The top photo spots and views in Nova Scotia

From the rolling mountain range in the Cape Breton Highlands and expansive fields of green in the Annapolis Valley, to the many lighthouses that dot our coastline, Nova Scotia is a photographer's dream.

If you're planning a trip and looking to capture the beauty of Nova Scotia, be sure to check out some of the breathtaking views that will show you why this province is so special. Some of these are hot spots, while some are local secrets, so check out a few to really get a lay of this seafaring place.

Peggy's Cove Lighthouse

A visit to Nova Scotia’s most photographed lighthouse and the quaint fishing village it overlooks is a must. Looking for a dramatic sunset photo? How about one of a moody sky? This is your spot.

The Skyline Trail, Cape Breton Highlands National Park

From the ever popular Skyline Trail near Cheticamp, to the mountaintop vistas on the Franey and Acadian Trails that overlook the Cape Breton Highlands, hikers will be glad they packed their cameras for these treks. Be sure to reserve your spot on a Skyline Sunset Hike with the Cape Breton Highlands National Park team.

Halls Harbour

Witness the amazing Bay of Fundy tides when you visit the fishing village of Halls Harbour at low tide. See fishing boats resting on the ocean floor of the small harbour while you dine on fresh-cooked lobster at the Halls Harbour Lobster Pound.

The Cabot Trail

With its reputation of being one of the top scenic drives in the world, Cape Breton Island's famous Cabot Trail is 186 miles of spectacular vistas. Take advantage of the 26 pull-off areas located on the trail to drink in the dramatic views and to breathe in the fresh mountain air combined with salty ocean breeze. 

Halifax Skyline from Dartmouth

Across the Halifax Harbour in Dartmouth is where you will find some of the best views of the city skyline. Stroll along the Dartmouth Waterfront at Alderney Landing to capture a view that is truly spectacular.

Burntcoat Head Park

Ever wonder what the ocean looks like without the water? Wonder no more! Visit Burntcoat Head Park and discover the spot when the highest recorded tides in the world happen according to the Guinness Book of World Records. Wear shoes you don’t mind getting muddy as you walk around on the ocean floor. If you can time it right, the sunsets here are breathtaking.

Peggy's Cove Village

In Peggy's Cove Village, you'll find colorful buildings and boats, fishers working away amidst curious visitors, and granite boulders that dot the shoreline for as far as the eye can see.

Nova Scotia wineries

Nova Scotia is home to over 19 wineries and the majority are located in the lush Annapolis Valley. If you visit the area, be sure to book a winery tour or hop aboard the Wolfville Magic Wine Bus so you can drink in more than just the scenery.

Beaches

Did you know that during the summer months, the Northumberland Shore region ocean beaches have water temperatures similar to the Carolinas? Melmerby Beach Provincial Park is one of the most popular sandy beaches in Nova Scotia.

Blue Rocks

A popular detour close to Lunenburg, Blue Rocks is a small fishing village known for its amazing coastal views that boast shades of blue, green, yellow, and grey. Take a guided sea kayaking tour through the rocky harbour to experience the pristine natural beauty from the water.

The Look-off in Annapolis Valley

On your way to or from Cape Split, stop at the Canning look-off and take in the amazing view overlooking farm fields, orchards, wineries, and the Bay of Fundy's Minas Basin. Fun fact – on a clear day you can see five counties in Nova Scotia from this spot!

100 Wild Islands

Discover a fascinating and undeveloped archipelago of islands with white sand beaches, barrens, and forest along Nova Scotia's Eastern Shore. These islands have retained their pristine nature and have changed very little since well before Europeans arrived on these shores over 400 years ago. Guided kayaking tours are available with a local tour operator.

Cape Forchu Lighhouse

Visit this applecore-style lighthouse, located about seven miles from the town of Yarmouth, and explore 19 acres of groomed parkland at the base of the lighthouse. You can also take a guided tour of the grounds, and pop into the Keeper's Kitchen for a famous lobster roll or seafood chowder.

Mahone Bay's Three Churches

In the small seaside village of Mahone Bay near Lunenburg, photographers love to stop to capture photos of the picturesque skyline featuring three side-by-side churches. Depending on your angle, you may capture four or even five churches in your photo!

The Big Fiddle

A visit to Cape Breton Island is not complete without a photo of the world’s largest fiddle. A nod to the Celtic and Gaelic roots of Nova Scotia, the giant fiddle is found on the Sydney Waterfront and welcomes cruise ships and passengers to Cape Breton Island.

Five Islands Provincial Park

Another spectacular spot to view the Bay of Fundy at low tide is at Five Islands Provincial Park. Discover the unique rocky formations when the tide is out by clam digging and rock collecting. You can also hike the nearby trails and enjoy the tranquility of it all.

Old Town Lunenburg UNESCO World Heritage Site

A colorfully painted, historic seaside town, horse drawn carriage tours along the waterfront, sailboats sailing near the Bluenose II schooner in the picturesque harbour, Lunenburg is a photographer's dream come true.

Views from the Halifax Ferry

As it crosses the harbour, be sure to check out the view from the top deck of a Halifax harbour ferry. It's truly spectacular. 

Franey Trail

Franey Tail located in Cape Breton Highlands National Park offers stunning 360-degree views of the Clyburn Canyon below and the Atlantic coastline.

Acadian Skies & Mi'kmaq Lands Starlight Reserve

Discover the night sky like you’ve never experienced it before when you visit the Acadian Skies & Mi’kmaq Lands Starlight Reserve . Get a unique perspective of the night sky and discover both the astronomical science and Mi’kmaq cultural perspectives. 

Highland Village living history Museum

A visit to this living history museum in the heart of Cape Breton Island, situated on a grassy hill overlooking the beautiful Bras d’Or lake, will give you a look into the past. Walk through the village, learn about Gaelic culture and drink in the timeless view.

Whale watching

Reserve your spot aboard a whale watching tour on the Bay of Fundy or Cape Breton Island and experience these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. Keep an eye out for other sea life too – dolphins, porpoises, sea turtles, sunfish, and more!

The view from Cape Split Provincial Park Reserve

One of the most popular hikes in Nova Scotia is also one of the most photographed. This 7.5 mile roundtrip hike rewards hikers with breathtaking views out over the Bay of Fundy from the cliffs above.