Where To Paddleboard In Nova Scotia

Nova Scotia has quickly become one of the most exciting destinations for paddleboarders. Being surrounded by stunning ocean vistas, having access to the remarkable Bay of Fundy, and hosting a range of idyllic natural landscapes have all contributed to this sudden celebration among the watersports communities.

While the winter period can be particularly challenging to its landscape, the summer opens up crossings and encourages many to get back out onto the water. If you are visiting the province during this warmer period, it can be worthwhile to see what all the fuss is about, picking up your paddleboard and exploring the coast.

Dartmouth

The city of Dartmouth is found in Halifax and is home to a great number of lakes, as well as having access to the south coast of Nova Scotia. As such, it is an ideal location for both beginner and experienced paddleboarders to convene.

The lakes, such as Lake Banook, are celebrated for their calm and clear waters, being host to a number of local watersports communities. They offer not only an ideal landscape for new paddleboarders to find their feet but also for families who want to bring children (and even pets) onto the water. Those who are looking for more of a thrill can, instead, head to the ocean and take their boards out to the area’s beautiful bays.

Margaree River

Many paddleboarders will disregard rivers due to their perceived dangers. However, there are a number of rivers that remain calm and offer an amazing tour across the landscape. Margaree River is one such river.

Those who bring their board to Margaree Harbour and venture onto the waterway will find themselves accompanied by salmon and paddling alongside beguiling forests. In fact, it is such a beautiful route that we advise you to bring a camera with you as you paddle!

Bay Of Fundy

The internationally renowned Bay of Fundy, the environment with the highest tides in the world, borders Nova Scotia. This makes paddleboarding in the area particularly exciting, with Digby, the nearest town, being home to a number of SUP groups.

While it can be thrilling to experience the tides so quickly rise or drop, it is important to remain safe. There will be a great deal of advice offered to those who want to venture out onto the Bay and it is highly recommended that you follow all guidelines, especially if you’re still quite new to paddleboarding.

Peggys Cove

If you were to look at a postcard of Nova Scotia, chances are you will spot Peggys Cove with its iconic lighthouse. This vista can make for an extraordinary place to paddleboard, with confident paddleboarders able to take themselves all around the cove and even into St. Margaret’s Bay. This location, however, can be quite busy, especially with swimmers and boats, so we recommend visiting during the early hours.

Blue Rocks

If you have the time and the ability to get to a lesser-explored area of Nova Scotia, Blue Rocks is worth a visit. This tranquil village is unmarred by tourism and remains one of the most photogenic locations to explore, especially for those who can get onto the water and see its colourful buildings from the sea.