




Visitor Information











Did you know that Yarmouth & Acadian Shores is home to North America’s first “Starlight Destination” designated by The International Starlight Foundation? Find more night-sky experiences inside this guide.
Sleep under the stars in your own sky bubble
Deep Sky Eye Observatory
Nocturnal Sky Theatre Experience
You’ll start your experience learning about the basics of astronomy, the night’s celestial wonders, and the Deep Sky Eye observatory while sitting back in a comfortable zerogravity chair. Outside, under the beauty of the summer Milky Way, learn to navigate the night sky using points of reference such as Polaris (North Star) and various constellations.
We’ll use several telescopes on the observing platform to show you the beauty of the planets and deepspace objects. Galaxies, nebulae, star clusters, the Moon, and planets are all within reach of the night sky in Quinan! Book your experience today.
Welcome to Cape Forchu , a light like no other. This spectacular “apple core” lighthouse is one of the most photographed lighthouses in Nova Scotia and is located just 10 minutes outside the Town of Yarmouth.
The Cape has welcomed visitors since 1604, when French explorer Samuel de Champlain named the area “Cap Fourchu,” meaning “forked tongue of land.”
Since 1839, the Cape Forchu
Light has towered over the jagged coastline, welcoming people to the region and beckoning them to shore. With crashing waves and sprawling skies, it’s no wonder Cape Forchu was voted one of the best public spaces in Canada.
Grab a bite at Nichole’s Kitchen, inside the former light keeper’s home or visit the gift shop for a perfect keepsake.
Explore the rugged landscape along the Leif Erikson Park & Trail, taking in breathtaking views, stunning sunsets, and spectacular stargazing.
1854 Highway 304, Cape Forchu, NS 902-740-1680
the seventy-seven steps inside the lighthouse to the lantern room where you will be treated to the breathtaking views of the surrounding sea and landscapes.
in awe to the historical events linked to the site and surrounding communities.
The Mi’kmaq (meeg-maw) are the Indigenous people of Mi’kma’ki (meeg-maw-gi), an area that encompasses Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island, Newfoundland, parts of the Gaspé Peninsula, Québec, and Maine.
Archaeological findings have shown evidence of Mi’kmaw presence in and around this area for more than ten thousand years.
This region, known as Kespukwitk, now includes the selfgoverning Mi’kmaw communities of Wasoqopa’q (waa-so-ho-ba) First Nation and L’Sitkuk First Nation (Bear River).
This
region is known as Kespukwitk (End of Flow)
The Yarmouth & Acadian Shores region is in Mi’kma’ki, the ancestral and unceded territory of the Mi’kmaq. The Mi’kmaq have lived on this territory for thousands of years and we acknowledge them as the past, present, and future caretakers of this land.
Historically, a land acknowledgment is a traditional practice shared among Indigenous groups to recognize the Indigenous land and territory they are visiting. Today, a land acknowledgment remains a way to express gratitude to the Indigenous communities and to remind us that we are all treaty people.
Kespukwitk in Southwest Nova Scotia is home to Kejimkujik National Park and Historic Site which protects 426 square kilometers of diverse habitat within Nova Scotia’s South Shore Region. A location of two distinct and separate natural regions given cultural context by longstanding Indigenous heritage.
Home to the largest Acadian population in Nova Scotia . Acadians are descendants of French settlers who arrived in the early 1600s in Nova Scotia.
Discover Acadian history and culture dating back to 1653 and maybe even discover a distant relative in their archives. A must-see museum. 898 NS-335, West Pubnico, NS 902-762-3380
Le Village historique acadien de la Nouvelle-Écosse
Located on a stunning 17-acre site overlooking Pubnico Harbour, we welcome you to take a step back in time and discover the heart, life, and work of early 20th-century Acadians. You can explore the old cemetery, which has timeworn tombstones dating back to the early 1800s.
In our gift shop, you can browse unique handmade crafts. Experience the restored and recreated Acadian Village and participate in re-enactments and demonstrations that showcase the lifestyle and work of yesteryear.
91 Old Church Rd., Lower West Pubnico, NS 888-381-8999
levillage.novascotia.ca
the 1870s, Yarmouth became the second-largest port on the registry in Canada, dispatching ships all over the globe. Captains and crew delivered lumber, molasses, and cotton worldwide.
Today, fishing remains the largest industry in the area. This region is home to Canada’s most lucrative and largest lobster fishing fleet.
Grab a copy of the Heritage in Your Hand walking tour map at the Visitor Information Centre at 341 Main Street. The self-guided tour includes Sea Captains’ and Ship Owners’ homes—many still operate as single-family dwellings. These homes and architecture are testaments to the wealth accumulated during the shipbuilding era.
The boom from shipping impacted Yarmouth & Acadian Shores in many ways. Wealthy ship owners and captains constructed impressive homes in the area, taking architectural inspiration from around the world. Some common styles include the Second Empire, Queen Anne Revival, Gothic Revival, and Italianate.
The fishing industry is an integral part of our region’s culture; now, you can experience what it’s like to work in it. This FREE experience will allow you to learn about life on the ocean, hear the stories of those who make a living on the water, and participate in demonstrations by real people in the industry.
July 1 to August 31, 2024 1:30pm - 4:00pm AST
1. Mon. – Dennis Point Wharf
Location: 35-219 Dennis Point Rd., Middle West Pubnico, NS
2. Thurs. – Sandford Wharf
Location: Ross Durkee Rd., Sandford, NS
3. Sun. – Cape Forchu
Location: 1854 Hwy 304, Cape Forchu, NS
Originally the site of an early cemetery and later known as Victoria Park, Frost Park is now an attractive green space in the centre of the downtown landscape. This well-shaded park features a 150-year-old, three-tier fountain and a compass-rose overlooking Yarmouth Harbour.
Meredith Willson’s world famous holiday classic “It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas ” is believed to have been written during his stay at the original Yarmouth Grand Hotel (circa 1951).
“It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas Everywhere you go
Yarmouth’s downtown streetscape is public art with a purpose, tapping into the region’s most important industry – lobster fishing. Take a selfie, snag a kitchen party chair to catch up with a friend, or simply step into the shade and rest for a while.
Try great regional dishes and visit some of the best places to eat in Yarmouth & Acadian Shores. From an array of diverse restaurants, craft breweries, and local markets, to tried-and-tested recipes for down-home favourites and the tastiest lobster in the land, you’ll always find a buffet of options on the menu.
Argyler Lodge & Restaurant
Café Caye Mangé
Charlene’s Kitchen
Chez la Forêt at Trout Point Lodge
Honey Bee’s Restaurant
Marco’s Grill & Pasta House
Mr. González Mexican Cuisine
Nichole’s Kitchen
Red Cap Restaurant
Rudder’s Seafood Restaurant & Brew Pub
Shanty Café
Simply “Pho” You
Wild Roots Restaurant
Food & Drink
Fast Food & Takeout
A&W Express
Burger King
Dairy Queen
Greco Pizza & Donair
KFC / Taco Bell
La Shoppe à Carl
Mary Brown’s Chicken & Taters
McDonald’s
Pita Pit
Pizza Villa
Robin’s Donuts
Subway
Tim Hortons (Two Locations)
Starrs Road
• Water Street
Wendy’s
ICEWORKS Dairy & Espresso Bar
Blue Lagoon Restaurant
Boston Pizza
Café du Crique
Dennis Point Café
Gale’s Eatery
Galley South
Harv’s Diner
ICEWORKS Dairy & Espresso Bar
J’s Amazing Breakfast
Jake’s Family Restaurant
Joanne’s Quick-n-Tasty
Jungle Jim’s
New Century Chinese Restaurant
Pair-a-Dice Bistro
Pizza Delight
Redo’s Pizza Donair & Grill
The Dinner Plate Family Restaurant
Wallace’s Curbside Cravings
Windlass Restaurant
Winner’s One Stop Restaurant
Bailey’s Bakery
Blueberry Fields Bakery Cafe
Creamy Treat Ice Cream
D’Eon’s Rappie Pie
Edna’s Bakery
Honey Bee’s Restaurant
Kerr’s Take-Out & Ice Cream Shop
Lickety Splitz
Old World Bakery and Deli
Sip Café
Studio Yarmouth Cafe & Gallery
The Dancing Bean Café
Third Cup Cafe
Yarmouth & Acadian Shores has three local craft breweries and one distillery offering unique Nova Scotia craft brews and spirits with local twists and seasonal flavours.
Thursday 12-3pm, mid-June to the end of August.
8168 Highway 3, Tusket, NS
Argyle Farmers and Artisanal Market
Saturday 9am–1pm, year-round.
15 Hawthorne Street, Yarmouth yarmouthfarmersmarketns.ca
Dig your claws into this one! Creamed lobster was created by Clara Harris, a local restaurant owner for over 50 years. The dish caught on quickly, and can now be enjoyed at many restaurants throughout Yarmouth & Acadian Shores. The dish is still relatively unknown outside of our region. A true local specialty, creamed lobster has evolved from being a restaurant treat to a dish many cook at home too.
Râpure (ra-pur) or Rappie (ra-pee) Pie in English, is a much-loved traditional Acadian dish. Its a delicious mix of potatoes and chicken. It’s not a pie in the conventional sense, as there is no pastry crust. Rappie pie is a family dish in many households and a tradition during special occasions like Christmas.
Museums & Archives
Argyle Township Court House & Jail
Firefighters’ Museum of NS
Harbourfront Museum
Killam Brothers Shipping Office
Le Village historique acadien de la Nouvelle-Écosse
Musée des Acadiens des Pubnicos & Centre de Recherche
Pelton-Fuller House
The UNESCO Southwest Nova Biosphere Reserve Culture, Heritage and Science Interpretive Centre
W. Laurence Sweeney Fisheries Museum
Wedgeport Sport Tuna Fishing Museum
Yarmouth County Museum & Archives
A rare collection of firefighting equipment and memorabilia, including Canada’s oldest steam pumper. A fun day for kids and adults alike.
451 Main St., Yarmouth, NS 902-742-5525 firefightersmuseum.novascotia.ca
Argyle Township Court House & Archives
Canada’s oldest Court House & Jail, a National Historic site since 1805. Visit the Archives and discover stories of communities and families that have shaped this region.
8168 Highway #3, Tusket, NS 902-648-2493 argylecourthouse.com
The Marble Lady is a statue located at Town Point Cemetery in Chebogue, which pays tribute to Margaret Lindsay McNaught Webster. Margaret was a member of one of the founding English settler families in Yarmouth County. After her death in the mid-1800s, her husband commissioned the statue in her honor. Interestingly, the image on which the statue was based was taken from a painting on a matchbox.
Historic Churches & Cemetaries
Chebogue Cemetary
Home of the “The Marble Lady”
Église Saint Pierre Church
Église Ste-Anne Church
Holy Trinity Church
Old Stones Cemetery
Rocco Point Chapel & Trail
St. Ambrose Church
Église Ste-Famille Church
Monuments & Memorials
Refer to map for locations
Afghanistan War Memorial
Arcadia War Memorial
Carleton War Memorial
Fish Point Historic Site
Kemptville War Memorial
Korean War Memorial
Lost to The Sea Memorial
Pubnico War Memorial
Sara Corning Memorial
Tusket War Memorial
Yarmouth Cenotaph & No. 2 Black
Construction Battalion Memorial
Honouring an Unsung Hero
In 1919, a middle-aged nurse from Yarmouth County, Nova Scotia, strode into the mayhem of war — now recognized as the Armenian Genocide — and earned the enduring gratitude of a nation. The Sara Corning Memorial statue recognizes her life and accomplishments.
30 Parade St., Yarmouth, NS
Bill Curry Photography
Dan Earle, Artist
Danielle Mahood Art
Galerie Beaucoop
Hands on Crafts
Hubert and Belle’s
Sea Hags and Scallywags
Sticks and Stones Folk Art
The Lumberjack’s Daughter
Tootsie Emin’s Art Studio
Yarmouth Creatives
Yarmouth Waterfront Gallery
The Town of Yarmouth has many murals, outdoor artwork, and hand-painted displays. One of many beautiful examples is the mural above by Yarmouth artist Danielle Mahood located near the Water and Brown Street intersection. Another renowned local artist, Brian Porter, has created amazing murals on the Yarmouth waterfront and for the Style Merchant on Hawthorne Street in Yarmouth.
We love Yarmouth & Acadian Shores, and we know you do, too! That’s why we’ve created a series of cozy clothing, fun aprons, and camping mugs representing our laid-back lifestyle. And because we wouldn’t be anywhere without community, we’ve partnered with Yarmouth Association for Community Residential Options (YACRO), a fantastic organization that assists people with life challenges. shop.yarmouthandacadianshores.com
shopping, direct delivery or FREE local pick-up available at The Store Next Door on Central St. in Yarmouth.
Seahags & Scallywags
Local Shopping
Antique Picker
Carl’s Store
Chocolaterie By-The-Sea
Dayton Fabrics and Singer
Designs by Nhung
Every Bloomin’ Thing
Frenchy’s Thrift Stores (3 Locations)
• Glebe Street
• Tusket
• Guy’s Frenchys Airport Stretch
Friends of Jane’s
Futura New Age & Metaphysical
Gator Byte Computers & Entertainment
Hamilton’s Fine Clothing
Hands on Crafts
Hook ‘n’ Sea Crafts and Gift Shop
K & K Fashions
Lam’s Used Book Store
Mythic Games & Hobbies
Ocean Blue Music
Runners Attic
Seahags & Scallywags
Sticks and Stones Folk Art
Strictly Fish “N” Tackle Shop
The Lumberjack’s Daughter
The Store Next Door
The Style Merchant
Tooie’s Country Store
Warehouse 87 Antiques
Wedgeport Antiques
Yaciuk’s Antiques
Yarmouth Brewing Centre
Yarmouth Creatives
Yarmouth Natural Foods
Yarmouth Wool Shoppe
More shopping
Discover the fascinating stories and secrets of Yarmouth, a town with a rich history of seafaring. You’ll hear about the folklore, legends and events that have shaped this storied town. Our tour topics vary and are offered seasonally with select dates available through October. If you prefer a customized experience, private tours are available year-round upon request. 902-307-2250 | info@mileeast.com
We offer a deep-sea fishing charter that departs from Dennis Point Wharf, Lower West Pubnico, Nova Scotia. Hop onboard our 25-foot center console fishing boat for a fun day of saltwater fishing. If you are lucky enough to catch some fish, we will fillet your fish to take home. Another group may join you if you are a small party. A minimum of two people are required per charter. Call for pricing.
Wine & Beer Tours of Nova
Experience Nova Scotia’s unique wine, beer, cider, spirits, cuisine, and scenery with our flexible tour options. From craft breweries and fresh seafood to exclusive lobster suppers and renowned wines, we offer something for everyone. wineandbeertoursofnovascotia.com
A peaceful and adventurous getaway on a breathtaking homestead that offers a variety of outdoor activities such as camping, stargazing, hiking, and wildlife watching. Camp in a tent or a hammock to enjoy the beauty of nature. Licensed Airbnb accommodation, including a bunkie for those who prefer glamping. forestglenadventures.com
Explore our beautiful gardens in Quinan, Nova Scotia. Engage your senses with culinary herbs and edible flowers. Then join us as we combine the freshly picked herbs with other locally sourced ingredients in season to create a delicious dish. Open Mid Apr. - Mid Oct., by appointment only. laurastastes@gmail.com inneroaksholisticapproach.com
Deep Sky Eye Observatory
Forest Glen Adventures
Island Tours & Deep Sea Fishing Charters Heritage in Your HandSelf-Guided Walking Tour
Inner Oaks Holistic Approach
& Beer Tours of Nova Scotia
Walking Tours
Supervised July-August
A pristine beach awaits visitors looking for a serene escape from daily life. The beach features a grassy picnic area, perfect for an afternoon picnic. A picturesque wharf and fishing boats dot the shoreline and offer a breathtaking backdrop for photographers and painters alike. Amenities include changing rooms, and vault toilets on site.
Directions: From Hwy 101, take Exit 33 to Route 1 and travel 4 km (2.5 mi.).
Address: 3297 Main Shore Road, Port Maitland, Nova Scotia
A perfect spot for a break after a visit to Cape Forchu. Watch the fishing boats roll by and enjoy the view.
Comeau’s Hill Beach is a secluded beach and one of the few places that offers a view of the Tusket Island chain from the shore. This sandy beach is ideal for families looking for a relaxing time.
Comeau’s Hill Beach
Very end of Comeaus Hill Rd., off Hwy 334 in Arcadia
Ellenwood Lake Provincial Park
1888 Mood Rd., Deerfield NS
False Harbour Beach
Located across the road from John’s Cove Beach Cape Forchu, NS
John’s Cove Beach
70 Lobster Pound Rd., Yarmouth, NS
A secluded beach offering a quiet getaway for those looking for a secret spot to relax. Soft sand and a southern view.
Lake Milo 700 Main St., Yarmouth, NS
Pembroke Beach
Helen Lucy Rd., Yarmouth, NS
Pinkney’s Point Beach
Melbourne Rd. – Pinkney’s Point, NS
Sunday Point Beach
Sunday Point Rd., Yarmouth, NS
The West Pubnico Golf & Country Club was inaugurated on August 31, 1968. The club currently boasts a membership of 380 and also offers a driving range, putting green, and a clubhouse that caters to both members and visitors who wish to unwind and relax.
In a world that’s constantly filled with noise and busyness, there’s a place where you can escape and be enveloped by nature. You’ll hear the rustling of leaves and whispering wind, and you’ll see sights that are as ancient as the stars. Trout Point Lodge is a luxurious haven for adventurers who seek both authenticity and luxury.
189 Trout Point Rd., East Kemptville, NS 902-761-2142 | troutpoint.com
Welcome to Auberge Thon Jaune - Yellow Tuna —a charming, relaxing, boutique hotel overlooking the water and the perfect place for your next overnight getaway. Our luxury getaway rental in Wedgeport, NS, the tuna sport fishing capital of the world, is located in the heart of one of the world’s largest fishing grounds, making it the ideal spot to immerse yourself in the Acadian culture of this tightly knit historic community. 2453 Highway 334, Wedgeport, NS 902-748-2015 | yellowtuna.ca
They
hello@rennesouth.com rennesouth.com
Phone: 902-648-2493
argylecourthouse.com
Camper’s Haven Campground and Cottages
Our campground has 215 sites catering to a variety of needs, including tent sites, cottage rentals, and full-service 50-amp hookups. We’re the closest campground to the ferry terminal in Yarmouth, just three miles away. Our activities include fishing, swimming, kayaking, golfing, and stargazing under the darkest skies.
9700 Hwy 3 (The Lighthouse Route) Arcadia, NS
902-742-4848 or toll free 844-742-4848
campershavencampground.com
Provincial Park
Supervised July-August
Ellenwood Lake Provincial Park, a 282-acre site located in Deerfield, offers swimming, sportfishing, kayaking, SUPs, and hiking. The day-use area has supervised swimming during July and August. There is a hiking trail suitable for all age levels. There are 21 serviced and 61 unserviced sites available.
1888 Mood Rd., Deerfield, NS 888-544-3434 or 902-761-2400 novascotiaparks.ca
A family campground located on Darling Lake, 14.5 km/9 mi. North of Yarmouth. This quiet facility offers rest and relaxation, and great bass fishing. It has 4 cottages, RV and tenting sites, and is close to major attractions. Twenty-five 30 amp sites and one 50 amp site available for RVs. WiFi available throughout. EV charging stations on-site.
2560 Hwy 1, Darling Lake, NS 902-649-2332
lakebreezecampground.ca
Castle Lake Campground provides a serene camping experience with lakeside camping and offers 170 overnight sites, including 75 serviced sites. You can enjoy multiple activities such as hiking, fishing, swimming, and canoeing. If you’re fond of stargazing, you can set up your own telescope on our hill near the lake and stargaze to your heart’s content.
83 Comeau’s Hill Rd., Arcadia, NS 902-749-1739 castlelakecampground.com
The Yarmouth Buoy Wall is a colorful art feature that celebrates the maritime spirit of Yarmouth, Nova Scotia. It is located at the Yarmouth Bar on the way to Cape Forchu Lighthouse and is adorned with buoys that pay homage to the region’s fishing heritage. Each buoy tells a story of the hard work and dedication of local fishermen and women who use them to locate their lobster traps.
Photographer: @daveyandsky
Located at the Sandford Wharf, the drawbridge was built so fishermen and visitors could cross from one side of the Sandford wharf system to the other without having to travel back on the road.
The interpretive walking trails of Leif Erikson Park are located on the grounds of the iconic Cape Forchu Light. Explore unique rock formations and experience nature’s raw beauty.
The psychological thriller The Lighthouse directed by Robert Eggers, co-starring Willem DeFoe and Robert Pattinson, was filmed at Cape Forchu in 2018. The filmmakers were unable to find a lighthouse that fit the mood of the film. They constructed a 70-foot lighthouse and other buildings for the set at Lief Erikson Park Trail. Learn more at a24films.com/films/the-lighthouse
The Southwest Nova Biosphere Reserve seeks to achieve a balance between the conservation of our natural and cultural heritage and economic activity through sustainable resource development that supports prosperous local economies and healthy communities.
Visit the UNESCO Southwest Nova Biosphere Reserve Culture, Heritage and Science Interpretive Centre.
90 Water St., Yarmouth, NS
Toby and Kejimkujik National Park protect a vast area of mixed woods, barrens, and wetlands that are the heart of the UNESCO Southwest Nova Biosphere Reserve. The Tobeatic wilderness is famous for its mainland moose, trout streams, and rugged canoe routes, including the iconic “Tent Dwellers” route. To fully appreciate the area’s wild beauty, having a licensed guide is advisable.
At Rodd Grand Yarmouth, we know you want to explore and do all you can while on vacation – and a good night’s rest is the best start to the day.
With the comfiest of beds, our on-site Gale’s Eatery, featuring local cuisine, on-site Haley’s Lounge, an indoor pool, gym, and the friendliest team ready to host you – we are the perfect addition to your Nova Scotia plans.
Did you know we are only one block from the CAT ferry terminal and within walking distance of local shops, restaurants and museums? What are you waiting for? Book your stay today!
Little River Duck Dog
The community of Little River Harbour is home to the Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever, known locally as the Little River Duck Dog. The dog, bred to assist with duck hunting, is a great swimmer and full of energy!
Tidal salt marshes surround Little River Harbour, and a visit will show why the Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever is a great hunting companion.
AUGUST 10-18
The Congrès mondial acadien 2024 is much more than an event: it is a premiere celebration of Acadian culture and heritage! Every 5 years, the CMA brings Acadians together from all over the world to exchange ideas and reflect together on major topics concerning l'Acadie.
• MORE THAN 300 EXCITING EVENTS
• GATHERINGS FOR 50+ FAMILIES
• CELEBRATIONS IN 28 COMMUNITIES THROUGHOUT SOUTHWEST NOVA SCOTIA
www.cma2024.ca
Ferries.ca Between Maine and Nova Scotia in 3.5 hours