Vacation rentals in Hubbards

Hubbards is a small village facing out into St. Margarets Bay on the South Shore of Nova Scotia that’s known for having several scenic beaches, all within a short distance of one another. The main beach is a long, sandy expanse with lifeguard patrols in the summer. Just down the road is Queensland Beach, another popular spot that’s a 300-metre stretch of shoreline with calm, clear waters for paddleboarding and lifeguards in the warmer months. Cleveland Beach has a rocky outcrop that juts out into the ocean, offering sweeping views of the coastline.

The village itself is home to restaurants, a popular summer farmers’ market, and several antique shops where you can search for vintage treasures, nautical antiques, and local artwork. Hubbards is also a great base to explore many of Nova Scotia’s highlights, including the seaside village of Chester with its colourful window boxes, the historic Old Town Lunenburg, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and Peggy’s Cove with its famous red-topped lighthouse.

Hubbards is a popular place to visit in the summer months. You can expect mostly warm and sunny days, perfect for enjoying the beaches and exploring the great outdoors. The Hubbards Farmers’ Market takes place every Saturday morning from May to October, where you can buy local produce, cheese, breads, and desserts, as well as handmade arts and crafts from local makers. Spring and fall bring a mix of pleasant days and some rain, so make sure you pack for both. A winter visit will be greeted by cold, snowy conditions, so waterproofs, boots, and even thermals are a wise choice for particularly chilly days. A highlight from late November into early December is the Christmas at the Barn Markets event, where you’ll find handcrafted gifts, arts and crafts, and festive treats.

The Aspotogan Trail

A 15-minute drive outside of Hubbards, the Aspotogan Trail — also known as the Rails to the Trails — is a 13-kilometre trail from Hubbards to East River. It runs along abandoned train tracks that have been converted into recreational trails for walking and cycling, crossing Fox Brook Bridge. Meisner’s Beach is a popular pit stop for a refreshing swim.

Peggy’s Cove Lighthouse

One of Nova Scotia’s most beautiful spots, this scenic lighthouse on the rocks is a 40-minute drive away. There are more than 150 lighthouses in Nova Scotia, but Peggy’s Cove is one of the most famous and photographed in all of Canada. There are picturesque hiking trails around the rocks, which offer commanding views back to the lighthouse and around the rugged coastline.

Lunenburg

Just half an hour away is the old town of Lunenburg, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Established in 1753, the town is the best surviving example of a British settlement in North America. It’s also home to the famous Bluenose schooner, which is found on the Canadian dime. Visitors are drawn to the colourful waterfront, narrow streets, and wooden buildings. There are several restaurants for lunch overlooking the water, and galleries feature works from local artists. You can also visit the Fisheries Museum, which offers an insight into the town’s maritime history.