Hirtle’s Beach
Region: Lunenburg Region
This well known local beach is a favorite of many residents and visitors. It also acts as the “gateway” to the Gaff Point Trail system managed by the Kingsburg Coastal Conservancy and the Nature Conservancy of Canada. The District of Lunenburg maintains the parking area and washrooms at Hirtle’s Beach during the summer months. The beach itself is managed by the Province of Nova Scotia under the Beaches Act.
Categorized as a living beach because the beach moves and shifts at the whim of the ocean, Hirtle’s Beach is ever changing. Here you will find more than three kilometers of white sand, rolling surf, fresh sea air, drumlin cliffs and breathtaking views.
Hirtle’s Beach appeals to the whole family, as there are 2 small lakes for kids to swim in, and those not up to the chill of the Atlantic ocean waves!
Visit this link https://youtu.be/4MTD-PFZfsw to see drone footage of Hirtle’s Beach and it’s connected trail (Gaff Point).
Address: 318 Hirtle Beach Rd, Kingsburg, NS B0J 2X0
Leash your pet. Hunting and trapping are prohibited in Parks and Green Spaces. No camping permitted.
Nearby attractions
- Things to Do
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- Day Trips
Gaff Point
Location: Lunenburg Region
Unique, unspoiled coastline awaits! Gaff Point consists of 124 acres of marine, terrestrial and wetland ecosystems. This rugged footpath is pedestrian use only. Both sides of the point have steep cliffs; there are tidal pools where topography becomes gentler; and sand and gravel beaches along the shoreline. To access the trail head for Gaff Point, you must walk across Hirtle’s Beach. PLEASE BE ADVISED: If using GPS, the destination “Gaff Point” leads you to a private property. Type…
Ovens Natural Park
Location: Lunenburg Region
A seasonal privately owned 190-acre pristine reserve of coastal forestry. Admission Charged. Some of the highlights of the park are the unique sea caves, coastal walk, gold panning on Cunard’s beach, the miner’s museum, kayaking, nightly entertainment by the fire, the annual Chapin Music Festival and some fantastic camping! Come for the day, or stay for a while and rent a cabin or bring your camper/tent. You won’t want to leave. Facebook Trip Advisor Civic Address: 326 Ovens Road, Feltzen…
Blue Rocks
Location: Lunenburg Region
A small village about a six minute drive from the Town of Lunenburg. The little community of Blue Rocks is advertised as “Lunenburg’s answer to Peggy’s Cove”. Still a working fishing village with blue slate rocks on the edge of the ocean making it an artisan and photographers muse. The fish shack sitting in the water is the most photographed building in the county.
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Osprey Ridge Golf Course
Location: Lunenburg Region
Osprey Ridge Golf Course
18 Hole Championship Golf Course
Civic Address: 492 Harold Whynot Road Pine Grove
Tancook Island
Tancook Island is a unique community located approximately 6 miles off Chester, Nova Scotia. Here, vibrant artistry, a pristine natural environment and a history deeply rooted in fishing traditions intertwine. Leave your cares on the mainland and take a relaxing hour-long ferry ride to visit us across beautiful Mahone Bay — or feel welcome to sail into our protected cove and stay awhile. Enjoy hiking, biking, or beach combing for sea glass and shells.Take a walk to our museum where you will…
Tancook Museum
Location: Tancook Island
The museum was officially opened in 1995 and features articles on the Island with old tools and items from the Island.
Civic Address: 151 Southeast Cove Road Big Tancook Island NS
Dynamite Trail
Location: Lunenburg Region
Runs: Mahone Bay to Martins River
Length: 10km (one way)
Duration: 2 hours (one way)
Rules: shared-use trail, expect to see OHV’s, skiers, bikes, snowshoers, walkers, dogs on leash, horses.
This 10 km trail runs between the Chester Connection Trail to the East and the Bay to Bay and Adventure Trails in the Town of Mahone Bay.
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Bay to Bay Trail
Location: Lunenburg Region
A 10 km trail along the “Lunenburg Spur” that connects the Towns of Lunenburg and Mahone Bay. Also a short 1 km section from the end of the Back Harbour Trail in Lunenburg to Garden Lots.
Access includes hikers, bicycles, ATV’s, snowmobiles, skies, and horses. Parking is available at access points along the trail.
Blue Hog Gallery
Location: Lunenburg Region
Blue Hog Gallery is located in one of the most spectacular settings, an area well known to artists who want to capture the essence of Nova Scotia. They’re located in the heart of beautiful Blue Rocks - a coastal town located just down the road from Lunenburg. Blue Hog Gallery is one of the first properties you come across when entering the community. The studio and gallery itself is a landmark property, and visitors are invited to come and visit and enjoy the breathtaking scenery. The gallery…
Miller Point Peace Park
Location: Lunenburg Region
Located just off Hwy 3 in Dayspring, this is a 5km looping trail system with interpretive stations, picnic tables, benches and outdoor washroom facilities. Trails are level, smooth and wide with plenty of parking available at the park entrance. Beautiful views of the LaHave River are an attractive feature of this trail system. Use of these trails is limited to hikers, bicycles and skiers.The trails are all level, smooth, and accessible to walkers, strollers, and wheelchairs. The inner parking…
Sawpit Wharf
Location: Lunenburg Region
Located in Garden Lots, Sawpit Park is a waterfront area that allows water access to Lunenburg’s Back Harbour and the Atlantic Ocean.
The park has a boat launch, picnic and parking areas, benches, a privy and a wharf that you can walk out on.
The wharf at Sawpit is for “day-use” and short term berthing. For any overnight use, the owner(s) of a vessel must apply to the Municipality for a permit allowing the vessel to be left at Sawpit Wharf for up to 48 hours.
Terra Beata Farms
Location: Lunenburg Region
Terra Beata, a Maritime Cranberry Farm nestled next to the Atlantic Ocean near Lunenburg, Nova Scotia. Founded in 1998 by David and Evelyn Ernst, Terra Beata cranberry farm serves a range of customers, from families who visit the U-pick and Bog Store for cranberries and farm-made cranberry gourmet preserves, to businesses looking for top-quality frozen cranberries and cranberry products. You’ll find our cranberry products in stores throughout Eastern Canada and our frozen berries used as…
Village Nursery
Location: Lunenburg Region
Village Nursery has been a visual presence in Pleasantville & throughout the province since 1978 & continues to do so with pride, not only in the quality of our product ( or so the shoppers say) but mostly in the quality of our staff & those that choose to shop here. There is no competition here at The Village Nursery because we are doing what we do best, growing for your pleasure..We will continue…as a locally family owned business to grow our very best to serve you because at the…
Ol’ Miner Diner- Seasonal
Location: Lunenburg Region
This seasonal fully-licensed Cafe, located in Ovens Natural Park, is open to serve Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner and offers family dining in a magnificent oceanfront setting. The menu features locally sourced produce and some of the tastiest dishes on the South Shore. Specialties include renowned Fish and Chips, Chowders and daily specials. Reservations for evening dining are highly recommended as during the season you can also catch live music seven days a week! Take-out window for ice-cream…
Blarney Stone Restaurant Ltd.
Location: Lunenburg Region
We are a licensed family restaurant serving customers for over 35 years. We have a diverse menu offering East Coast favourites such as haddock and chips, clams, scallops, lobster poutine, lobster sandwiches, hot sandwiches, burgers and seafood chowder. Satisfying portions and friendly service will keep you coming back.
Civic Address: 16339 Highway 103 Italy Cross NS
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Boston Pizza
Location: Lunenburg Region
Boston Pizza is Canada’s No. 1 casual dining brand with more than 380 restaurants in Canada serving more than 100 unique and delicious menu items such as gourmet pizzas and pastas, juicy burgers and their famous BP wings.
The Bridgewater location is a local, family-owned restaurant offering a wide variety of appetizers, entrees, salads and desserts. Gather round to catch a sports game or enjoy dinner with your family.
Civic Address: 485 Highway 10 Cookville NS
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Charlie’s Pizza
Location: Lunenburg Region
Charlie’s Pizza & Convenience has been serving pizza lovers in the Bridgewater area for over 15 years and offers a wide selection of delicious food in addition to their pizza.
Civic Address: 487 Upper Branch Road Upper Branch NS
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https://www.facebook.com/people/Charlies-Pizza-and-Convenience/100063789363183/
Swiss Chalet/Harvey’s
Location: Lunenburg Region
Since their doors first opened in 1954, families have been coming back to Swiss Chalet generation after generation. And that’s certainly not stopping now. They’ve got exciting new dishes, and all the favourites you know and love are just as delicious as ever. Harvey’s has been home to the great Canadian burger since 1950. Well-known for using 100% Canadian ingredients - beef, chicken, potatoes and bacon and supporting our farming industry. These restaurants, conveniently located in the…
LaHave Bakery
Location: Lahave & Area
LaHave Bakery, since opening in July 1985, has been steadfast in its mission to rise above the ordinary by embracing what was good in the past and adapting for the health and food security of the future. The first, and most important value is food. We strive to make a quality product with quality ingredients. We make everything from scratch. Our ingredient sources from Nova Scotia are farms that share our values in a respect for the land as well as animals. We want our bread to be…
Rose Bay General Store & Bistro
Location: Riverport & Area
We are a family-run business in Rose Bay, NS: our beloved community tucked among Hirtle’s Beach and Gaff Point Hike, the Ovens Park, Sand Dollar Beach, Kingsburg, Riverport, and Bayport. We aim to create a warm and welcoming space that reflects our German roots and country milieu, while providing every member of our diverse clientele with what they are looking for. We sell… European delicacies, in-house baked goodies, locally sourced bread, produce, meats, eggs, beer, wine, and spirits,…
Atlantic View Motel and Cottages
Location: Lunenburg Region
A peaceful seaside destination in a woodland setting; just one minute from historic Lunenburg. You’ll hear the waves lapping at the shoreline from your choice of accommodation - a cozy cottage, housekeeping unit, or comfortable motel room. In the morning have coffee on the beach or in our pond-site sitting area while the sea gulls and red-winged blackbird greet the day. Families will love the Atlantic View’s ample green space and beach where children can run and play in the waves. Small pets…
Bayview Pines Country Inn
Location: Lunenburg Region
Welcome to our charming seaside Inn with lovely views over Mahone Bay.
Kayak or sail among the islands, hike the trails, cycle the quiet roads, or simply relax and enjoy the scenery. A peaceful place with comfortable, spacious rooms all with ocean views and decks to enjoy.
Civic Address: 678 Oakland Road Mahone Bay NS
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Little Lake Campground
Location: Lunenburg Region
Little Lake Campground is a lakeside campground offering pull-through & full-serviced RV sites, tenting sites and trailer rental located very close to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Lunenburg. Bring your own equipment to enjoy the lake - canoeing, kayaking or fishing. Other facilities include a swimming pool, playground, showers, laundry and convenience store. Enjoy planned activities and entertainment in the games room. Civic Address: 11677 Highway Centre NS Facebook Trip Advisor
Lunenburg Oceanview Chalets
Location: Lunenburg Region
We offer six log chalets, three are one bedroom and three are two bedrooms (one being Wheelchair Accessible). These units have full housekeeping, full kitchen, 4-pc bath, air jet tubs, queen beds, double foldout sofas, TV,VCR, DVD, High Speed Internet. Relax in front of a cozy wood fireplace. Located at the edge of the beautiful maritime town Lunenburg, just a few minutes walk from downtown, it makes your stay easy access to the many shops, galleries, museums and restaurants Lunenburg. Come and…
Best Western Bridgewater Hotel & Convention Centre
Location: Lunenburg Region
This Bridgewater, Nova Scotia hotel offers a personal touch. With modern, pet-friendly, non-smoking accommodations and just minutes from Bridgewater’s town centre and convenient access to some of Nova Scotia’s most renowned cultural and scenic landmarks the BEST WESTERN PLUS Bridgewater Hotel & Convention Centre is the place to stay. This Bridgewater hotel offers convenient access to many local attractions, businesses and shopping. Each beautifully appointed guest room at the BEST…
The New-Found Guest House
Location: Lunenburg Region
The New-Found Guest House is located approximately 45 minutes from Halifax - Nova Scotia’s capital, 5 minutes from scenic Mahone Bay and 10 minutes from historic Lunenburg - home of the Bluenose. This completely renovated loft suite is a fully-equipped, self-contained unit. It has two double beds, a writing desk, a sofa, a rocker recliner and satellite television in the loft area. On the main level, there is a separate four-piece bathroom, a bright sitting area with a sofa and several chairs…
Salty Rose Oceanfront Cottages
Location: Lunenburg Region
Cape Cod cottages with all the conveniences of home…
The ocean at your doorstep, the scent of roses, unique details, thoughtful touches describe the decor…each cottage has a glass front wood stove and all are equipped for housekeeping (well equipped kitchens), all linens, wireless internet, CTV, DVD, gas BBQ on your screened deck ... enjoy hydra massage whirlpool baths…..just bring the groceries.
Civic Address: 3299 Highway 332 Riverport NS
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Blue Rocks and Beaches
Blue Rocks is a hidden gem of the region, located just minutes out of Lunenburg. Often advertised as “Peggy’s Cove without the lighthouse”, Blue Rocks is a must-see when visiting Lunenburg area. A traditional fishing community with unique natural features, Blue Rocks is a favorite among amateur and professional artists and artisans of all types. During high tide the Old Fish House appears to be floating amidst the Atlantic Ocean and the contrast of the “blue” rocks and yellow and red…
Outdoor Activites in Lunenburg Region
Start the perfect family day on the right track with a visit to BernArt Maze, located on Highway 325. This art maze is the first of its kind in all of Canada! Explore the cement sculptures that have been designed and made by over one hundred international artists, and see everything on your way to the finish. This is art that the kids can see, touch, and interact with, all outdoors! See the spider sculpture that towers the entrance and find the handprints and footprints of those who contributed…
A Day in Historic LaHave
Download an Itinerary Make your way to the LaHave River Cable Ferry. The cable ferry service across this river has been active since the 1800s, connecting East LaHave on the Lunenburg side of the LaHave River to the LaHave and Petite Riviere region. The ferry is free to all members of the public, and is accessible to cars, trucks, RVs, bikes, walkers, and more. Upon crossing the Ferry from the Northern Side to the Southern side, stop at the LaHave Bakery for a delicious brunch. This bakery has…
Country Fun in New Germany
Begin your day along Highway 324 north, take a tour of Lunenburg County Winery. Sample and savour their award-winning fruit wines made using traditional aging methods and the best locally grown fruit. The winery is located on a berry farm, so be sure take home some of that fresh Nova Scotia taste by u-picking blueberries or raspberries when they are in season. The next stop a bit farther north on Highway 324. Indian Falls is a 25 foot rushing waterfall and historic indigenous salmon fishing…
Perfect Petite Riviere
Start your day by journeying down to Petite Riviere Vineyards, a historic winery best known for its red wines and for being one of the oldest grape growing territories in North America, dating back to the 1630s. Enjoy a tour and a tasting on the building’s terrace, overlooking the hills of lavender and grapes. Continue into the village of Petite Riviere and stop at the Maritime Painted Saltbox, a vividly colourful art gallery displaying the works of Tom Alway and Peter Blais. Meet the artists…
Big Tancook Island Adventure
Download this Itinerary The rustic and gentle charm of Big Tancook Island is only a passenger ferry ride away from the mainland. The 8 km (1 hour) trip across the water from Chester is free and provides a step back in time and a step closer to nature. Shaped like a fish hook and named after the Mi’kmaq word for “facing the open sea”, Big Tancook Island is only 3 miles long and 1.5 miles at the widest point. With only 150 year-round residents, it’s true island life, Nova Scotia-style.…