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River Ridge Lodge
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    • Home
    • Accommodations
      • Our Guest Rooms
      • Packages
      • What to Do at the Lodge
      • Optional Breakfast
    • About
      • The Owners
      • Gift Cards
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      • Lodge Events and Retreats
      • Eco-friendly Practices
    • Explore
      • Things to Do at the Lodge
      • Mahone Bay Things To Do
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      • South Shore Things to Do
      • Top South Shore Day Trips
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      • Lunenburg Restaurants
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  • Home
  • Accommodations
    • Our Guest Rooms
    • Packages
    • What to Do at the Lodge
    • Optional Breakfast
  • About
    • The Owners
    • Gift Cards
    • Lodge Photo Gallery
    • Lodge Events and Retreats
    • Eco-friendly Practices
  • Explore
    • Things to Do at the Lodge
    • Mahone Bay Things To Do
    • Lunenburg Things to Do
    • South Shore Things to Do
    • Top South Shore Day Trips
    • Mahone Bay Festivals
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    • Lunenburg Restaurants
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    • Top Lunenburg Hotels
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THE BEST THINGS TO DO ON THE SOUTH SHORE

Are you looking to experience the beauty of the Nova Scotia South Shore? River Ridge Lodge is ideally located to explore the best the South Shore has to offer. 


Whether you're looking to relax and take in some stunning views or try out an exhilarating adventure, River Ridge Lodge is within a one-hour drive of plenty of options. Enjoy shopping, dining, and historic sightseeing tours - even explore some of Nova Scotia's best beaches. Have fun sailing around on crystal blue waters with kayaks and boats; hop onto one of our complimentary guest bicycles, or lace up those hiking boots for natural exploration of the amazing trails nearby. There are activities suitable for all ages! 


Come stay with us, and we will unlock the hidden local gems of this region of one of Canada's most beautiful provinces! We will help you create custom-tailored day trips that suit your interests.


Below are our top picks of our tried and tested South Shore Nova Scotia things to do for memorable experiences! 

"Wonderful visit/great location - This place was amazing from beginning to end. The host Frauke was warm and friendly as well as a wealth of information about things to do in the area. If you want to unpack your suitcase and stay while Halifax and multiple other locations are within an hour's drive. Everything about this place was enjoyable. ... The location is quiet and peaceful and we really enjoyed walking by the water." ~ TripAdvisor Review by Chris

Watch the Highlights of the Nova Scotia South Shore

Credit: Nova Scotia South Shore Tourism

Book your Stay at River Ridge Lodge and Stay near it All

Best Things to Do on the Nova Scotia South Shore

Image of beach on South Shore Nova Scotia, Hirtles Beach, beaches near Mahone Bay NS

The Best South Shore Beaches

Gaff Point Trail & Secret Beach

The Best South Shore Beaches

In Nova Scotia you're never more than 67 km away from the ocean. This means there's a beach for everyone - whether you're looking for a relaxing day in the sand or the perfect wave to ride. Head to the South Shore, and you'll be amazed to discover pristine white sand beaches that'll transport you to a tropical paradise!


Discover the Top 8 

In Nova Scotia you're never more than 67 km away from the ocean. This means there's a beach for everyone - whether you're looking for a relaxing day in the sand or the perfect wave to ride. Head to the South Shore, and you'll be amazed to discover pristine white sand beaches that'll transport you to a tropical paradise!


Discover the Top 8 stunning beaches along Nova Scotia's South Shore, all just a quick 1-hour drive from the cozy River Ridge Lodge! Our top picks are the beautiful white sands of Rissers Beach and Crescent Beach – perfect for an effortless day trip. 


Get a taste of beach paradise by viewing the South Shore Nova Scotia Beaches video and exploring the map of the stunning beaches near Mahone Bay and Lunenburg. Be amazed by Bayswater Beach, White Point Beach, Queensland Beach, Hirtle's Beach, Sand Dollar Beach, Carter's Beach, Summerville Beach and more, all within a convenient distance from your relaxing stay at River Ridge Lodge.

Nova Scotia's most famous attraction Peggy's Cove lighthouse at sunset

Peggy's Cove

Gaff Point Trail & Secret Beach

The Best South Shore Beaches

With over 160 historic lighthouses in the area, nothing compares to the world-famous Peggy's Point Lighthouse. Built in 1915, it still stands strong and watches over the crashing waves and local lobster boats. 


Explore the picturesque fishing village and climb the smooth rocks for breathtaking views, then relax with a cup of coffee or a me

With over 160 historic lighthouses in the area, nothing compares to the world-famous Peggy's Point Lighthouse. Built in 1915, it still stands strong and watches over the crashing waves and local lobster boats. 


Explore the picturesque fishing village and climb the smooth rocks for breathtaking views, then relax with a cup of coffee or a meal at the on-site restaurant. Speaking of which, we highly recommend Rhubarb Restaurant, located 5 minutes from Peggy's Cove and named Restaurant of the Year - 2022 by Taste of Nova Scotia. 


For more information about Peggy's Cove, be sure to check out the Nova Scotia Explorer Guide to Visiting Peggy's Cove.

Directions to Peggy's Cove
Rocky shore on the Gaff Point Trail near Hirltes Beach, one of the best South Shore trails

Gaff Point Trail & Secret Beach

Gaff Point Trail & Secret Beach

Gaff Point Trail & Secret Beach

Looking for a scenic, easily-accessible hike? Check out the Gaff Point Trail, our favourite trail and one of the best hikes on the Nova Scotia South Shore. Located just 1/2 hour from River Ridge Lodge, you'll discover beautiful coastal vistas and diverse terrain. Enjoy an invigorating 7km loop starting at Hirtle's Beach near Riverport  - 

Looking for a scenic, easily-accessible hike? Check out the Gaff Point Trail, our favourite trail and one of the best hikes on the Nova Scotia South Shore. Located just 1/2 hour from River Ridge Lodge, you'll discover beautiful coastal vistas and diverse terrain. Enjoy an invigorating 7km loop starting at Hirtle's Beach near Riverport  - find the Gaff Point trail description and images on our Day Trips page!

Directions to Gaff Point Trail
Kayaking in Lunenburg on the South Shore of Nova Scotia, Things to do in the South Shore

Kayaking Adventures

Kejimkujik National Park Seaside

Gaff Point Trail & Secret Beach

 there are two kayaking tour companies that both have excellent reputations: 

1. Cape LaHave Adventures offers Kayak tours as well as kayak and SUP rentals. The renowned LaHave Islands are a paradise for kayakers. Their kayak tours take you island hopping to historic Nova Scotia fishing settlements, unspoiled island beaches and island ligh

 there are two kayaking tour companies that both have excellent reputations: 

1. Cape LaHave Adventures offers Kayak tours as well as kayak and SUP rentals. The renowned LaHave Islands are a paradise for kayakers. Their kayak tours take you island hopping to historic Nova Scotia fishing settlements, unspoiled island beaches and island lighthouses. On your journey, you often see seals, eagles and other wildlife. Whether you take a sunset kayak tour, a half-day adventure or a full-day sea kayaking tour, their passionate, accredited guides will ensure every trip is memorable and worry-free. River Ridge Lodge partners with Cape LaHave Adventures, and Frauke will gladly book a kayak tour for you for your convenience. Directions to Cape LaHave Adventures

 

2.   Pleasant Paddling offers sea kayak tours, rentals, and lessons in Blue Rocks, Nova Scotia. They are minutes from Lunenburg and in one of the best kayaking locations in Nova Scotia. Experience the calm, protected, and beautiful water of Blue Rocks. They offer guided kayak tours in the morning and afternoon and relaxing sunset tours. No experience is necessary, and beginners are welcome! Ages 4 and up! Stand Up Paddle Board rentals and tours are also available! Watch the Pleasant Paddling video. 

Directions to Pleasant Paddling

View of the Rocks & Ocean from trail at Kejimkujik National Park Seaside in South Shore Nova Scotia

Kejimkujik National Park Seaside

Kejimkujik National Park Seaside

Kejimkujik National Park Seaside

Discover a wild and beautiful paradise at  Kejimkujik National Park Seaside Located near Liverpool on the South Shore, this isolated stretch of coastline offers two scenic trails - Harbour Rock Trail (5.2 km return) or Port Joli Head Trail  (8.7 km return). Explore glacier-carved headlands and secluded rocky coves while keeping an eye out

Discover a wild and beautiful paradise at  Kejimkujik National Park Seaside Located near Liverpool on the South Shore, this isolated stretch of coastline offers two scenic trails - Harbour Rock Trail (5.2 km return) or Port Joli Head Trail  (8.7 km return). Explore glacier-carved headlands and secluded rocky coves while keeping an eye out for seals and shorebirds in the waves below. Along your journey you'll find telescopes, benches to rest along with interpretive exhibits that help explain all that is around you—all free of charge year-round if conditions allow it!

Directions to Kejimkujik National Park Seaside
View of a river with waterfall in Kejimkujik National Park in Nova Scotia, Nova Scotia National Park

Kejimkujik National Park

Kejimkujik National Park Seaside

Kejimkujik National Park Seaside

 Kejimkujik National Park is the only inland National Park in the Maritimes. The park offers many beautiful hiking trails, abundant lakes and rivers ideal for canoeing and kayaking - the best in Eastern Canada. Discover wildlife in the lush forest and gently rolling landscapes and enjoy a guided hiking or canoe tour along one of the histo

 Kejimkujik National Park is the only inland National Park in the Maritimes. The park offers many beautiful hiking trails, abundant lakes and rivers ideal for canoeing and kayaking - the best in Eastern Canada. Discover wildlife in the lush forest and gently rolling landscapes and enjoy a guided hiking or canoe tour along one of the historic Mi'kmaq routes. There are 15 day-walking trails ranging from 0.5 km riverside strolls to 6 km hiking trails to remote areas of the park. In the summer, relax on Merrymakedge Beach, or take a swim in the warm Kejimkujik Lake. Check out the Kejimkujik National Park video. 

Directions to Kejimkujik National Park
View from a Seas Cave at the Ovens Natural Park on South Shore of Nova Scotia Near Mahone Bay

The Ovens Natural Park and Sea Caves

The Ovens Natural Park and Sea Caves

The Ovens Natural Park and Sea Caves

The Ovens Natural Park is a 190 acres pristine reserve of coastal forest in Feltzen South, along the scenic Lighthouse Route, about 30 minutes from River Ridge Lodge. It was part of the Gold Rush over a century ago. Enjoy hiking the spectacular trails along the cliffs to view the famous sea caves, or "ovens" for which Ovens Natural Park w

The Ovens Natural Park is a 190 acres pristine reserve of coastal forest in Feltzen South, along the scenic Lighthouse Route, about 30 minutes from River Ridge Lodge. It was part of the Gold Rush over a century ago. Enjoy hiking the spectacular trails along the cliffs to view the famous sea caves, or "ovens" for which Ovens Natural Park was named.  The most exciting time to visit Ovens Natural Park is during high tide, so make sure you ask us about the tide schedule if you plan to visit. Pack a picnic lunch or enjoy a meal in their restaurant with a magnificent oceanfront setting. In July and August, they offer daily live music with a great East Coast atmosphere. Ask us to make a reservation for you since they tend to sell out.  

Directions to The Ovens
View of the hot tubs and the lake at Sensea Nordic Spa in Chester, best spa on the South Shore NS

Sensea Nordic Spa

The Ovens Natural Park and Sea Caves

The Ovens Natural Park and Sea Caves

Ready to experience true Nordic relaxation? Sensea Nordic Spa is just a 25-minute drive from River Ridge Lodge!  It's one of the few accommodations recommended by Sensea Nordic Spa. 


Spend at least half a day here pampering yourself with thermal & hydrotherapy treatments inspired by traditional Scandinavian culture that will stimulate all 

Ready to experience true Nordic relaxation? Sensea Nordic Spa is just a 25-minute drive from River Ridge Lodge!  It's one of the few accommodations recommended by Sensea Nordic Spa. 


Spend at least half a day here pampering yourself with thermal & hydrotherapy treatments inspired by traditional Scandinavian culture that will stimulate all your senses. Saunas, hammams & hot tubs are part of this amazing journey into full body comfort


Afterward, pamper yourself even more and settle into their relaxation yurt, complete with wood fireplace - all while gazing out over the lake. To top it off? They've got everything from tasty treats to beer & wine ready for you! It's time for an unforgettable experience that will leave you feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.


Make sure you book your day pass online in advance, Sensea Nordic Spa is a very popular spot on the Nova Scotia South Shore and quickly books out. However, often you can still get a spa day pass or two a  few days before since they do receive cancellations. Complete your relaxing spa experience and spend a weekend with us in our peaceful Mahone Bay Bed and Breakfast, and let us take care of the breakfast.


Also, check out this video of Sensea Nordic Spa that will give you a good idea of what to expect at the spa. And also, check out Nova Scotia Explorer A Day at the Sensea Nordic Spa article.

Directions to Sensea Nordic Spa
Horse carriage at Ross Farm Museum in New Ross, Nova Scotia

Ross Farm Museum in New Ross

The Ovens Natural Park and Sea Caves

Guided Freshwater Fishing Tours

Ross Farm Museum is an authentic, living heritage site; much of the farm remains as it was in the 1800s. Explore 60 acres of rolling farmland and discover what life was like on a family farm over 100 years ago! An experience the whole family will enjoy!  

Learn heritage farming skills through hands-on demonstrations and workshops. Learn ho

Ross Farm Museum is an authentic, living heritage site; much of the farm remains as it was in the 1800s. Explore 60 acres of rolling farmland and discover what life was like on a family farm over 100 years ago! An experience the whole family will enjoy!  

Learn heritage farming skills through hands-on demonstrations and workshops. Learn how to milk a cow, carve a spoon or watch the cooper make barrels, chat with costumed interpreters, hike the scenic nature trail, enjoy a wagon ride or winter sleigh ride and meet the animals who live and work on the farm as you live history!  

Check out this  Ross Farm Museum video.

Directions to Roass Farm Museum
Fishing Guide Peter Lavender holding a big fish in front of a lake on Nova Scotia South Shore

Guided Freshwater Fishing Tours

Ontree Climbing and Ziplining Park

Guided Freshwater Fishing Tours

Embark on a unique outdoor adventure and experience maritime nature at its finest with Peter Lavender Fishing Guide Services! Perfect for all levels of fishermen, anglers, families or groups - your trip is fully guided by an experienced local expert. Splash around in the gorgeous waters as you cast away and catch up to exciting flora & fa

Embark on a unique outdoor adventure and experience maritime nature at its finest with Peter Lavender Fishing Guide Services! Perfect for all levels of fishermen, anglers, families or groups - your trip is fully guided by an experienced local expert. Splash around in the gorgeous waters as you cast away and catch up to exciting flora & fauna that surround you. 

Ask Frauke about arranging your customized fishing excursion!  

Man in shorts ziplining at Ontree Climbing and Ziplining near Windsor, Nova Scotia near South Shore

Ontree Climbing and Ziplining Park

Ontree Climbing and Ziplining Park

Ontree Climbing and Ziplining Park

Experience an unforgettable adventure at Ontree Park Fun & Adventure Park at Martock! Canada's largest high ropes course and zip-line park offers a unique opportunity to test your skills - no matter your age or skill level. With over 50 ziplines, 18 courses (including one wheelchair accessible), you're sure to find the perfect amount of c

Experience an unforgettable adventure at Ontree Park Fun & Adventure Park at Martock! Canada's largest high ropes course and zip-line park offers a unique opportunity to test your skills - no matter your age or skill level. With over 50 ziplines, 18 courses (including one wheelchair accessible), you're sure to find the perfect amount of challenge for just about anyone looking for excitement. Take a short drive from River Ridge Lodge Mahone Bay and get ready for some outdoor thrills on Nova Scotia’s first-ever high rope course climbing destination!

Directions to Ontree Climbing & Ziplining Park

Graves Island Coastal Walk

Ontree Climbing and Ziplining Park

Ontree Climbing and Ziplining Park

Welcome to Graves Island Provincial Park - a hidden gem nestled along Nova Scotia's beautiful Atlantic coast. Accessible via a short causeway, the park boasts a 3.4-km (2-mi.) easy walking trail that treats visitors to stunning views of the picturesque Mahone Bay. Pack a picnic and enjoy the spacious picnic area - perfect for a lazy afternoon with loved ones.

Directions to Graves Island Provincial Park
Chester Playhouse Theatre

Chester Playhouse Theatre

Have a night out at the Chester Playhouse Theatre and discover how this unique spot in the heart of Chester can light up your life with musicals, plays, stand-up comedy shows, film screenings and more! An intimate atmosphere combined with vibrant cultural experiences awaits you. 

Directions to Chester Playhouse

Find the Best Beaches on the Nova Scotia South Shore

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River Ridge Lodge

28 Silver Point Rd, Mahone Bay (Martins River), Nova Scotia B0J 2E0 - Email: welcometoriverridge@gmail.com

Bus: 902-531-2284 - Cell: (778) 887-7444

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