Martinique Beach Provincial Park
Nova Scotia's longest sandy beach, offering pristine shores, excellent surf, and a protected wildlife haven.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, gentle waves
Martinique Beach Provincial Park
Best Time
Fewer crowds, gentle waves
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Nova Scotia's longest sandy beach, offering pristine shores, excellent surf, and a protected wildlife haven.
"Stunning white sand beach, 5 kms long. Beautiful even in the fog."
🚗 Free Parking Available
Plenty of parking is available at the main access points, and it's completely free! :car:
🌊 Waves for All Levels
Great for surfing beginners and experienced riders alike. Consider lessons if you're new to the sport! :surfer:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Endless Shoreline
Entirety of the park
Nova Scotia's longest sandy beach, stretching over 5 km. Perfect for long walks, sunbathing, and finding your own slice of paradise.
Surfer's Paradise
Main surf areas
Consistent, reasonably sized waves make this a prime spot for both beginner and experienced surfers. Lessons and rentals are often available nearby.
Wildlife Haven
Behind the beach
A protected area for piping plovers and a refuge for migratory waterfowl. Keep an eye out for diverse birdlife.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Longest Beach
Surf's Up or Serene Stroll?
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Free Parking Available
Plenty of parking is available at the main access points, and it's completely free! :car:
🌊 Waves for All Levels
Great for surfing beginners and experienced riders alike. Consider lessons if you're new to the sport! :surfer:
🚶♀️ Long Walks Ahead
Embrace the 5km stretch for an invigorating walk or a peaceful stroll. :athletic_shoe:
💧 No Drinking Water
Bring your own water supply, as there are no potable water sources on site. :water_wave:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Free Parking Available
Plenty of parking is available at the main access points, and it's completely free! :car:
🌊 Waves for All Levels
Great for surfing beginners and experienced riders alike. Consider lessons if you're new to the sport! :surfer:
🚶♀️ Long Walks Ahead
Embrace the 5km stretch for an invigorating walk or a peaceful stroll. :athletic_shoe:
💧 No Drinking Water
Bring your own water supply, as there are no potable water sources on site. :water_wave:
🦀 Seaweed on Shore
Expect seaweed, especially at lower tides or after storms. It's part of the natural beauty! :seaweed:
🦤 Protected Wildlife Area
Respect the wildlife refuge, especially during nesting seasons for piping plovers. :bird:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Martinique Beach Provincial Park for its stunning, expansive sandy shores and excellent surfing conditions. Many appreciate the free parking and basic amenities like change rooms and washrooms. While some note the presence of seaweed and the lively waves for very young children, the overall sentiment is overwhelmingly positive, highlighting its natural beauty and recreational opportunities.
"Wow hard to believe I’m Canadian all my life and never been here! Super clean water crystal clear. Definitely a place on your bucket list. Bathrooms on site but in the parking area and the best part free parking!"
Harry Ballas
"Stunning white sand beach. 5 kms long. Beautiful even in the fog. A wildlife reserve behind too. Surfers and training to be here too."
Bonnie McKinnon
"Amazing beach! Sandy shore with no rocks!
Waves are perfect!
Good amenities:
Change rooms
Outhouses
Rinse off tap
Lifeguard in duty
Note there is no drinking water."
Rachel Colleen McNamara
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Martinique Beach Provincial Park is located on the Eastern Shore of Nova Scotia. It's accessible by car via Highway 7. Follow signs for Martinique Beach. Free parking is available at designated lots near the beach access points.
Public transportation options directly to Martinique Beach Provincial Park are limited. It's best to travel by car. Consider ride-sharing services if you're in Halifax and don't have a vehicle.
Martinique Beach Provincial Park is approximately a 1-hour drive east of Halifax, Nova Scotia, making it a popular day trip destination.
From Halifax, take Highway 7 East towards Sheet Harbour. Turn off onto the Martinique Beach Provincial Park access road. The park is well-signposted.
Yes, there are several parking areas available, and parking is free. It can get busy on summer weekends, so arriving earlier is recommended.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there is no entrance fee to access Martinique Beach Provincial Park. It is a public provincial park, and entry is free for all visitors.
Martinique Beach Provincial Park is open year-round, from dawn to dusk. Lifeguards are typically on duty during the peak summer season. :clock1:
No advance booking or tickets are required for general access to Martinique Beach Provincial Park. It's a public park.
General access is unrestricted. However, certain areas may be temporarily closed for wildlife protection, especially during nesting seasons for piping plovers.
Absolutely! The beach is beautiful year-round. While amenities like lifeguards and change rooms may be closed in the off-season, the natural beauty remains accessible.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Amenities include washrooms, change rooms, and an outdoor foot-wash station located near the parking areas. There are no showers or drinking water facilities.
Yes, Martinique Beach has reasonably sized waves suitable for swimming and bodyboarding. It's generally safer than some other local surf spots, but caution is advised, especially with young children.
Definitely! Martinique Beach is renowned for its consistent waves, making it a top spot for surfing in Nova Scotia. It's popular for lessons and experienced surfers alike.
Lifeguards are typically on duty during the peak summer season. It's always wise to check the official Nova Scotia Parks schedule for specific dates and times.
While the beach itself is sandy, access from the parking lots may involve uneven terrain. Boardwalks or accessible pathways are not extensive. Check with Nova Scotia Parks for the latest accessibility information.
📸 📸 Photography
Sunrise and sunset offer stunning light for photography. The vastness of the beach and the dynamic waves provide endless photographic opportunities throughout the day.
Capture sweeping landscapes of the long sandy shore, dramatic wave action, surfers catching a ride, and the diverse birdlife in the protected areas.
Drone usage is subject to Transport Canada regulations and provincial park policies. Always check the latest rules and obtain necessary permissions before flying a drone.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive shoreline. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife photography, and a polarizing filter can enhance the colors of the water and sky.
The entire length of the beach offers unique perspectives. Consider walking towards either end for a sense of scale and to capture the beach's impressive length.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting during weekdays or earlier in the morning to avoid the biggest crowds. The free parking and accessible amenities like change rooms make a day trip here convenient. It's a perfect place for a classic beach day filled with laughter and ocean breezes.
🏄♀️ Surfers and Water Sports Enthusiasts
Beyond surfing, the beach is excellent for bodyboarding and skimboarding. The dynamic conditions offer a thrilling experience for anyone looking to get active in the water. Don't forget your wetsuit, as the Atlantic waters can be chilly even in summer!
🚶♀️ Nature Lovers and Photographers
+1 The sheer scale of the beach offers endless perspectives for unique photography. It's also a peaceful place for long, contemplative walks, allowing you to connect with the natural beauty of the Nova Scotian coast.Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Surfing at Martinique Beach
If you're looking to learn, several surf schools operate in the Halifax area and often offer lessons at Martinique Beach. These schools provide equipment rentals and expert guidance to help you catch your first wave. Even if you're an experienced surfer, the consistent swells offer a rewarding experience. Remember to check wave forecasts and conditions before heading out, and always prioritize safety.
Beyond the surfing, the beach's natural beauty enhances the experience. The vast sandy expanse and the sound of the Atlantic waves create an invigorating atmosphere for any water sport enthusiast. It's a place where you can truly connect with the ocean and enjoy the thrill of riding the waves.
+1Exploring the Natural Beauty
The clean, clear water and the expansive views of the Atlantic Ocean are breathtaking, providing a perfect backdrop for a relaxing day out.Behind the beach lies a protected wildlife area, serving as a crucial refuge for migratory waterfowl and a nesting ground for the endangered piping plover. Visitors are encouraged to be mindful of these protected species and avoid disturbing their habitats, especially during nesting seasons.
The natural landscape, with its dunes and coastal vegetation, adds to the park's ecological importance and scenic appeal.Whether you're taking a leisurely stroll along the shore, birdwatching, or simply soaking in the natural beauty, Martinique Beach offers a serene escape. The combination of its impressive length, diverse wildlife, and stunning coastal scenery makes it a must-visit for nature lovers and anyone seeking peace by the sea.
+1Family Fun and Relaxation
For families with very young children, it's advisable to keep a close eye on them due to the surf conditions. Some visitors suggest that nearby Clam Harbour Beach might be a slightly better option for toddlers due to calmer waters, but Martinique still offers a beautiful and engaging experience for all ages.
Beyond the immediate beach activities, the park's natural setting provides opportunities for exploration. Pack a picnic, enjoy the ocean breeze, and create lasting memories. The sheer size of the beach means you can often find a quieter spot even on a busy day, ensuring a more relaxed experience for your family.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit