7 Beautiful Islands In Nova Scotia To Visit

One of the perks of visiting a coastal province like Nova Scotia is the abundance of beautiful islands just waiting to be explored. Read on to discover our favourite picks.

Cape Breton Island

Named the third best island in the world by Travel + Leisure magazine, Cape Breton is a truly unforgettable destination. Whale watching, local culture, amazing food, and unparalleled scenery are just a few of the many draws to the stunning island.

McNab’s Island

A 25-minute ferry ride from downtown Halifax will bring you to historic McNab’s Island. Explore the island on your own or take a free tour offered by Friends of McNabs Island. The tours are offered throughout the summer months and by request during the rest of the year.

McNab’s Island, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada

Goodbye summer! You were glorious and I miss you already. ??272 days to go. #imisssummer #equinox #fallisokayiguess #novascotia #canada #hiking #mcnabsisland
A post shared by Christel LeBlanc (@theforestfriend) on Sep 22, 2017 at 5:07am PDT

Tancook Island

Located just a short ferry ride from Chester, Tancook is a picturesque little island that makes for a great day trip from the South Shore. Visitors come to enjoy the bike and walking trails, local restaurants, and beach glass combing. With a population of just 250 people (and less during the winter months), the island is also home to one of the last one-room schoolhouses in Canada! How can you complain when you can catch a ferry to an island where cyclists, pedestrians and butterflies outnumber vehicles? Beautiful day for a 10k gentle bike ride, with lunch on a beach, and the island’s museum. #ww #wwcanada #weightwatchers #myfitnesspal #fitfam #biking #huffy #norco #runner #running #weightloss #weightlosssuccess #healthy #healthier #fitfam #healthyliving #healthylifestyle #weregettingbrowniesafterthis
A post shared by Lana (@halilana) on Sep 25, 2017 at 9:47am PDT

Oak Island

This privately owned island, located just off the shore of Lunenburg, offers two-hour tours exploring the island’s highlights. Those interested should book in advance as tours fill up very quickly.

Cape Sable Island

Located at the southernmost point of Nova Scotia, Cape Sable Island is known for lobster, fishing boats, and gorgeous sandy beaches. It’s the perfect place to capture the true essence of Nova Scotia.

Cape Sable Island, Nova Scotia, Canada
Experience #NovaScotia through a different pair of eyes #TravelTuesday #CapeSableIsland RT @narcity_halifax ?@kaylinerica
A post shared by Porter Escapes (@porterescapes) on Sep 7, 2016 at 6:17am PDT

Five Islands Provincial Park

Park

Located off of the shore of the Bay of Fundy, Five Islands is one of the most popular outdoor destinations in the province. With gorgeous views of the world’s highest tides, this is an ideal spot to enjoy a variety of activities including biking, hiking, beach combing, clam digging, snowshoeing, and so much more.

Brier Island

Another beautiful island in the Bay of Fundy, Brier Island is an outdoor paradise. Known for its whale watching, bird watching, coastal hiking, and killer sunsets, it’s a great place to unwind and take a day trip from nearby Digby.

Brier Island, Westport, Canada
This whale’s name is Baby, and Baby fulfilled my lifelong dream of seeing a Humback breach. Thanks so much Baby ❤️? #bestmammals
A post shared by Arnav Madhiwalla (@arnavm37) on Aug 1, 2017 at 1:52pm PDT

About the author

Kate Horodyski

Kate is a freelance lifestyle and travel writer based in Halifax, Canada. You can find her online at katehorodyski.com and on Instagram @katehorodyski.