Embark on an unforgettable 10-day road trip along Canada’s Eastern Coast, where rugged shorelines meet historic towns, lush forests, and vibrant culture. From the maritime charm of Halifax to the island beauty of Prince Edward Island, this itinerary covers scenic drives, coastal hikes, fresh seafood feasts, and cultural experiences that capture the essence of Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, and New Brunswick. Whether you’re chasing tides, exploring lighthouses, or sampling local delicacies, this adventure promises memories to last a lifetime.
Why Canada’s East Coast?
Canada’s Atlantic provinces boast some of the most dramatic coastlines, storied history, and warmest hospitality in the country. Port cities brim with colonial architecture, lighthouses punctuate every bay, and seafood shacks serve the day’s freshest catch. This region blends Indigenous heritage, Acadian culture, Celtic traditions, and French & English influences into a rich tapestry that travelers will love discovering.
Best Time to Visit
Late spring through early fall (May to October) offers mild temperatures, blooming wildflowers, and active wildlife. Summer months bring festivals and longer daylight hours, while September and October showcase spectacular autumn foliage. Be mindful of summer crowds in popular spots like Cavendish Beach and the Cabot Trail.
Getting There & Getting Around
Fly into Halifax Stanfield International Airport (YHZ), which offers direct connections from major Canadian and U.S. hubs. Rent a car upon arrival—it’s the most flexible way to cover over 1,600 kilometers of coastline. Roads are generally well-maintained, with scenic routes marked by brown tourism signs. Ferry options connect Nova Scotia to Newfoundland and PEI, but this itinerary focuses on road travel.
Day 1: Explore Halifax’s Maritime Roots
Arrive in Halifax and settle into a downtown hotel or converted warehouse loft in the historic waterfront district. Spend the afternoon at the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic, where you can learn about the Titanic connection and see naval artifacts. Walk along the boardwalk past colorful fishing boats and artisan stalls. In the evening, dine at a waterfront restaurant—try the lobster roll or PEI mussels—and grab a local craft beer at a microbrewery on Argyle Street.
Day 2: Lunenburg & Mahone Bay Charm
Head southwest along Highway 103 to Lunenburg, a UNESCO World Heritage site famed for its painted fishermen’s homes. Join a harbor tour aboard a replica tall ship or visit the Fisheries Museum of the Atlantic. After lunch at a cozy café, continue to nearby Mahone Bay to photograph its iconic three churches. Stay overnight in a seaside inn and enjoy fresh scallops served with seasonal vegetables.
Day 3: The Cabot Trail – A Driving Masterpiece
Drive northeast toward Cape Breton Island and embark on the Cabot Trail—one of the world’s most scenic coastal routes. Stop at Cape Smokey Provincial Park for panoramic ocean vistas, and hike a short loop trail amid spruce forests. Lunch at a viewpoint campground, then continue to Pleasant Bay for whale-watching aboard a Zodiac. Overnight in Cheticamp, where Acadian culture resonates through folk music and hearty meat pies.
Day 4: Baddeck & the Bras d’Or Lakes
Depart Cheticamp and head south down the western side of Cape Breton, winding past the Eastern Highlands. Arrive in Baddeck by midday—home to the Alexander Graham Bell National Historic Site. Explore exhibits on Bell’s experiments and inventions, then take a scenic boat cruise on the Bras d’Or Lakes, a saltwater inland sea. Stay at a waterfront lodge and sample homemade blueberry grunt, a classic Maritime dessert.
Day 5: Ferry to Prince Edward Island
Cross the Northumberland Strait via the Wood Islands ferry to PEI. As you disembark, breathe in the salty air and admire the rolling red sandstone cliffs. Drive to Charlottetown, Canada’s “Birthplace of Confederation,” and stroll through Victorian-era streets. Check into a heritage bed & breakfast, then enjoy an evening performance of Confederation Centre’s “Anne of Green Gables – The Musical.”
Day 6: Charlottetown & Island Panorama
Explore Charlottetown’s waterfront boardwalk, visit historic Province House, and sample PEI oysters at lunchtime. In the afternoon, embark on a panoramic loop: stop at the Dunes Studio & Gallery to see sculpted moss gardens, then visit Basin Head Fisheries Museum to learn about local fishing traditions. Watch the tide race at Basin Head Beach, known as the “singing sands,” before returning to town for fresh fish and chips.
Day 7: North Shore Beaches & Lighthouses
Head north to Cavendish, where Anne of Green Gables fans can tour Lucy Maud Montgomery’s historic homestead. Spend the afternoon at Cavendish Beach Provincial Park—relax on the red-sand shore or bike along scenic trails. Continue to Covehead and Point Prim lighthouses, both offering stellar views of the Northumberland Strait. Sunset dinner at a seafood restaurant overlooking New London Bay.
Day 8: New Brunswick & Fundy National Park
Drive across the Confederation Bridge into New Brunswick and head to Fundy National Park. Hike to Dickson Falls and along the Fundy Footpath, where you’ll experience some of the world’s highest tides. Camp or stay in a park chalet beside freshwater lakes. In the evening, join a guided tide-pool tour to see starfish, anemones, and crabs when the Bay of Fundy recedes.
Day 9: St. Andrews by-the-Sea & Bay of Fundy Cruise
Continue east to St. Andrews by-the-Sea, a charming Georgian town near the U.S. border. Explore outdoor whale-watching on a glass-bottom boat or kayak tour through Passamaquoddy Bay. Lunch on lobster stew at a seaside café, then stroll through Kingsbrae Garden’s 27 acres of perennial blooms. Overnight in a historic inn and enjoy a sunset view from Ministers Island.
Day 10: Moncton & Farewell
Head inland to Moncton for a visit to Hopewell Rocks, sculpted by Bay of Fundy tides. Walk the ocean floor at low tide and kayak around the flowerpot formations at high tide. Conclude your journey with a hearty Maritime breakfast—think eggs Benedict with smoked Atlantic salmon—before returning your rental car at the Greater Moncton Roméo LeBlanc International Airport (YQM).
Accommodation Recommendations
- Halifax: Maritime-inspired waterfront hotel or industrial-chic loft near Citadel Hill
- Cape Breton: Cozy seaside inns in Cheticamp and Baddeck lodges overlooking the Bras d’Or Lakes
- PEI: Historic B&Bs in Charlottetown and beachfront cottages near Cavendish
- Fundy National Park: Park chalets or eco-friendly campsites under the stars
- St. Andrews: Heritage inns in the town center within walking distance of shops and gardens
Food & Dining Highlights
Eastern Canada’s cuisine centers on seafood—lobster, mussels, oysters, and smoked salmon. Don’t miss Digby scallops, PEI mussel chowder, and Acadian meat pies. Pair meals with local craft beers, ice wines from the Annapolis Valley, or a glass of Nova Scotia sparkling wine. For sweet treats, seek out BeaverTails, blueberry grunt, or fresh apple fritters at farm stands.
Packing Tips & Travel Advice
- Layered Clothing: Coastal breezes can be cool, even in summer. Pack a waterproof shell and warm layers.
- Insect Repellent: Bug spray is essential for forest hikes and lakeside campsites.
- Tide Tables: Check local tide schedules before visiting Hopewell Rocks or planning a beach walk.
- Advance Bookings: Popular inns and Cabot Trail campsites fill quickly in peak season.
- Currency & Connectivity: ATMs are widely available; purchase a local SIM card or ensure your plan covers the Maritime provinces.
Conclusion
Canada’s Eastern Coast offers a unique blend of natural wonders, cultural heritage, and warm hospitality. This 10-day itinerary takes you from historic port cities to windswept cliffs, from forested highlands to idyllic island beaches. Whether you’re a foodie chasing the perfect lobster supper, an outdoor enthusiast craving coastal hikes, or a history buff exploring centuries-old settlements, this adventure delivers the very best of Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, and New Brunswick. Pack your bags, fuel up the car, and set off on the road trip of a lifetime.
Here are some tips for Truly Sustainable & Eco-Friendly Travel.
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