The Ultimate Nova Scotia Family Road Trip Itinerary: Beaches, Mountains & Epic Views
If you're dreaming of a road trip that combines dramatic coastlines, stunning beaches, epic hiking trails, and charming little towns, Nova Scotia should be at the top of your list. From iconic spots like Hopewell Rocks to remote gems like Meat Cove, this itinerary is packed with adventures that will take your breath away — and give you plenty of opportunities to stop and soak in the views.
Here’s a 10-14 day itinerary that hits some of the most beautiful spots in the Cape Breton area Nova Scotia and a little side trip to Prince Edward Island for the perfect coastal adventure. Need more convincing? Watch our trip recap video here.
📍 1. Hopewell Rocks, New Brunswick (Optional but worth it!)
While technically in New Brunswick, Hopewell Rocks is an epic place to kick off your road trip, especially if you're coming from the states. This natural wonder is famous for its towering rock formations sculpted by the highest tides in the world. You can walk on the ocean floor during low tide and kayak around the rocks when the tide comes in.
Tip: Check the tide schedule before you go!
👉 Recommended Stay: 1 night nearby if you want to catch both high and low tides.
📍 2. Whycocomagh Provincial Park & Salt Mountain
Next, head east toward Cape Breton Island and stop at Whycocomagh Provincial Park. This is a beautiful place to camp under the stars and enjoy a easy hike up Salt Mountain, which rewards you with stunning views over Bras d'Or Lake.
Perfect for: A quiet night in nature before heading toward the more dramatic coastal scenery.
👉 Recommended Stay: 1 night (campground available).
📍 3. Cape Smokey Provincial Park & Gondola Ride
Ready for some jaw-dropping views? Make your way to Cape Smokey Provincial Park. The gondola ride takes you to the top of Cape Smokey with panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean. There's also a skywalk trail at the top that's perfect for an easy scenic hike.
Tip: Book the gondola in advance if traveling during high season!
👉 Recommended Stay: Stay nearby or push on to Ingonish for the night.
📍 4. Ingonish Beach
If you're craving a beach day, Ingonish Beach is a beautiful stop. What makes it unique is that it has both saltwater and freshwater swimming options (ocean beach and a lake right next to it!). Spend a lazy afternoon here, or if you're up for more hiking, there are great trails in Cape Breton Highlands National Park nearby.
👉 Recommended Stay: 1-2 nights — there are campsites and lodges nearby.
📍 5. Cape Breton Highlands National Park
There are many hikes to choose from but one of our favorite was Franey Mountain. We hiked it with our kids (3, 6, 8yrs old) and the views were spectacular! f you're looking for a less-traveled hike, Frank Mountain is a perfect choice. It’s a challenging hike but rewards you with stunning 360-degree views over the highlands and coastline — and you may have the summit all to yourself.
📍 6. Broad Cove Campground & Beach
Not far from Ingonish, Broad Cove Campground is one of the larger campgrounds in Cape Breton Highlands National Park and gives you great access to Broad Cove Beach — a quieter, less crowded option if Ingonish is busy.
Tip: Book campsites early if traveling during peak summer months.
👉 Recommended Stay: 1-2 nights.
📍 7. Black Brook Cove Beach
Next, head to Black Brook Cove Beach — one of the most beautiful beaches along the Cabot Trail. It’s great for a swim, and there’s a short waterfall hike nearby. This is a must-stop for beach lovers and photographers.
👉 Recommended Stay: A day stop or another night at a nearby campground.
📍 8. Lakies Head & Coastal Lookouts
Just a bit further along the coast, Lakies Head is a smaller stop but has some dramatic rocky shoreline views. It’s a great place to pause for a picnic or watch the waves crash.
Tip: Sunset here is stunning if you're in the area at the right time.
📍 9. White Point
Another can't-miss stop is White Point, famous for its rugged coastal cliffs and seabird sightings. You can hike along the headland for stunning views, and sometimes spot whales in the distance.
👉 Recommended Stay: Day stop, or continue to Meat Cove.
📍 10. Meat Cove Campground (Remote and Beautiful!)
One of the most northern points on Cape Breton, Meat Cove feels like the end of the world — in the best way. The campground is perched right on the cliffs, giving you insane ocean views from your tent. One of the coolest campgrounds I’ve ever stayed in. There are also great hikes right from the campground, including the Meat Cove Mountain Trail.
Tip: Bring all the supplies you need — services are limited this far out! Bugs were HORRIBLE!
👉 Recommended Stay: 1-2 nights if you love remote beauty.
📍 12. Pollett's Cove Hike
If you’re up for a challenging but rewarding day hike, don’t miss Pollett's Cove. It’s a tough trail, but the secluded beach and wild horses make it totally worth it.
Perfect for: Experienced hikers looking for an unforgettable adventure.
📍 13. Skyline Trail (Bucket List!)
Heading west across Cape Breton Highlands, make sure to hike the Skyline Trail. This iconic trail leads you to a boardwalk perched over dramatic cliffs, with sunset views that are out of this world. It’s a relatively easy hike and a must for photographers and wildlife lovers (hello, moose!). It’s a great hike for kids but make sure you keep them close as there are steep drop offs at the end.
👉 Recommended Stay: 1 night at nearby campgrounds or inns.
📍 14. Side Trip to Prince Edward Island (PEI)
After all that hiking and beach-hopping, PEI makes a perfect soft landing to end your road trip. Take the ferry from Nova Scotia to PEI (or the bridge if coming from New Brunswick), and enjoy a few days of red sand beaches, lighthouses, and charming towns.
Don’t miss:
Cavendish Beach
Green Gables House (for Anne of Green Gables fans)
Victoria-by-the-Sea
PEI National Park
👉 Recommended Stay: 2-3 nights for a relaxing wrap-up.
🗺 Final Notes & Tips for This Trip
Length: Plan for at least 10-14 days to really enjoy all these spots without rushing. We didn’t have time to do Halifax or lower Nova Scotia, but LOVED Cape Breton.
Camping vs. Lodging: There are great campgrounds all along this route, but also small inns and cabins if you prefer.
Best Time to Go: June to September for the best weather — but book campsites early for July & August!
What to Pack: Layered clothing (weather changes fast), rain gear, hiking shoes, swimsuits, and a good camera.
Bring Supplies: Pack carefully and bring what you’ll need, including food because stores are limited, scarce, and expensive.
🚐 Ready to Hit the Road?
This road trip will take you through some of the most stunning landscapes in Eastern Canada, with enough adventure and downtime to keep everyone happy — whether you're traveling solo, with a partner, or as a family.
If you’ve done this road trip or are planning to, let me know in the comments — and don’t forget to share this guide with your travel buddies!
