Get your friends together and head out of the city for a chilled-out weekend getaway on the Eastern Shore.
Play 18 holes, boil some lobster, sleep by the sea, and take a boat trip on the wilder side - this weekend itinerary is packed with fun, easy-going experiences that'll turn your weekend from a getaway to an adventure.
The Plan
- Play a round of golf at River Oaks Golf Club
- Pitch a tent, rent a camper or stay in a rustic boathouse at Murphy's Camping on the Ocean
- Cook some lobster and paddle a kayak
- Take a boat trip through the Wild Islands
Day 1
Green time
Golf is social distancing with a scorecard, so take advantage and get out on the green!
Assemble the gang and make your way to River Oaks Golf Club in the Musquodoboit Valley, with its 18 holes of scenic and challenging golf just an hour from Halifax.
Where to Stay: Beach-side camping
Murphy’s Camping: This family-owned campground is an Eastern Shore institution, and provides plenty of ways to experience the Wild Island Coast from paddle to powerboat. Owner Ryan Murphy grew up with the campground and knows the Wild Islands as only a local can.
When you've wrapped up your round at River Oaks, retreat to your private beach-side campsite at Murphy’s Camping. Boil some lobster, crack open a cool drink, and get caught up. You can book a package that includes lobster, kayak rentals, a boat trip and more.
Bonus: You can also rent a camper from one of several RV rental agencies in the region - pack up your friends and your gear, and explore the shore for as long as you like!
Day 2
Rise and shine
Brew up come coffee and cook up a breakfast of your own before you set off for the Wild Islands. (Remember: there’s no law against lobster for breakfast.)
Tame the Wild Islands
Hop aboard Murphy’s 18’ Sea Warrior powerboat for their 100 Islands in 100 Minutes tour; or take the more sedate Murphy’s Legacy boat tour, a traditional Cape Island-style tour though the islands to fish, watch seals and porpoises, or just relax.
You can also charter a boat for a private tour, and even get dropped off on an island for a full day or an overnight stay!
Fun fact: Although the area is called the 100 Wild Islands, there are really 758 islands - you could visit one every day for two years, and still have plenty more to explore!
Sober Island
After conquering the Wild Islands, take a short drive to the Sober Island Beer Garden in Sheet Harbour to sample their uniquely-crafted beer on an outdoor patio. Be sure to check out their hours online before heading over.
Local Tip: Try Beth’s Black Oyster Stout to get a real taste of the Atlantic!
Pack and Prep
- It’s always a good idea to call ahead to confirm golf and camping arrangements.
- Gear up for ocean adventures - swimsuits for the ocean, hats for kayaking, windbreakers for boat trips.
- Waterproof bags for keys, phones and wallets are always a good idea.
