townofyarmouth.ca
Photo Credit: Tourism Nova Scotia/YASTA Photographer: Dave and Sky
Driving times to Yarmouth in Nova Scotia
Our Night Skies: Totally, Truly, Awesome
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.
Best places to stargaze:
Photographer: Simon D’Entremont
Deep Sky Eye Observatory
Ellenwood Lake Provincial Park Cape Forchu Lighthouse
Trout Point Lodge
Argyler Lodge
Forest Glen Adventures
Wedgeport Nature Trail
Credit: Tourism Nova Scotia | YASTA | Photographer: @daveyandsky
Welcome to Cape Forchu , home to one of Nova Scotia’s most photographed lighthouses, located just 10 minutes from Yarmouth.
Named by French explorer Samuel de Champlain in 1604, this “apple core” lighthouse has stood since 1839, guiding visitors to the region.
With its dramatic coastline and scenic views, Cape Forchu is a top public space in Canada. Don’t miss the stunning landscapes along the Leif Erikson Park & Trail for unforgettable sunsets and stargazing.
1856 Highway 304, Cape Forchu, NS 902-740-1680 capeforchu.com
Credit: Tourism Nova Scotia | YASTA | Photographer: UnBound Media, Ryan Williams
Photographer: Simon D’Entremont
Climb the Light Experience
CLIMB 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.
LISTEN in awe to the historical events linked to the site and surrounding communities.
LEARN what it was like to be a lightkeeper at such a historically significant site.
Credit: Tourism Nova Scotia | YASTA | Photographer: UnBound Media, Ryan Williams
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.
Wasoqopa’q Harvest Feast September 20 th , 2025
Kejimkujik National Park and Historic Site
Photo: Tourism Nova Scotia
Credit: Tourism Nova Scotia | YASTA | Photographer: UnBound Media, Ryan Williams
Signature Experiences
Living Acadian Culture
Home to the largest Acadian population in Nova Scotia . Acadians are descendants of French settlers who arrived in the early 1600s in Nova Scotia.
Musée des Acadiens des Pubnicos
Discover Acadian history and culture dating back 898 NS-335, West Pubnico, NS 902-762-3380
Credit: Tourism Nova Scotia | CDÉNÉ | Photographer: PhototypeHFX
Credit: Tourism Nova Scotia | CDÉNÉ | Photographer: Acorn Art & Photography
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
Credit: Tourism Nova Scotia | CDÉNÉ | Photographer: PhototypeHFX
Credit: Tourism Nova Scotia | CDÉNÉ | Photographer: PhototypeHFX
Yarmouth Heritage District
The export boom 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 Gothik Guest House
Credit: Tourism Nova Scotia | YASTA | Photographer: @daveyandsky
Credit: Tourism Nova Scotia | YASTA Photographer: Acorn Art & Photography
Signature Experiences
Discover the stories of a life made from the sea.
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, 2025 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
Credit: Tourism Nova Scotia | YASTA | Photographer: UnBound Media, Ryan Williams
Credit: Tourism Nova Scotia | YASTA | Photographer: Jive Photographic
Tusket Island Tours
Credit: Tourism Nova Scotia | YASTA Photographer: Acorn Art & Photography
Credit: Tourism Nova Scotia | YASTA Photographer: Acorn Art & Photography
Downtown Yarmouth
Frost Park
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.
Did You Know ?
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 There’s a tree in the Grand Hotel, one in the park as well It’s the sturdy kind that doesn’t mind the snow”
Photos: Tourism Nova Scotia | YASTA | Photographer: @daveyandsky
Savour the Flavours of the Region
Discover More Restaurants
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.
Shanty Café Wild Roots Restaurant
Tourism Nova Scotia | YASTA | Photographer: @daveyandsky
Photo: Tourism Nova Scotia | YASTA | Photographer: Hugh Whitaker
Tourism Nova Scotia | YASTA | Photographer: Hugh Whitaker
Specialty & Fine Dining
Argyler Lodge & Restaurant
Café Caye Mangé
Charlene’s Kitchen
Honey Bees Restaurant
Las Mariez Fiesta (Formerly Mr. Gonzalez Mexican Cuisine)
Marco’s Grill & Pasta House
Red Cap Restaurant
Rudder’s Seafood Restaurant & Brew Pub
Shanty Café
Simply “Pho” You
Trout Point Lodge
Wild Roots Restaurant
Argyler Lodge
Honey Bees Restaurant
Red Cap Restaurant Rudder’s
Tourism Nova Scotia | CDÉNÉ | Photographer: Acorn Art & Photography Tourism Nova Scotia | CDÉNÉ | Photographer: PhototypeHFX
ICEWORKS Dairy & Espresso Bar
Casual Dining
Bea’s Takeout
Blue Lagoon Restaurant
Boston Pizza
Café du Crique
Chez Beau Café by the Sea
Dennis Point Café
Gale’s Eatery
Galley South
Harv’s Diner
ICEWORKS Dairy & Espresso Bar
Jake’s Family Restaurant
Jungle Jim’s
Mr. Singh’s Quick And Tasty
New Century Chinese Restaurant
Pair-a-Dice Bistro
Pizza Delight
Redo’s Pizza Donair & Grill
The Dinner Plate Family Restaurant
Wallace’s Curbside Cravings
Winner’s One Stop Restaurant
Credit: YASTA | Photographer: @baconismagic
Food & Drink
Local Specialties
Old World Bakery and Deli
Blueberry Fields Bakery Cafe
Studio Yarmouth Cafe + Gallery
Credit: Tourism Nova Scotia | YASTA | Photographer: Acorn Art & Photography
Bakeries, Ice Cream Shops & Cafés
Bailey’s Bakery
Blueberry Fields Bakery Cafe
Kerr’s Take-Out & Ice Cream Shop
Lickety Splitz
Bubble Tea Delight Little Town Coffee Co.
Creamy Treat Ice Cream
Old World Bakery and Deli
D’Eon’s Rappie Pie Sip Café - Yarmouth
Edna’s Bakery
Honey Bees Restaurant
Studio Yarmouth Cafe & Gallery
Third Cup Cafe
Sip Café
Lickety Splitz
Credit: Tourism Nova Scotia | YASTA | Photographer: @daveyandsky
Craft Beer & Spirits
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.
Rudder’s Seafood Restaurant & Brew Pub
Credit: Tourism Nova Scotia | YASTA | Photographer: @daveyandsky
Craft Beer & Spirits
Boatskeg Distilling Co.
Heritage Brewing Co.
Rudder’s Seafood Restaurant & Brew Pub
Tusket Falls Brewing Co.
Pubs & Night Life
Haley’s Lounge
Johnny Patch’s Pub
Portside Pub
The Red Knight
Boatskeg Distilling Co. Tusket Falls Brewing Co.
Heritage Brewing Co.
Tourism Nova Scotia | CDÉNÉ | Photographer: PhototypeHFX Tourism Nova Scotia | YASTA | Photographer: @lifeofashmac
Credit: Tourism Nova Scotia | YASTA | Photographer: @daveyandsky
Credit: Tourism Nova Scotia | Photographer: Branislav Zvada
Anchored in History
Sweeney Fisheries Museum
Credit: Tourism Nova Scotia | CDÉNÉ | Photographer: Acorn Art & Photography
Credit: YASTA | Photographer: Joey Robicheau
Credit: YASTA | Photographer: Joey Robicheau
Cultural Roots Coastal Creativity
Local Galleries & Artists
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
Murals and Outdoor Art
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 on Brown Street. Another renowned local artist, Brian Porter, has created amazing murals on the Yarmouth waterfront and for the Style Merchant on Hawthorne Street in Yarmouth.
Hubert & Belle’s, Port Maitland
Credit: Tourism Nova Scotia | YASTA | Photographer: @daveyandsky
Credit: Tourism Nova Scotia | Photographer: Dean Casavechia
NOW and get 25% OFF your order! Use discount
Dress for your everyday adventure.
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
In-store shopping, direct delivery or FREE local pick-up available at The Store Next Door on Central St. in Yarmouth.
Shop Yarmouth & Acadian Shores
Credit: YASTA | Photographer: Charlene d’Entremont
Credit: YASTA | Photographer: Charlene d’Entremont
Shop Now
& Scallywags
Local Shopping
Antique Picker
Carl’s Store
Chocolaterie By-The-Sea
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
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
The Wee Toy Shop
Tooie’s Country Store
Warehouse 87 Antiques
Wedgeport Antiques
Yaciuk’s Antiques
Yarmouth Brewing Centre
Yarmouth Creatives
Yarmouth Natural Foods
Yarmouth Night Market
• Friday nights until 8pm during the summer
• Located at Killam’s Wharf next to The CAT Ferry terminal
Yarmouth Wool Shoppe
Credit: Tourism Nova Scotia | YASTA | Photographer: @daveyandsky
Credit: Tourism Nova Scotia | YASTA | Photographer: Jive Photographic
Tusket Island Tours
Deep-Sea Fishing Charters
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.
or text Calvin at 902-740-0565 to book your fishing charter.
more information, visit tusketislandtours.com/fishing-charters
Atlantic Shark Expeditions
Established in 2023 by shark researcher Dr. Neil Hammerschlag, Atlantic Shark Expeditions provides unparalleled opportunities for the public to experience, discover, and help protect the wonders of sharks through ecotourism and citizen science.
Get ready for an unparalleled adventure with our Great White Expeditions in Yarmouth, running from September 12 to October 30. atlanticsharkexp.com
Credit: Tourism Nova Scotia | CDÉNÉ | Photographer: PhototypeHFX
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
Forest Glen Adventures
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
Inner Oaks Holistic Approach Experiences
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 May 1 st . - Sept 15th ., by appointment only. inneroaks@gmail.com inneroaksholisticapproach.com
East Coast Wild Adventures
Forest Glen Adventures
Tusket Island Tours & Deep Sea Fishing Charters
& Beer Tours of Nova Scotia Heritage in Your Hand -
Amazing beaches await Beaches & Lakes
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.
Pembroke Beach
A secluded beach offering a quiet getaway for those looking for a secret spot to relax. Soft sand and a southern view.
Credit: Tourism Nova Scotia | YASTA | Photographer: UnBound Media, Ryan Williams
Photo: Lake Milo Aquatic Club
Credit: Tourism Nova Scotia | YASTA Photographer: Hugh Whitaker
Yarmouth Links
This stunning links-style course boasts a breathtaking view of Cape Forchu Lighthouse and Yarmouth Harbour. Do not underestimate the challenges that come with the open course design.
West Pubnico Golf & Country Club
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.
Offering golf enthusiasts a
Luxury & Relaxation Places to Stay
Trout Point Lodge
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
Hotels & Motels
Argyler Lodge
The breathtaking views make this a truly enchanting destination. Their cuisine has won several awards, featuring local Nova Scotian wines and brews and the freshest local ingredients. Dining here isn’t just a meal, but an unforgettable experience.
Lobster Bay
Culinary Adventure
Experience the Argyler Lodge for an ocean-side lobster boil that will leave your taste buds tingling.
52 Ye Olde Argyler Rd., Lower Argyle, NS
902-643-2500 |
Credit: Tourism Nova Scotia | Photographer: Patrick Rojo
Credit: YASTA | Photographer: @baconismagic
hello@rennesouth.com rennesouth.com
Eastside
rennesouth.com Rennesouth
argyleforestloft.com
(902) 240-3880 | yarmouthrentals.ca
Logis des Abbés (902) 648-7827
(902) 815-6449
Camping
Camping makes the best memories
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
Ellenwood Lake 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
Lake Breeze Campground and Cottages
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 & Cottages
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
Credit: Tourism Nova Scotia | YASTA | Photographer: Hugh Whitaker
Trails & Landmarks
Yarmouth Buoy Wall
A colourful 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.
YASTA | Photographer: @daveyandsky
Trails & Landmarks
Pubnico Point Trail Credit: Tourism Nova Scotia | CDÉNÉ | Photographer: PhototypeHFX
Room to Breathe
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
The Tobeatic Wilderness Area
The Tobeatic 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.
Credit: Tourism Nova Scotia | YASTA | Photographer: @daveyandsky
Credit: Tourism Nova Scotia | YASTA | Photographer: @lifeofashmac
Heart of Yarmouth, Comfort in Every Stay
At Rodd Grand Yarmouth, we make it easy to experience all that Downtown Yarmouth has to offer, just one block from the CAT ferry and steps from local shops and museums.
After a day of adventure, relax in our cozy beds, enjoy authentic local cuisine at Gale’s Restaurant, or unwind with a crafted cocktail at Haley’s Lounge.
With a pool, gym, and the friendliest team ready to host you, your perfect Nova Scotia getaway starts here!
Explore regional genealogy or enjoy a fun interpretive our of the Court House.
Archives open year-round Mon. - Fri. and Court House Museum & “Cell” Gift Shop open seasonally: Jun. 12 - Oct. 24 Mon. - Fri. (select Saturdays) Phone: 902-648-2493 argylecourthouse.com
Located in Tusket Village 9 miles (14.5 km) from Yarmouth on Route 3 (Lighthouse Route) or Exit 33 from Highway 103 Canadian Register of Historic Places Family History Genealogy 30K + historic photos Acadian/Planter & Loyalist history
The Acadian Shores Interpretive Tour is a self-guided itinerary of 38 Acadian heritage sites that promotes the rich Acadian history and culture of Southwest Nova Scotia.
The Acadian Shores Interpretive Tour is a wonderful way to encourage visitors and residents alike to explore the natural beauty and rich heritage of this region. Pick up a new brochure map and explore iconic historic sites, museums, churches, lighthouses, and wharves at your own pace. Enjoy the many hidden gems located off the beaten path.
Discover more about each site by scanning the QR code on each panel to watch the new vignettes, a captivating series of 2-to-5-minute videos narrated by locals sharing the unique story of each site.
Discover more about each site by scanning the QR code on each panel to watch the new vignettes.
Musée acadien Museum & Archives
Vignette