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Explore by Region

Nova Scotia is divided into seven unique tourism regions, each with its own distinct charm. Enjoy diverse attractions, quaint communities, stunning coastal views and fresh seafood throughout your travels in Nova Scotia.

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Discover Nova Scotia’s Seven Regions

Enjoy the warm water saltwater beaches along the Northumberland Shore each summer, go whale watching and taste award-winning wines in the Bay of Fundy & Annapolis Valley, explore the scenic Cabot Trail and enjoy Celtic music on Cape Breton Island, discover charming coastal communities steeped in history on the South Shore, experience rich Acadian culture in the Yarmouth & Acadian Shores region, find out why the Eastern Shore is a nature lover’s retreat, and visit our historic capital city by the sea in the Halifax Metro region.

A red and white lighthouse on the edge of a rocky shore.

Our Regions

People stand on the side of the road at a scenic view point looking at the sunset

Cape Breton Island

Known for:

  • The world-renowned Cabot Trail, a 298 km/185 mile scenic drive through the Cape Breton Highlands
  • Dramatic coastal views, highland scenery and our inland sea, the Bras d’Or Lake
  • Variety of hiking trails, beaches, world-class golf, and Gaelic, Acadian and Mi’kmaw culture and events
Visit Cape Breton Island
A couple looks out to the ocean with a red and white lighthouse in the background.

Yarmouth & Acadian Shores

Known for:

  • The largest Acadian population in Nova Scotia offering lively Acadian culture, traditions, and food
  • Acadian Skies & Mi’kmaq Lands, North America’s first starlight destination and UNESCO Southwest Nova Biosphere Reserve
  • Storied seafaring past and fishing industry that continues to influence life today
Visit Yarmouth & Acadian Shores
A colourful fishing village next to the ocean.

South Shore

Known for:

  • Home of the Bluenose, the famous racing schooner, and Bluenose II, Nova Scotia’s sailing ambassador that appears on the Canadian 10 cent coin
  • UNESCO World Heritage Site of Lunenburg, Black Loyalist Heritage Centre, and picture-perfect lighthouse at Peggy’s Cove
  • Fresh, local lobster and seafood, oceanside accommodations and white sandy beaches
Visit South Shore
People walk along the boardwalk of a seaside city, with a sailboat docked nearby and city buildings in the background.

Halifax Metro

Known for:

  • Nova Scotia’s largest city, our provincial capital and cultural hub offering don’t miss festivals and events throughout the year
  • An energetic downtown leading to a 4 km waterfront boardwalk lined with shops, restaurants, cafés, and entertainment
  • Discover the Halifax Citadel and Georges Island National Historic Sites, Halifax Public Gardens, museums and art galleries, live music venues and nightlife, and more
Visit Halifax Metro
Two people run into the water for a swim during sunset.

Northumberland Shore

Known for:

  • Having the most warm-water ocean beaches in Atlantic Canada
  • Tasty lobster, the wild blueberry capital of Canada, and skilled artists and artisans
  • Abundant history and Gaelic culture including events including the oldest annual Highland Games held outside of Scotland
Visit Northumberland Shore
A surfer paddles in at Martinique Beach

Eastern Shore

Known for:

  • Pristine wilderness, historically-themed attractions, and untouched white sand beaches
  • Offering the best cold water surfing on the east coast of North America, attracting surfers from around the world
  • Protected 100 Wild Islands coastal wilderness area
Visit Eastern Shore
Two people stand on the ocean floor watching the sunset.

Bay of Fundy & Annapolis Valley

Known for:

  • Witness the power of the Bay of Fundy tides and visit the site of the highest recorded tidal range in the world at Burntcoat Head Park
  • Lush, award-winning wineries featuring our crisp white appellation wine, Tidal Bay
  • Mi’kmaw legends and earliest settlements, and Joggins Fossil Cliffs and the Cliffs of Fundy Global Geopark UNESCO sites
Visit Bay of Fundy & Annapolis Valley
A view across the water of historic buildings as a kayaker paddles by

Discover Nova Scotia's Cities & Towns

From cozy places to stay, shops & galleries, and incredible dining featuring local ingredients to hands-on experiences, guided outdoor adventures, events, and more, discover the cities, towns and communities throughout the province to help inspire your next Nova Scotia road trip.

Discover Cities & Towns
Lunenburg Waterfront
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