South Shore Staycation Guide
The South Shore of Nova Scotia is rich in history, picturesque towns, delicious local seafood, and so much more. Whether you’re an adventure-seeker or looking for a relaxing getaway, this region has something to offer everyone!
In order to make the most of the rest of summer, we’re helping you plan a fun-filled staycation to the South Shore. We’ve highlighted popular tourist destinations and outlined everything you need to experience, eat, and drink at every stop! Pick and choose from our suggestions and customize your trip. We’ve also highlighted each location that is a part of the Nova Scotia Culinary trails, so you don’t forget to collect your digital stamps!
St. Margaret’s Bay Area
MUST-TRY EXPERIENCES
FOOD AND DRINK
Rhubarb Restaurant (Indian Harbour)
Just minutes from Peggy’s Cove, Rhubarb Restaurant provides everything from gourmet dishes to comfort food, all while using seasonal local ingredients. The friendly atmosphere is what tops it all off! Craving chowder? Order it here and check in on the Chowder Trail!
Shore Club Lobster Suppers (Hubbards)
Celebrating 83 years, Shore Club offers the original Nova Scotia lobster supper. Feast on fresh boiled lobster, unlimited fresh cultivated mussels, all-you-can-eat salad, homemade rolls, your choice of dessert, and coffee or tea. Steak, chicken, vegetarian and children’s menus are also available. While you’re here make sure you receive a check in on the Lobster Trail!
Trellis Café
At Trellis Café they take pride in the freshness of everything they offer. Each day starts with freshly brewed coffee and baked bread, and their fish arrives at the back door daily. Their house specialties include chowder, haddock, fishcakes, burgers and pasta. Enjoy their sunny patio, complimentary wifi, local artwork, and live entertainment on the weekends!
Sou’Wester Restaurant (Peggy’s Cove)
Overlooking the famous lighthouse at Peggy’s Cove, Sou’Wester Restaurant specializes in home-style meals. Whether you’re stopping by for breakfast or dinner, you won’t be disappointed! Some of their specialty dishes include seafood chowder, fish and chips, and fresh-cooked lobster from their own pound. Sou’Wester is a stop on both the Lobster and Chowder Trails!
Chester
MUST-TRY EXPERIENCES
FOOD AND DRINK
Kiwi Café
At the Kiwi Café, they are passionate about good coffee and good food. With international themes, unique flavour combinations, and their famous all-day breakfast, this is a stop you don’t want to skip. Here you can collect stamps for both the Lobster and Chowder Trail!
Tipping Point Distillers
Tipping Point Distillers in the Chester Basin produces world-class premium Vodka using locally grown grains. At their distillery you’ll be wowed by their beautiful post and beam building and incredible products. Pop in for a tour and a free sample! Tipping Point is also a part of the Good Cheer Trail.
Mahone Bay
MUST-TRY EXPERIENCES
FOOD AND DRINK
Rebecca’s Restaurant
At the gateway to Mahone Bay sits Rebecca’s Restaurant, providing a unique dining experience with a welcoming atmosphere. They offer an ever-changing menu that highlights Nova Scotia’s seasonal produce, with a large focus on vegetarian and vegan options. Not to mention the gorgeous view of the three churches! Bonus: get a Chowder Trail stamp at this location!
The Barn Coffee and Social House
Mahone Bay has a lot to explore – keep your energy up with a caffeine fix from The Barn Coffee and Social House. The Barn serves coffee that is locally roasted and ethically sourced from around the world. Located in a restored heritage barn, the atmosphere is comfortable, relaxing, and warm.
The Biscuit Eater Café
The Biscuit Eater is a well-known local café and bookstore serving homemade goodness year-round in one of Mahone Bay’s oldest buildings. Grab a book and a delicious baked good or seasonal dish, and enjoy the warmth of the community while you’re at it!
Mateus Bistro
The best way to wind down after a day of exploring is with a delicious home-style meal. Mateus Bistro brings their seasonal menu to the table with charcoal smoked meats, fresh seafoods, and local produce. Grab a bite to eat and pair it with your pick from their selection of Nova Scotia wine, beer, spirits, and cider. Mateus Bistro is both a Lobster and Chowder Trail stop!
Saltbox Brewing Company
At Saltbox Brewing Company, their motto is “think social, and drink local.” They celebrate the development of skills and artistry required to create fresh, full-flavoured local beer. The Saltbox patio is the perfect spot to kick back on a warm summer day, trust us when we say it’s a must-stop! Remember to check in to receive a Good Cheer Trail stamp!
Boulangerie la Vendéenne and Helen B’s
Located along Highway 325, you can stop at Boulangerie la Vendéenne for authentic, artisanal breads, made with quality organic ingredients and a wide selection of pastries and viennoiseries. Here you can also find a selection of Helen B’s jams, pickles, and relish for you to take home and enjoy!
Lunenburg and area
MUST-TRY EXPERIENCES
FOOD AND DRINK
Beach Pea Kitchen & Bar
The Beach Pea’s menu is inspired by the freshest local seafood and Mediterranean flavours. From Saffron-infused seafood stew to classic Nova Scotia lobster rolls, they offer something for every palate. Pair your meal with one of their unique cocktail creations and you’re destined for a meal you’ll never forget.
Grand Banker Bar & Grill
Located harbour-side in the historic downtown Lunenburg, the Grand Banker provides the true Nova Scotian experience. Their lunch and dinner menus are filled with classic seafood dishes, from fish cakes to chowder, made with fresh local ingredients. Their dedication to local farmers, fishers, and artisans provides a satisfying experience for every foodie. They are also a part of both the Lobster and Chowder trails!
Lincoln Street Food
Lincoln Street Food provides a contrast to old Lunenburg with their distinctly modern atmosphere. Their menu changes frequently based on the seasonality of products in Nova Scotia, so you can always expect the freshest dishes!
Salt Shaker Deli
Whether you’re on their waterfront patio or in their dining room, the Salt Shaker Deli provides a casual and fun atmosphere perfect for families. Their menu holds a wide variety of dishes from seafood and salads, to gourmet pizzas and pasta. If your group has a hard time agreeing on where to eat, Salt Shaker is an excellent choice! Order their delicious chowder and receive a digital stamp on the Chowder Trail!
South Shore Fish Shack
Calling all seafood lovers! The South Shore Fish Shack features a simple menu full of locally sourced, seaside favourites. Each dish is classically prepared and designed to let the seafood shine. Their patio has a stunning view of the harbour making it the perfect sunny day lunch destination! Order one of their lobster dishes and collect a digital stamp on the Lobster Trail.
Old Fish Factory Restaurant and Ice House Bar
World-famous seafood chowder, deep sea scallops, hand dipped fish and chips, lobster tacos, and gourmet lobster rolls are just a few of the delicious dishes offered at the Old Fish Factory. Come to experience the salt air on their outdoor wharf side patio, a casual meal in their dining room, or oysters & ales in the Ice House Bar. This stop makes it easy to collect stamps for both the Lobster and Chowder trails.
Shipwright Brewing Company
Shipwright Brewing Company is a must-visit when in Lunenburg, as it’s the historic town’s very first craft brewery. They celebrate shipbuilding heritage and shipwrights themselves, past and present, who helped shape Lunenburg into what it is today. Their beers are brewed in small batches with both pride and passion to ensure top-notch quality. End your day in Lunenburg with a brew and a view, and make sure you check into the Good Cheer Trail!
Ironworks Distillery
Ironworks is an artisan distillery, winner of multiple international awards, and uses only natural fresh ingredients, sourced as locally as possible. Stop by to browse their selection of local spirits, enjoy a tour of the distillery, and collect a Good Cheer Trail stamp!
Petite Rivière Vineyards (Crousetown)
Petite Rivière Vineyards is an old-world French style winery located on the unique slopes of the South Shore’s drumlin hills. With lavender gardens, a stone terrace, and a stunning view of the vineyards, you would think you were in the south of France! Relax and enjoy wine and cider samples, or indulge in their “Ultimate Tour & Wine Tasting” experience. Petite Rivière is also a part of the Good Cheer Trail!
New Ross and Newburne
MUST-TRY EXPERIENCES
FOOD AND DRINK
Peasant’s Pantry
Peasant’s Pantry is your traditional deli offering a casual menu with fresh and smoked meats as well as charcuterie. You can also pair a sandwich or burger with your choice of local beverage – it’s the perfect staycation pit-stop!
Bulwark Cider
Bulwark Cider is a true expression of what Nova Scotia is all about, all products are made with fresh, wholesome, premium-quality fruits and berries. Their commitment to quality craft production makes Muwin Estate the largest owner-operated cider house in Nova Scotia. Visit them to discover the luscious taste of carefully made ciders and fruit wines while collecting a stamp for the Good Cheer Trail!
Lunenburg County Winery
Located at Hackmatack Farm, a commercial blueberry farm, Lunenburg County Winery has produced 26 different, 100 per cent Nova Scotia-grown, award-winning fruit wines since 1993. Stop by to sip some blueberry wine, pick berries, picnic, and tour the winery, all while receiving a digital stamp on the Good Cheer Trail.
Liverpool – Barrington Area
MUST-TRY EXPERIENCES
FOOD AND DRINK
Capt. Kat’s Lobster Shack (Barrington Passage)
Experience true Nova Scotian culture and heritage at Capt. Kat’s Lobster Shack in Barrington Passage, with a dining room inspired by local tradition and a live lobster tank! Their menu boasts an extensive assortment of lobster and seafood dishes which pair perfectly with their selection of Nova Scotia wine and beer. Stop in and you’re sure to be charmed! It’s no surprise that this stop is also a part of the Lobster Trail.
Charlotte Lane Café (Shelburne)
The award-winning Charlotte Lane Café, nestled in historic Shelburne, is perfect for lunch or dinner. They offer splendid local seafood and meat dishes, inventive pastas, seasonal salads, delectable Swiss specialties and mouth-watering desserts plus a full list of local and imported wines.
Boxing Rock Brewing Company (Shelburne)
Boxing Rock has been brewing legendary Nova Scotia Craft Beer on the South Shore since 2013. Join them for samples, brewery tours, delicious food, or even an axe throwing experience! They are also a part of the Good Cheer Trail, so be sure to check in when you arrive!
Overnight Accommodations
Planning on staying in the South Shore for a few days? Book your overnight accommodations at these Taste of Nova Scotia members:
Lane’s Privateer Inn (Liverpool)
Built in 1798, this converted privateer mansion has been operated by the Lane family for 57 years. The restaurant, pub, and stone patio overlook the Mersey River. Stop by for lobster boils, lighthouse picnic lunches, seafood chowder, sandwiches on freshly baked breads and an extensive Nova Scotia beer and wine list that includes a flight of Nova Scotia’s appellation wine, Tidal Bay. Order some chowder and lobster dishes to receive stamps for both trails! If a Nova Scotia lobster roll or bowl of seafood chowder is what you desire make sure to enjoy the offerings from Lane’s for a digital stamp on the Lobster and Chowder trail.
Quarterdeck Beachside Villas & Grill (Summerville Beach)
The dining room at the Quarterdeck Beachside Villas & Grill provides a 180-degree view of Summerville Beach and a chance to enjoy their exceptional wine list, Nova Scotia craft beer, and inspired cocktails. Reservations are highly recommended. Bonus: the Quarterdeck is a trail stop on both the Lobster and Chowder Trail!
Oak Island Resort and Conference Centre (Western Shore)
Whether dining in the Seaside Lounge or La Vista Dining Room, you’l enjoy stunning views of Mahone Bay at Oak Island Resort. Combined with seasonally inspired menus featuring fresh local seafood, dining here is a delicious upscale experience. Take in the fresh air and sea breezes from their large outdoor oceanfront patio and watch the fabulous Nova Scotia sunrise and sunset. Make sure to enjoy a bowl of their seafood chowder for a digital stamp on the Chowder Trail.
White Point Beach Resort (White Point)
Savour Nova Scotia overlooking – and inspired – by the sea at White Point! Hardwood planked salmon, grass fed Atlantic beef, locally sourced pork and scallops, expansive ocean vistas, storm watching with crashing surf, pristine sunrises served along their white sand beach. White Point is also on the Lobster and Chowder trails so don’t forget to enjoy a lobster dish or bowl of chowder and check into the trails.
Products from the South Shore
No one wants a staycation to end, but don’t worry, you can still have a taste of the South Shore right at home! The following members produce their products in the South Shore using local ingredients and you can find them throughout all of Nova Scotia: The Tea Brewery, Schoolhouse Gluten Free Gourmet, Bonny Lea Farms, Van Dyk’s By Nature, Cedar Bay Grilling Company, Laughing Whale Coffee Roasters, and Helen B’s Preserves.
Don’t forget to log on to your digital passport to collect stamps on the Nova Scotia Good Cheer, Lobster, and Chowder Trails. Follow the trails. Capture the moments. Collect the stamps. Get the prizes.
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