10 Places We're Excited to Visit Again This Summer in Nova Scotia

One of my favourite things to do with my family is pile into the car, roll the windows down, and hit the road to explore all the little corners of Nova Scotia that feel like home. We’ve made so many memories in these spots—some new, some we return to every single year because they just never get old.

If you know me, you know I’m always keeping a running list. A bakery we need to stop at, a beach with a perfect sunset, or a trail that wears B out just enough for a quiet drive home (parenting win!).

These 10 spots? They’re our tried-and-true summer faves, and we can’t wait to go back.

1. Cheticamp

There’s no place quite like Cheticamp, aka home for me. This vibrant Acadian village along the Cabot Trail has music in its soul and sunsets that can simply take your breath away.

Whether we’re exploring the Cheticamp Gypsum Quarry, enjoying a beach day, or catching a live fiddle performance, the warmth of this community always makes us happy.

Add in a cozy dinner at L’abri or a fresh pastry from Aucoin Bakery, and you’ve got one perfect summer stop.

2. Baddeck

Every summer needs a slow-paced afternoon in Baddeck.

We love walking the waterfront, watching sailboats drift by, and taking in the history of Baddeck. Don’t skip the Alexander Graham Bell National Historic Site, it’s full of fascinating innovation and family history.

We also never miss a chance to stop at the Red Barn or Big Spruce Brewing for a relaxed drink and a killer view. This town is pure East Coast charm.

3. Ingonish

This one’s for the hikers, the campers, the beach lovers, and anyone who’s ever wanted to feel on top of the world. Ingonish is where adventure meets serenity. We always pack a picnic or grab some tasty treats along the way and hit up a beach, walk a trail, go up the gondola.

After a day outdoors, there's plenty of amazing spots to grab a bite to eat and grab a sunset view. There’s just something wildly beautiful about Ingonish.

4. Liverpool

Creative, coastal, and full of character—Liverpool is one of those places we find ourselves exploring more deeply each summer ( it helps that hubby is from there!)

There’s so much to love: the Fort Point Lighthouse Park, white sand beaches just minutes away, and the must-see Queens County Museum. We also try to catch a performance at the Astor Theatre or check out the art installations popping up around town. It’s small-town Nova Scotia at its finest.

5. Mahone Bay

Quaint, colourful, and full of charm, Mahone Bay is what postcards are made of. We always return for the shopping (hello, Amos Pewter and Northern Sun Gallery!), the coffee and scones at The Barn, and the gorgeous waterfront views.

Each time we visit, we find a new boutique or café to fall in love with. Whether you're walking the trail behind the churches or relaxing on a patio with a glass of wine, Mahone Bay feels like summer.

6. Peggy’s Cove

It doesn’t matter how many times we go, Peggy’s Cove always gets me. The crashing waves, the dramatic rock formations, the lighthouse standing tall, it’s SO Nova Scotian.

We love going early in the morning or later in the evening to avoid crowds and catch that soft, golden light. Don’t forget to stop at the Sou’Wester for a warm bowl of chowder or wander the nearby trails for quiet moments just outside the hustle.

7. Lunenburg

Lunenburg is like a storybook brought to life. It’s rich in history, full of local flavour, and home to some of the most stunning streets in the province.

Whether we’re snapping photos of the colourful waterfront, visiting the Fisheries Museum of the Atlantic, or grabbing lunch on a patio, Lunenburg never lets us down.

We usually end our visit with a walk up to Blockhouse Hill for a perfect panoramic view of the town. Oh, and if the Bluenose II is in? Don’t miss it!

8. Tatamagouche

Tatamagouche is our go-to for quirky charm and genuine friendliness. We always stop at the Tatamagouche Farmers’ Market (get there early for the cinnamon buns!), check out the Creamery Square Museum, and maybe even book a night in one of the train caboose rooms at the Train Station Inn.

Bonus points for a stop at Tatamagouche Brewing Co. and a wander along the Butter Trail. It’s one of those places that feels like a well-kept secret, even though we talk about it constantly.

9. Halifax Waterfront

The Halifax waterfront is the heartbeat of the city in summer. It’s where we go to stroll, snack, and soak in the atmosphere.

With food stalls, live music, artisan markets, and boats gliding by, it’s always buzzing. We love grabbing lunch at Salt Yard, treating ourselves to a BeaverTail, and walking from the ferry terminal all the way to the Seaport Farmers’ Market. It’s also the best spot for people-watching or catching a surprise performance. Classic, but never boring.

10. Wolfville

The Annapolis Valley shines in the summer, and Wolfville is the perfect home base for exploring it all.

It’s full of local eats, indie shops, wineries, and trails. We always pop into the Wolfville Farmers’ Market, then head to Lightfoot & Wolfville for a tasting and wood-fired pizza on the vineyard patio.

If we’re feeling active, we’ll hit the Harvest Moon Trail or take a scenic drive to Cape Split. Wolfville is where laid-back luxury meets small-town soul.

Where are you heading this summer?

We hope this list inspires you to revisit your own favourites or discover a new one!

Tag us in your summer adventures using #explorelikeatourist and don’t forget to check out the Explore Like a Tourist Nova Scotia Travel Guide—your ultimate companion to exploring 700+ gems across this beautiful province.