Nina Out and About contains affiliate links and is a member of the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. If you make a purchase using one of these Amazon links, I may receive compensation at no extra cost to you. See my Disclosure Policy for more information.
19 Exciting Day Trips from Halifax, Nova Scotia
Are you looking for the best day trips from Halifax?
Look no further, as I have some great recommendations for you.
As a former tour guide and frequent road tripper in the Halifax area, I have discovered some of the region’s best day trips.
There are plenty of places to explore in the area. So whether you’re interested in historical sites, unique landscapes, or picturesque coastal towns, there are day trip options for everyone!
Here are 18 of the best day trips from Halifax!
Best Day Trips from Halifax
I lived in Halifax for 4 years while getting my undergraduate degree at Dalhousie University. To escape the stress of university life, I explored the province as much as possible by taking many of the day trips listed below.
1. Peggy’s Cove
Peggy’s Cove should be at the top of your list if you’re looking for a quick and easy day trip or tour from Halifax.
Here, you’ll find a picturesque fishing village that has become one of Nova Scotia’s most recognizable landmarks.
Its iconic lighthouse and stunning rocky coastline are the main reasons why. The lighthouse was built in 1915. It is still in operation today and is a popular place to visit.
It’s not just the lighthouse that makes Peggy’s Cove worth a visit, as this quaint town has no shortage of charm, with brightly colored houses clustered around a small harbor.
You can take a leisurely stroll along the waterfront and watch the fishermen bring in their catch or explore the rocky coastline dotted with geological formations.
I assure you that Peggy’s Cove is the perfect place to spend your day because the entire village and its stunning surroundings make it one of the best day trips you can take from Halifax.
2. Lunenburg
Driving Time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Lunenburg is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located along the scenic Lighthouse Route and is known as one of Nova Scotia’s most beautiful towns. Its brightly colored houses and historic waterfront make it one of the province’s most popular tourist destinations.
You can see the town’s rich history in the buildings that date back to the 18th and 19th centuries. The streets are lined with brightly painted houses and historical landmarks, making it the perfect destination for a day trip.
To make the most of your day, explore Lunenburg’s narrow streets and alleyways, visit galleries and boutiques, or take a tour of the Fisheries Museum of the Atlantic to learn about Nova Scotia’s fishing history.
During all that walking, why not take the guided Lunenburg Seafood Walking Tour and try the lobster roll that Nova Scotia is famous for?
3. Bay of Fundy
Driving time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Don’t miss out on the unforgettable experience of witnessing the highest tides in the world with the Bay of Fundy day trip from Halifax – trust me, you will not regret it.
Burntcoat Head Park is the perfect spot to catch tides rising and falling by over 40 feet (12 meters) twice daily. To make the most of your day trip, try to catch both the low and high tides, which average around six hours and 13 minutes.
Among tide-watching at the Bay of Fundy, there are plenty of other things to do, such as walking on the ocean floor, checking out the local galleries and museums, or visiting the stunning Walton Lighthouse.
Another way to see the Bay of Fundy is with a guided kayak tour which you could easily fit in during your day trip from Halifax, or you could try tidal bore rafting for an even more memorable experience.
4. Kejimkujik National Park
Driving time: 2 hours
This is one road trip from Halifax that you’ll want to do more than once, as there’s always something new to explore.
Kejimkujik is a vast area of pristine wilderness covering 381km (237 miles) of pristine wilderness and is divided into two areas.
The inland area is 18 km (11 miles) from Caledonia, while the seaside area is 100km (62 miles) away towards Port Joli. There are plenty of cultural and historical attractions to explore during your visit to either.
You’ll have plenty of outdoor activities to choose from, including camping, boating, fishing, canoeing, kayaking, and hiking.
Or, if you prefer, head to the seaside area to take in the spectacular ocean views as you hike along the trail or relax on the white, sandy beach.
As part of your trip to Keji, you can rent a canoe and take a 2-hour Mersey River tour but don’t forget to photograph the Eastern Painted turtles you’ll see on the rocks as you float by.
5. Annapolis Valley
Driving time: 1 hour 45 minutes
A day trip from Halifax to the Annapolis Valley’s charming Wolfville and Grand Pré is ideal for exploring attractions.
In Wolfville, located right by the Gaspereau River, you can wander around its quaint downtown area and stop at Main Street’s cafes, bistros, or pubs after browsing the boutique shops.
Then, head over to Grand Pré, a picturesque UNESCO World Heritage Site with walking trails and the Monument Lefebvre built to commemorate the deportation of the Acadians in 1755.
If you don’t want to drive, then this half-day tour from Halifax is a great option, as it includes transportation, a guided tour of the areas, and a stop at some local vineyards where you can sample some of the region’s best-tasting wines.
6. Cape Split
Driving time: 1 hour 40 minutes
If you’re up for some hiking, Cape Split is the perfect day trip from Halifax. The trailhead is located in Scots Bay, and the hike is about a 14km (8.6 miles) loop that takes around four hours to complete.
The rewarding views are even better since the trail was updated. Now, you can trek up to views of the Minas Basin and look over Scot’s Bay on the trek back down.
Make sure you get a view of the Spires and enjoy the stunning panoramic views of the Bay of Fundy and its dramatic tides. Cape Split is easily up there as one of the best hikes in Nova Scotia.
It’s a great spot for a picnic lunch, so get there early and make a day of it.
7. Mahone Bay
Driving time: 1 hour
Mahone Bay is a quaint seaside town, perfect for a relaxing day trip from Halifax, and is only a few minutes from Lunenburg.
You can stroll along the waterfront, rent a bicycle, admire the colorful boats in the harbor, or explore any of the town’s art galleries, boutique shops, and cafes.
The town is also famous for its iconic three churches overlooking the bay, which is popular with photographers.
As Mahone Bay is so close to Lunenburg and Peggy’s Cove, you take a combined tour to see all three in one day and learn about the history of each town.
8. Lawrencetown Beach Provincial Park
Driving time: 40 minutes
This popular sand and cobble beach is known for its great surfing and beautiful scenery and is one of the best day trips from the city.
If you want to learn how to surf the waves, this is a great place to take a lesson. If you want to hit the waves on your own, you can rent a board and wetsuit at the Kannon Beach shop nearby.
The beach is also perfect for swimming and picnicking, with plenty of room along the shoreline to spread a towel or set up a beach chair. There are supervised swimming areas in July and August.
Be sure to stop on the boardwalk for a moment and take in the magnificent views of the Atlantic Ocean.
9. Explore the Cabot Trail
Driving time: 30 minutes to 2 hours
Experience Nova Scotia’s rugged beauty at its finest while driving the 298km (185 miles) stretch of the Cabot Trail in Cape Breton Island.
As you circle around the tip of the island, you’ll be treated to some of the most stunning scenery that rivals anywhere else in Canada.
You’ll see breathtaking views of the ocean, mountains, Cape Breton National Park, and the small fishing villages along the way that you might otherwise miss if you’re the one driving, plus you’ll learn all about the area’s history.
10. Clam Harbour Beach Provincial Park
Driving time: 1 hour
This is another beautiful beach, perfect for a day of swimming and relaxation.
As soon as you reach the beach from the boardwalk, you’ll be greeted with about two kilometers (1.2 miles) of sandy shores and amazing views of the Atlantic Ocean.
Lifeguards supervise the beach on weekends from July 1 through August 30. There are plenty of activities to try, such as volleyball and beachcombing. Try to visit the famous Clam Harbour Sandcastle Competition held every August for a fun day trip.
There is a coastal hiking trail located on a peninsula at the end of the beach that you don’t want to miss. Timing your visit with the tides will give you a better experience, as low tide gives you more room on the beach and much easier terrain to walk on.
11. Fort Anne National Historic Site
Driving time: 2 hours
Learn about Nova Scotia’s military history at this national historic site in Annapolis Royal.
Fort Anne is the oldest and most visited National Historic Site in Nova Scotia. The site has been garrisoned for over 300 years, making it an important part of Canada’s military history.
If you’re a history buff, then this is the day trip for you. You can learn more about the site’s history through interactive displays, museum exhibits, and guided tours.
Check out the Officers’ Quarters Museum to get an even greater understanding of the site’s military history. Don’t miss the perimeter walking trail for great views of the fortifications and the Annapolis River and Basin.
12. Joggins Fossil Cliffs
Driving time: 2.5 hours
Joggins Fossil Cliffs is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where it feels like you’re taking a step back in time – about 300 million years.
At the Joggins Fossil Centre (open from May through October), you can participate in interactive exhibits and guided tours that provide insight into how the area has changed over time.
The exposed layers of Jurassic-period rock show evidence of life in the “Coal Age.” These rocks are constantly changing thanks to Fundy tidal forces.
Afterward, grab a bite to eat at The Roundhouse Cafe, which has a range of healthy food options.
13. South Shore
Driving time: 45 minutes to 3.5 hours
The South Shore is home to some of Nova Scotia’s most beautiful beaches, including the popular Beach Provincial Park.
On your road trip, you can explore the charming fishing village of Old Town Lunenburg and its historic waterfront or take a scenic drive along the coast to visit other small towns like Peggy’s Cove, Ovens Natural Park, and Hirtle’s Beach.
Other day trip options include a visit to Yarmouth
14. Yarmouth
Driving time: 3 hrs approx
Yarmouth is a town that’s rich in history, and one of its most distinctive features is undoubtedly the Victorian-era buildings and architecture.
The town has many historic sites that you can explore, such as the award-winning Yarmouth County Museum and the Firefighters’ Museum of Nova Scotia.
If you’re visiting Yarmouth, you must visit the Cape Forchu Lighthouse, just a short 11km (7 miles) drive from Yarmouth.
This will be the highlight of your trip as you climb Nova Scotia’s tallest lighthouse and take in the amazing panoramic views from the lantern room.
15. Tatamagouche
Driving time: 1 hour 45 minutes
The charming small town of Tatamagouche is definitely worth the day trip visit. This little gem on the Northumberland Shore is known for its historic railway station and beautiful beaches.
You can explore the town’s galleries and shops or leisurely stroll along the waterfront. Make sure to check out the Train Station Inn, a unique hotel built in a restored train station.
If you’re a beer lover, don’t miss the chance to visit Tatamagouche Brewing Company, which offers tours and tastings of its craft beers. You might want to come back and stay overnight to take full advantage of this!
A visit to Sugar Moon Farm is one of the best day trips from Halifax you can take. It’s a great way to experience something truly Canadian as you learn about making pure maple syrup and take some home with you.
16. McNab’s Island
You can get to McNab’s Island from Halifax easily since it’s situated at the entrance of Halifax’s harbor. All it takes is just a 20-minute ferry ride from the harbor to reach the island to enjoy its many historical sites and natural beauty.
Take the opportunity to explore its 1,000 acres on foot along hiking trails such as Garrison Road or spot rare wildlife as you observe nature.
As the island is only 5km (3.1 miles) long and 1.5km (0.9 miles) wide, it’s easy to explore in one day. There are 18km of hiking trails, including Garrison Road.
Historical sites, such as Fort Ives and Fort McNab, are a must-see, as are the stunning views of Halifax Harbour and the city from the island.
17. Prince Edward Island
Driving time: 3.5 hours
Prince Edward Island is a popular day trip destination from Halifax, thanks to its close proximity. You could take the bridge into PEI and take a ferry back to watch the sunset over the ocean.
You can spend your day trip exploring attractions like Cavendish Beach and Green Gables Heritage Place in Cavendish. Here, you can wander the paths around the home of Anne of Green Gables.
A guided tour such as the Island Drive and Anne of Green Gables would be a great way to explore the area and experience all it offers. You get access to the Green Gables Heritage House, then onto the Gulf of St. Lawrence in Prince Edward Island National Park. Next, you will make a few stops at North Rustico, New Glasgow, The Preserve Co., and Charlottetown.
Prince Edward Island also has lots of outdoor activities to try, like sea kayaking, whale watching, biking, and hiking.
18. Shelburne
Driving time: 2.25 hours
In Shelburne, you’ll be surrounded by stunning ocean views and centuries-old architecture.
Take a day trip and visit the Osprey Art Centre in Nova Scotia and the Buchanan Gallery. If you’re interested in delving deeper into the area’s past, visit the Black Loyalist Heritage Center and learn about the region’s rich history.
You can take a break from all the sightseeing and enjoy a truly exceptional freshly made seafood chowder at the Ships Galley Pub and Eatery.
At low tide, I recommend a walk out to the Sandy Point Lighthouse and capture some Instagram-worthy photos.
19. Truro
Driving time: 1.25 hours
Truro is located in the heart of Colchester County and is known as the “Hub of Nova Scotia” for its central location and easy access to all province areas.
Truro may be small, but it packs a punch regarding things to do and see.
The downtown area has plenty of shops and restaurants to explore, while Victoria Park and its boardwalks offer spectacular views of the gorge wall and a 175-step climb to the top of Jacob’s Ladder.
A popular attraction in Truro is the Marigold Culture Centre, which puts on cultural programs and shows. It also houses the Colchester County Sports Hall of Fame and a popular art gallery.
Truro is home to several wineries and craft breweries, making it an ideal destination for food and drink lovers as well!
Day Trips from Halifax: FAQs
How many days are enough for Halifax?
A minimum of 2-3 days is recommended to explore Halifax’s popular attractions, such as the Halifax Citadel. If you want to visit other parts of the province, such as Peggy’s Cove, Lunenburg, and the Bay of Fundy, add another 3 days minimum to your itinerary.
What is the best month to visit Halifax?
The best time to visit Halifax is during the summer months of June to August, when the weather is mild and sunny. In these months, the city comes alive with festivals, events, and outdoor activities. September and October are also good months for quieter travel and to see the fall colors.
What to do in Halifax in two days?
In two days, you can get a taste of what Halifax has to offer by exploring its popular attractions, such as the Halifax Citadel, Maritime Museum, and Public Gardens. Stroll along the waterfront boardwalk and enjoy a seafood dinner at the famous Salty’s Restaurant. On the second day, take a day trip to Peggy’s Cove or Lunenburg.
Can I get around Halifax without a car?
Yes, it’s possible to get around Halifax by walking or public transportation. The city is walkable, with many major attractions close to one another. Other transportation options to get around Halifax include bike rentals, Uber, and taxis if you prefer not to walk or take public transit.
Wrap-Up: Day Trips from Halifax, Nova Scotia
I hope this list of amazing day trips from Halifax inspires you to hit the road and explore the hidden gems of Canada’s East Coast.
Nova Scotia is home to some of the most stunning natural beauty in all of Canada, and these day trips offer a chance to see it in its full glory. In my opinion, the best trips are a day tour to Peggy’s Cove or an afternoon wine tasting in Annapolis Valley!
No matter your interests, you can find an excursion that’s perfect for you.
Read More About Nova Scotia:
- 22 Pros and Cons of Living in Halifax: Should You Move to Nova Scotia
- 51 Fun Things to do in Halifax: The Best Activities You Won’t Want to Miss!
- 7 Best Whale Watching Halifax Tours: Where to See Whales in Nova Scotia
- 3 Best Halifax Hotels with Waterslides
- 10 Best Peggy’s Cove Tours
- 19 Exciting Day Trips from Halifax, Nova Scotia
- Where to Stay in Halifax: 17 Best Hotels
More Tours in Canada:
- 3 Best Niagara on the Lake Bike Wine Tours
- 5 Best Banff Helicopter Tours
- Top 5 Quebec Dog Sledding Tours
- 22 Best Niagara on the-Lake Wine Tours
- 15 Best Quebec White Water Rafting Tours
Canada Travel Planning Guide
🚑 Should I buy Canada travel insurance?
100% YES! — Canada has “free” healthcare but it’s only for citizens! Foreigners visiting need travel insurance in case anything happens on their visit. I recommend World Nomads – starting at just $5 a day!
💧Can you drink the water in Canada?
Yes — In all major cities in Canada, you can drink the tap water. There are very few, rural areas that you can’t. However, you should never drink river or lake water anywhere in the country! I recommend a Brita Water Bottle for long hikes and backcountry camping to stay safe and hydrated.
🚙💨 Is it safe to rent a car in Canada?
Yes — Renting a car is a necessity in most of Canada! If you want to go on road trips or adventures outside of the major cities, you’ll need to rent a car. (Read more)
📲 Will my phone work in Canada?
Maybe — Some American companies work in Canada, but many will not. If your phone doesn’t work in Canada, I recommend getting a Canadian SIM card so you can get around and stay in contact with loved ones. We don’t have a lot of free WIFI in Canada, so you’ll need your phone for maps.
🏩 What’s the best way to book my Canada accommodations?
My go-to for Canadian hotels is Booking.com. For hostels, I use Hostel World. If you want a home-y feeling, check out VRBO (which is cheaper and safer than Airbnb).
Or get free accommodations with Trusted Housesitters!
✈️ What’s the best site to buy Canada flights?
For finding cheap Canadian flights, I recommend Skyscanner.
🎫 Do I need a visa for Canada?
Likely Not — US, UK, and EU passport holders don’t need Canadian visas. However, some other countries do (check here!). And if you plan to stay for more than 4 weeks (an average tourist visa length), you will need to look into visas to live in Canada.
