Louis Head Beach
© Candlebox Kayaking
Roseway Beach
© Nathan Blades
Nova Scotia Tourism
The Hawk
Some of Nova Scotia's most beautiful, dramatic and natural coastline is found in Shelburne County. From the sheltered waters of Louis Head in the East of the county to the open, white sand, beaches of Cape Sable Island in the West you will discover an array of dynamic coastal ecosystems, which provided a habitat for plants, birds and other wildlife. Several of our beaches are part of an International network of important bird areas, providing critical nesting habitats, especially for the endangered Piping Plover, and are important stopover sites for migrating shorebirds during later summer and fall.
Shaped by winds, waves and tides, our beaches are a source of wonder to all our visitors. Spend a day, or even a week, walking, kayaking, swimming, bird-watching or taking photographs, or simply lie back and star gaze, basking in the beauty of nature.
The Hawk Beach
Crescent Beach
Brighton Road, Lockeport
This spectacular 1.5 km sand beach is a focal point for surrounding communities, and was once featured on the Canadian fifty-dollar bill. Walkers and photographers are out on the beach and nearby boardwalk in almost any weather, and in the summer it’s popular for swimming and picnicking. You can see Gull Rock Lighthouse located just offshore from the observation tower at the Crescent Beach Centre, also a perfect vantage point for watching the waves roll in.
Crows Neck Beach
Baccaro Road, Baccaro
The wild forces of the wind, tide and occasional storm constantly reshape this nearly 2 km long beach, a treasure for birders, walkers and photographers. The 45 foot high Baccaro Lighthouse is just minutes away, has an area for picnicking, and the view is breathtaking. Baccaro (from the Basque word bacalao meaning codfish) is the oldest place name in Nova Scotia and is the southernmost point of mainland Nova Scotia.
Daniel's Head Beach
589 Daniel's Head Road, Cape Sable Island B0W 1P0
The beautiful 2.5 km long Daniel’s Head Beach (locally known as South Side) is one of the most popular beaches on Cape Sable Island for walkers and photographers throughout the year. Migrating shore birds can be found feeding in the late summer and fall. Snowy Owls and Brant geese are common winter visitors as is the occasional nor’easter, making this a dramatic spot for watching the surf roll in.
Louis Head Beach
Sable River
On the east side of the Sable River estuary, Louis Head’s stunning 1 km longwhite sand beach is popular with walkers and runners year round, and a place to gather for family picnics and swimming in the summer when the estuary’s shallow waters are warmed on incoming tides. Watch for deer and raccoon tracks, and the migrating shorebirds that feed and roost on the beach during late summer and fall.
North East Point Beach
McGray Avenue, Cape Sable Island B0W 1E0
Just across the Cape Sable Island Causeway from Barrington Passage, NorthEast Point Beach is a local favourite for swimming, soaking up the sun, or catching a weekend boat race. You might see a dory row by, or even catch a ride in one. The causeway was completed in 1949 and replaced a coastal ferry service linking North East Point with the mainland.
Roseway Beach
Shore Road, Shelburne
The sights and sounds of the wind and surf greet you as you drive down the gravel road to Roseway Beach, located on beautiful Round Bay. Another local favourite for swimming and picnicking during the summer. Enjoy the beach year round for walking, birding, star gazing and photography - especially when the full moon shines on the bay. The fresh water channel separating Roseway from neighbouring Round Bay Beach is passable at low tide.
Sandhills Day Use Provincial Park
28 Sandhills Beach Road, Barrington
Sandhills white sand beach is backed by an ever-shifting dune system. Its wide sand flats warm at low tide making it a great place for swimming and snorkeling. Migrating shorebirds feed on the tidal flats, especially during late summer and fall. Bring the family for the day, and pack a lunch to enjoy in the large picnic area.
Sandy Point Beach
1586 Sandy Point Road, Shelburne
The beach at Sandy Point is accessible at low tide only but the view of Shelburne Harbour and the Sandy Point Lighthouse is a photographer’s delight at any time. When the tide’s out, a sand bar allows access to the lighthouse and, if you’re there on the first or third Saturday of the month, you’ll be able to enjoy a hearty breakfast at the Sandy Point Community Centre, also a popular location for weddings.
Stoney Island Beach
Stoney Island, Cape Sable Island B0W 1P0
Nearly 2km of white sand and rolling dunes make Stoney Island a favourite with local residents for swimming and picnicking during the summer. With its eastern exposure, it’s a perfect beach for taking an early morning walk and watching the sun rise. Nearby Bakers Flat provides habitat for migrating waterfowl during spring and fall, and is a popular destination for Birders and Photographers.
The Hawk Beach
The Hawk Road, Cape Sable Island B0W 1P0
The Hawk Beach has been scoured by the ocean for thousands of years, exposing a unique drowned forest, believed to be 1500 years old. In the distance The Cape Light, the tallest lighthouse in Nova Scotia, stands guard. Come and explore this mysterious wonder on Nova Scotia’s southernmost tip, Cape Sable Island. Bring a picnic, your camera and experience something quite "Beyond the Ordinary".
Welkum Park
8946 Upper Clyde Road, Shelburne B0T 1W0 902) 875-3544
Ten minutes inland from the Town of Shelburne, Welkum Park is a small day use park and beach on Welshtown Lake. With warm, fresh water it’s a favourite family destination on a hot summer day. Municipality of Shelburne Recreation staff offer Red Cross swimming lessons, kayaking instruction and day camp programs during the summer.
