The Best Things to Do on the South Shore

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Did you know that Nova Scotia boasts a stunning 7,600 km coastline, ensuring 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 personal favourites 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.

 A trip to the East Coast of Nova Scotia shouldn't miss a visit to the world-famous Peggy’s Cove Village and the Peggy’s Point Lighthouse. Nova Scotia is home to over 160 historic lighthouses, but no beacon is as photographed as the one in the vibrant fishing village of Peggy’s  Cove. Peggy’s Point Lighthouse, built in 1915, still keeps watch over surging ocean waves and working lobster boats. Peggy's Cove offers instagrammable views, and the fishing village is absolutely charming. Scramble over giant rocks worn smooth by the sea and share in the view or enjoy a cup of coffee or a meal at the restaurant. 

However, one of our favourite South Shore restaurants is the Rhubarb Restaurant, just before Peggy's Cove, coming from River Ridge Lodge. Rhubarb Restaurant won the Restaurant of the Year - 2022 Taste of Nova Scotia Award. They summarized the Rhubarb Restaurant with three words: Simple Good Food.

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!

 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.

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. 

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!

 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. 

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.  

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.

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.

Experience the wines and take a tour at Petite  Rivière Winery, one of North America's oldest grape-growing regions. River Ridge Lodge guests receive a special discount for the Ultimate Wine Tour & Tasting or Petite Rivière Products; make sure you ask Frauke for a voucher, and she will gladly make a reservation for a tour too. 

The winery is located close to beautiful Rissers Beach, Crescent Beach and Green Bay Beach on the South Shore. There is also a nice pub with lots of outdoor seating close by, the Osprey's Nest Public House.

Also, check out our LaHave and Petite Rivière day trip description. 

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!  

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!