Things to Do and See

Home > Things to Do and See

Category: Things to Do and See

Things to Do and See

Best Nova Scotia South Shore Beaches to Visit

We compiled a list of what we feel is Top 8 Best Nova Scotia, South Shore Beaches to visit that are all within an hour drive from The Quarterdeck Resort – it’s the perfect day adventure plan for any of you beach lovers out there! Explore one of your next favorites or visit them all in one day following our guide map below.
Top-Eight Nearby Beach Attractions:
Summerville Beach Provincial Park | Summerville Centre
Seasonal washrooms, parking, picnic area, wonderful beach for beginner surfers.
(1 minute)
Carter’s Beach | Port Mouton
Seasonal washrooms, parking. One of the three separate crescents of sand beaches here is cut into two parts by a river that can rise from ankle to waist deep.
(9 minutes)
Thomas Raddall Provincial Park | Port Joli
Seasonal washrooms, parking.
(17 minutes)
 
Hunts Point Beach | Hunts Point
Limited parking.
(3 minutes)
Beach Meadows Beach | Beach Meadows
Seasonal washrooms, foot wash station and wheelchair accessibility ramp, picnic area, parking.
(22 minutes)
Cherry Hill Beach | Cherry Hill
Limited parking, wonderful beach for surfers.
(35 minutes)
Rissers Beach Provincial Park | Petite Riviere
Seasonal washrooms and wheelchair accessibility ramp, picnic area, parking.
(41 minutes)
Crescent Beach | Crescent Beach
The only beach in Nova Scotia where you can legally drive right onto the sand.
(41 minutes)
Things to Do and See

Pickleball by the Sea: Nova Scotia’s Favourite Sport Comes to the Quarterdeck

Whether you’re brand new to the sport or a seasoned player looking to squeeze in a few games between beach walks, our on-site pickleball courts make it easier than ever to stay active, have fun, and connect with friends and family—without ever leaving the resort.

We’re excited to introduce three brand-new pickleball courts, located hillside next to the Recreation Centre. These professionally surfaced, fenced-in courts are exclusively available to our guests and free to use throughout your stay. No reservation needed—just swing by reception to borrow complimentary paddles and balls, and head out for a game whenever the mood strikes.

Coming soon: courtside seating, perfect for taking a break between games or enjoying the action as a spectator.

Why Pickleball?

At the Quarterdeck, we’re always looking for new ways to help guests unwind, recharge, and reconnect—not just with the beach and the views, but with each other. Pickleball is the perfect fit.

Fast-growing and incredibly fun, the sport combines elements of tennis, badminton, and ping pong into a game that’s easy to pick up and hard to put down. It’s taken Nova Scotia by storm, and now it’s part of the Quarterdeck Resort experience too.

Here’s why:

  • Fun for all ages – Easy to learn, addictive to play.
  • Low impact, high reward – Great for staying active without overdoing it.
  • Social by nature – Doubles play makes for great laughs and fast friendships.
  • Growing demand – Guests have been asking, and we’re listening.
Come for the Beach, Stay for the Rally

Unforgettable getaways are made of more than just waves and sunsets. They’re made of spontaneous games, new traditions, and shared moments—like a friendly match on the court after a beach day or before a bonfire.

Book your next stay at the Quarterdeck Resort and be among the first to enjoy our newest amenity. Whether you’re planning a romantic escape, a family getaway, or a weekend with friends, you’ll find everything you need to relax, play, and make lasting memories.

Game on at the Quarterdeck—see you on the courts!

Things to Do and See

5 Ways to Enjoy Summerville Beach

Summerville Beach Provincial Park, Nova Scotia Located along Nova Scotia’s scenic South Shore, Summerville Beach Provincial Park offers a perfect mix of natural beauty and laid-back adventure. Whether you’re visiting for a few hours or a weekend, here are five of the best ways to enjoy this coastal gem.
    1. Explore the Shoreline Take your time strolling the 1-kilometer stretch of soft white sand, where every step brings something new. Explore tidal pools, find seashells, and watch for shorebirds as you walk. If you are lucky, you may even spot intricate sand drawings created by local artists—temporary masterpieces that add a creative surprise to your beach day.
    2. Discover the Historic Train Bridge & Wildlife Explore the old train track bridge that spans a freshwater stream flowing into the Atlantic—a beautiful photo spot and a nod to the area’s history. Nearby sand dunes serve as nesting grounds for the endangered piping plover, making this beach a quiet haven for birdwatchers and nature lovers.
    3. Surf the South Shore Waves Summerville offers surfable waves, especially during late summer and fall swells. It’s a great spot for beginner to intermediate surfers looking for a peaceful session. Need gear or a lesson? Book with Rossignol Surf Shop in nearby Liverpool—they’ve got rentals, expert advice, and everything you need to hit the water with confidence. Bonus: check the beach conditions anytime via the Live Ocean Webcam.
    4. Dine at The Grill & Stay Steps from the Shore Refuel at The Grill, a beachfront restaurant with mouth-watering food and unbeatable ocean views—perfect for lunch or a sunset dinner. Summerville Beach is just a short walk from nearby accommodations, so you can easily transition from your patio to the sand if you choose to stay in one of our Shoreline accommodations, Two-Bedroom Villas, or Studio Villas.
    5. Stargaze Under the Dark Skies Summerville Beach is renowned for its excellent stargazing conditions, thanks to minimal light pollution. On clear nights, visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of the night sky, including stars, planets, and even the Milky Way.  The best time to view the Milky Way is during the autumn, winter, and spring months, when longer nights provide more time for stargazing. With its serene atmosphere and unobstructed horizon, it’s a prime spot for anyone interested in astronomy or simply enjoying the beauty of the cosmos.
Whether you’re here for the surf, the stargazing, or the serenity, Summerville Beach offers something special for every kind of traveler. Don’t forget to explore nearby beaches like Crescent Beach, Beach Meadows, and Carters Beach for even more coastal beauty—and follow The Quarterdeck Resort on Facebook for tide times and beach updates!

Write a review