional town of Foxton. This quiet coastal area also makes appearances in Haven and Hallmark’s Believe in Christmas. At just 40 minutes from downtown Halifax, this charming community makes for the perfect coastal escape not far from the city.
What to do while visiting:
- Dine on a lobster supper at the historic Shore Club
- Relax at nearby beaches like Queensland Beach or Cleveland Beach Provincial Parks
- Browse the Hubbards Farmers’ Market (Saturdays, May–Oct)
- Sample local spirits at Black Harbour Distillers
- Check out the Tuna Blue Restaurant and seasonal beer garden
Plan Your Own Nova Scotia Film Tour
From blockbuster films to binge‑worthy TV series, Nova Scotia’s landscapes have helped bring countless stories to life. What makes it even better? These locations aren’t closed sets; they’re real places you can explore at your own pace.
Whether you’re chasing lighthouse views, historic streets, or hidden coastal trails, every stop offers a chance to step into a scene and create your own unforgettable story along the way. Click here to discover even more filming locations in Nova Scotia.
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