Nova Scotia has so many cute, small towns it would be a shame to visit and just stay in Halifax. Just a few hours from Halifax in any direction you’ll find quaint seaside villages, beautiful wineries, hiking trails, amazing food scenes, and pristine beaches. These six easy day trips from Halifax, Nova Scotia give you everything you need to have a perfect Nova Scotia vacation – no planning required.
Chester – 55 minutes
Less than an hour from Halifax, Chester is a small seaside town known for its playhouse and yacht club. Check out the views of the water, stop for coffee at Kiwi Cafe, and visit the cute shops on the main street. Want to spend the whole day? Check out this itinerary.
The Eastern Shore – 1-2 hours
Nova Scotia’s Eastern Shore is known for great surfing beaches. You can rent a board and wetsuit through Halifax Surf School right at the beach. Spend the day checking out Martinique Beach, Clam Harbour Beach, and enjoy a great meal at Henley House in Sheet Harbour. On the way back, stop at Uprooted Market and Cafe for some take home treats.
Lunenburg – 1 hour 15 minutes
One of my favourite towns in Nova Scotia, Lunenburg, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, has some of the nicest restaurants in the province and boasts three bookshops in this little town. It is one of only two urban communities in North America that are UNESCO-designated. Spend the whole day meandering through the cute shops, stop for coffee at one of the many cafes in town, or visit the Fisheries Museum of the Atlantic. Stay for supper at The Beach Pea if you’re able – it’s a splurge, but very worth it.
Wolfville – 1 hour
The little town of Wolfville, home to Acadia University, has become increasingly known for the winery scene that surrounds it. Definitely take in some tastings – Mercator Vineyards has a nice one, and the architecture at Lightfoot and Wolfville is worth seeing. But don’t forget to wander through Wolfville’s downtown, stopping at the Farmers’ Market if it’s open, or any of the little shops on Main Street. If you’re there for lunch, Troy serves fresh Mediterranean cuisine, or grab a pint at the Church Brewery.
Canning – 1 hour 20 minutes
Just twenty minutes from Wolfville, the village of Canning is rapidly expanding. Start with a hike at Cape Split to see the stunning ocean views, and then head to Kingsport Beach to sunbathe and swim. If it’s a shorter hike you’re after, try the trails at Blomidon Provincial Park. Dickie Baxter House, the newest addition to Canning’s restaurant scene, is a great spot to end the day.
Hants County + Windsor, 1 hour
Hants County is the perfect day trip if you want to escape the crowds. Visit the Avondale Sky winery for a peaceful wine tasting. Then head to Smiley’s Provincial Park for a gentle walk in the woods. The Avon River Heritage Society often hosts family-friendly events, and you can learn about the tidal bore phenomenon. Then, grab supper in small town Windsor, just forty minutes from Halifax. The town is home to Mermaid Theatre – a professional theatre company that works primarily with giant puppets.
There are so many easy day trips from Halifax that you won’t want to stay in the city long at all! Happy road tripping.
