4 of Our Favorite Day Trips from New Glasgow, Nova Scotia

We’ve already covered many of the ways New Glasgow is unique and often, surprising, for a small east coast town. From the arts scene to music and food, New Glasgow punches above its weight in culture. But there is something else that we love; New Glasgow’s location just 20 minutes from the coast offers some of our favorite day trips in the Pictou County. 

Here’s 4 of our favorite day trips from New Glasgow, Nova Scotia.

With some of the warmest waters in Nova Scotia reaching 19 degrees Celsius, it’s not surprising Melmerby Beach is a popular choice for locals. It regularly makes the list of top beaches in Nova Scotia and is less than 20 minutes from New Glasgow.  

The beach is part of the Melmerby Beach Provincial Park and offers 2 km of sandy beach with boardwalks and amenities such as change houses, toilets, showers, picnic tables and even a boat launch. It’s family-friendly with calmer waters, smaller waves, and staffs lifeguards during July and August making it a perfect outing for the whole family. Spend less time on the road and more time in the water at Melmerby!

Looking for an incredible photo for the ‘gram? Want to know what it feels like to frolic through a field of sweet-smelling flowers? Seafoam Lavender Farms makes all this possible and more. Open seven days a week from May to October, these family-owned lavender gardens are only 30 minutes from New Glasgow.  

Sitting on the coast of the Northumberland Strait, this is the perfect place to spend an afternoon picking your own bouquet before tucking into a picnic lunch while the aromas of lavender and briny, ocean air mingle around you.  Visit the Pollinator Gardens full of butterflies, hummingbirds, and bees, and finish your day at the Farm Store where you can browse natural lavender products such as tea, soaps, aromatherapy, skin care and more. 

Tip: If flower-frolicking is your thing then try heading towards Truro and visit the River Breeze Flower Festival in August & September. Only 40 minutes from New Glasgow,  you can experience a kaleidoscope of reds, pinks, yellows and golds with fields full of sunflowers, zinnias, marigolds, dahlias and cosmos. 

Cast your sails and hit the open ocean with a boat tour of Pictou Harbour. Best part? Visit a secret seal cove and see the many families of seals that reside just off the northern coast. This highly-rated excursion is full of adventure, marine wildlife, and history. You’ll spend the day spotting seals, stopping by a historic ship, and learning all about local history while taking in the beautiful scenery and fresh, ocean air.  

If you’re looking for a uniquely east coast experience, this is one to try!

Add maritime traveller to your list of accomplishments when you hop aboard the ferry and visit the beautiful province of Prince Edward Island.  With a 20-minute drive to the ferry and only 75 minutes to cross the Northumberland Strait, you can drop your anchor in an entirely new province in just over 90 minutes from New Glasgow. 

After your sail on the open water (where you might be lucky enough to see some whales!), you’ll have easy access to provincial parks, lighthouses, historic villages, and an opportunity to sink your toes into the uniquely red sand that covers the PEI coastline. 

Another reason we love this day trip? As of August 1, 2025, ferry travel to PEI is more affordable than ever with a 50% reduction in all fares, including vehicle, passenger, and fuel surcharges. 

We know there’s lots to love about Nova Scotia and New Glasgow is no exception! If you’re thinking of relocating, reach out to The Thomas Group today for a complimentary consultation. We’ll help you plan your next move and navigate the real estate market with ease.