2024 is now behind us, and I’m counting down the weeks before Spring arrives. It’s time to look at what is ahead for travel destinations 2025. Recently, while browsing locations for potential trips, I found my home of Nova Scotia, which secured a spot on Travel + Leisure magazine’s “50 Best Places to Travel in 2025.” There were 120 contenders, and the list was determined by their remarkable access to the outdoors and unique cultural immersion.

Nova Scotia has some beautiful places to visit, as it is recognized for its coastal scenery and welcoming communities. One place that has always been a top destination to visit in the province is Peggy’s Cove. This community is located along the eastern shore of St. Margarets Bay, about 43 kilometres southwest of Halifax. But what makes Peggy’s Cove a prime destination for visitors and residents of Nova Scotia, and why do I think it is a perfect photographic destination?

Why Peggy’s Cove is Great to Photograph

Peggy's Cove is a small fishing village known for its picturesque lighthouse, rugged coastline, and scenic beauty. Although the village has changed throughout its lifetime, it remains a scene seemingly untouched by modern construction. Small homes and structures still exist, and fishing boats and the maritime industry are evident.

Quintessential Nova Scotia

For those unfamiliar with the province, Nova Scotia often evokes an impression of its natural beauty. The province has picturesque coastlines, rolling hills, rugged cliffs, and beaches, a dream for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. With easy access to the Atlantic Ocean, Nova Scotia is rooted in the maritime industry, which is integral to the province's identity.

The fishing industry has been the foundation of Nova Scotia’s economy for centuries, supporting commercial fishing since the early days of European settlement. Peggy’s Cove retains much of that charm that Nova Scotia was historically recognized for and is an excellent representation of traditional Nova Scotia for photographers looking to capture that essence.

Peggy’s Point Lighthouse

Peggy's Cove was established in the early 1800s. During that period, the residents were largely self-sufficient, relying on the sea for their livelihood. They primarily fished for lobster, mackerel, and other local seafood. The port was thriving, though it remained relatively isolated. In 1868, the Peggy’s Point Lighthouse was constructed. Today, the lighthouse is the most recognizable landmark in Peggy’s Cove and easily one of the most famous landmarks in the entire province.

The lighthouse is the biggest draw, and there is good reason. The structure is classic in presentation, rugged, and historic. But also, it’s impossible to miss, and during the right time of day (and year), you can get some stunning shots with the right light. You can’t help but be drawn to it as it's a perfect compositional focal point that looks extraordinary, surrounded by the rugged Nova Scotia landscape. It’s a highly photogenic structure visible from many areas around Peggy’s Cove.

The Coastline and Landscape

The lighthouse isn’t the only aspect of Peggy’s Cove that makes it quintessential Nova Scotia. The surrounding landscape on the Atlantic Ocean, with granite shoreline rocks, is unique to many. You can compose in numerous ways using leading lines to the lighthouse. For fans of long-exposure photography, there are many opportunities for silky-smooth water against the Nova Scotia landscape.

Easy Exploration

The village of Peggy’s Cove is not large. You can easily explore the grounds in an hour or so. Once you arrive and park, many areas to walk around and explore with varying heights lead to great compositions. Well-maintained pathways and viewing areas allow for safe exploration of the rocks and coastline. Visitors can freely wander the area, and you can take your time. You can often freely compose shots without crowds; however, it can get quite busy in the summer months. You can also walk right up to the lighthouse. Overall, Peggy’s Cove is very accessible. However, private areas are off-limits, and caution should be taken when close to the water. Standing on the rocks near the water’s edge can be hazardous as they can be especially slippery. The rocks combined with unpredictable waves are something to take extreme caution with.

Fantastic Year-Round

The magnificence of Peggy’s Cove changes throughout the year. It can look excellent with a stunning sunset that produces vibrant golden colours. But it can also look great in the winter with fresh snowfall, which complements the rugged nature of the location. If you brave extreme weather, photography during a storm can be incredible here. The intense waves and sea mist can add to the scene, and the waves crashing against the shore can look fantastic.

Conclusion

Peggy’s Cove has been a fantastic location for photographers for many years. It offers dramatic landscapes, historical significance, and changing natural conditions, making it ideal anytime. The charm and authenticity from its early days are still evident. Today, it is a major tourist destination that draws visitors from all over. It is the ultimate Nova Scotia photography destination.