Peggy’s Cove, Nova Scotia, known for its iconic lighthouse, is the most visited destination in the province.

Famous for its large granite rocks, charming fishing village, souvenir shops, and, of course, the lighthouse, this guide will help visitors make the most of their trip to this stunning location!

How to Get to Peggy’s Cove

Two routes lead from Halifax to Peggy’s Cove: a scenic winding route that takes about 45 minutes and a highway route that takes around 49 minutes. The scenic route, known as the Lighthouse Route or Prospect Road, offers a picturesque drive along the ocean with plenty of twists and turns.

Alternatively, the highway route follows Highway 103 to Exit 5 in Tantallon, then turns left onto Hammonds Plains Road, right onto St. Margaret’s Bay Road, and finally left onto Peggy’s Cove Road, which is also scenic but less winding.

For those coming from Lunenburg or the South Shore, take Highway 103 to Exit 5, or opt for a slower route via St. Margaret’s Bay Road, which leads to the Peggy’s Cove Road in Tantallon. The drive from Lunenburg to Peggy’s Cove takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes.

What can be done in Peggy’s Cove, Nova Scotia?

The primary attraction in Peggy’s Cove is the stunning Peggy’s Point Lighthouse, perched atop large granite rocks overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. A newly built accessible boardwalk enhances the experience, offering an even better view of the lighthouse.

Visitors can explore the surrounding rocks, but caution is advised—black rocks at the water’s edge are slippery and dangerous, with the risk of rogue waves.

Beyond the lighthouse, visitors can browse souvenir shops, explore art galleries, enjoy local food, and wander through the working fishing village. For those looking for more adventure, the Polly Cove Hiking Trail in the Peggy’s Cove Preservation Area offers a scenic route.

When is Peggy’s Cove open to visit?

Peggy’s Cove welcomes visitors year-round. The best time to visit is during the day when the area is easily accessible and everything is visible. However, clear nights also offer a stunning experience with minimal light pollution. Peggy’s Cove is especially popular at sunrise and sunset, offering breathtaking skies with the lighthouse in view.

Although open year-round, the summer months are the peak tourist season, with shops, restaurants, and attractions fully operational. To truly experience all that Peggy’s Cove has to offer, plan a visit between May and October. Allow at least an hour or two to explore and soak in the area’s beauty.

Where to Eat in Peggy’s Cove?

The Sou’Wester Restaurant, located directly in front of the lighthouse, is the most popular dining spot in Peggy’s Cove.

Offering a variety of dishes such as lobster dinners, lobster rolls, fish and chips, and burgers, it’s a go-to place for visitors. The restaurant is also known for its homemade gingerbread and is home to the largest souvenir shop in the area.

For the best lobster rolls in Peggy’s Cove, head to Tom’s Lobster Shack. Situated on Peggy’s Point Road, just down the hill from the lighthouse near the fishing wharves, Tom’s serves up several kinds of lobster rolls, along with other menu items and refreshing ice cream cones.

Enjoy the Art in Peggy’s Cove

Peggy’s Cove was once home to the talented artist and sculptor William deGarthe, originally from Finland. Having spent most of his life in Nova Scotia, his former home is now an art gallery.

In the yard, visitors can admire his monumental 100-foot granite sculpture of Nova Scotian fishermen and their families, known as the Fisherman’s Monument. Though it was only 80% complete when deGarthe passed away, the site remains open for public viewing.

Each summer, Peggy’s Cove hosts the Peggy’s Cove Area Festival of the Arts, typically held from July 5th to 16th. During the event, visitors can enjoy plein air painting, art sales, displays, and much more.