Peggy’s Cove, and it’s famous photogenic lighthouse, are probably the most iconic images that come to mind when you think of Canada’s East Coast. Generally, the small town of Peggy’s Cove is a charming, quaint, seaside nook. However, in the daytime almost all year round, it fills with tourists who are all pouring in to see the lighthouse, and take the perfect picture in front of it.

Peggy’s Cove is located 45 minutes outside of Halifax. On the way, it’s a beautiful drive through what looks like East Coast cottage country. The lighthouse is more beautiful than photos can capture, and the ocean-carved rocks that it’s perched on are the perfect place for a picnic, or just for numerous photo opportunities. You have to see if for yourself – Peggy’s Cove is a Canadian gem.

Views through the grass

the famous lighthouse among the rocks

Tips for Visiting Peggy’s Cove

You only need an hour – You don’t need to spend hours exploring Peggy’s Cove. If you’re travelling  through the province, it’s a great pit-stop location, and you only really need an hour or so to walk among the rocks, take lots of incredible photos, breathe in the salty sea air, and obsess over the absolutely perfect little fishing village.

Arrive early in the day to beat the crowds – It gets busy among the rocks of Peggy’s Cove, the earlier you visit, the less likely you are to have throngs of people in the background of your photos! Another benefit to arriving early in the day is that there is lots of free parking available. Once the tour buss start to file in, parking a vehicle can get a lot more tricky. My advice is to park at the entrance to the town, and walk the main road to the lighthouse. That way, you get to see the town, and you don’t have to fight other vehicles on the way in our out!

Bring your own food, snacks and drinks – There are not a lot of dining options in Peggy’s Cove. The best approach is to bring your own food and drinks to the area. I suggest you enjoy a small picnic on a rock while taking in the picturesque scenery if you visit around meal times.

rock views

mandatory lighthouse selfie

*All photos & opinions are my own unless otherwise noted.