Choose Your Own Coastal Adventure

Nova Scotia is the perfect place for choosing your own adventure. With a variety of activities available, it’s easy to mix and match relaxing activities with adrenaline-pumping adventures. Here are a few to help you plan your next trip to Nova Scotia!

Beaches

A Nova Scotia beach day is a favourite among visitors and locals alike. With dozens dotting the coast across the province, you’re never too far from one. Enjoy a leisurely stroll on sandy shores, splash and swim in the waves, laze with a good book, build sandcastles, and discover marine life in tidal pools. Pack a picnic lunch and spend the day in the sunshine on the shore.

Surfing

Challenge yourself and try something new as you hit the waves with your instructor during a surfing lesson. Learn the basics with all the gear you need included. Lessons are typically 60 to 90 minutes but your gear rental is for the whole day so you can practice your new moves!

Kayaking and Canoeing

Paddlers will love exploring Nova Scotia’s inlets, beaches, islands, harbours, and unique geological elements. Bring your own boat, rent or head out on a kayaking tour to explore popular areas like the 100 Wild Islands, Cape Chignecto, Northern Cape Breton, Bay of Fundy, LaHave Islands and even the Halifax Harbour. Tours range from half-days to multi-day adventures.

Boat Tours

Sit back and let someone else do the sailing as your tour guide shares stories of the region. Check out one of many tours available on the Halifax Harbour, from amphibious vehicles to luxurious catamarans. Or tour the Bird Islands, the Northumberland Strait, 100 Wild Islands, or Bras d’Or Lake. Explore Lunenburg Harbour aboard Bluenose II, go whale watching in the Bay of Fundy, sail near the mysterious Oak Island, or take in the charming Mahone Bay or Hall’s Harbour.

Hiking and Biking

From family-friendly strolls to challenging treks, Nova Scotia offers up a variety of coastal hiking options for all skill levels. Don’t miss the trails in Cape Breton Highlands National Park, Kejimkujik National Park & Historic Site and Kejimkujik National Park Seaside. The Rum Runners, Harvest Moon and Celtic Shores Coastal Trails are ideal for walking or biking with coastal views. The day-use area of Cape Chignecto Provincial Park offers hikes leading to spectacular coastal viewing platforms, while Balancing Rock Trail leads to a rock balancing on the edge of the Bay of Fundy.

Skyline Trail, Cape Breton Highlands National Park

Tidal Bore Rafting

Adrenaline seekers will get a rush out of riding the waves on the world’s highest tides on the Shubenacadie River. Twice per day, the incoming tide reverses the river’s flow creating a roller coaster on water. Head out on the river aboard a Zodiac with your experienced guide who will take you on a thrilling adventure you can’t find anywhere else!

Oceanside Resorts, Cottages and Camping

Keep the coastal theme going as you wind down for the night. Book your stay at one of Nova Scotia’s oceanfront resorts and enjoy amenities like on-site restaurants, fitness centres, spas, pools, and more. Cottages provide a cozy atmosphere in a charming coastal setting, with many offering beach access. Coastal campsites are available for those looking to sleep under the stars and fall asleep to the waves in the great outdoors.