11 Prettiest Small Towns in Nova Scotia

If you’re looking for charming and quaint small towns in Nova Scotia, you’re in luck. There are plenty of beautiful towns scattered along the coastline and inland, each with its own unique character and history. 

These charming Nova Scotia towns are perfect for a weekend getaway or even a longer vacation. Each town has its own unique character and history, and is worth a visit.

No matter which town you choose to visit, you’re sure to fall in love with Nova Scotia’s natural beauty and welcoming people. From sampling delicious seafood to seeing the highest tides or visiting quaint lighthouses, here are some of the prettiest small towns in Nova Scotia that are definitely worth a visit.

Prettiest Small Towns in Nova Scotia

Some of our favourite Nova Scotia communities include Lunenburg, Baddeck, Annapolis Royal, Mahone Bay, Chester, and Wolfville. Lunenburg is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most picturesque towns in the province. Baddeck is the gateway to Cape Breton Island and home to the Alexander Graham Bell National Historic Site. Annapolis Royal is a historic town with plenty of 18th century architecture, while Mahone Bay is known for its three churches and colourful waterfront. Chester is a quaint fishing village, and Wolfville is a beautiful university town located in the Annapolis Valley. 

Lunenburg

Lunenburg, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of the best-preserved 18th-century towns in North America. It’s a picturesque town, known for its colourful houses, historic buildings, and distinctive waterfront.

There are plenty of things to do in Lunenburg, from exploring the old town to learning about the town’s seafaring history or taking a whale-watching tour.  

What to Do in Lunenburg:

• Fisheries Museum of the Atlantic: Explore the rich maritime history of the town and learn about the seafaring history that shaped the town.
• Bluenose II: Lunenburg is home to the iconic Bluenose II, a replica of the original racing ship that is featured on the Canadian dime. If she’s in port, you can tour the ship or book a sailing tour.
• Old Town Lunenburg: Stroll through the streets, admire the colourful buildings and look for the unique “Lunenburg bump” on the town’s houses.
• Ironworks Distillery: Stop by this former marine blacksmith shop and sample some award-winning local spirits – the gin is excellent, but the pear brandy is also great to warm up on a chilly day.
• Take a Walking Tour: Lunenburg is one of the few places in the province that offers a walking tour, and it’s one that’s worth taking. Learn fascinating insights into this charming town, including what the “Lunenburg bump” is, and other fun tidbits about the town. We’ve done quite a few walking tours in other parts of the world, and this was one of the best!
• Experience a Ghost Tour: If you’re visiting Lunenburg in the fall, don’t miss their ghost tour, which is easily one of the best ghost tours in Nova Scotia. This spooky, fun experience dives into the eerie legends and haunted history of this UNESCO town, adding an unforgettable twist to your visit.

And whatever you do, be sure to try some of the local seafood! Lunenburg is home to some of the best seafood restaurants in Nova Scotia. The Grand Banker Seafood Bar and Grill is a popular pub-style restaurant overlooking the waterfront, and the Salt Shaker Deli also has an excellent menu.

Mahone Bay

Mahone Bay, one of the prettiest places in Nova Scotia, is located on the South Shore about an hour from Halifax.

Originally named after the type of low-lying ship used by pirates, called the Mahonne, the town has a long history of boat building.

These days, Mahone Bay is best known for its three churches, which are visible from almost anywhere in the town. There’s also plenty of colourful houses and boutique shops, and a relaxed atmosphere that’s perfect for a day of local exploring.

What to Do in Mahone Bay:

• Three Churches: The three churches, all lined up along the waterfront, are the most popular sight in Mahone Bay. While they’re beautiful to see up close, they’re even more striking when viewed from a distance. Head to Rebecca’s Restaurant on Edgewater Street for the best views. And an awesome lobster roll.
• Boutique Shopping: Wander through the town’s unique shops and galleries, featuring locally made crafts, art and unique souvenirs. There’s always something interesting to find that you won’t find anywhere else.
• Sample a Craft Brew: Try one of the uniquely named, but excellent local brews at Saltbox Brewing Company. If you’re not a fan of beer, they also have some great ciders to try. Our recommendation: Try the Nun on the Run Cream Ale or the Three Churches Cider.
• Annual Scarecrow Festival: If you visit Mahone Bay in the fall, don’t miss the unique and fun festival featuring creative scarecrow displays throughout the town.

Annapolis Royal

Annapolis Royal is Nova Scotia’s oldest town and was actually the first settlement in Canada. The town has been the site of many battles throughout the years and is now a National Historic Site.

Set on the Annapolis River, this picturesque town has plenty of 18th century buildings and beautiful gardens to explore. There’s also several art galleries, museums and historic sites, as well as the oldest street in Canada.

Things to Do:

• Fort Anne National Historic Site: Explore Canada’s oldest National Historic Site, with its fascinating history and beautiful grounds.
• Annapolis Royal Historic Gardens: Wander through 17 acres of beautifully designed gardens, including a stunning rose garden, a collection of native plants and a butterfly garden.
• Tidal Power Interpretative Centre: Learn about the world’s first tidal power station and the incredible force of the Bay of Fundy tides.
• Annapolis Royal Farmers’ Market: If you’re visiting on a weekend, be sure to stop by the local market and pick up some fresh produce, handmade crafts or delicious treats.
• Delaps Cove: Take an easy hike through a wooded trail leading to the ocean, where you’ll be rewarded with a waterfall and stunning views of the Bay of Fundy.

Baddeck

Baddeck is a pretty lakeside town on the shores of Bras d’Or Lake in Cape Breton. Known as the beginning and end of the renowned Cabot Trail, Baddeck is a hub for outdoor enthusiasts and history buffs alike.

With a lighthouse, good restaurants, interesting shops and plenty of outdoor activities, there’s no shortage of things to do in Baddeck. 

Things to Do:

• Alexander Graham Bell National Historic Site: Discover the life and inventions of Alexander Graham Bell, who spent his summers on this lake. The museum features memorabilia from Bell’s experiments and inventions, and an observation deck to see Bell’s house, which is set on a hill across the lake.
• Sail on Bras d’Or Lake: Enjoy a sailing adventure on the beautiful Bras d’Or Lake, which is a saltwater lake and a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.
• Kidston Island Lighthouse: Admire the lighthouse from the Baddeck waterfront, or during the summer months, take a pontoon boat shuttle to the island and explore its scenic trails.
• Baddeck Lobster Suppers: Indulge in a delicious Nova Scotian meal at this family-run restaurant on the shores of the lake, with a variety of local seafood on the menu.
• Uisge Ban Falls Provincial Park: Hike through a forested trail to the beautiful Uisge Ban Falls, one of the top waterfalls in Cape Breton.

Chester

Chester is a picturesque seaside village on the beautiful South Shore of Nova Scotia, about an hour from Halifax. It’s known for its vibrant arts scene and sailing culture, and with its saltbox houses and clapboard siding, it could easily be mistaken for a town in New England.

Things to Do in Chester:

• Chester Race Week: Every August, the town hosts the Chester Race Week, one of North America’s oldest and largest keelboat regattas.
• Chester Playhouse: Catch a live performance at this historic playhouse, which hosts a variety of shows, including theatre, music and dance.
• Explore the Culture: Browse local art galleries and boutique shops for unique finds, and make great souvenirs.
• Graves Island Provincial Park: This beautiful park has hiking trails, picnic areas, campsites and stunning ocean views, perfect for a relaxing day out. This is one of our favourite campgrounds in Nova Scotia, as it was the first place we stayed while visiting the province, although we only managed to stay one night before it closed for a hurricane.
• Lido Pool: Take a dip in the saltwater Lido Pool, built right into the edge of Chester’s Back Harbour. Open during the summer months, it’s a unique spot to swim overlooking the harbour, and is a great spot for a refreshing dip.

Digby

Digby is a small fishing town located on the bay of Fundy, about three hours from Halifax. The town is best known for its’ scallops, which are considered some of the best in the world.

Things to Do in Digby:

• Digby Waterfront: Stroll along the waterfront, where you can see the fishing boats lined up along the pier. Digby has the largest inshore scallop fleet, and the boats make for an interesting sight to see.
• Point Prim Lighthouse: For a different water view, Point Prim Lighthouse offers beautiful views of the Bay of Fundy and stunning sunsets.
• Digby Pines Golf Resort & Spa: Stay at this iconic resort, one of the original CP Rail Hotels, or play a round of golf on the beautiful 18-hole course.
• Whale Watching Tours: Take a day trip to Brier Island for a whale-watching cruise in the Bay of Fundy where you’ll see whales and other marine life
• Try the Scallops: Of course, when you’re in Digby, you need to try the scallops. The Crow’s Nest and Captain’s Cabin are great choices in town, or my personal favourite is Ed’s Takeout by the highway.

Cheticamp

Cheticamp is a traditional fishing village located on the west coast of Cape Breton Island, about four hours from Halifax. It’s a vibrant Acadian town, known for its rich cultural heritage, stunning coastal scenery and close proximity to the Cape Breton Highland National Park.

It’s also one of the best places to see puffins in Nova Scotia or to go whale watching.

While not as quaint as some of the other places on our list of prettiest small towns in Nova Scotia, the culture and community here makes up for it.

What to Do in Cheticamp:

• Les Trois Pignons: Visit this cultural centre and museum, which gives a special view into Acadian culture and the history of Chéticamp.
• Whale Watching Tours: Head out on a whale watching tour, as Cheticamp is one of the best places to go whale watching in Nova Scotia.
• Gypsum Mine Trail: Hike this easy trail leading to a beautiful turquoise lake, yes it’s really that shade of turquoise, that’s perfect for a refreshing swim.
• Aucoin Bakery: Stop by Aucoin Bakery for delicious home-made bread, old-fashioned donuts, muffins and cookies.
• Cape Breton Highlands National Park: The western entrance to Cape Breton Highlands National Park is just a few minutes from Cheticamp. Explore the park’s breathtaking landscapes, including scenic drives, hiking trails, and stunning lookout points along the Cabot Trail.

Wolfville

Wolfville is a lovely town in the Annapolis Valley, known for its historic charm and beautiful vineyards. Home to Acadia University, Wolfville has an atmosphere similar to New England, with Victorian architecture and plenty of quaint shops.

Wolfville may be a university town, but it’s also known for the nearby wineries, great restaurants and cozy Victorian houses that have been turned into bed and breakfasts.

Things to Do:

• Wineries: Explore the local vineyards and wineries, such as Luckett Vineyards, Domaine de Grand Pré and Benjamin Bridge, where you can enjoy wine tastings and tours. Be sure to try Tidal Bay, an appellation that you will only find in Nova Scotia.
• Wolfville Farmers’ Market: Open every Saturday year-round and Wednesday evenings in summer, where you’ll find fresh produce, local baked goods, and of course, products from local wineries
• Explore Downtown: Take a stroll through downtown Wolfville, grab a coffee at one of the cozy cafes, shop at the boutique stores and admire the local art.
• Grand Pré: Visit this National Historic Site that pays tribute to the Acadians who were deported by the British in 1755 and learn about this significant chapter in Nova Scotia’s history.
• Blomidon Look Off: Just 20 mins from Wolfville is one of the best views in Annapolis Valley
• Visit a Local Farm: The Annapolis Valley is known for its incredible produce, and fall is the perfect time to visit. Admire the beautiful autumn colours or head to one of the many orchards nearby to go apple picking.

Louisburg

Located on Cape Breton Island, Louisburg is a small town with a big history. The town was once the site of Fort Louisbourg, a French fortress that was the largest in North America at the time. The fort has since been rebuilt and is now a National Historic Site, with costumed guides and actors giving visitors a taste of what life was like in the 18th century. 

In addition to its’ historical significance, the tiny fishing village of Louisburg is also a beautiful Nova Scotia town, with plenty of 18th century architecture and views of the harbour. 

Things to Do:

• Fortress of Louisburg: Step back in time and explore this extensive 18th-century French fortress. With costumed interpreters, re-enactments, and interactive exhibits, it’s a fascinating place to visit, especially for history buffs.
• Louisburg Lighthouse: Visit the site of the first lighthouse in Canada, where you’ll have stunning views of the rugged coastline or enjoy the hiking trail along the ocean.
• Louisburg Playhouse: Enjoy live theatre and local Cape Breton music at this cozy theatre.
• Kennington Cove Beach: Relax on this beautiful sandy beach, or walk along the historic beach and take in the ocean views.

Tatamagouche

Tatamagouche is a pretty seaside village along the Northumberland Shore, known for its quaint Main Street, beautiful nearby beaches and unique accommodations.

Things to Do:

• Tatamagouche Train Station Inn: Stay at one of the most unique places in Nova Scotia. Spend the night in one of the renovated cabooses or boxcars, enjoy excellent seafood and local dishes in the dining car or simply visit the gift shop and cafe.
• Tatamagouche Brewing Company: Visit this family-owned mircrobrewery, formerly a butcher shop and now serving handcrafted beer in a cozy atmosphere.
• Rushton’s Beach Provincial Park: Enjoy some of the warmest waters in Nova Scotia, with a boardwalk and a sandy beach, and stunning sunsets in the evening.
• Sugar Moon Farm: Tour the sugar camp to learn about maple syrup, or dine at the on-site restaurant. Open year-round on Saturdays and Sundays, with additional hours during maple syrup season in the spring.

Pictou

Known as the birthplace of New Scotland, Pictou is rich in Scottish heritage and maritime history. This historic town on the Northumberland Shore is small, but offers a unique blend of cultural attractions, outdoor activities and a pretty waterfront to stroll along.

Things to Do:

• Hector Heritage Quay: Learn about the town’s Scottish roots and climb aboard a replica of the Ship Hector, which brought the first wave of Scottish immigrants to Nova Scotia in 1773.
• Northumberland Fisheries Museum: Discover the local fishing heritage with historical artifacts and exhibits, including a live lobster touch tank with a rare blue lobster.
• Waterfront Boardwalk: Stroll along the scenic boardwalk, browse the boutique shops, relax in a hammock and enjoy outdoor musical performances during the summer months.
• Grohmann Knives Factory: Tour the factory of these internationally known knives, which are made right here in Pictou, or shop in the factory outlet for a unique souvenir.
• Caribou-Munroes Island Provincial Park: Just a short drive from Pictou, this park offers a sandy beach with some of the warmest water in Nova Scotia, hiking trails along the shore, and picnic areas where you can watch the ferry arrive from PEI.
• Seafoam Lavender: Walk through the beautiful lavender fields, smell the flowers in bloom, pick up a few items at the gift shop, or even pick your own lavender during July.

Conclusion: Prettiest Small Towns in Nova Scotia

Exploring these pretty small towns in Nova Scotia is a great way to experience the province’s rich history, diverse culture and stunning landscapes. From the colourful streets of Lunenburg to the scenic vineyards of Wolfville and the historical charm of Annapolis Royal, each town has its own charm and attractions waiting to be discovered. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, historic sites or a relaxing escape, Nova Scotia’s picturesque towns are a great place to explore.

More Inspiration for Your Nova Scotia Bucket List

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The Ultimate Cabot Trail Itinerary: A Complete Guide to Nova Scotia’s Iconic Drive
Where to See Puffins in Nova Scotia: 3 Best Places to See Them
9 Best Things to Do in Lunenburg
Hirtle’s Beach Gaff Point Hike