About Mahone Bay Nova Scotia
Settled in 1754 and founded on the shipbuilding and logging industries, the history of Mahone Bay is rich in tradition. Discover the story at the Settlers Museum and pick up a free historic walking tour pamphlet, then find your favourite spot along the historic harbourfront to capture one of the most photographed views in Canada: the Three Churches of Mahone Bay.
Mahone Bay is open year round and boasts a simple yet extraordinary quality of life. You will want to experience it all from, history, to unique shops, artisans and culinary experiences, to outdoor adventures. Recently named as one of Canada’s top ten most beautiful towns by culturetrip.com, Mahone Bay is a must-see town on the coast of Nova Scotia.
Mahone Bay is open year round and boasts a simple yet extraordinary quality of life. You will want to experience it all from, history, to unique shops, artisans and culinary experiences, to outdoor adventures. Recently named as one of Canada’s top ten most beautiful towns by culturetrip.com, Mahone Bay is a must-see town on the coast of Nova Scotia.
Things to See and Do
Festivals
- The Mahone Bay Home and Garden Tour: A warm Mahone Bay welcome awaits as homeowners open the front doors and garden gates to greet you at selected properties for this self-guided tour in support of the Mahone Bay Settlers Museum. Ship’s captains are on hand at the municipal wharf for visitors to board and view their vessels.
- Great Scarecrow Festival and Antique Fair: Happening each October, the town comes alive with more than 150 handmade life-size scarecrows created by local artists to delight and amuse visitors of all ages. At the same time, the largest antique show in the Maritimes fills three venues with respected and sought-after vendors. This is a Nova Scotia Don't Miss Event.
- Father Christmas Festival: Late November and early December Mahone Bay comes to live with family friendly and beautiful larger than life-sized Father Christmas figures, horse drawn rides through town, a tree lighting ceremony with bell ringers, gingerbread decorating, and Father Christmas and carolers strolling the streets. This is a Nova Scotia Don't Miss Event.
Boutique Shopping - Stroll our seaside Main Street abundant with unique shops and artisans.
Explore destination shops such as:
Explore destination shops such as:
- Mahone Bay Trading Co.: a destination for shoes.
- The Teazer: Nova Scotia’s longest running and the South Shore's largest gift store.
- Northern Sun Gallery and Gifts: Carrying a select range of jewelry, pottery and handcrafts, many products are made right here in the Maritimes, handcrafted by skilled artisans.
- Suttles and Seawinds: Fashion and Nova Scotia quilted treasures and quilting fabrics.
- Amos Pewter: Shop for handcrafted pewter and meet the artisans, a member of the international Economuseum network.
- Birdsall-Worthington: Unique, hand crafted pottery creations
- Seamist Studios: Pearl & Leather Jewelry Inspired by the Sea and Handmade with love!
Fresh and Local Places to Eat
- Tea Brewery: enjoy artisan small-batch selections
- Mateus Bistro: delivers fresh and exciting dishes using local produce, heightened with a European style
- Rebecca's Restaurant: experience food, fun and live music
- The Biscuit Eater: Delectable meals, coffees, teas, desserts, and award-winning wines
- Mug and Anchor Pub: Pub culture, beers on tap, maritime music, a favourite for locals and visitors