Dog-Friendly Peggy’s Cove: A Visitor's Guide

Are you visiting Canada’s most famous lighthouse with your dog? Use this guide to find things to do, where to eat, and where to stay in dog-friendly Peggy’s Cove.

Locals and tourists alike often bring their dogs with them to the family-friendly destination of Peggy’s Cove, Nova Scotia. This fishing village of just 40 people welcomes an estimated 700,000 visitors annually. Tourists come to enjoy the village’s charm, ocean views, and the lighthouse. The village is surrounded by a nature preservation area with popular hiking trails.

A large wooden viewing deck was completed in October 2021 to improve accessibility and safety. An estimated 700,000 visitors go to Peggy’s Cove in a typical year, plus lots of dogs!

When To Visit

Seasonal businesses are usually open between mid-May and October. Peggy’s Cove sees it’s largest crowds and highest temperatures in July and August.

We love visiting in late May, June and September to enjoy everything dog-friendly Peggy’s Cove has to offer! These months see great weather without as many crowds of tourists.

Getting There

Driving is really the only way to conveniently get to Peggy’s Cove with your dog. However, once you’re there, the town is small enough that you can park and walk around to do your sight-seeing.

Driving

Peggy’s Cove is a 45-minute drive on Lighthouse Route from Halifax, the capital of Nova Scotia and largest city in Atlantic Canada. It is a 75-minute drive from historic Lunenburg, another popular tourism destination. You can easily visit Peggy’s Cove as a day trip stop between stays in Halifax and Lunenburg, which have more options for dog-friendly accommodations.

(Our Visitor’s Guides to dog-friendly Halifax and dog-friendly Lunenburg are coming soon!)

Parking

There are two main parking lots at Peggy’s Cove: one at the Visitor’s Centre (Google Maps) and one closer to the lighthouse (Google Maps), next to the Sou’Wester Restaurant & Gift Shop.

Dog-Friendly Things to Do in Peggy’s Cove

Peggy’s Cove is a great place to take your dog because the activities are mainly outdoors. Most visitors go to Peggy’s Cove to get photos of the lighthouse, walk around the fishing village, and maybe go for a hike through the surrounding preservation area.

Get Photos of the Iconic Lighthouse

Sable at the Peggy’s Cove Lighthouse.

Canada’s first (and North America’s second) lighthouse was built in Louisbourg, Nova Scotia in 1730-33. Since then, over 160 lighthouses have been constructed around Nova Scotia, but the Peggy’s Point Lighthouse has become the most famous. Built in 1915, Peggy’s is the most photographed lighthouse in Canada.

Peggy’s Point Lighthouse is situated on one of the area’s rocky outcrops (Google Maps). Giant rocks worn smooth by the sea surround it. There is a path towards the lighthouse that is easy to traverse, but not wheelchair-accessible. Those with accessibility needs may need to use the new viewing deck.

The viewing deck, completed in October 2021, is a great place to get photos! It has several benches where you can sit and admire the views of the lighthouse and ocean, and are good places to pose for a photo. It also makes it much easier to get dogs and/or small children in the frame with the large, tall lighthouse. In our experience, even when it is busy, people have been great with taking turns so it’s easier to get photos without as many strangers in them, as well.

(Carefully) Explore the Rocky Landscape

The rocky outcrop surrounding the lighthouse is fun to explore, especially with an adventurous dog or active children. Amble over the rocks to your heart’s content, but be careful of any wet areas and stay back from the shoreline. Darker rocks usually mean its more slippery. The smooth rocks can get much more slippery than you might expect, and it is not uncommon for people to venture too close to the edge and fall into the rough ocean water. That being said, there is plenty of dry land where you can hike, climb and otherwise enjoy the unique landscape.

Sable posing on one of the benches on the accessible viewing platform in dog-friendly Peggy’s Cove. The large deck is an ideal spot for photos, especially when you’re trying to get dogs and/or small children in the frame with the lighthouse.

Explore the Town of Peggy’s Cove

Peggy’s Cove is a 206-year-old fishing village on the eastern shore of St. Margaret’s Bay, on the Atlantic Ocean. The town surrounds a narrow inlet on a small peninsula, with wooden houses, fishing shacks and artisan studios perched along the shoreline and hilltops.

The combination of rocky landscape, colourful wooden buildings, and scenic ocean view makes Peggy’s Cove one of the most picturesque towns in Canada.

Some fishing boats docked in the Peggy’s Cove inlet, and some of the town’s houses in the background.

Peggy’s Cove remains an active fishing community to this day, primarily for lobster. As you walk around, you’ll notice a variety of small boats and both wooden-frame and plastic-coated steel-mesh traps. The fishing equipment, wharfs (wooden docks), and shoreline make for classic East Coast imagery for photos.

Since it is a tourist destination, there are artisan studios and souvenir/gift shops dotted along Peggy’s Point Road. Unfortunately, most do not allow dogs inside, so if you hope to do some shopping it is best to go with someone and take turns waiting outside with your pup.

The town is separated from its neighbouring communities by the expansive Peggy’s Cove Preservation Area, intended to protect the area’s unique and scenic ecosystems. One of the best ways to experience its beauty is to hike the Polly Cove trail.

Sable standing near the side of the road overlooking an inlet in Peggy’s Cove, part way up the small hill towards the lighthouse.

Hike at Polly Cove

The Polly Cove Hiking Trail is located within the Peggy’s Cove Preservation Area, roughly 2km or a 3-minute drive east of the town. There are two small roadside parking areas at the trail entrances.

You will need proper footwear to enjoy Polly Cove Trail! The terrain is uneven and there are often wet or muddy areas to walk through. The trail is generally considered moderately challenging because the trails are rugged and unmarked, and hikers are exposed to the wind and weather.

Dogs are welcome on the trail and are supposed to be on a leash. Unfortunately, many hikers ignore the on-leash rule, so be aware of that and ready to advocate for your dog if they are reactive or nervous.

Why Visit?

The two trails at Polly Cove are relatively short, taking anywhere from 45 minutes to 1.5 hours plus stops to enjoy the views and take photos. There are additional trail branches, as well, so you can really customize the length of your hike as you go.

Polly Cove is well worth the time to visit, offering expansive views of the coastline and unique local ecosystem, as well as another vantage point of the Peggy’s Point Lighthouse and fishing village.

The area’s landscape was transformed by glaciers some 12,000 years ago, smoothing the rocks and creating a “coastal barrens” ecosystem. Coastal Barrens ecosystems have typically rugged, rocky landscapes with rare arctic-alpine plants and patches of forest. As you hike, you’ll see the unique vegetation including mosses, lichens, and low-lying bushes.

Trail Information

There are two main trails at Polly Cove: the slightly easier, 4km-return “Basin Trail” (45-minutes plus), and the less trafficked 4.5km “Loop Trail” (1.5-hours plus). You can easily get off-track amidst the rocky landscape, so be sure to take advantage of higher vantage points so you can preview the trail ahead.

More information is available on AllTrails and HalifaxTrails.ca.

Restrictions: Dogs must be kept on leash.

Important Note: Footwear appropriate for uneven and muddy terrain is highly recommended. Be careful and stay off of the dark rocks near the shoreline – the darker colour usually indicates they get hit by rogue waves.

Address: Polly’s Cove Trail, West Dover, NS B3Z 3S3 (Google Maps)

Map of Polly’s Cove Trail by HalifaxTrails.ca, where the “Basin Trail” is highlighted in blue and the “Loop Trail” is highlighted in yellow. Click here for an interactive version with 360° views.

Dog-Friendly Places to Eat in Peggy’s Cove

Many restaurants in the Peggy’s Cove area are seasonal and are only open from mid-May to mid-October. Unfortunately, this includes all of the dog-friendly options since they require you to enjoy your meal outdoors. You’re unlikely to find somewhere in Peggy’s Cove where you can sit down for a meal with your dog between November and April.

Within walking distance of the Peggy’s Point Lighthouse, you can take your dog up to the order window at Tom’s Lobster Shack or Bubba Magoo’s, or grab a table on the Sou’Wester Restaurant patio. On summer weekends, there is also usually a food cart selling hotdogs, sausages and pop (Peggy’s Dogs on Google Maps).

A 5-minute drive west, the Rhubarb also has a dog-friendly patio; or 5 minutes east, you’ll find a dog-friendly patio at Shaw’s Landing. Both clearly label which items are gluten-free.

Unfortunately, vegetarian and vegan options are limited. Grabbing a snack or side is relatively easy, but for a full meal, you can get a veggie burger at the Sou’Wester and Shaw’s Landing, veggie tacos at the Rhubarb, or veggie chili at the BubbaEATS take-out window. I recommend visiting their websites (linked in their descriptions below) to review their full menus to see their up-to-date offerings.

I’ve only included places that are described as dog-friendly online or that have been recommended by other dog-owners. Let me know if I’ve missed any great dog-friendly restaurants near Peggy’s Cove!

This lawn area near the new, accessible public washrooms is a great open space for kids and dogs. In this photo from early May 2022, you can see a few chairs have been set out on the deck in the background. More chairs and some picnic tables are usually set up from June through August to provide extra seating and eating space.

Tom’s Lobster Shack

Best for: Lobster rolls, Take-out window, Iced coffee.

A “Classic” lobster roll served with chips, and an ice coffee from Tom’s Lobster Shack. Tom’s offers four flavour varieties.

Tom’s Lobster Shack is my personal favourite place to go whenever I’m in Peggy’s Cove because they have arguably the best lobster rolls in Nova Scotia. I’ve tried many (many!) lobster rolls on our travels throughout the Maritimes and I haven’t found any that beat a “Classic” from Tom’s! Even if there’s a line, I promise they are so worth the wait.

As if the craving-worthy lobster rolls aren’t enough, Tom’s Lobster Shack also offers ice coffee, perfect for early morning visits and afternoon pick-me-ups. (But really, if you’re a coffee person like me, when isn’t it a good time?)

You place your order at one window and receive your items at the next. This is ideal for solo travelers with a dog since you can have your pup with you throughout the process. Tom’s also usually has a water bowl or two outside for dogs. If you don’t see one, don’t be shy to ask the staff for some water for your dog. Everyone we’ve interacted with there (over 4 years of visits!) has been very friendly.

Sable sitting in front of Tom’s Lobster Shack’s new location (opened in 2023). You enter the deck from the right, near the menu and order window. Additional picnic tables can be found around the corner on the left, past the pick-up window.

What’s on the Menu?

Tom’s lobster rolls are available in four flavour varieties. But if lobster isn’t your thing, Tom’s also offers new specials on most summer weekends. Regular menu items include smoked salmon bagels, smoked brisket sandwiches, seafood chowder, and gourmet Caesar salad. They often have ice cream as well, but sometimes they sell out.

To drink, hot and iced coffee, flavoured iced tea, and different kinds of pop and water are on offer.

Tom’s Lobster Shack is usually open from the beginning of May through mid-October.

Address: 154 Peggys Point Rd, Peggys Cove, NS B3Z 3S2 (Google Maps)

The new location for Tom’s Lobster Shack is closer to the lighthouse and includes its own deck with five picnic tables. While it’s not many, it’s more than their previous location had. On our visits in May, June and July 2023 we didn’t have any issues getting a table. If they’re all full, don’t be shy! If you ask nicely, people are usually happy to share a table with you even if you have dogs and children with you. We have asked and have been asked; the tables are big enough to share.

Sou’Wester Restaurant

Best for: Breakfast, Sit-down dining near the lighthouse.

Serving breakfast, lunch, dinner and drinks, the Sou’Wester Gift & Restaurant Company started as a five table tearoom in 1967 and has gradually expanded into what it is today. The indoor dining room seats 180 people and is attached to a two-level giftshop. It is open year-round (with reduced days and hours during the off-season), but their dog-friendly patio is uncovered and not heated, so it is only open during the warmer months.

Dogs are only allowed at the tables around the outer perimeter of the outdoor patio (maybe half of the tables). In the summer, the restaurant can get very busy, so you may want to reserve a table in advance. You should call directly if bringing your dog, since the Sou’Wester Restaurant’s online booking system does not allow you to specify that you need an outdoor, dog-friendly table.

The Sou’Wester Restaurant serves traditional breakfasts, a variety of seafood dishes, burgers, sandwiches, and several homemade sides and desserts. Their drink, wine, beer and cider choices are extensive – great for relaxing and admiring the view if you can get a table!

Address: 178 Peggys Point Rd, Peggys Cove, NS B3Z 3S2 (Google Maps)

The Sou’Wester Restaurant has indoor dining year-round, but it’s dog-friendly patio is only open from mid-May until mid-October. This photo was taken on a weekday in early June – the patio gets very busy in July and August, especially on weekends.

Bubba Magoo’s

Best for: Sweets / Desserts, Take-out window.

From its bright purple building, Bubba Magoo’s offers indoor dining in their Bistro and has a separate menu for their BubbaEATS take-out window. You’re welcome to walk up to the window with your dog to order, and either take your order to go or relax on their deck.

Those with a sweet tooth will definitely want to pay a visit – even if you need something gluten-free! Bubba Magoo’s makes their own fudge, salt water taffy, and a variety of baked goods including gourmet ice cream sandwiches. They even offer homemade, all-natural cookies for dogs!

Bubba Magoo’s menu isn’t limited to dessert, though. The BubbaEATS menu includes a vegetarian chili, classic options such as fish and chips, hotdogs, and chicken strips, and unique items influenced by “Donairs”. Donairs are a uniquely Eastern Canadian dish similar to a gyro sandwich: sliced, spiced beef cooked on a spit, served in pita bread with tomatoes, onions, and a sweet sauce. Bubba Magoo’s uses a slightly spicy Donair meat to offer Donair Fries, a Donair Sausage topped with sauce, and “Bubba Bites” deep-fried mini rolls filled with Donair meat and sauce on the side.

Address: 48 Peggy’s Point Rd, Peggy’s Cove, NS B3Z 3S2 (Google Maps)

More Places to Eat – a Short Drive from Peggy’s Cove

Rhubarb

The Rhubarb Restaurant is just a 5-minute drive west from Peggy’s Cove and allows dogs on its outdoor patio. They are open Wednesdays through Sundays for lunch and dinner, and accept reservations by phone. On Sundays they are also open for brunch.

Their menu offers various meats and seafood options for appetizers and entrees, plus there are special pizza and Sunday brunch menus. Vegetarian options include veggie tacos, the daily soup, and a “mushroom ragout” made with field mushrooms, goat cheese, thyme and truffle polenta. Gluten-free options are clearly marked on the menu.

Rhubarb hosts live music every Friday night throughout the summer season.

Address: 8650 Peggys Cove Rd, Indian Harbour, NS B3Z 3P4 (Google Maps)

Shaw’s Landing

Just a 5-minute drive east from Peggy’s Cove, you’ll likely notice a sign that reads “Beer & Lobster. Enough Said.” This is the slogan of Shaw’s Landing, a casual restaurant offering East Coast flavour.

The dog-friendly patio at Shaw’s Landing restaurant on a clear, sunny day in May 2023. In the warmer months, they do bring out umbrellas for shade.

A fish burger (battered haddock) with sweet potato fries, a lobster grilled cheese sandwich with salad, and a can of local No Boats on Sunday apple cider, served at Shaw’s Landing restaurant.

Their oceanfront patio is dog-friendly, and the eatery is open daily for lunch and dinner throughout the summer season. The patio is in a picturesque location on an ocean bay with views of fishing shacks along the coastline.

Shaw’s Landing primarily offers seafood and chicken dishes, plus soups and salads. Vegetarians can dig into a veggie burger, and those looking for gluten-free options will find them clearly marked on the menu.

We’ve eaten here a few times now and it’s always a safe bet with reasonable prices for the quality. For those who aren’t beer drinkers, they have a few cocktail options and local cider (a popular alcoholic beverage in Canada, although we do also have non-alcoholic apple cider as a popular autumn drink).

Address: 6958 Peggys Cove Rd, West Dover, NS B3Z 3S8 (Google Maps)

The view from Shaw’s Landing’s dog-friendly patio on a foggy day in July 2022.

Dog-friendly Places to Stay in Peggy’s Cove

Looking for pet-friendly accommodations in Peggy’s Cove? There are dog-friendly places to stay just a short walk or drive from one of Canada’s most photographed and painted landscapes.

The only options within walking distance of the lighthouse can be found on Airbnb and VRBO. A short drive away, you can unwind at the Oceanstone Seaside Resort and other cottages or campgrounds.

You can also visit Peggy’s Cove as a daytrip from Halifax, which has a lot more options for pet-friendly accommodations. Halifax is a 45-minute drive away. (Our Visitor’s Guide to dog-friendly Halifax is coming soon!)

Similarly, Lunenburg is a 75-minute drive away. It doesn’t have as many options for dog-friendly accommodations as Halifax does, but it has more than Peggy’s Cove. You can easily visit Peggy’s Cove as a daytrip stop between stays in Halifax and Lunenburg. (Our Visitor’s Guide to dog-friendly Lunenburg is coming soon!)

I’ve only included accommodations where the listing clearly states that pets are allowed, or a pet policy is available on their website. Have I missed any dog-friendly accommodations in Peggy’s Cove? Let me know in the comments or by direct messaging me on Instagram @Sable_AdventureDog!

A dilapidated row boat and rusted fishing gear make for interesting photo subjects in Peggy’s Cove. The pale yellow building on the right was refurbished and once operated as The Breakwater Inn, but unfortunately stopped hosting guests in 2023.

Oceanstone Seaside Resort

Best for: Relaxing getaway, Romantic, Spa.

Pets are welcome in the cottage rentals at the Oceanstone Resort, a 5-minute drive from Peggy’s Cove. They ask that pets are kept on leash in public areas, and that if being left unattended in a room they stay in their crate or carrier.

Cottage rates for 2024 range from $449 to $649 (CAD) per night, plus a $30 cleaning fee per stay with a pet. The cottages vary in size, sleeping between 2 and 8 guests. All have ocean views, a private deck or balcony, a wood stove (fireplace), a kitchen, and a barbecue. Three of the five cottages also have a private outdoor firepit.

Oceanstone Seaside Resort also offers several gourmet options. Guests can purchase packed lunches to take with them on adventures or BBQ packages of locally sourced, seasoned and ready-to-grill meals. You can order “Gourmet to Go” meals directly to guest cottages with 48-hours advanced notice. If you want to dine out, the on-site Rhubarb restaurant has a dog-friendly patio.

Many guests visit for the resort’s impressive Hydrothermal Spa. Humans can enjoy Nordic Hydrothermic experiences and spa treatments at additional cost. The spa does not allow dogs.

Address: 8650 Peggy’s Cove Rd, Indian Harbour, Nova Scotia, Canada B3Z 3P4 (Google Maps)

Other Pet-Friendly Accommodations

Within walking distance:

Sun-drenched Cottage Airbnb – 2 bedrooms, sleeps up to 4 adults and 2 children.

A 5-minute drive away:

King Neptune Campground – serviced and unserviced campsites; bring your own camping gear, trailer or RV.
Lighthouse Lane Cottages – contact for pet policy details, $30 pet fee per stay.
Green Gables apartments: “Captain’s Cabin” (1 bedroom, sleeps up to 4); “Lobster Trap” (1 bedroom, sleeps 2).
Clifty Cove Motel – small dogs only, must book by phone, unspecified pet fee applies.

Painted wooden buildings and boats along the inlet in dog-friendly Peggy’s Cove, Nova Scotia.

Have you been to dog-friendly Peggy’s Cove?

Let us know in the comments or connect with us on Instagram! You can find detailed dog-friendly travel information on our @dogandsuitcase account. Sable’s main account is @sable_adventuredog.

We have visited Peggy’s Cove with Sable many times since adopting her 2021. We live about a half-hour away, so it is very convenient to visit. Plus, we love bringing our guests to experience the best lobster rolls in Nova Scotia!

Dog-Friendly Peggy’s Cove: A Visitor’s Guide