Coastal Roads of the Maritimes

Welcome to Halifax – a vibrant coastal city known for its rich maritime heritage and warm Atlantic charm.

The remainder of the day is at leisure to begin exploring the city at your own pace. Stroll along the historic waterfront, take in the views of the harbor, or wander through the lively downtown filled with shops, galleries, and cafés. In the evening, enjoy your first taste of Nova Scotia with a fresh seafood dinner at one of Halifax’s inviting local restaurants.

Self-Drive & Optional Services
As this is a self-drive journey, car rental is tailored to your preferred vehicle category and travel dates and is added to the final package price upon confirmation.

You may also enhance your experience with optional add-on activities and private local guide services available throughout your trip.

Please note: This itinerary is designed for May–October, when ferries, roads, and attractions are fully operational. Both the Bay of Fundy (Digby–Saint John) and Northumberland (Wood Islands–Pictou) ferry routes run on seasonal schedules.

Access to national parks (Parks Canada sites) is free from June 19 to September 7, 2026. Outside of this period, an additional entrance fee applies.

Begin your day with a one-hour scenic cruise in Halifax Harbour, enjoying beautiful waterfront views while learning about the city’s maritime history and landmarks. After your cruise, leave Halifax behind and journey southwest along Nova Scotia’s rugged Atlantic coastline. Granite headlands, bobbing lobster boats, and charming harbour towns create the perfect backdrop for a leisurely self-drive adventure.

Route tip: Take Route 333 from Halifax rather than the faster Hwy 103 — this coastal road follows the shores of St. Margaret’s Bay and offers some of Nova Scotia’s most iconic scenery. Depart early to enjoy Peggy’s Cove before the crowds arrive.

Scenic stops en route:

• Peggy’s Cove – Marvel at the iconic lighthouse perched on wave-polished granite boulders and soak up the atmosphere of this beloved working fishing village.
• Chester – Stroll along the harbourfront of this charming sailing town, with beautiful views across the island-dotted waters of Mahone Bay.
• Mahone Bay – Admire the town’s three historic waterfront churches, whose distinctive steeples create one of Nova Scotia’s most recognizable views.

Continue to Lunenburg, a UNESCO World Heritage town where colourful architecture, centuries-old shipbuilding heritage, and seafaring traditions bring Nova Scotia’s maritime past to life.

Driving distance: 110 km
Estimated driving time: approx. 2 hours (excluding scenic stops)

Arrive in Lunenburg, a charming coastal town on Nova Scotia’s rugged Atlantic shore, famed for its brightly colored waterfront and UNESCO World Heritage status. With roots stretching back to the 18th century, Lunenburg preserves a distinctive maritime character, with well-maintained wooden buildings, narrow streets, and a harbor alive with the legacy of shipbuilding.

After settling into your seaside inn overlooking the bustling harbor, take time to wander along the waterfront, breathe in the salty air, and soak in the town’s vibrant yet timeless atmosphere.

Enjoy a day exploring the historic waterfront town of Lunenburg, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its colourful architecture, maritime heritage, and picturesque harbour. The highlight of the day is a Zodiac Wildlife Tour with a naturalist guide, offering an exciting opportunity to explore the Atlantic coastline and observe local wildlife in its natural habitat.

During your free time in Lunenburg, also consider:

• Lunenburg Old Town – Wander through the colourful historic streets, where beautifully preserved Georgian and Victorian buildings reflect the town’s rich colonial and maritime heritage.
• Fisheries Museum of the Atlantic – Discover Nova Scotia’s fishing traditions and maritime history through fascinating exhibits and historic vessels along the waterfront.
• Bluenose II – If in harbour, admire the famous schooner and one of Canada’s most enduring maritime icons.

Combining fascinating history with an exhilarating wildlife experience, this day offers a wonderful introduction to the natural and cultural character of Nova Scotia’s South Shore.

Leave Lunenburg and head inland through Nova Scotia’s forests, lakes, and historic landscapes, passing farmsteads and Mi’kmaw heritage sites on a scenic self-drive to Digby for the afternoon ferry to Saint John.

Route tip: Take Route 8 via the Kejimkujik Scenic Drive for a dramatic shift from coast to wilderness—depart by 9am to allow time to explore Kejimkujik National Park.

Scenic stops en route:

• Kejimkujik National Park – explore one of Canada's most extraordinary parks, holding a rare dual designation as both a National Park and National Historic Site in recognition of the ancient Mi'kmaw cultural landscape that has shaped this wilderness for thousands of years.
• Annapolis Royal – wander the streets of one of the oldest continuously inhabited settlements in Canada, where more than four centuries of history reveal themselves around every corner.
• Bear River – savour a final stop in this charming, artsy village perched above a dramatic tidal river valley, where the mighty Bay of Fundy tides surge upstream twice daily, rising up to 25 feet.

Arrive in Digby in time to board your late-afternoon ferry across the Bay of Fundy to Saint John, New Brunswick — one of the great short sea crossings in eastern Canada.

Driving distance: 230 km
Estimated time: approx. 2.5 hours (excluding scenic stops)

Drive to Digby and board the ferry to Saint John, New Brunswick, with your vehicle transported on the ferry throughout the crossing. Upon arrival in Saint John, simply drive off the ferry and continue your self-drive journey.

As you cross the Bay of Fundy, famous for having the highest tides in the world, enjoy sweeping views of the open water and keep an eye out for seabirds and marine wildlife. The ferry crossing is not only a convenient way to travel between Nova Scotia and New Brunswick, but also a scenic part of your journey.

Arrive in Saint John in the early evening, a historic port city set along the rugged Bay of Fundy and known for its maritime heritage and dramatic coastal tides. With its charming waterfront, red-brick architecture, and lively harbor, the city offers a welcoming introduction to Atlantic Canada.

Upon arrival, drive from the ferry terminal to your hotel. After checking in, take time to unwind and settle into your surroundings before enjoying a relaxed dinner at your leisure.

Today, discover the spectacular Bay of Fundy coastline with a guided Kayaking Tour of St. Martins Sea Caves. Paddle along one of Canada’s most dramatic coastal landscapes, shaped by the world’s highest tides, and explore the fascinating sea caves and rugged shoreline of St. Martins. Along the way, your knowledgeable guides will share insights into the region’s natural and cultural history, while you may spot bald eagles, seals, porpoises, and other marine wildlife.

Before or after your kayaking adventure, consider:

• Reversing Falls Rapids – Witness the dramatic effects of the Bay of Fundy’s powerful tides as they force the Saint John River to reverse direction through a rocky gorge.
• Trinity Royal Heritage District – Explore Saint John’s historic streets around King’s Square and visit the lively City Market, Canada’s oldest continuously operating market.
• Fundy National Park – Discover forested trails, spectacular coastal viewpoints, waterfalls, and secluded beaches shaped by the powerful tides.

Combining an exhilarating sea-kayaking adventure with Saint John’s maritime heritage and the spectacular landscapes of the Bay of Fundy, this day offers an unforgettable taste of New Brunswick’s wild Atlantic coast.

After a relaxed morning enjoying the coastal charm of Saint John, you’ll check out and begin your scenic journey along the gentle curves of southern New Brunswick toward the vibrant city of Moncton.

Scenic stops en route:

• Fundy National Park & Alma Village – wind through a forested coastal wilderness of sea cliffs, salmon rivers, and covered bridges, arriving at the charming village of Alma for a well-earned lunch stop on the bay.
• Hopewell Rocks Provincial Park – descend to the ocean floor among the iconic Flowerpot Rocks, towering sandstone sea stacks topped with trees, in one of Atlantic Canada's most unforgettable natural spectacles.

Arrive in Moncton, New Brunswick's bilingual, energetic hub, where Acadian culture, riverside trails, and a thriving food scene await.

Driving distance: 175 km
Estimated time: approx. 2 hours (excluding scenic stops)

Arrive in Moncton, a welcoming gateway to Atlantic Canada, where vibrant city life meets the natural beauty of New Brunswick’s coastal landscapes.

After checking in to your accommodation, take time to unwind and settle into the relaxed pace of the Maritimes, perhaps enjoying the fresh air and gentle rhythms of this charming riverside city.

Today you leave Moncton behind and journey east through the heart of Acadian country, crossing one of the longest bridges in the world to reach the red-soiled shores of Prince Edward Island.

Scenic stops en route:

• Shediac – pay your respects to the self-proclaimed Lobster Capital of the World, home to the famous 90-tonne World's Largest Lobster sculpture and a proud fishing heritage stretching back to the 18th century.
• Cape Jourimain Nature Centre – discover a hidden gem most drivers miss, with sweeping views of the Confederation Bridge, a 19th-century lighthouse trail, and salt marsh walks through a 621-hectare national wildlife area.
• Victoria-by-the-Sea – stroll the tree-lined streets of a perfectly preserved PEI fishing village, where brightly painted heritage homes, a working wharf, and 22 independent businesses make for a charming final stop before the capital.

Arrive in Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island's compact and captivating capital, tracing the island's Red Sands South Shore as red soil, green fields, and shimmering strait waters announce that you have arrived somewhere truly unlike anywhere else in Canada.

Driving distance: 190 km
Estimated time: approx. 2 hour (excluding scenic stops)

Arrive in Charlottetown, the charming capital of Prince Edward Island and the birthplace of Canadian Confederation. Steeped in history and maritime character, the city is known for its elegant Victorian architecture, scenic harbor views, and a lively cultural scene that reflects its proud island heritage.

After checking in to your accommodation, take time to relax and enjoy the gentle coastal atmosphere, perhaps strolling along the waterfront or soaking in the warm hospitality that defines this picturesque seaside city.

Enjoy a day discovering Charlottetown, the charming capital of Prince Edward Island, with a Food & Walking Tour as the highlight. Stroll through the historic heart of the city while sampling some of the island’s most beloved local specialties, including fresh mussels, lobster rolls, and other regional treats. Along the way, admire landmarks such as Great George Street, Peake’s Wharf, and Province House, while learning about Charlottetown’s history and culinary traditions.

For the rest of the day, consider:

• Charlottetown’s historic centre – Continue exploring the Confederation Quarter, Victoria Row’s café-lined streets, and the picturesque waterfront.
• Prince Edward Island National Park – Take a short drive to the island’s north shore, known for its red sandstone cliffs, sandy beaches, dunes, and coastal wetlands.
• Cavendish & the North Shore – Discover one of PEI’s most iconic coastal areas, with beautiful beaches, scenic landscapes, and charming rural surroundings.

Whether you prefer discovering local flavours, exploring historic streets, or venturing into the island’s beautiful coastal landscapes, this day offers a wonderful introduction to the character of Prince Edward Island.

Take the Northumberland Ferry from Wood Islands, PEI, to Caribou, Nova Scotia, with your vehicle accommodated on the same sailing. The approximately 75-minute crossing offers a scenic transition between the two provinces, with views of Prince Edward Island’s distinctive red cliffs and the Nova Scotia coastline.

Scenic stop en route:

• Orwell Corner Historic Village (~25 min from Charlottetown) – Step back into 1890s Prince Edward Island at this recreated rural village, featuring a blacksmith’s shop, schoolhouse, general store, church, and working farm. During peak season, costumed interpreters bring the historic setting to lifeю

The ferry crossing forms a natural part of the journey, allowing you to relax on board while your vehicle travels with you and enjoy the changing coastal scenery before continuing your self-drive adventure through Nova Scotia.

Please note that the service is seasonal and operates only between May and December.

Upon docking at the port, you drive directly to Pictou, the small town where the first Scottish immigrants landed in 1773 aboard the Hector, an event that helped establish English-speaking Nova Scotia.

Driving distance: 60 km
Estimated time: approx. 1 hour (excluding scenic stops and ferry)

Arrive in Pictou, a charming town on the Northumberland Strait in Nova Scotia, Canada, known as the “Birthplace of New Scotland.” Pictou blends maritime heritage with scenic waterfront charm, where colorful harbors, historic buildings, and the story of Scottish settlement create a welcoming, small-town atmosphere.

After settling into your cozy B&B, take time to stroll along the wharf, watch fishing boats come and go, and breathe in the crisp Atlantic air. The town’s streets invite exploration, with heritage homes, quaint shops, and a friendly, maritime vibe that feels timeless.

What to do in Pictou:

• Visit the Museum of Pictou County to learn about the town’s Scottish roots and local history.
• Explore the Ship Hector replica, a full-scale reconstruction of the vessel that brought Scottish settlers in 1773.
• Walk along the scenic Pictou Waterfront Trail, perfect for leisurely walks with harbor views.
• Enjoy fresh seafood at one of the harbor-side restaurants.
• If time allows, take a short drive to nearby beaches like West River Beach or explore the scenic Pictou County coastline.

Begin your day with a Meet the Seals Boat Tour in Pictou Harbour. Set out on a small-group cruise to a nearby seal colony, enjoying beautiful coastal views while learning about the region’s maritime history and local wildlife from your guide.

After the cruise, leave Pictou behind and make your way toward Halifax, travelling through the picturesque countryside and rolling landscapes of central Nova Scotia. The route combines charming rural scenery with opportunities to discover the province’s diverse wildlife and dramatic inland landscapes.

Scenic stops en route:

• Wentworth Valley – Travel through this beautiful forested valley surrounded by the Cobequid Mountains, with scenic viewpoints and peaceful natural landscapes along the way.
• Truro – Take a break in this charming regional centre, known as the “Hub of Nova Scotia,” and explore its relaxed downtown or enjoy a short walk.
• Shubenacadie Wildlife Park – Discover Nova Scotia’s native wildlife in a natural woodland setting, with opportunities to see moose, black bears, bald eagles, timber wolves, and other species.

Continue to Halifax, Nova Scotia’s vibrant capital and a lively waterfront city steeped in maritime history.

Driving distance: approx. 170 km
Estimated driving time: approx. 2 hours (excluding scenic stops)

Upon arrival at the airport, return your rental car and prepare for departure. As your plane ascends, take in a final view of Halifax’s scenic beauty—rugged Atlantic coastlines, historic waterfronts, and the charming city skyline. Treasure the memories of an unforgettable journey. We wish you a safe and pleasant flight!