One of the biggest perks of being posted to Halifax is how much there is to do within 20 minutes… 40 minutes… or an hour. Whether you like hiking, food, beaches, small towns or just exploring with the kids, Halifax delivers weekend fun without requiring a full road trip.
Here’s a breakdown of the best weekend adventures close to CFB Halifax — perfect for military members and their families.
1. Halifax Waterfront Boardwalk
Distance: 5–10 minutes from base
The waterfront is one of Halifax’s crown jewels. You can walk for miles along the boardwalk, grab an ice cream, tour the shops, or watch the ships come in.
Best things to do:
Pizza at Stubborn Goat
Amphibious Harbour Hopper tour
Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21
Seasonal pop-up shops and patios
It’s lively in summer and peaceful in winter — perfect for a quick, easy outing.
2. Point Pleasant Park
Distance: 10–15 minutes
This is where locals go to breathe. The trails weave through forest, historic forts, and stunning ocean viewpoints.
Great for:
Dog walks
Family biking
Jogging
Picnics
Watching ships enter the harbour
If you’re posted near the Dockyard, this becomes your weekend “reset” spot.
3. Peggy’s Cove
Distance: ~45 minutes
Classic Nova Scotia. The lighthouse, the rocks, the coastal views — it’s all just as magical on your tenth visit as your first.
Why it’s worth the drive:
World-famous lighthouse
Coastal photography
Oceanfront restaurant
New accessible viewing deck
Go early in the morning or close to sunset for fewer crowds.
4. Crystal Crescent Beach
Distance: ~35–40 minutes
Three beaches, white sand, turquoise water and one of the best coastal hikes in the province.
Perfect for:
Beach days
Hiking the rugged trail
Seals and wildlife spotting
Cold-water swimming (very cold!)
This is the “wow” spot for many new military families.
5. Lawrencetown Beach & Surfing
Distance: ~30 minutes
Lawrencetown is a surfer’s paradise — and yes, people surf here year-round.
You’ll find:
Surf rentals
Surf lessons
Boardwalk viewpoints
A strong community vibe
It’s a huge hit with teens and adventurous families.
6. Downtown Dartmouth
Distance: 15–20 minutes
Often overlooked, but one of the most charming urban spots around.
Top stops:
Two If By Sea Café
Lake Banook paddling
Alderney Landing Market
Dartmouth Cove art murals
The ferry ride from Halifax takes only a few minutes and kids love it.
7. Fisherman’s Cove, Eastern Passage
Distance: 15–20 minutes (perfect for Shearwater families)
This colourful boardwalk village is small but full of charm.
Expect:
Local artisan shops
Ice cream stops
Oceanfront views
Short coastal trails
Occasional live music
It’s peaceful, photogenic and incredibly close to base.
8. Long Lake Provincial Park
Distance: 10–15 minutes
Right off the peninsula, Long Lake offers:
Easy trails
Swimming spots
Kayaking
Year-round hiking
A go-to for families who want fresh air without leaving the city.
9. Wolfville & the Annapolis Valley
Distance: 1 hour
If you have half a day or a full day, the Valley is a gem.
Highlights:
Vineyards
Farm markets
Pumpkin patches
Scenic drives
Restaurants & cafés
It’s one of Nova Scotia’s most beautiful regions — especially in autumn.
10. Lunenburg & Mahone Bay
Distance: 1 hr–1 hr 15 minutes — but worth every minute
Colourful seaside towns with walkable streets, local shops and postcard-perfect views.
Things to enjoy:
The UNESCO fishing village of Lunenburg
Mahone Bay’s iconic church views
Waterfront restaurants
Historic tours
Artisan boutiques
It’s ideal for relaxed Saturdays.
11. Purcell’s Cove Backlands
Distance: 10–20 minutes
One of the most underrated hiking areas near Halifax, full of granite barrens, lakes and panoramic views.
Great for:
Off-the-beaten path exploring
Photography
Dog-friendly adventures
Locals love it, but tourists rarely find it.
12. York Redoubt National Historic Site
Distance: ~20 minutes
A cliffside fortress overlooking the mouth of the harbour — perfect for families who love history and scenic lookouts.
You’ll find:
Tunnels
Cannons
Clifftop views
Picnic spots
Kids absolutely love exploring the old fortifications.
Final Thoughts
Halifax is one of those places where your weekend can be anything you want — adventurous, relaxing, coastal, urban, historic or all of the above. Military families quickly discover that the region offers an endless stream of easy getaways, each with its own Nova Scotia flavour.
Whether you’ve just been posted here or you’re rediscovering your surroundings, Halifax makes it easy to enjoy your downtime.
Written by Sandra Pike, REALTOR®, Royal LePage Atlantic
Helping military families feel at home in Halifax — both on and off the base. Posted to Halifax? Let’s make your move seamless — from your first call to your first key.
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