James MartinOne summer, I decided to skip the crowded tourist spots and explore somewhere more local. That’s how I found myself at Cleveland Beach Provincial Park.
After biking for about a couple of hours, I arrived and felt like I had been transported to a whole new world. The park was peaceful, the water was crystal clear, and the beach was almost empty, with just a few people scattered around.
And if you’re wondering what you can do here, boy oh boy, do I have got the answers for you!
About Cleveland Beach Provincial Park
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Just a short half-hour drive from Halifax, Cleveland Beach Provincial Park is found right on the shores of St. Margaret’s Bay. It spans 400 acres, making it the perfect spot for outdoor fun.
If you’re driving to this park, get there early. Parking spots are limited and it’s a first-come, first-served situation.
What to Do at Cleveland Beach Provincial Park
Hit the beach.
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Cleveland Beach is the crown jewel of Cleveland Beach Provincial Park with a picturesque and pristine stretch of sand that beckons visitors to spend the entire day by the water.
The beach’s soft golden sand and clear blue waters create an inviting atmosphere, making it the perfect setting for a variety of beach activities. Just a heads-up: there are no lifeguards, so swim safely and responsibly.
Cleveland Beach stretches for 1 kilometer, providing enough space to lay out your towel and soak up the sun. The golden sand is warm and inviting, making it a fantastic spot to relax, read a book, or enjoy a beachside nap.
The gentle, rolling waves of St. Margaret’s Bay are ideal for swimming. The water is clear and refreshing, making it the perfect escape from the summer heat.
Whether you’re a seasoned swimmer or just looking to wade and splash, the water here is both safe and enjoyable. Families with children will appreciate the gradual entry into the water, which is perfect for little ones to play and splash around.
Picnic by the sea.
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For those looking to make the most of their beach day, packing a picnic is a great option. The park provides several picnic tables and shaded grassy areas right by the beach.
These spots are perfect for enjoying a meal with a view of the bay. Simply bring along your favorite snacks, sandwiches, or even a full picnic spread to enjoy the sea breeze while you dine.
As you sit and eat, you can take in the stunning panoramic views of the bay, watch boats sail by, and enjoy the peaceful sounds of the waves lapping against the shore.
The nearby picnic areas are equipped with waste bins to keep the park clean and beautiful, ensuring a pleasant experience for everyone.
Beachcomb for shells and sea glass.
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Cleveland Beach Provincial Park is a dream for anyone who loves beachcombing. A long, sandy shore stretches out, begging for a slow walk while you search for seashells, driftwood, colorful sea glass, and whatever else the waves decide to toss your way.
The tides like to reveal all sorts of cool things like tiny marine creatures, shiny rocks, and maybe even a piece of sea glass if you’re lucky.
Also, keep an eye out for those special finds like smooth stones or bright sea glass. Every tide leaves behind something new, so you’ll never have the same beachcombing adventure twice.
It’s the perfect activity for curious kids and adults who love to discover hidden gems from the sea.
But beachcombing isn’t just fun; it’s also a little bit educational. Families can make it a learning experience by figuring out what kinds of shells or stones they’ve found.
It’s a hands-on way to teach kids about the ocean and the local environment while having a blast.
Sightsee by kayak.
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Kayaking at Cleveland Beach Provincial Park is an amazing way to enjoy the water and see the beautiful surroundings. The calm waters of St. Margaret’s Bay make it a perfect spot for paddling, whether you’re a beginner or an experienced kayaker.
As you paddle along, you’ll get to explore the stunning coastline with its rocky outcrops and sandy stretches.
Starting your kayaking adventure is easy because you can launch your kayak right from the beach. The park has plenty of parking, so you won’t have to worry about where to leave your car.
Just remember to check the weather and water conditions before you go out on the water.
When you go kayaking, don’t forget to bring a life jacket, paddle, and some water to stay hydrated. Sunscreen is also a good idea to protect your skin from the sun.
Since the park doesn’t have kayak rentals, you’ll need to bring your own gear.
Let your pets splash on the shore and play on the grass.
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Cleveland Beach Provincial Park is a top spot for a family day out, and yes, that includes your furry friends! Pets are welcome, so they get to tag along whether you’re exploring the trails or chilling by the beach.
Of course, for everyone’s comfort (and to avoid chaos), pets need to stay on a leash, especially in busy spots like the beach and picnic areas.
With wide-open spaces and scenic paths, there’s plenty of room for your pet to stretch out, sniff around, and enjoy the fresh air. It’s perfect for a nice walk or some playtime in the grassy areas.
There are tons of sights and smells to keep them busy!
Just don’t forget to pack water and some waste bags to keep things neat. No one wants a surprise underfoot!
Look out for birds.
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Birdwatching at Cleveland Beach Provincial Park is like a front-row seat to nature’s greatest show. With sandy shores and thick forests, this park is a magnet for all kinds of birds.
Seabirds like gulls, terns, and sandpipers are often seen zipping over the water or searching for snacks on the beach. You might even catch an osprey diving for fish in the bay!
Wandering into the forest trails, you’ll find woodland wonders like chickadees, warblers, and woodpeckers. The quiet of the woods makes it easy to spot these birds as they flit among the trees or sing their sweet tunes.
For the best birdwatching action, head out early in the morning or late in the afternoon. A pair of binoculars and a bird guidebook will help you spot and identify the feathered friends you see.
Explore the trails.
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Cleveland Beach Provincial Park isn’t just for swimming and sunbathing; it’s also a great place for hiking! The park has several trails that let you explore the beautiful scenery around St. Margaret’s Bay.
These trails offer different experiences, from walking along the coast to wandering through the woods.
The coastal trail is one of the highlights. It takes you right along the edge of the bay, where you can enjoy amazing views of the water and the shore.
The trail is mostly flat, making it a pleasant walk for everyone. You can stop and look out over the bay, or just enjoy the fresh sea air as you walk.
If you like forest walks, the park has wooded trails too. These trails wind through peaceful, green areas where you might see birds and other wildlife.
The shady trees and quiet paths make it a relaxing place to hike. Just remember to wear comfortable shoes and bring some water.
Capture the beauty.
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Cleveland Beach Provincial Park is a hidden treasure for photographers and nature lovers. With its stunning coastal views, lush forests, and tranquil atmosphere, it’s a perfect place for capturing breathtaking photos.
The trails are full of green trees and cute wildlife moments just waiting to be photographed. Squirrels, birds, and other little critters add life to the scene, and the forest looks like it’s straight out of a fairytale.
And don’t miss the views from the coastal trails! Panoramic shots of St. Margaret’s Bay, with its calm waters reflecting the sky, offer a peaceful or dramatic vibe, depending on the time of day.
Your camera definitely won’t get bored here!
Best Times to Go
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The best time to visit Cleveland Beach Provincial Park is from late spring through early fall. During these months, the weather is warm, and the beach is ideal for swimming and sunbathing.
But don’t count out visiting the beach any time of year. Every season has something cool to offer.
Spring brings flowers and fresh green leaves. Summer? Perfect for all the fun beach stuff like swimming and sunbathing.
Fall gives you that awesome colorful foliage everyone loves. And winter turns the beach into a quiet, snowy wonderland, perfect for peaceful walks and snapping cool pics.
