Best places to wake up next to the ocean in Nova Scotia

With 13,300 km of stunning seacoast, Nova Scotia truly is an ocean playground.

Fill your days with ocean adventures like coastal hiking, surfing, kayaking or just relaxing at the beach. But don’t let your ocean fun end with the setting sun. Book a room, cottage or find that perfect campsite alongside the coast and let the sounds of the ocean lull you to sleep and the rising sun herald a new day for adventure.

Ranging from high-end resorts to humble yet stunning camping locations with million dollar views, here are just a few of the best places to wake up next to the ocean in Nova Scotia.

White Point Beach Resort

Named one of the top 10 coastal destinations in the world by National Geographic Traveller, White Point Beach Resort is open year round. You’ll find comfortable guest rooms and cozy ocean-front cottages. As the day slips into night, beachcombing turns into star-gazing along the 1km stretch of white sand beach. Check out their new for 2022 unique Oceanfront Treehouses. Private, luxurious, and mere feet from the Atlantic Ocean, these will make for a true one-of-a-kind getaway.

Oceanstone Resort

This gem of a resort is located just 40 minutes outside of Halifax near the iconic Peggy’s Cove. Oceanstone Resort is comfortable yet elegant cottages offer stunning ocean vistas. As darkness descends, light up the night as you settle around a bonfire pit and listen to the waves crashing on the beach. Make sure to eat at Rhubarb, their on-site restaurant offering a delicious array of dishes made from fresh locally-sourced ingredients.

Cape d’Or Lighthouse accommodations

If you like lighthouses paired with spectacular views, check out the rustic Lightkeeper's Kitchen & Guest House at the Cape d’Or Lighthouse in Advocate Harbour on the Bay of Fundy. The old lighthouse keeper’s lodgings have been turned into comfortable accommodations and the on-site restaurant provides locally inspired menu items. Gaze out at the ocean and watch the ebb and flow of the world’s highest tides. Although a little off the beaten path, the view is worth every ounce of effort it takes to get you there!

Argyler Lodge

This restaurant and country inn is situated overlooking Lobster Bay and is famous for its authentic lobster boils. Let the sea breeze tousle your hair as you sip a cool drink on their expansive deck while watching the sunset over the ocean.

Meat Cove Campground

For a truly fresh sea air experience, pitch your tent at the Meat Cove Campground on Cape Breton Island. Snuggle up in your sleeping bag and watch for pods of whales, soaring eagles and stunning sunsets. Campsites are first come first serve, or call ahead to book one of their rustic cabins.

Quarterdeck Beachside Villas and Grill

Situated on a beautiful, but quiet stretch of white sandy beach, the Quarterdeck’s stunning architecture and tasteful beach motif design will immediately put you into relaxation mode. The Grill has earned a reputation as the South Shore’s finest destination for fresh locally caught seafood.

LaHave Islands Glamping Adventure

Foodies will love this guided glamping adventure with everything provided! Island hop by kayak to colourful fishing communities and along pristine coastline. Indulge in fresh seafood and local flavours prepared for you on the beach by a wilderness chef, try yoga on stand-up paddleboards, and glamp under the stars.

Cabot Cape Breton

Calling all golfers! Nestled along the breathtaking shoreline of Cape Breton, Cabot Links and sister course Cabot Cliffs are both listed on both the Golf Digest World’s 100 Greatest Golf Courses and Golf Magazine’s World Top 100. Once you are there it’s easy to see why. The golf course and accommodations at Cabot Cape Breton provide visitors with endless views of rolling seaside dunes and spectacular coastal panoramas to take in the breathtaking sunsets over the Northumberland Strait.

Keltic Lodge Resort and Spa

Situated on the rugged Cape Breton coast and within the borders of Cape Breton Highlands National Park, this grand resort offers two restaurants, a spa, and heated pool onsite and is conveniently located near many sought after Cape Breton activities like Highlands Links Golf Course, hiking trails, whale watching and Ingonish Beach.

Pictou Lodge Beachfront Resort

Enjoy swimming in the warm waters of the Northumberland Strait at the private beach located on the property of Pictou Lodge. Afterwards, dine on a seafood dinner while taking in a spectacular sunset before heading to a bonfire. Heated pool, stand-up paddleboards, kayaks, peddleboats and a playground round out this coastal resort.

Fox Harb'r Resort

From golf to incredible dining, spa services to horseback riding and beyond, this 5-star resort offers elegance and an abundance of on-site activities along the shores of the Northumberland Strait.

Oak Island Resort & Conference Centre

Choose from nautically inspired guest rooms, oceanside chalets or a seaside villa when staying at Oak Island Resort. Open year-round, take advantage of the onsite amenities like a pool, bike rentals and tennis court or set off on a tour exploring the Mystery of Oak Island with Salty Dog Tours.

The Marmalade Motel

Located on the Eastern Shore and offering up views of the 100 Wild Islands, guests of this colourful yet cozy seaside motel will enjoy watching the sunset from their private balcony overlooking the water. Grab a snack or picnic box to go before exploring nearby trails, beaches and villages.

Authentic Seacoast: Yurts in the Vineyard

Looking out on Mussel Cove in Guysborough, escape from it all at this scenic coastal location, where you can glamp year-round. Enjoy the wood-fired hot tub, sauna, swimming, and paddling. At Authentic Seacoast Distillery, just a short walk up the hill onsite, sip on a cocktail on the patio or fireside.

Downtown Halifax Hotels

Many Halifax hotels offer rooms and suites overlooking the bustling and picturesque Halifax Harbour. Before setting out on your urban adventure, watch as the city by the sea wakes for the day from the comfort of your room. From ferries, cargo ships and cruise ships to fishing vessels, yachts, and jet skis, there is lot of action in this busy harbour!

Norse Cove Camping

For something a little more rustic and to help you get in touch with nature, look no further than Norse Cove Camping! Pitch your tent, park your RV or rent a Nordic Hut (micro-cabin) and soak in all of the coastal goodness available here. If you're feeling extra adventurous, book an overnight winter camping adventure!

Beach Cottage Rentals

With so much coastline, Nova Scotia has abundant picturesque cottages for rent. Book a week, a month or the whole summer somewhere and truly live the seaside dream of waking up next to the ocean every day of your vacation.