A Brief History of Little Peggy’s Cove
Peggy’s Cove is a small fishing village on Nova Scotia’s South Shore, just a 40-minute drive from Halifax. It was founded in 1811, when six German families— the Izenhaurs, Troops, and Kayser—were granted land by the Province of Nova Scotia.
For centuries, fishing has sustained this tight-knit community, which now numbers around 30 permanent year-round residents. Despite its small population, nearly a million visitors come each year to admire the stunning landscapes, wander village lanes, and photograph the iconic lighthouse, making it one of Nova Scotia’s busiest tourist attractions.
The current Peggy’s Point Lighthouse, also known as Peggy’s Cove Lighthouse, was built in 1915, replacing an earlier wooden structure from 1868. Though it’s no longer manned, it remains a functional lighthouse and federal heritage building whose beacon continues to guide fishermen, sailors, and travelers to safe harbor. It also served as a post office until November 2009.
The new lighthouse is celebrated for its distinctive octagonal shape, elegant profile, and red lantern room.
Things to Do in Peggy’s Cove
We spent just a few hours in the Peggy’s Cove area and had plenty of time to explore the following:
1. Peggy’s Cove Lighthouse
A visit to Peggy’s Cove isn’t complete without walking across the glacier-smoothed granite to see the octagonal lighthouse up close. While there’s not much to do here besides wander, soak in the views, and take photos, that’s the allure.
For the best photos, step back a little—capturing the lighthouse framed by the Atlantic and the rocky coastline provides a greater sense of scale and atmosphere.
A new accessible viewing deck has recently been installed, making the experience more accessible and providing a safe vantage point for photos and ocean views.
⚠️ Safety Tip: Never walk on the black rocks—they’re wet, slippery, and unpredictable. Rogue waves can crash in unexpectedly. Signs warn of the dangers of the coastline and high waves—lives have been lost, so please exercise caution.
2. Explore Peggy’s Cove Village
Peggy’s Cove village is as postcard-perfect as can be: colorful homes atop rocky slopes, lobster traps near the docks, and fishing boats bobbing in the harbor. It still feels authentic, being an active fishing village that welcomes visitors from around the world.
As you wander through the village, you’ll notice the narrow roads—parking can be a challenge, so patience and courtesy are essential. It’s remarkable to consider how locals navigate life here amidst the daily influx of travelers.
While Peggy’s Cove can be busy, take a moment to breathe and observe beyond the lighthouse. Watch the fishing boats return, chat with locals, and enjoy the salty scent of the sea. These sensory experiences contribute to making Peggy’s Cove a memorable part of your Nova Scotia adventure.
3. Visit Six by the Sea (Village within the Village)
A highlight of Peggy’s Cove is Six by the Sea—a collection of six restored heritage buildings painted in vibrant colors, home to shops, galleries, and eateries celebrating East Coast creativity and hospitality. This thoughtful and innovative approach showcases the area’s historical value in a modern context.
- The Red Schoolhouse (1839): Once the heart of this community, it now hosts intimate performances and cultural programming. A friendly attendant shared stories of its history, including how 32 students once fit into this small classroom.
- Margaret’s Café: A cozy spot for coffee, chowder, or a panini. Inside, you’ll find nods to Nova Scotian craftsmanship and the local fishing industry—ranging from Bass River chairs to tables made from old beams. We enjoyed a coffee and muffin break here, featuring classic coffeehouse brews.
- Holy Mackerel: A whimsical boutique featuring over 100 Atlantic Canadian artisans; it’s an excellent place for souvenir shopping. You’ll discover gorgeous gifts, homeware, and local treats—all in a beautifully renovated space.
- Spindrift Gallery: Showcases contemporary Atlantic Canadian artists and photography, making it a wonderful venue to connect with local creative spirits. The building, part of the Peggy’s Cove Centre for Arts & Culture, underwent renovation to create an artistic hub. The photography exhibit provided insights into this once small fishing village’s storied life.
- Hunky Dory: Grab gourmet fries or soft-serve ice cream and enjoy them at picnic tables overlooking the sea. We didn’t have the chance to eat here, but Canadians certainly know how to make fries! It could be a good lunch option!
You can scan the QR codes outside each building to learn about the treaty people and the Mi’kmaq, the original inhabitants of this region, alongside the six German settlers who founded the village. Five of the six buildings are now part of this cultural experience.
4. Hike Polly’s Cove Trail
Just after the turn off to Peggy’s Cove, you’ll find a small pullout marking the Polly’s Cove Trail, a lesser-known hike that offers panoramic coastal views without the crowds. The trail winds over granite outcrops and wild coastal brush, leading to a stunning headland overlooking the Atlantic.
This unmarked trail has limited parking (about six spots available), so arriving early is advisable. Stay away from the sheer edges, as cliffs can be steep. We enjoyed stretching our legs on this hike—especially after indulging in all the culinary delights of Nova Scotia.
This hike provided a quieter perspective of Peggy’s Cove. We trekked for about thirty minutes before turning back, although I had read it might be a loop. Fellow hikers we met echoed that information, but we couldn’t find a complete circuit. You can follow the trail here.
5. Enjoy the View from Cranberry Cove Lookout
Before entering the village, stop at Cranberry Cove Lookout for postcard-worthy views of Peggy’s Cove and the lighthouse from a distance. This site is especially stunning at sunrise or sunset.
Where to Eat in Peggy’s Cove
- Tom’s Lobster Shack: Renowned for serving the best lobster roll in Nova Scotia! Gluten-free patrons can enjoy it on a salad. Go early to avoid disappointment; they often sell out before dinner!
- The Sou’Wester Restaurant: Situated beside the lighthouse, this long-standing establishment offers both inside and outdoor seating. It’s popular but can be pricey, with limited gluten-free options. We opted to enjoy dinner at our resort instead, sitting on our villa deck overlooking the ocean with a glass of wine from the local mini-mart.
- Rhubarb Restaurant: Just a few minutes away near Oceanstone Resort, it’s one of the area’s top dining spots for fresh, locally-sourced meals (the restaurant is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays). We were disappointed to miss it during our stay on those nights.
- Margaret’s Café and Hunky Dory (in Six by the Sea) also make excellent choices for light bites, coffee, and snacks.
Best Time to Visit Peggy’s Cove
Peggy’s Cove is open year-round, but the best time to visit is from May to October, when the weather is mild and most shops and restaurants are operational.
Sunset is the peak time for tourists, so expect crowds. For a quieter yet equally magical experience, consider a sunrise visit; the colors are softer, the air is still, and you might have the rocks almost to yourself. We planned on staying for sunset, but fog rolled in unexpectedly—common in these parts!
Getting to Peggy’s Cove
Peggy’s Cove is approximately a 50-minute drive from Halifax along Highway 333 (Lighthouse Route) or Highway 103. We followed Highway 333, enjoying plenty of breathtaking coastal views and signs directing us to Peggy’s Cove.
The drive is part of the experience, showcasing rugged coastlines, rocky coves, and small fishing villages along the way.
There are no direct buses, so driving is the only way to reach this picturesque spot. If you’re without a vehicle, consider taking a day tour from Halifax, as rideshare costs can add up quickly.
Where to Stay Near Peggy’s Cove
Peggy’s Cove is quite remote, so we recommend staying at one of the resorts along Highway 333, in nearby Indian Harbour. We had a relaxing overnight stay at Oceanstone Seaside Resort, just five minutes from Peggy’s Cove. This beautiful oceanfront resort features cozy cottages, a hydrothermal Nordic Spa, and serene coastal surroundings—it was one of our favorite stays in Nova Scotia.
While options are limited, another lovely choice is the family-run Clifty Cove Motel. Alternatively, accommodations can also be found in Halifax.
Helpful Tips for Visiting Peggy’s Cove
- Parking: There’s a main parking area near the lighthouse, but it fills up quickly. Arrive early or later in the evening to avoid congestion.
- Accessibility: The new viewing platform allows for easier access, making it safer for everyone to enjoy the lighthouse without navigating uneven rocks.
- Respect Locals: Remember, this is a functioning fishing village, not just a tourist spot. Stick to marked paths and avoid wandering through private properties.
- Safety First: The ocean here is powerful and unpredictable—never underestimate it.
- Combine with Oceanstone Spa: After exploring, unwind at the nearby Hydrothermal Spa at Oceanstone Resort—a perfect way to complete your day. We did this in the morning, followed by an afternoon at Peggy’s Cove.
Why Peggy’s Cove is So Beloved
Peggy’s Cove endures not just because it’s beautiful, but because it feels timeless. The granite rocks have withstood centuries of storms, the lighthouse still stands sentinel, and fishing boats continue bobbing in the harbor, creating a narrative that speaks to Nova Scotia’s heart and heritage.
