When you think of Nova Scotia, the ocean and seafood is probably what comes to mind. There’s a lot more to experience here than lobsters and lighthouses; of which there are about 150 throughout the province. We’re also abundant in waterfalls and wineries, world class hiking trails and some of the most unique activities you’ll find in all of Canada! Whether you’re planning a visit to Nova Scotia to soak up the Maritime culture, or adventure is what you’re after, there’s a wide array of experiences here for every type of traveller. If you’re a regular to Nova Scotia, or have never been, here are 16 unique Nova Scotia activities you have to try.
ATV Tours in Cape Breton with TNT Adventures
Cape Breton is a tourist destination for a multitude of reasons. As many times as we’ve been, we’ve never seen Cape Breton like this. Tucked within the trees of Hunter’s Mountain is TNT Outdoor Adventures operated by Turk and Cathy. They offer a wide range of excursions including UTV’s during the spring/ summer/ fall, and snowmobiles during the winter months. Our tour was during the month of July. We chose the Cape Breton TNT Trail Tour which takes you through trails, and old logging routes to the most breaktaking view I’ve ever seen in Cape Breton. We highly recommend TNT, not only because it’s an incredible and memorable experience full of fun for all ages, but because Turk and Cathy are so warm, welcoming, and clearly love what they do!
Tidal Bore Rafting
This next activity in 16 unique things to do in Nova Scotia is centered around the famous tidal bore! Believe it or not, this is not as scary as it sounds. I was afraid of anything with ‘rafting’ in the title, but this turned out to be one of my favourite of the 16 unique Nova Scotia activities!
This province is home to some of the highest tides in the world. Shubenacadie River is one of the largest rivers it has. When the tides start to come back in, you can see hoards of zodiac boats packed with people ready to ride the waves as they roll in. Our boat had passengers that ranged in age from 14 to 50. There are three types of trips you can book depending on the length of time and level of waves you’re comfortable with. Click here for more info on the tidal bore.
Learn To Surf At Lawrencetown Beach
I had never attempted to surf, and the idea of it terrified me. I’m told the surf at Lawrencetown beach is some of the best in the country. We decided to book a surf lesson with East Coast Surf School and give it a try. Wetsuits and a board are supplied, so no worries if you don’t have your own. Our teacher was a chap named Chaz, and he was exactly what you expect him to be – gnarly. He first taught us the basics on the beach. Then took us out to the equivalent of the kiddie pool area of the beach to give it a try. You’ll never have another experience like riding that salty surf. Good for beginners or experienced surfers.
Shuck Locally Grown Oysters At Bay Enterprises In Malagash
Oysters grown in Nova Scotia are some of the best in the world. Getting to visit an oyster farm and see how they’re harvested was definitely a must on our list! This family-owned business began in 1867, and is still run by the Purdy family today. After an overview of the history of their business, we were treated to an oyster shucking demonstration that included a tasting. This is a not-to-be-missed Nova Scotia activity for oyster lovers.
Tossing Mackerel at the Yarmouth Seafest
You don’t get much more unique than this! You can see why it had to be on the list of 16 unique things to do in Nova Scotia. I can unequivocally tell you that the phrase ‘As easy as shooting fish in a barrel’ is untrue. We weren’t sure what to expect when we decided to sign up for the Annual Mackerel Toss at Yarmouth Seafest. The sun was shining, the seagulls were circling, and laughs were definitely had. The local competition was fierce, but we placed 2nd in the mixed team category. If Newfoundland’s right of passage is to kiss a cod, Nova Scotia’s should be to toss a mackerel. Definitely one of the most unique Nova Scotia activities.
Hike The Cape Breton Highlands
With more than 20 trails to choose from, the Cape Breton Highlands National Park is a hiker’s haven. This is one of the Nova Scotia activities that draws people from all over the globe. Most of which offer a variety of stunning views over the land or the surrounding ocean. The Skyline trail is one of the most popular trails you see in photos. If you’re not afraid of a challenge, the views from the top of Franey Trail are incredible. This is a black diamond trail, and it came by that rating honestly. It is a tough hike but if you’re able to make the climb, the payoff is worth it. The Highland trails have varying degrees of difficulty – from low grade easy walking to very challenging. Find a list of the trails and their info here.
Overnight In An Apple Orchard in Annapolis Valley
If you’re planning a visit to Nova Scotia, you must include the Annapolis Valley. There are various parks and campgrounds throughout the province have something for everyone. Whether you’re a family looking for a site with activities for the kids, or a friend group looking for a more private experience, you can choose a site tailored to your needs. Add Harvest Host to that, and you can find yourself parking your RV or trailer on farms, ranches or apple orchards for a totally unique experience. The stars were incredible at night out amongst the apple trees, not to mention the beautiful smell.
Ride A Peddle Buggy On The Butter Trail Of Tatamagouche
Nova Scotia has thousands of biking trails throughout the province. I think this is activity is probably where we had the most laughs. Remember Adventures in Tatamagouche rents out 2 person peddle buggies that you can ride along the Butter Trail, which is part of the Trans Canada Trails and runs along the Waugh River. Not only did we enjoy taking in the scenic views, it was great exercise! Two peddling is better than one! There are a few bridges and beautiful views along the Tatamagouche River. If you’re looking for a more challenging ride experience, you’ll want to check out the Railyard in Truro’s Victoria Park, or Wenworth Mountain.
Find Fossils In Joggins
The next activity on the 16 Unique things to do in Nova Scotia will have you going back in time! The Joggins Fossil Cliffs is a great destination for kids and kids at heart! Named a UNESCO World heritage site in 2008, these cliffs were formed more than 300 million years ago. They’re bursting with fossilized plant life and prehistoric creatures. We opted for the guided beach tour and were glad we did. Our guide was so knowledgeable and we had a great time exploring the beach’s bounty. Not only do you get to see fossils right on the beach, but you also get to take in the incredible view of these jagged history-filled cliffs. You don’t have to be a geography buff to enjoy this experience.
Explore The Abandoned Mine Shafts Of Glace Bay And Springhill
The development of many of Nova Scotia’s towns and villages can be credited to its mining industry. This was one of the most emotional experiences we had on our adventures. Sheldon, our guide at the Glace Bay Miners Museum, was a miner for many years. Hearing his first hand experience as you tour the mine shafts was an invaluable experience. To hear how the miners and their families lived, not to mention the disasters that occurred at both locations was truly awe-inspiring. We also visited the Springhill Miner’s Museum. My husband and I were blown away by the passion and knowledge our guide Ben had at the age of 16. We highly recommend checking these sites out.
Sample Artisan Gouda At That Dutchman’s Cheese Farm
Tucked away in Nova Scotia’s north shore is That Dutchman’s Cheese Farm and Animal Park. This family business is Nova Scotia’s original artisan cheese makers. It boasts more than a dozen varieties of their house made gouda. Order a sample platter and pull up a picnic table overlooking the Bay of Fundy. They also have a shop onsite that specializes in Dutch delicacies. After your belly is full, wander the garden trails of the Animal Park where you can feed animals like potbelly pigs, emus, goats and more! You can easily spend a day at this unique destination.
Mud Sliding In Maitland
I know what you’re thinking – you don’t like the idea of being covered in mud… This is the one-of-a-kind experience you won’t want to miss when it comes to Nova Scotia activities. Only in Nova Scotia will you experience sliding down the slippery banks of the Shubenacadie river after high tide. This river has some of the highest recorded tides in the world in fact, and some of the smoothest mud rich with minerals. They should be charging spa fees for this experience! You’ll want to skip the water park wait lines this summer and put mud sliding on your summer bucket list! You can get the tide table times from the Fundy Interpretive Centre.
Mud sliding should be done at least 5 hours AFTER high tide, never when the tides are coming in. You want to be careful with mud sliding as the current can be quite strong as the waters recede. Some of the tidal bore rafting companies offer mud sliding as a part of their tours but locals can also direct you to the best spots to go.
See the stars like never before!
I love a starry night, but I had no idea how incredible a REAL starry night could be when witnessed from a place like the Deep Sky Eye Observatory in Tusket! Tim is a truly gifted astronomy and his passion is contagious as he tells you about his story that got him here with the Observatory! That coupled with his incredible collection of telescopes had us seeing things in the sky I’ve only seen pictures of!
This destination is fantastic for all ages, and you don’t need to be knowledgable in astronomy to enjoy it. There are also incredible options to stay onsite here which include glamping and a sky bubble! You can visit here any time of year – it doesn’t have to be summer. In fact, you’ll enjoy different gems within the sky at different times of year, so I would encourage you to go back during different seasons!
Learn to make your own cheese from an experienced Cheesemaker
Who doesn’t love some variety of this delicious dairy delicacy! But have you ever thought about learning how to make your own at home? Turns out, it’s not that hard with instruction and DIY kits from The Curd Girl out of scenic Mahone Bay! Heather teaches a multitude of cheese making workshops and also offers kids parties and private lessons. And as a bonus, Sweetwood farm is also an animal sanctuary for goats and pigs! Just 10 minutes outside of Mahone Bay, it’s a no brainer to add this to your vacation itinerary! If you’re into experiential adventures, this is one you can take home and use again and again!
Ride the longest over-water zipline in Atlantic Canada!
I’m not what you would call a thrill seeker, but this activity had just enough zip that even I could do it! This family owned enterprise out of Dingwall, Cape Breton Island is a true adventure experience for all to enjoy. The guides are exceptional at making sure the activity is done safely, and that you’re comfortable with the process. Plus the scenery is truly stunning as you sail over the the water and trees at a birds eye view. It’s not a long zip line so if you’re a newbie like I was, this is a great activity for you!
For safety reasons, it does have height and weight requirements so you may want to check into that if it may apply to any members of your party.
Coast down the historic Shubie Canal
Nova Scotia is blessed with abundant beach access, but have you ever kayaked or paddle boarded down a historic canal? The history behind the Shubenacadie Canal is one of a kind! Located in the heart of HRM, the canal runs 114 kilometres from Halifax Harbour to the Bay of Fundy, and is the site of the highest tides in the world! But you don’t have to worry about that for this activity.
Close to the Fairbanks Center (which I highly suggest you check out while you’re there), you can rent canoes, single or double kayaks and paddle boards to take along the canal. It’s an incredibly relaxing and serene environment with birds and squirrels chirping from the lush green foliage that lines the banks of the canal while the sun filters through the leaves. If you have time, be sure to explore the park itself to see the historic locks, and old foundations as well as many other historic gems. Tip: The squirrels here are extremely domesticated from being fed by people over the years so they will come up to you!
Last but not least, I have visited a lot of great bakeries in the decade we’ve been traveling around Nova Scotia. I’ve compiled my favourites, as well as what I love at each place, in the Great Nova Scotia Bakery Trail! Check them out, or if you have one you love that’s not on the list, before sure to hop over the the contact page and let me know!
Nova Scotia is bursting with unique experiential adventures for all types of travellers! Whether you’re an adrenaline junky or more into finding local bakeries, there are so many great options for RV lovers to get out and explore the province. Interested in a two week Nova Scotia road trip? Here’s the link to an itinerary for just that. Hopefully these 10 unique Nova Scotia activites will have you crafting the perfect itinerary for you, gassing up and hitting the open road! Happy trails!
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