A Pet-Friendly Tour of the District of Lunenburg

Looking to explore the beautiful South Shore of Nova Scotia without leaving your four-legged companion behind? The District of Lunenburg is the perfect destination for travellers who want to enjoy stunning coastal scenery, outdoor adventure, and welcoming communities, with their pets right by their side.

Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a full vacation, or simply exploring your own backyard, here are some of the best pet-friendly spots across the district where tails can wag freely (on-leash, of course!).

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MODL Parks & Trails

The Municipality of the District of Lunenburg (MODL) is home to a variety of parks and trails where your pets are more than welcome to join you on your adventure—as long as they’re leashed. Spend some time exploring the great outdoors, with your companion right by your side. Check out the list below to see a few of our parks and trails that are recommended for exploring with your furry friend.

  • River Ridge Common (4668 Highway 10, Pinehurst, NS) – Head to the rural countryside to explore wooded trails and open spaces that are perfect for peaceful, on-leash strolls. Expect hills and rugged terrain on some of the trails at this park.
  • Miller Point Peace Park (13941 Highway 3, Dayspring, NS) – A peaceful riverside park on the east side of the LaHave River with accessible, flat-terrain trails that make for a relaxing walk underneath the shade of our beautiful trees.
  • LaHave Sunset Park (893 Highway 331, Conquerall Bank, NS) – Pack a picnic and enjoy golden hour views by the water, this time, on the west side of the LaHave River. Don’t forget to check out the Pencil Walk art sculpture created by local artist, Rick Silas!
  • Indian Falls (1585 Newburne Road, Newburne, NS) – Witness the power of cascading waters while your dog sniffs the fresh air. View the waterfall from the main viewing point near parking, or hit the trails for a close up look!

Please Note: Mush Mush Beach Park (11 Aulenback Point Rd, Sweetland, NS) is the only exception, being the one park where we ask that you leave your furry friends at home.

Photo Credit: Chastity Zwicker Photography

Chicory Blue General Store

Housed in a beautifully restored century-old general store, Chicory Blue General Store blends historic character with modern flair. Inside, you’ll find a thoughtfully curated selection of pantry goods, from everyday staples to rare and exotic finds, making it a one-stop shopping experience for food lovers and curious browsers alike.

But Chicory Blue General Store offers more than just shopping. The store regularly hosts a variety of workshops and community events, creating a vibrant gathering place for locals and visitors. Whether you’re popping in for ingredients, inspiration, or a hands-on experience, there’s always a reason to linger.

While the inviting interior is reserved for humans, leashed pets are more than welcome to relax with you on the store’s gorgeous outdoor patio or in their blooming garden. It’s the perfect place to unwind with a coffee or snack after exploring everything that they have to offer.

Whether you’re passing through or planning a day trip, Chicory Blue General Store is a must-visit destination that captures the heart and flavor of Blockhouse.

27 School Road Blockhouse, NS

Photo Credit: Maritime River Photography

Lighthouse Motel & Cottages

At Lighthouse Motel & Cottages in Conquerall Bank, they believe that vacations should be enjoyed by the whole family—including the furry family members. That’s why pets are not just allowed here, they’re truly welcomed. Leading the charge are Austin and Maxwell, the motel’s beloved resident pups and official four-legged hosts. Their cheerful presence sets a warm, relaxed tone the moment you arrive.

All of the rooms at Lighthouse Motel & Cottages are pet-friendly, thoughtfully designed to provide a cozy, comfortable home base for both you and your animal companion. Whether you’re staying for a night or settling in for a longer retreat, you’ll find the accommodations perfect for rest, play, and quality time together.

Even if you’re traveling without your own pet, you’re never short on canine company. Austin and Maxwell are often spotted greeting guests, lounging in the sun, or making new friends around the property. Their friendly, laid-back demeanor adds a unique charm to the experience, reminding every guest that this is a place where pets are part of the family.

With scenic surroundings, a relaxed atmosphere, and a heart for hospitality (both human and animal), Lighthouse Motel & Cottages is a delightful destination for travelers looking to enjoy Nova Scotia’s South Shore with their pets right by their side.

1101 Highway 331, Conquerall Bank, NS

Image of Maxwell

Photo Credit: Lighthouse Motel & Cottages (Facebook)

Our Local Farmers’ Markets

If you’re exploring Nova Scotia’s South Shore with your pet in tow, don’t miss a visit to our two local farmers’ markets: the New Germany Farmers’ Market and the West Dublin Farmers’ Market. Both offer a vibrant, pet-welcoming atmosphere where you and your leashed companion can stroll, snack, and shop. Explore the best of what local makers and growers have to offer without having to leave your four-legged friend behind.

While the main outdoor area at both markets are open to pets, please note that some vendors may be located indoors. Pets may be asked to wait outside while you browse these particular vendors.

  • New Germany Farmers’ Market (5311 NS Trunk 10, New Germany, NS) – Set against a backdrop of small-town charm and community spirit, this market is a weekend highlight for both locals and visitors. With a variety of local produce, handmade crafts, baked goods, and more, it’s the perfect spot to enjoy a leisurely afternoon with your dog right by your side.

Friday’s from 2:00pm to 6:00pm

  • West Dublin Farmers’ Market (10 Huey Lake Road, West Dublin, NS) – A scenic drive along NS-331 brings you to the West Dublin Market, nestled near the coast and bursting with character. This market is a true celebration of local creativity and culture, with new and returning vendors making their appearance every week.

Sunday’s from 10:00am to 1:00pm

Photo Credit: New Germany Farmers’ Market (Facebook)

Lunenburg County Winery

Looking for the perfect way to spend a relaxing afternoon with your furry companion? Head to Lunenburg County Winery in Newburne, where leashed dogs are more than welcome! Here, you can sip and stroll through scenic vineyard paths with your pet, taking in the fresh country air and stunning views.

This pet-friendly winery invites you to slow down and savor the moment. Pack a picnic basket and settle in somewhere on the grass, where you and your pup can lounge in the shade or bask in the sun. Whether you’re sampling a flight of locally crafted wines or simply enjoying a glass of your favorite sip, the peaceful landscape offers the perfect backdrop for a memorable outing.

And the best part? You don’t have to choose between a wine adventure and spending time with your best friend. At Lunenburg County Winery, both are equally welcome.

Whether you’re a local looking for a weekend escape or a visitor exploring Nova Scotia’s wine country, this is a spot where everyone can unwind, explore, and enjoy.

813 Walburne Road, Newburne, NS

Photo Credit: Megan Rogers

Best Western Plus Hotel & Convention Centre

Looking for a comfortable stay where your furry friend can join the adventure? The Best Western Hotel & Convention Centre in Cookville welcomes leashed pets, making it an easy and relaxing choice for travellers exploring the District of Lunenburg.

Guests can enjoy spacious rooms, cozy amenities, and plenty of nearby trails for quick strolls with your pup. The hotel also features an on-site restaurant, 27 South, which offers delicious meals year-round and patio seating during the summer months. If you’re traveling with family, the indoor pool and waterslide add a fun bonus to your stay.

A welcoming atmosphere and convenient location make it simple to enjoy your visit without leaving your pet behind. The Best Western in Cookville offers a comfortable base for you and your four-legged companion as you relax, explore, and experience all the area has to offer.

527 Nova Scotia Trunk 10, Cookville, NS

Photo Credit: Best Western Plus Bridgewater Hotel & Convention Centre (Facebook)

LaHave River Campground

Dogs love camping too! At LaHave River Campground, four-legged guests are welcomed with open arms, making it the perfect getaway for campers who want to bring their whole pack along. As long as your pup is well-behaved and leashed, they’re free to join in all of the fun that is offered.

The campground is brimming with charm and community spirit. On-site, you’ll find a general store, a dock, a refreshing swimming hole, a communal firepit, and a calendar full of weekend events that bring campers together. But for dog lovers, the real highlight is Tundra’s Terrain Dog Park, a dedicated, safely enclosed area where pups can run off-leash, socialize, and burn off energy while you relax and enjoy the surroundings (while still supervising your pup, of course!).

For those who prefer a quieter stroll, the campground’s scenic walking trail winds through the property, offering peaceful spots for leashed walks and nature-loving dogs to sniff and explore. Whether you’re hiking together in the morning mist or cuddling by the fire under the stars, LaHave River Campground creates the perfect environment for outdoor bonding time, no paws left behind!

And of course, it wouldn’t be a true visit without a greeting from Tundra, the campground’s resident pup and official canine ambassador. She’s always excited to meet new friends and show them around her favorite place. Here, every family member, furry ones included, can make lasting memories.

1781 Newburne Road, Newburne, NS

Image of Tundra

Photo Credit: LaHave River Campground (Website)

BernArt Maze

Get lost in creativity together at the one-of-a-kind BernArt Maze in Blockhouse, Canada’s very first art maze. This imaginative attraction is more than just a maze, it’s a ever-evolving gallery of vibrant color, sculpture, and interactive art, where both humans and their leashed, well-behaved dogs are warmly welcomed to explore.

From the moment you enter, you’re surrounded by a kaleidoscope of artistic expression, with contributions from talented creators around the world. Every twist and turn reveals something new: playful installations, whimsical sculptures, bold murals, and unexpected surprises that are sure to spark smiles, curiosity, and plenty of photo ops for you and your furry friend alike.

With over a full kilometer of accessible, pet-friendly pathways, BernArt Maze offers a safe and engaging outdoor experience that’s just as enriching for pups as it is for people. It’s the perfect outing for art lovers, families, and dog owners looking to combine culture and outdoor fun in one unforgettable adventure.

Whether you’re solving the maze together, pausing to admire a quirky sculpture, or just soaking in the joyful, creative atmosphere, BernArt Maze is a place where art and imagination run wild (and tails do too). So grab your leash, bring your curiosity, and get ready to discover a world of wonder unlike anywhere else.

1136 NS-325, Blockhouse, NS

Image of Bruno

Photo Credit: BernArt Maze (Facebook)

Our Beaches

Here in the District of Lunenburg, the coast isn’t just for people, it’s for pets too! With our stunning stretches of shoreline, gentle waves, and fresh salt air, this area offers plenty of dog-friendly beach options where you and your pup can run, play, and relax together. Whether you’re up for a morning game of fetch in the waves or a peaceful sunset stroll, our beaches provide the perfect natural playground for you and your furry friend.

While some areas may have guidelines or leash requirements, many local beaches warmly welcome well-behaved dogs, making it easy to include your furry friend in your seaside adventures. So pack the water bowl, grab a towel, and get ready to make some unforgettable beach memories. In the District of Lunenburg, the best beach days have paws in the sand!

The list below consists of just a few of the beaches in the District of Lunenburg. Visit the beaches page on our website to see the complete list!

  • Crescent Beach (1 Crescent Beach Road, Crescent Beach, NS) – Iconic and beautiful, Crescent Beach offers a long stretch of sand that’s perfect for leashed walks with your pup. The wide shoreline and calm waves make it a favorite for both two-legged and four-legged visitors.
  • Hirtle’s Beach (318 Hirtle Beach Road, Kingsburg, NS) – Rugged and wild, this beach is a haven for adventurous dogs and their owners. Its dramatic scenery and coastal trails invite exploration, though the terrain is best suited to more energetic pets.
  • Oxner’s Beach (660 Lower Lahave Road, Lower LaHave) – A peaceful hidden gem, Oxner’s is ideal for quieter strolls with your dog away from the crowds. Its more secluded nature makes it a relaxing retreat for pets that prefer calmer environments.
  • Risser’s Beach Provincial Park (5366 NS-331, Petite Rivière, NS) – With its boardwalk and easy beach access, Risser’s is perfect for a family day out, pets included. Dogs are welcome on-leash, and there’s plenty of space to enjoy the fresh air and scenic views together.
  • Broad Cove Beach (Beach Road, Broad Cove, NS) – This laid-back spot is a great place to soak in ocean views while your dog explores the shoreline. The gentle surf and open space make it an enjoyable visit for both humans and canines alike.

Please Remember: While dogs are welcome, be sure to respect leash rules and clean up after your pet so everyone can enjoy the shoreline.

Image of Hirtle’s Beach

Photo Credit: Tourism Nova Scotia (Photographer Unknown)

Plan Your Paw-some Trip Today!

From forested trails and local art sculptures to wineries and seaside strolls, the District of Lunenburg invites you and your furry friend to explore it all, together. Whether you’re wandering through charming villages, sampling local treats, or simply soaking in the coastal beauty, there’s something for every pet-loving traveler.Just Remember the Golden Rule: leash your pet (unless otherwise noted), and leave only footprints and pawprints behind.