From stunning white sand beaches to vibrant and welcoming communities, exploring this corner of Nova Scotia’s South Shore is the perfect place to get a quintessential Nova Scotia Experience. The East Coast hospitality really shines through in Shelburne County. Journey from Canada’s lobster capital to a picture-perfect vibrant town to a relaxing seaside getaway. After exploring Shelburne County, you’ll quickly realize why locals love calling this place home. Here’s everything you can’t miss on your own adventure in Shelburne County, Nova Scotia and three small communities to explore along the way.
Barrington, Nova Scotia
Barrington, Nova Scotia, is the lobster capital of Canada. It’s a great spot for an authentic maritime experience. Nestled along the rugged southwestern coast, this picturesque fishing community offers a glimpse into the region’s rich seafaring history. Discover this historic location, savour the freshest seafood, and immerse yourself in the coastal culture that defines this welcoming corner of Nova Scotia.
Things To Do in Barrington
Wild Axe Lumberjack Experience
Become a lumberjack for the day at Wild Axe with World Champion lumberjack Darren Hudson. Try axe throwing, log rolling, log sawing and more. To top it off, it takes place on beautiful grounds surrounded by trees and along the Barrington River.
We had the opportunity to learn how to axe throw from Suzie of WildAxe, who has competed around the world in places like Germany and Switzerland. With her pro instructions, I got better and better on each throw and hit the target on throw 5. I can understand why people love this sport so much. As you improve with each throw, you want to keep trying and improving.
Sandhills Beach Provincial Park
Enjoy scenic ocean views at Sandhills Beach Provincial Park. I highly recommend coming here for sunset. Enjoy the lookout platform with a stunning beach view, or walk down the stairs nearby to walk along the water. I loved spending golden hour here, soaking in the views and watching the sun set into the water.
Visit the Beaches
Enjoy beautiful white sand beaches throughout Barrington. There’s always something special about being by the ocean. Something that caught our eye was the beach toy libraries at the beaches, another extension of East Coast hospitality. Some locals even added a guestbook at one of the beaches, a small gesture that makes you feel even more welcome in the community.
I recommend taking the scenic route and driving around Cape Sable Island, where lookouts and beaches will pop up. As you make your way around, keep an eye out for deer. There’s a significant deer population in Barrington, and we were lucky to spot a family of 3 deer.
The beaches are perfect for swimming in the warm months and scenic walks in the cooler months. Here are 3 beaches I recommend stopping at:
South Side Beach/Daniel’s Head Beach
The first thing that stood out to me was the vibrant blue water at South Side Beach. You can walk for miles on this 2.5km white sand beach. I loved walking out during low tide and seeing the sand sparkle here.
Stoney Island Beach
Walk through the rolling sand dunes, and you’ll find a 2km white sand beach on the other side. This would be an excellent beach for sunrise.
The Hawk
This beach is along Nova Scotia’s southern tip and would be a great spot for sunset. The Hawk is home to a thousand-year-old drowned forest. You’ll notice the tree stump remains as you’re walking along the right side of the beach. You’ll also see Cape Light in the distance, Nova Scotia’s tallest lighthouse.
Barrington Museum Complex
Step back in time and learn about the area’s history at the Barrington Museum Complex. It includes four separate museums to explore within a 2-minute walk of each other.
Seal Island Lighthouse Museum
Visit this 35 ft replica of the original 60ft Seal Island Lighthouse that still operates today. It’s one of the oldest surviving lighthouses in Canada, dating back to the early 1800s. Visit the museum to learn unique tales of the lighthouse keepers, shipwrecks, the importance of the lighthouse and more.
Old Meeting House
The Old Meeting House is a National Historic Site built in 1765 by fishermen and farmers. For two centuries, people have gathered in this New England-style meeting house for both business and religion. It’s the oldest non-comfortist house of worship in Canada and among the oldest in North America. You’ll be able to learn about the importance of his house and learn about the first people to inhabit Kespugwitk/Nova Scotia, the Mi’kmaq.
Old Court House
The Old Court House was built in 1843. Today, it’s home to a collection of local indigenous artifacts and over 4,000 military artifacts, including artifacts from the world wars.
Barrington Woolen Museum
In the 19th and 20th centuries, the Barrington Woolen Mill was an important local business that made yarn and cloth. Today, you can explore the preserved mill and learn about its history. You’ll have the opportunity to try carding, spinning and weaving wool. Bonus, the Woolen Museum has beautiful views along the river.
Sherose Island Nature Trail
Head to Sherose Island Nature Trail in Barrington for a nature walk through an evergreen forest. Keep an eye out for colourful rocks painted by locals along the way.
Restaurants In Barrington
Capt. Kat’s Lobster Shack
Capt. Kat’s Lobster Shack our first stop in Barrington, and we were greeted with wonderful East Coast Hospitality from their friendly staff. This is a great place to indulge in Canada’s lobster capital. Their menu is full of wonderful items, from lobster mac n’ cheese to lobster fondue and more. I couldn’t resist getting their award-winning lobster roll that lived up to the hype. Dine in their lounge or their quintessential Nova Scotia room.
Salty Shores Cafe
This local cafe is a great spot for a coffee break, and you need to try one of their sweet or savoury scones while you’re here. It’s the perfect stop to relax between adventures.
The Salt Banker Cafe
The Salt Banker Cafe is a fantastic restaurant nestled beside Clark’s Harbour. Dine outside, and you can enjoy your meal with a view of the colourful boats.
They specialize in seafood dishes and Italian cuisine. We couldn’t resist getting the lobster melt oozing with gouda cheese and lobster between garlic toast and paired with crispy fries. Other menu items that caught our eye include scallop carbonara, mussels with marinara, creamed lobster poutine and their seafood platter that includes lobster, shrimp, mussels and scallops. Satisfy your sweet tooth with some of their homemade ice cream.
Where to stay in Barrington:
We stayed at the Starboard Inn. It has a wonderful central location, and the seasonal decorations caught our eye. The rooms are spacious, so perfect for if you’re in a group or family. We were always minutes away from our next adventure.
Shelburne, Nova Scotia
Steeped in history, Shelburne’s well-preserved architecture and heritage sites tell the story of Loyalist settlers who established the town in the late 18th century. With its welcoming atmosphere and a deep connection to the sea, Shelburne offers a delightful blend of culture, nature, and history for those looking to explore Nova Scotia’s hidden treasures. You’ll feel like you stepped onto a movie set as soon as you arrive.
The East Coast hospitality really shines through in Shelburne, and it’s the perfect spot for a quintessential Nova Scotia experience. I had many locals stop and welcome me to the area, share fun stories and even offer me an umbrella.
Things to do in Shelburne, Nova Scotia
Explore Shelburne’s Historic Waterfront
Shelburne was once the fourth largest community in North America when, during the American Revolution in 1783, about 3000 United Empire Loyalists arrived in ships from New York City. Today, it’s a charming town with vibrant colours and friendly locals. It’s full of historic treasures and wonderful stories.
Shelburne’s Waterfront Heritage District retains its 18th-century architecture. Walk along Dock Street, and it feels like you’ve stepped back in time. I walked along the street a few times during our visit. Keep an eye out in the water for seals.
Shelburne County Museum
The Shelburne County Museum Highlights loyalist connections in the area. Housed in a beautifully restored historic building, the museum offers a treasure trove of artifacts and exhibits that vividly depict the area’s heritage. Visitors can explore diverse themes ranging from the region’s maritime legacy, multicultural influences, and the early Loyalist settlers.
The Dory Shop Museum
The Dory Shop Museum offers the opportunity to explore the history and craftsmanship of the iconic dory, a small wooden fishing boat renowned for its seaworthiness. The museum is in an authentic harbour-side dory factory to discover the historic Shelburne Dory and the world of the Grand Banks fishery as it existed from 1880 to 1971. Visitors can immerse themselves in the art of dory construction, witness the skilled artisans at work, and learn about the integral role these boats played in the fishing industry.
Ross Thompson House and Museum
The Ross Thompson House and Museum is a great spot to dive more into the area’s history. This restored Loyalist heritage home, once owned by the prominent Ross family, offers a fascinating journey back in time. The house was once owned by George and Robert Ross, sons of a Scottish Merchant. They opened the store adjoining their house in 1785 and sold goods like molasses and candles. They also traded valuable supplies like pickled herring and salt codfish. Visitors can explore its meticulously furnished rooms adorned with period-accurate artifacts and gain insights into the region’s maritime and social history.
Sandy Point Lighthouse
Admire Sandy Point Lighthouse from its unique location on a sand bar. See the lighthouse surrounded by water during high tide and walk out to the lighthouse during low tide. The shoreline is a great spot for a picnic or a scenic coffee break.
The Islands Provincial Park
Enjoy a waterside trail that weaves through the forest. You’ll see a view of Shelburne Harbour across the water at the park. This would be a great location to have a scenic lunch at one of the waterside picnic tables.
Black Loyalist Centre in Birchtown
At the Black Loyalist Heritage Museum, you can learn about the thousands of black Loyalists who came to Nova Scotia following America’s independence from Britain. The museum dives into the story of the world’s largest free African population outside Africa in the late 18th century in Nova Scotia.
You’ll have the opportunity to read past stories and visit historic buildings. I recommend the guided tour when you visit, where a guide will bring you to important museum sights on the grounds and share historical facts.
Attend a Sheburne Festival
Shelburne is home to some wonderful seasonal festivals, like the Whirligig & Weathervane Festival in September. I had the opportunity to visit in the fall and experience what might be Canada’s cutest fall festival.
Giant Pumpkin Festival and Regatta
From locals racing in giant pumpkin boats to festive activities, this is a great festival to line your visit up with. The festival kicks off with the spirit of Halloween through pumpkin carving and scarecrow making. See the most giant pumpkins you’ll ever see in a weigh-off competition.
From there, head to the Guild Hall Farmers Market, where you can browse local vendors offering seasonal goods from pumpkin bouquets, fall treats, ghost decor and more.
Next, it’s time for the big event, the Pumpkin Regatta, where locals race in giant pumpkins. I have never seen anything like it. Everyone lined up along the water to watch the race and cheer on their friends. We were cheering for Suzie of WildAxe, who was competing. It’s a wild race as locals paddle their hearts out in these giant pumpkins bobbing in the water.
Afterwards, you’ll have the opportunity to paddle a pumpkin. This is something I never even imagined doing, but who knew paddling a pumpkin could be so fun! I couldn’t stop laughing as I was tossed around in the pumpkin, paddling through the water. I would definitely recommend this experience.
From the small-town charm of this festival to being able to paddle a pumpkin, this is something you need to add to your Canada bucket list.
Restaurants in Shelburne, Nova Scotia
The Emerald Light Kitchen + Bar
The Emerald Light Kitchen + Bar is a cozy spot perfect for lunch or dinner. The shrimp po boy in a pretzel bun was so delicious. Everything on their menu sounded amazing, from the burrata, grilled cheese, tomato soup and more.
Boxing Rock Brewery
Boxing Rock Brewery is a great spot to enjoy a flight of craft beer. The owners are craft beer enthusiasts who started brewing beer in lobster pots in the backyard to know having a welcoming brewery that invites everyone to come enjoy one of their beers. Enjoy a spacious patio in the warmer months. They even had a section for axe throwing by WildAxe from Barrington.
They have a superb beer selection, from IPAs to sour beer, and even have their own cider. Make sure to get their seafood chowder when you’re there. It’s full of flavourful garlic and herbs and might be the best seafood chowder I’ve tried.
According to local folklore, Boxing Rock is where bickering seamen were left by their captains to sort out their differences. The choice was to box until only one could return to the ship or shake hands and share a beer. Either way, there are only a few short hours until high tide.
Boxing Rock is along the Good Cheer Trail, Canada’s first winery, craft brewery, cidery and distillery trail that brings you to wonderful spots in Nova Scotia, including in South Shore.
Charlotte Lane Cafe
Charlotte Lane Cafe is somewhere you need to dine in Nova Scotia! We loved everything about this restaurant, from the atmosphere, friendly staff and an incredible meal. I couldn’t resist their lobster and scallops in a herb and garlic cream sauce. The scallops and lobster were cooked to perfection, and the sauce was full of flavour. They have an incredible wine list that pairs perfectly with your seafood.
The Ship’s Galley Pub and Eatery
They were on vacation when we visited, but this would be a great pub for casual seafood dishes.
Where to Stay in Shelburne, Nova Scotia
We stayed at The Cooper’s Inn. This historic inn has been the set of movies like The Scarlett Letter and, recently, shows like Disney’s Washington Black. This is also a great home base for exploring Shelburne County, including Barrington.
The rooms were cozy, with the perfect mix of vintage and modern. In the mornings, enjoy a delicious breakfast in the dining rooms. Choose from sweet and savoury options.
The owner, Amanda, a young entrepreneur, is so lovely, and it was great chatting with her about her inspiration for taking over The Coopers Inn. It was a daydream that she made a reality. This is definitely somewhere you need to stay on Nova Scotia’s South Shore.
Lockport, Nova Scotia
Lockeport, nestled on a peninsula in Allendale Bay, Nova Scotia, is a quaint fishing town connected to the mainland by the Crescent Beach causeway. Settled in 1762 by Massachusetts families seeking prime fishing grounds, Lockeport thrived as a center for fishing and trade. Jonathan Locke and Josiah Churchill, the town’s pioneers, rose to prominence, with Churchill becoming the first mayor of the Township of Locke’s Island. During its heyday, Locke’s Island prospered with bustling industry, hotels, warehouses, and fish plants. Ships voyaged from here to the West Indies, trading lumber and salt cod for molasses and salt. However, a fish market collapse in the 1890s marked the beginning of the town’s challenges. In 1907, the community decided to rebrand as the Town of Lockport, seeking to reinvigorate its economy and heritage in the heart of the Ragged Islands. Today, Lockeport is the perfect destination for ocean views and relaxation.
Where To Stay In Lockeport, Nova Scotia
Seaside Cottages at Ginger Hill
Enjoy a seaside escape in cozy, nautical-themed cottages with stunning beachfront views at Seaside Cottages at Ginger Hill. Owners Jeff and Sheila are wonderful hosts with so many thoughtful touches for your stay, from welcome treats to sharing information about the area.
They shared that many guests enjoy sitting in the rocking chairs on the porch and admiring the waves. Seeing Crescent Beach in person, I quickly understood why. In addition to its beauty, this beach provides a soothing ocean soundtrack that will quickly leave you feeling instantly relaxed.
There are short trials on the property that will lead you to special lookouts and a hidden beach. Follow the signs to get to the different points of interest. My favourite spot was the hammock trail. It will bring you to hammocks nestled in the trees with a view of the ocean. It would be a great spot to relax with a book and enjoy the ocean sounds. You’ll also find a picnic table lookout and a lookout nestled in the trees, perfect for enjoying a scenic meal.
The second beach is home to 3 additional cottages and offers a smaller crescent shape framed by rocks. It’s called Buchanan’s Beach, and it’s secluded and private.
Things To Do in Lockeport, Nova Scotia
Crescent Beach
Crescent Beach is a beautiful white sand beach over a mile long. This crescent-shaped beach provides beautiful reflections and shallow waves in low tide and dramatic, crashing waves in high tide. If you love surfing, this would be a fantastic winter destination.
Jeff and Sheila said many guests enjoy sitting on the porch rocking chairs and admiring the beach. I could instantly see why as I watched the dramatic waves go from low tide to high tide. The soothing wave soundtrack was so relaxing that you’ll feel at peace here.
Seaglass Hunting
Seaglass hunting is searching the beach for pieces of glass smoothed by the sea. Jeff brought us to a spot he knew was great for finding pieces. You’ll feel like a kid again searching through rocks and sand for colourful pieces of glass. Blue and yellow are the hardest colours to find if you’re up for a challenge.
Seaside Cottages at Ginger Hill gives guests small jars that they can use when collecting sea glass, which is such a nice touch for your stay.
Lockeport Trail
Enjoy a trail that will bring you through Lockeport, past colourful and historic houses, and by the water. We started at Crescent Beach’s parking lot. This 4km trail is a great way to explore the town and take the scenic route.
Along the trail, you’ll notice the Jacob Locke Homestead, one of five houses forming the Locke Family Streetscape. This collection of buildings will bring you back in time with the historic architecture. All houses were either built for or by the descendants of Samuel Locke. Samuel was a descendant of Jonathan Locke, M.D., one of the original settlers of Locke’s Island, and he later renamed Lockeport after his father.
Western Head
Enjoy a beautiful coastal trail that will bring you to a view of crashing waves and a lighthouse in the distance.
Beach Bonfire
Enjoy a bonfire on the beach at Crescent Beach. If you’re a guest of Seaside Cottages at Ginger Hill, they’ll provide the wood. Enjoy the warmth of the fire as you listen to the ocean waves in the distance. This is such a unique experience you can enjoy in Nova Scotia. Check Nova Scotia’s Burn Safe website before having a fire.
Where to Eat in Lockeport, Nova Scotia
Lobster Dinner at Seaside Cottage at Ginger Hill
Enjoy a dinner at your cottage by adding a lobster or scallop dinner to your stay. Your package includes everything you need, including lobster or scallops, Tidal Bay Wine, salad, bread, butter, utensils and instructions to cook the meal in your fully equipped cottage kitchen. This was a fun night and bonus that you can enjoy some Nova Scotia specialties paired with stunning views.
Beech Street Kitchen
Enjoy baked goods, coffee, and sandwiches at Beech Street Kitchen in Lockeport. It was temporarily closed when we visited, but locals recommended this spot.
Whitegull Restaurant & Marina
Enjoy casual dishes by the water at Whitehall Marina. Their menu is full of seafood from scallops to shrimp.
How To Get to Shelburne County?
We flew into Halifax Airport, rented a car at the airport and then started our road trip to Shelburne County. Lockeport is the first town you’ll cross, and it’s about 2.5 hours from the airport.
Ideas for Halifax
If you want to relax after your flight you can stay in Halifax for the night. The Sutton Place Hotel is a beautiful hotel that backs onto the Halifax Citadel. It’s the perfect place to get a restful sleep before your big adventure.
One of my favourite things to do in Halifax is walk along the waterfront. Spend some time soaking in the views, and there are plenty of wonderful restaurants to check out.
Thank you to Shelburne County for its warm welcome and East Coast hospitality, which made our trip fun and memorable! Thank you to Nova Scotia Tourism for making this post possible. As always, all thoughts and opinions are my own. I hope you have as much fun exploring Shelburne County as I did. I’d love to see your adventures. Feel free to tag me on Instagram and Tik Tok.
I recommend adding Baie Saint Marie and Clare, Nova Scotia, to this trip. Click here for more Nova Scotia Ideas.
Julia started Little Miss Ottawa as a way to explore her hometown as a traveller would. She’s always planning her next adventure, whether it’s local or abroad. You’ll find her exploring with her camera in hand. She hopes Little Miss Ottawa helps bring you on new and fun adventures. Happy exploring :)
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