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.