A Day in Historic LaHave
Make your way to the LaHave River Cable Ferry. The cable ferry service across this river has been active since the 1800s, connecting East LaHave on the Lunenburg side of the LaHave River to the LaHave and Petite Riviere region. The ferry is free to all members of the public, and is accessible to cars, trucks, RVs, bikes, walkers, and more.
Upon crossing the Ferry from the Northern Side to the Southern side, stop at the LaHave Bakery for a delicious brunch. This bakery has been in operation since the 1980s, but the building pre-dates the bakery itself, and is filled with old knick knacks to reflect the old nature of the building. Located in the same building as the bakery are the LaHave Craft Co-op, LaHave River Books, and Homegrown Skateboards.
Located just next door are West Cote Bell Pottery and Heart to Hand Studio Gallery. West Cote Bell Pottery makes one-of-a-kind pottery, tableware, tiles, sinks, sculptures, and more are made on site at the studio. Heart to Hand Studio is known for their award-winning wearable art jewelry made from recycled silver and copper, as well as sculpture and textiles.
Next, get back into the car for a short drive out to the point past LaHave. Taking a left off the 331, will bring you to the Fort Point Museum. Located just one kilometre from the ferry, this community museum is home to exhibits about the first French colonists and settlers in the area, the development of the community, and the Indigenous population who predate the settlers, the Mi’kmaq. The location also acts as a picnic ground and is a National Historic Grounds.
Leaving the Museum, returning to the Highway 331, and making a left will direct you through the community of West Dublin toward Crescent Beach. Arriving at Crescent Beach and continuing along the road that stretches the entire length of the beach will bring you to the LaHave Islands. This collection of islands is the home of the LaHave Islands Marine Museum. The museum, based in an old United Church, exhibits artifacts from the local community’s fishing history, a fully equipped dory, and a Bush Island Double Ender boat shed.
After this visit, head back toward Crescent Beach to spend some time on the sand or extend your day and head to Cape LaHave Adventures for a kayak or stand-up paddleboard rental and tour! Plan this extra visit in advance by reaching out to them.
Finish off your day with some delicious pizza from Beachside Pizza and Market or with sandwiches and ice cream from the Ploughman’s Lunch.