This little seaside town with salty air wafting through it and picturesque streets lined with colourful buildings is a beloved destination. When the snow melts and the summer comes, the local businesses open the doors, bringing in visitors who are eager to get their fill of the storybook-like community.
Lunenburg is set on the scenic south shore of Nova Scotia, surrounded by beautiful sandy beaches and sparkling coastline. Recently, it was named among the prettiest small towns in the country, on a Narcity poll, which is just another addition to the long list of titles Lunenburg has garnered.
Growing up in Nova Scotia, I've been lucky enough to frequent many of Canada's prettiest places – both famed tourist spots and hidden gems. While Lunenburg is more of the former, often busy with visitors in the summer months, it still lands a place among my personal favourites.
It's everything you could want from a tiny seaside village. Historic building-lined streets, nearby beaches that look like they belong in a European travel magazine, cute shops, and great food.
Whether you're looking for some top-tier travel inspo or just want to look at some pretty pictures, here's what to do in and around Lunenburg.
Bop around the town
Old Town Lunenburg is actually a UNESCO World Heritage site — one of the only two urban communities in North America to have the designation. Walking around, you'll see lots of colonial buildings from the 18th and 19th centuries, now filled with local shops. Just wander the streets, snap some pictures, pop into the stores and soak in the European-like vibe of the town.
The waterfront is especially pretty, with boats bobbing gently in the calm harbour and the famous Bluenose II often in port.
If you want to learn about the town, you can take a walking tour, which may sound a bit dull but actually can be really fun if you're a history buff.
Eat at Beach Pea
Thanks to being a touristy spot, there's actually a ton of great food options here. While other tiny communities in the province may not have many options, Lunenburg has a pretty good range.
My favourite among them all, though, is Beach Pea. It's cute, delicious, and on the water — need I say more? The vibe is "relaxed upscale" so it's top-notch but not stuffy. The menu puts a focus on local ingredients and has cocktails that are A+.
If you want a slightly more chill vibe, go next door to Salt Shaker Deli & Inn, which is also delicious.
Grab a scoop from Sweet Treasures Confectionery
After dinner, grab a scoop and walk the picturesque waterfront here. There are a few options for a sweet treat, and it's hard to go wrong with ice cream — but I'm partial to Sweet Treasures. Just thinking about my waffle cone there makes me hungry, and they also sell amazing frudge too. The more sweets, the better.
Explore the south shore
The beauty of this area doesn't stop at the border of Lunenburg. If anything, it just keeps getting better and better as you drive along the South Shore.
Most likely you'll be starting your journey in Halifax — the main hub of the Maritimes, and where you'll probably be flying into, or at least driving through. From there you'll head to the South Shore, which is peppered with pretty beaches and little towns. Take a detour from the direct route to Lunenburg and stop by the famous Peggy's Cove, where you'll see the iconic lighthouse perched on the rocks. Queensland Beach is another pit-stop that's worthwhile if you want to lie out on soft sand and drive into the salty waves.
Keep on driving and you'll hit Chester, which is yet another picturesque waterfront town with little shops and a wholesome vibe. Grab a coffee from Kiwi Cafe here, purchase the local general store (Martins Point Mercantile on Duke), and take in the views.
A little further is Mahone Bay, which has historic churches along the water and charm bursting at its seams.
After all that, you're rewarded with Lunenburg, that quintessential summer escape.
If you're still in the mood to explore after, you can drive an hour past Lunenburg and find Carter's Beach. The crescent-shaped coves of this beach are rimmed with fine white sand, and turquoise waters roll up onto the shore. This is my go-to to show people when they ask about Nova Scotia summers, because it doesn't really get more beautiful than Carter's. Be warned — the water is chilly, but the views are good.
Nothing quite beats a Nova Scotian summer, so pack up the car for a road trip or book that flight — you won't be disappointed.
Before you get going, check out our Responsible Travel Guide so you can be informed, be safe, be smart, and most of all, be respectful on your adventure.
