This article was independently produced by our editorial team with financial support from Develop Nova Scotia, connecting our city to the water. Visit Halifax waterfront this summer for food, art, shopping and adventure. Find a list of things to do and see here.
It's an unfortunate truth that you need to get in a car to visit Nova Scotia's best and most popular beaches. But if the ocean is calling, there are options accessible by public transit. If you want to feel that salty sting, some sand in your toes, and to breathe the ocean air, follow our guide to beaches you can bus to from downtown Halifax.
Black Rock Beach
You don’t even need to leave the peninsula to lay down a towel on the sand and swim in the ocean. Black Rock Beach is conveniently located in Point Pleasant Park, for whenever you need a quick ocean fix.
Bus Route: 29
Amenities: Washrooms
Dingle Beach
This beach is located in Sir Stanford Fleming Park, right next to the Dingle Tower. Climb the tower for some stunning views of the arm, explore the nearby trails and chill out on the sand.
Bus route: 415
Amenities: Washrooms, playground, picnic areas
MacCormacks Beach
You can't swim at this Eastern Passage beach, but it offers a lovely boardwalk and views of McNabs, Lawlor and Devil’s islands. MacCormacks Beach is right next to Fisherman's Cove, which has colourful shops and restaurants.
Bus route: 6B/6C
Amenities: Washrooms, picnic areas
While the list of ocean beaches you can bus to isn't long, worry not. There are tons of great swimming lakes accessible by public transit, and we have a guide to those.