Eastern Shore Marine Drive Scenic Route Guide 2025

The Eastern Shore Marine Drive is a scenic 320km coastal route along Highway 7 from Dartmouth to Canso, showcasing Nova Scotia's rugged Atlantic coastline.

Key attractions include:
• Taylor Head Provincial Park - pristine beaches and hiking trails
• Sherbrooke Village - 1860s living history museum
• Liscomb Mills - wilderness lodge and adventures
• Memory Lane Heritage Village - authentic village displays
• Canso Islands National Historic Site

The route features dramatic coastal scenery, secluded coves, lighthouses, and opportunities for whale watching, hiking, and experiencing authentic Maritime culture in unchanged fishing communities.

Allow 2-4 days to fully explore with overnight stops.

Must-see Eastern Shore stops include:

Provincial Parks & Beaches:
• Taylor Head Provincial Park - spectacular beaches and coastal hiking
• Martinique Beach - longest beach in Nova Scotia
• Clam Harbour Beach and Queensland Beach
• Tor Bay Provincial Park - camping and beach access

Historic Sites:
• Sherbrooke Village - living history with costumed interpreters
• Memory Lane Heritage Village - authentic displays
• Canso Islands National Historic Site

Communities & Harbours:
• Port Dufferin scenic harbour
• Sheet Harbour with tidal bore
• Local fishing harbours and craft shops

The complete route covers 320 kilometers and takes 4-5 hours direct driving from Dartmouth to Canso. Most visitors spend 2-4 days exploring properly.

Recommended itinerary:
• Day 1: Dartmouth to Sheet Harbour (Lawrencetown Beach, Taylor Head)
• Day 2: Sheet Harbour to Sherbrooke (coastal communities, Liscomb Mills)
• Day 3-4: Sherbrooke to Canso (Sherbrooke Village, Tor Bay, Canso sites)

This allows time for hiking, beach visits, museum tours, photography, meals, and accommodations. The route can be driven year-round, though some attractions have seasonal hours.

Eastern Shore accommodation includes:

Unique Lodging:
• Liscomb Mills Wilderness Resort - luxury wilderness experience
• Various B&Bs in Sherbrooke and surrounding areas
• Lighthouse keeper accommodations - heritage properties

Standard Options:
• Motels and inns in Sheet Harbour and Country Harbour
• Vacation rentals in fishing communities
• Working fishing lodge experiences

Camping:
• Taylor Head and Tor Bay Provincial Parks
• Various private campgrounds

Many offer packages with meals, activities, and local tours. Book in advance during peak season (July-August).

Best time is late spring through early fall (May-October):

Summer (July-August):
• Warmest weather and longest daylight
• All attractions and services open
• Optimal beach and water activities
• Higher costs and some crowds

Fall (September-October):
• Spectacular foliage and comfortable temperatures
• Excellent photography conditions
• Moderate pricing, some reduced hours

Spring (May-June):
• Wildflower blooms and wildlife activity
• Fewer crowds and good value rates
• Some attractions may have limited hours

Winter: Possible with proper preparation, offers storm-watching and authentic local experiences.