Skip to Content
Two people hike along a rocky shoreline next to the ocean.

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.

  • Home
  • Explore by Region

Learn More about the 7 Regions of Nova Scotia!

Enjoy the warm water beaches on the Northumberland Shore, go whale watching and taste wine in the Bay of Fundy & Annapolis Valley, explore the scenic Cabot Trail and enjoy Celtic music on Cape Breton Island, discover charming coastal communities on the South Shore, experience rich Acadian culture in Yarmouth & Acadian Shores, find a nature lover’s retreat on the Eastern Shore, and visit a historic city by the sea in our capital city of Halifax, in the Halifax/Dartmouth 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
  • Dramatic coastal views, highland scenery and Bras d’Or Lake
  • Variety of hiking trails, world-class golf, Gaelic culture and lively Celtic music scene
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:

  • Acadian culture, traditions, and food
  • Acadian Skies & Mi’kmaq Lands, North America’s first starlight destination
  • Storied seafaring past 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
  • The UNESCO World Heritage Site of Lunenburg and lighthouse at Peggy’s Cove
  • Fresh, local 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, provincial capital and cultural hub
  • Nearly 4 km of harbourfront boardwalk lined with shops, restaurants, cafés, and entertainment
  • Discover unique dining, shopping, live music venues and nightlife opportunities
Visit Halifax Metro
Two people stand on the ocean floor watching the sunset.

Bay of Fundy & Annapolis Valley

Known For:

  • Site of the highest recorded tides in the world
  • Lush, award-winning wineries
  • Mi’kmaw legends and earliest settlements
Visit Bay of Fundy & Annapolis Valley
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 and skilled artisans
  • Abundant history and Gaelic culture
Visit Northumberland Shore
A surfer paddles in at Martinique Beach

Eastern Shore

Known For:

  • Pristine wilderness, historically-themed attractions, and white sand beaches
  • Some of the best cold-water surfing on the east coast of North America
  • Protected 100 Wild Islands coastal wilderness area
Visit Eastern Shore
Lunenburg Waterfront
Link to Instagram page

Tag your travel photos to be featured.

#VisitNovaScotia

Back to top