![]() Sun is shining, snow is melting, birds are singing; could it be that Spring is here? With the first few signs of Spring, many of us go straight to thinking of summer time activities and day dreaming of the beach filled days that are approaching. It is in this spirit that we are sharing our favorite 6 must see beaches in Nova Scotia. McNabs Island Provincial Park Located a few kilometers from downtown Halifax, this is the largest island in the Halifax Harbor. It played a significant role in defending the area for many years, and is now a provincial park enjoyed by adventure seekers, history enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. This five kilometer long island is not typically thought of as a beach destination. However, it does offer a great beach with views of the busy Halifax Harbor and city, which is typically not overrun by tourists. There are various sites to explore on the island, including forts that date back to the 1860's. And if those aren't enough reasons to explore this beautiful isle, you can also opt to stay overnight by bringing your own camping equipment (and making prior arrangements as necessary) to enjoy the tranquility of this nature filled destination. The island has vault toilets and is accessible by kayak or boat; you can find various charters online leaving from different locations including Point Pleasant Park and Fisherman's Cove in Eastern Passage. Want to explore beaches worldwide? Check out these 8 reasons why you need to visit beautiful Costa Rica! Carter's Beach Arriving to this beach, you will likely take a double take before you realize you're still in Canada and haven't mysteriously transported to the Caribbean. Covered in magnificent fine white sand, with clear turquoise blue water, this beach is one of our favorites on Canada's East coast! It is composed of three slightly different beach areas, each offering great sand dollar search potential for the children at heart and endless walking in shallow waters during low tide at this long beach. Be prepared: there are no washrooms or change areas located at this beach. Also, the parking lot is smaller than ideal, often giving the illusion that it's packed when there really is lots of available space on the beach (so don't be fooled!). Weather not cooperating with your beach plans? Check out these 16 awesome things to do in Halifax when it's raining! Crystal Crescent Beach Provincial Park If making the drive out to Carter's Beach isn't feasible, the next best option just might be Crystal Crescent Beach! Located only 35 minutes from Halifax, this area offers three beaches covered in white sand, the first two reachable by boardwalks. It also offers a hiking trail boasting gorgeous scenery of the coastline. The 13 kilometer hiking trail loop is mostly along the water's edge on a mostly rocky coastline, but also takes you through heavily wooded areas. Finally, the parking areas are sufficiently spacious and there are two vault-toilet facilities on site. Martinique Beach Provincial Park If you're looking for a long white sandy beach to enjoy a calm salty walk, this is it! At 5km long, this crescent beach is Nova Scotia's longest beach of its kind. Located at approximately 1 hour drive from Halifax, this beach offers change houses, boardwalks and picnic areas. It is supervised for part of the summer, is a known surfing spot and is a protected area for the piping plover along with a wildlife refuge for migratory waterfowl. Lawrencetown Beach Provincial Park Lawrencetown is likely the best known beach in Nova Scotia due to being renowned as a destination for international surfers and visitors alike. The beach is located only 25 minutes drive from downtown Halifax, offers breathtaking views and opportunities to surf for everyone (rentals and classes available if planned ahead of time). You can also decide to just take a swim or go for a walk on this rock and sand covered beach. Either way, you're sure to enjoy this beautiful spot! Traveling is full of adventures hilariously gone bad. Have a look at our Travel Fails for a good laugh! Five Islands Provincial Park Featuring 90 meters sea cliffs with views of the world's highest tides, this beach isn't like the rest on this list. It is located in the Bay of Fundy which boast magnificent views from the campsites located higher in the park and from the various hiking trails available. However, the beach is a must see due to the amazing differences from high to low tide. Additionally, this rocky and muddy beach offers the opportunity for clam digging (inquire with the park's desk regarding limits and any advisories). Pack your shovel, bucket, a change of clothes and hiking shoes along with your typical beach belongings, and go dig for tonight's super! What are you waiting for? Come visit us here on Canada's East Coast and check out these 6 must see beaches in Nova Scotia. Don't forget your beach apparel! J&C
27 Comments
7/4/2017 09:25:55 am
They sure are amazing!! Thanks for stopping by our site!
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6/5/2017 06:06:17 pm
I haven't been to Nova Scotia since I was a kid, so I'll definitely use this for when I return!
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7/5/2017 12:14:06 pm
Glad you liked it, these beaches are little gems that we just adore!! Thanks for stopping by! :)
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7/5/2017 12:18:57 pm
Aren't they beautiful!? We always think of going south for beaches (probably since it's much warmer...) but we have such amazing ones here! It's definitely worth a visit!
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The Dime Travelers
6/5/2017 06:42:25 pm
Yes, Carter's is amazing, but sadly it's further out from the city. However, McNabs Island is between Dartmouth and Halifax, while Lawrencetown Beach and Crystal Crescent Beach are both just 30 mins drive away - perhaps something to keep in mind for your next time down here!
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6/5/2017 07:26:25 pm
All those beaches look gorgeous! I've lived in Canada all my life, but I've never made it to the East coast! I'll have to one day to check out these beaches!
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7/5/2017 12:21:13 pm
Glad we could help you discover some of the beauties of the east coast! We'll await your visit ;)
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6/5/2017 07:55:02 pm
There is a tiny chance that I will visit Novia Scotia in the near future. Depends on the money situation that I find myself in after this summer, which has an insane amount of traveling planned for it. If I do make it out there, I will definitely check these beaches out. They look beautiful.
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7/5/2017 12:23:59 pm
So happy you're thinking of making it out here!! It's a pretty affordable place to visit, hit us up if you need any information to plan your trip! :)
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6/5/2017 08:12:46 pm
My parents live out there and we are hoping to take the train across Canada and stay out there for a few weeks in the summer! Great post!
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7/5/2017 12:27:55 pm
Oh, that will be amazing, we hope you do make it out here! Thanks for stopping by! :)
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7/5/2017 12:17:55 am
Canada has so many hidden gems, it's just an endless paradise for a photographer!
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7/5/2017 12:30:09 pm
We totally agree! Thanks for your comment, and thanks for stopping by! :)
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7/5/2017 12:31:38 pm
Haha summer is definitely the best time to come visit as winters can get a little harsh! Thanks for stopping by! :)
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7/5/2017 01:59:13 pm
I, too, am from an area where I get "wait, there are beaches in/around Boston?!" But I definitely admit that while I know Halifaf is coastal, it hadn't occurred to me to look up possible beach spots. I'm hoping to come up that way in the next year or so, so I will for sure keep these in mind!
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7/5/2017 04:44:30 pm
I have heard such great things about Nova Scotia and can't wait to visit one day. McNabs Island Provincial Park in particular looks really beautiful. Thanks so much for sharing!
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The Dime Travelers
7/5/2017 08:26:50 pm
Hopefully you'll get to visit one day, it is a really wonderful province! :)
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8/5/2017 10:34:36 pm
I can't believe I didn't stumble upon ANY of these beaches while exploring Nova Scotia! Oh well, that's just an excuse to go back - right? ;) NS is such a beautiful province. I absolutely love it there!!
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The Dime Travelers
8/5/2017 10:41:40 pm
Oh no, sorry to hear that you missed out on these beautiful beaches! But the province has so many amazing places to visit, I'm sure you'll have many more spots to check out on your next trip! :)
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Sheila Halloran
9/5/2017 11:11:08 pm
Not one is on Cape Breton Island? The Title should be Beaches near Halifax.
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The Dime Travelers
10/5/2017 07:55:53 pm
You are right, Cape Breton does also have amazing beaches! Sadly we couldn't feature all of the wonderful locations in the province.
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