Top Beaches Near Lunenburg, Nova Scotia
If you’re planning a stay on Nova Scotia’s South Shore, one thing you won’t want to miss is the coastline. The beaches near Lunenburg are some of the most beautiful in the province — long stretches of sand, quiet coves, crashing waves, and sunsets that feel unreal.
If you’re staying in Green Bay, you’re perfectly positioned to explore them. Here are some of our favourite beaches within easy driving distance.
1. Hirtle’s Beach
Just outside Lunenburg, Hirtle’s Beach is one of the most iconic beaches on the South Shore.
This is a long, sandy stretch facing the open Atlantic. It’s ideal for long walks, beachcombing, and watching the waves roll in. Swimming is possible in summer, but like most Atlantic beaches, the water is refreshing (read: brisk!).
At one end of the beach, you can hike the Gaff Point Trail for incredible coastal views.
Drive time from Green Bay: about 25–30 minutes.
2. Crescent Beach
If you’ve ever seen photos of a road running along a narrow strip of sand, that’s likely Crescent Beach.
This beach is unique — you can actually drive along it. On one side you have open ocean waves, and on the other, calmer water that’s great for families. It’s popular for swimming, picnicking, and sunset watching.
It’s also one of the warmest swimming beaches in the area during peak summer.
Drive time from Green Bay: about 35 minutes.
3. Rissers Beach
Located within Rissers Beach Provincial Park, this beach is a favourite for families.
There are boardwalks, change rooms, picnic areas, and plenty of space to spread out. The sand is soft, the dunes are beautiful, and it’s a great place for a full beach day.
If you’re travelling with kids, this is often the top pick.
Drive time from Green Bay: about 40 minutes.
4. Green Bay Beach (Local Favourite)
One of the best parts about staying in Green Bay is that you don’t always need to go far.
The shoreline near Green Bay offers quieter, less crowded beach access compared to the more well-known spots. It’s perfect for morning walks, sea glass hunting, and peaceful sunsets without the summer crowds.
If you’re staying nearby, this becomes your “everyday beach” — easy, quiet, and beautiful.
Staying Near the Beaches
One of the advantages of staying in Green Bay is that you’re close to all of these beaches — while still enjoying a peaceful setting away from tourist traffic.
From here, you’re:
About 15 minutes from Lunenburg
Within 30–40 minutes of multiple major beaches
Surrounded by quiet coastal scenery
If beach days are part of your Nova Scotia getaway, basing yourself near Green Bay gives you the best of both worlds: easy access and a calm place to return to at the end of the day.
MacLeod Cottages is nestled in the heart of Green Bay, offering direct beachfront access — your own private stretch of shoreline just steps from your door. Visit the site: www.macleodcottages.cca