posted on October 15, 2024
If you’re looking for a getaway of rest and relaxation, look no further than a Maritimes road trip! Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, and Prince Edward Island share a rich cultural history and lifestyle shaped by the sea, making the them the perfect destination to unplug, slow down, and savour the journey.
When planning your Maritimes road trip, it’s important to think about how much ground you want to cover. Do you want to focus on one province, or are you hoping to explore all three? Since Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, and Prince Edward Island are closely located to one another, you have the chance to plan a Maritimes road trip as adventurous or as focused as you like.
Whether you’re looking for a break in one of the most popular cities on the East Coast or seeing as much of the region as possible, this road trip guide has all the information you need to have an amazing trip.
An overview of driving in the Maritimes
Thanks to the smaller size of the Maritime provinces, East Coast Canada offers some of the best and most accessible driving experiences in the country.
No matter where you choose to arrive and pick up your rental car, you’ll have some of the best scenic drives in Canada at your finger tips.
Since it only takes 3-4 hours to drive between any of the following major cities, so you can start your trip from anywhere!
Starting your road trip in Halifax, Nova Scotia
Pick up your rental car at Halifax Stanfield International Airport and start your trip by exploring Halifax itself, from the harbour to its trendy North End. The provincial capital is a gateway to miles of scenic roadway along the ocean, beautiful beaches, and postcard-perfect communities like Peggy’s Cove and Lunenburg.
Starting your road trip in Charlottetown, PEI
Start your journey by collecting your rental car in Charlottetown to experience PEI’s unforgettable coastal drives and the fairytale laandscape of Green Gables. Drive along the Confederation Bridge to access the mainland, and prepare to explore the New Brunswick coast and beyond.
Starting your road trip in Saint John, New Brunswick
You’ll get a front row seat on the Fundy Shore by starting your Maritimes road trip in Saint John. Pick up your rental car and explore sights like the Fort Howe National Historic Site and Irving Nature Park before hitting the road.
Tips for a Maritime road trip
Whether you’re visiting one Maritime province or all three, here are a few tips that can help you get the most out of your drive.
1. Be prepared to slow down
While there are major highways throughout the Maritimes, many of the roads are winding and narrow coastal routes. Be mindful of speed limits and of local drivers for a safe and enjoyable drive.
2. Plan your route and stops
Just because you can drive end-to-end across Prince Edward Island in two hours doesn’t mean you should! The Maritimes are small but scenic, and you can miss out on the best sights and attractions by taking the most direct route.
Consider stopping at small towns or beaches during a day of driving, or build in day trips from the city where you’re staying to enjoy more of the hidden gems that make the Maritimes special.
3. Book popular activities in advance
During peak season, it’s best to book popular Maritime activities in advance, like a whale watching tour on the Bay of Fundy.
You can also look for accommodation and car rental deals and discounts before you go. If you plan to camp at a popular destination like Cape Breton Highlands National Park, secure your campsite ahead of time to avoid disappointment.
4. Take your time and enjoy the journey
Part of the charm of East Coast Canada is the relaxed pace of life. If you want to road trip Maritimes style, take a cue from the locals and slow down to fully appreciate your surroundings.
Whether it’s spending more than one night at a planned stop or taking a stroll through a local farmer’s market for a fresh seafood lunch, the best way to enjoy Maritime living is not to rush it.
How are the road conditions in the Maritimes?
The Trans-Canada Highway is the main highway and most direct route between the Maritime provinces and is generally smooth and regularly maintained.
In rural sections of the Maritimes, you’ll be driving on scenic roads that wind along the coast, but you can expect them to be well-paved and easy to navigate.
When is the best time to visit the Maritimes?
The best time to visit the Maritimes is between June and August. The warm weather and longer days are perfect for afternoons on the beach and coastal drives.
Exploring the sandy beaches of PEI or driving the Lighthouse Route in Nova Scotia are some of the best summer road trips in the Maritimes. Visiting the Bay of Fundy in the summertime is also a must, as many communities operate seasonally. It’s also the best time of year to spot whales!
The best time to visit the Cabot Trail is during the fall. The world-famous scenic roadway becomes even more impressive when the leaves change in the Cape Breton Island Highlands, and you can enjoy mild temperatures and fewer crowds during your visit.
Are there EV chargers in the Maritimes?
EV chargers are available in cities, towns, and at most rest stops throughout the Maritimes, especially in Nova Scotia and New Brunswick. There are fewer EV chargers in Prince Edward Island, so plan for longer gaps there, as well as for coastal drives and remote areas in all provinces. You also can find fast-charging stations at highway rest stops, tourist destinations, and many provincial parks.
What type of car should you drive in the Maritimes?
The best type of rental car for your Maritimes road trip all comes down to the experience you’re after and your personal travel style. For a comfortable trip with family or friends, try an SUV or minivan that allows plenty of room for your passengers and luggage.
Got coastal drives on your mind? Consider a luxury car rental to cruise the scenic routes in style. A convertible could be the perfect vehicle to take in the stunning views with the wind in your hair.
A Maritimes road trip planner: choose the perfect itinerary for you
When it comes to planning a scenic road trip through East Coast Canada, you have plenty of options. Here are a few of the best road trip routes in Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, and Prince Edward Island.
Each route offers its own unique attractions. If you have the time, you can combine them to explore all three provinces for the ultimate Maritimes road trip!
Route 1: The Cabot Trail
You can’t visit Nova Scotia without driving the Cabot Trail. Known for breathtaking views of the coastline and highlands, the world-famous scenic drive is one of the highlights of East Coast Canada, and one of the ultimate Nova Scotia driving routes. Don’t miss the chance to cross it off your bucket list!
You can extend your visit to the Cabot Trail by exploring the rest of Cape Breton Island. To experience even more of Atlantic Canada, you can catch a ferry from Sydney, Nova Scotia to Newfoundland, where you can continue your road trip all the way to St. John’s.
Spanning 300 km, the Cabot Trail trail follows the coast and passes through the charming towns and villages of Cape Breton Island. Here are the best stops along the way to make the most of it.
Recommended stops:
Cape Breton Highlands National Park
Home to the best hiking trails in Nova Scotia, Cape Breton Highlands National Park is the perfect destination if you’re seeking outdoor adventure. Spend a few nights at one of the campgrounds at Ingonish or Chéticamp to fully immerse yourself in the park’s natural splendour.
Skyline Trail
For a scenic day hike, try the Skyline Trail for panoramic views of the Cape Breton Island coast (and a good chance of spotting a moose!) The route is suitable for all ages and abilities, making it a perfect activity for families.
Pleasant Bay
One of the many small communities on the Cabot Trail loop, Pleasant Bay is the perfect place to stop for a breather and to admire the view from Pleasant Bay Beach. Grab a bite at the Rusty Anchor Restaurant before you hop back into your Nova Scotia car rental to explore more of Cape Breton Island.
Ingonish Beach
Whether you’re seeking a place to unwind or an adrenaline rush, Ingonish Beach offers the best of both worlds. Visit Broad Cove or Black Brook beaches to unwind by the water, and ride the Cape Smokey gondola for a stunning bird’s-eye view of Cape Breton Island.
Route 2: The Fundy Coastal Drive
The Bay of Fundy holds the record for the highest tides in the world, and this New Brunswick coastal drive is the best ways to experience its wonders firsthand.
You can complete the Fundy Coastal Drive in 7 hours, but it’s best to take your time to fully enjoy the region’s natural phenomena and rich history. Start off in Moncton and wind your way along the formidable coastline, taking your time to discover what makes the Bay of Fundy so magical.
Recommended stops:
Fundy National Park
Feeling up for a hike? Explore over 120 km of trails at New Brunswick’s first national park to get closer to nature and enjoy stunning views of the bay. From Fundy National Park, pick up the Fundy Trail Parkway for a scenic drive along the coast as you cruise toward the town of St. Martins.
Hopewell Rocks Provincial Park
A visit to Hopewell Rocks Provincial Park is the best way to experience the Bay of Fundy’s tidal phenomenon, and no road trip through East Coast Canada is complete without it.
During the day, you can walk the ocean floor at low tide to view the flowerpot rock formations up close. When the tide rises in the evening, come back by boat or kayak to get the full effect.
Saint John
As the oldest incorporated city in Canada, Saint John has plenty of historical sites to explore as well as contemporary art galleries, live music, and trendy microbrew pubs for culture seekers and foodies. Stop to experience its unique character and discover why it’s one of the most popular cities to visit in the Maritimes.
St Andrews
A favourite New Brunswick vacation spot, St Andrews is a New England-style resort village and one of the best places for whale watching in the province. Book a tour and you’ll be likely to spot one of the twelve species of whales that come to the Bay of Fundy every year to play, feed, and raise their young.
Route 3: Prince Edward Island Coastal Drives
From scrumptious oysters to sweeping sand dunes, Prince Edward Island is a peaceful place with treasures to discover all along its coastline. Explore each region of the island at your own pace with these three coastal drives.
You can find car rental options in Charlottetown and pick up any of these routes within an hour of the capital thanks to the island’s size.
Points East Coastal Drive
Take a dip in the warmest waters north of the Carolinas at one of 50 beaches on the relaxing Points East Coastal Drive, featuring plenty of sleepy PEI towns, romantic inns, and lighthouse views.
You’ll start the route in Charlottetown and drive along the Northumberland Strait for views of three lighthouses, then up to Georgetown, home to North America’s deepest harbour.
Care for a detour? From Souris you can catch a ferry to Quebec’s Magdalen Islands, known for its unique culture, quirky artisans, and breathtaking scenery.
Make a stop at the “singing sands” of Basin Head Provincial Park to enjoy a day at the beach before reaching the East Point Lighthouse viewpoint.
Circling back to Charlottetown, highlights include a section of the Confederation Trail and Greenwich, home to the sandy dunes of Prince Edward Island National Park.
Central Coastal Drive
Packed with the most iconic PEI attractions, you can pick up the Central Coastal Drive from Charlottetown or from the foot of the Confederation Bridge upon arrival in Prince Edward Island.
Start in Charlottetown, the birthplace of Canadian confederation, and take in the sights of the city before circling toward the Cavendish Coast to explore Green Gables, Cavendish Beach, and Prince Edward Island National Park.
Continue the loop to the Red Sands Shore and stop for shopping and dining in the dreamy town of Summerside on your way to explore the beaches.
Stop by the Confederation Bridge – the longest bridge in Canada! – for the perfect photo op on your way to Charlottetown, or take your PEI rental car across to the mainland to continue your Maritime road trip in New Brunswick and Nova Scotia.
North Cape Coastal Drive
The North Cape Coastal Drive follows the northwest shores of Prince Edward Island, known as the famous “Canadian Oyster Coast”. It’s a scenic drive that’s sure to whet your appetite for island living.
Start in laid-back Summerside, PEI’s second-largest city, to enjoy shopping and dining and views of the Red Sand Shore. Continue along the coast to Village Musical Acadien in Abram-Village for a lesson in local Acadian culture.
Get some fresh air (and a dip in the ocean!) with stops at West Point Lighthouse, Kildare Capes, and Cedar Dunes Provincial Park.
Don’t forget to try the famous oysters! Foodies can make a pit stops at Tyne Valley, one of the villages where Malpeque oysters are harvested, to sample classic PEI cusine.
Route 4: Lunenburg and the Lighthouse Route (Halifax to Lunenburg)
Rent a car in downtown Halifax and set off along the South Shore to discover the maritime history of Nova Scotia. True to its name, the Lighthouse Route features more than 20 historic lighthouses, including the famous Peggy’s Point Lighthouse at Peggy’s Cove.
Start your historic tour in Halifax with a visit to the Halifax Public Gardens, the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic, and the Citadel National Historic Site, then take off to explore this timeless Nova Scotia scenic drive. Don’t forget to stop for lobster rolls!
Recommended stops:
Peggy’s Cove
Wind along the coast in your rental car from Halifax on a scenic 45-minute drive to the iconic Peggy’s Cove. Stroll through the quaint and colourful fishing village and get your photo op with the most famous lighthouse in Canada.
Mahone Bay
Continue your drive along the Nova Scotia South Shore until you reach Mahone Bay, one of the most beautiful seaside towns in the province. Stroll through the historic town centre or go for a paddle on the calm waters to slow down and take in a picture perfect view of East Coast life.
Lunenburg
Renowned as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its Old Town, a visit to Lunenburg is like travelling back in time. Admire historical sites and attractions like the Bluenose schooner, explore the waterfront, and wander down Lincoln Street to be charmed by the city’s history and personality.
Kejimkujik National Park
Up for a detour? Extend your Lighthouse Route road trip by taking Route 210 to Highway 8 from Lunenburg to Kejimkujik National Park.
A designated National Historic Site for its traditional Mi’kmaw cultural landscape, the park is also a Dark Sky Preserve and a favourite destination for canoeing, camping, and stargazing.
Frequently asked questions about planning a Maritimes road trip
How long does it take to drive to the Maritimes from Toronto?
Driving from Toronto to the Maritimes takes 14 to 18 hours, depending on where you plan to start your journey. Travelling to the Maritimes from Montreal or Quebec City will shorten your travel time by 5 to 8 hours. Traffic, weather conditions, and stops you make along the way can also affect the driving time. If you plan to rent a car in Toronto, it’s best to break up the drive over a few days for the chance to explore at your own pace and not miss out on sights and attractions.
Is a Maritimes road trip good for families?
Absolutely! A road trip through the Maritimes is great for families, offering plenty of sightseeing, beaches, and outdoor activities for all ages along the way.
How much does it cost to drive from Toronto to the Maritimes?
The cost of driving from Toronto to the Maritimes depends on fuel prices and the gas mileage of your rental car. You can expect to pay between $350 – $400 on gas for a round trip from Toronto to Halifax.
Tolls, stops along the way, and the cost of food can also affect your budget. Consider purchasing a park pass for cost-effective access to multiple national parks.
Is it cheaper to fly or drive to the Maritimes from Toronto?
It depends on the season, who you’re travelling with, and your travel style. Flying might be cost-effective for solo travellers, especially during the low season or on budget airlines.
If you’re travelling with a group, driving will be cheaper, and you can enjoy a smooth journey with the benefit of multiple drivers to take the wheel and split the cost of gas.
Is driving to the Maritimes from Toronto worth it?
It certainly can be! It all comes down to the travel experience you want. A Toronto to Nova Scotia road trip is entirely doable if you have the time for it, especially if you want to experience parts of Québec and New Brunswick on the way.
Keep in mind that there are plenty of car rental locations in East Coast cities. Flying to Halifax, Charlottetown, or Saint John and getting your rental car delivered to the airport can be a better option if you want to spend less time on the road and maximize your time exploring the Maritimes. Either way, you’re bound to enjoy a memorable Maritimes road trip.
Planning the Maritimes road trip of a lifetime
Whether you want to be wowed by nature or to simply unwind at the beach, the Maritimes has something for everyone. This charming part of Canada is guaranteed to nourish your soul with warm hospitality, and captivate you with scenery you won’t find anywhere else.
When you rent a car with Turo, you can explore East Coast Canada from any of its most popular cities with a vehicle that suits you. Take the time to plan your stops, then browse New Brunswick, PEI, or Nova Scotia car rentals and get ready to discover the Maritimes!
Book your rental car in the Maritimes with Turo
Turo makes it easy to find the perfect rental car in Halifax, Charlottetown, or Saint John for your Maritime road trip, so you can plan to arrive at the East Coast airport that best suits your travel plans.
Whether you’re looking for a comfortable SUV for long drives, a convertible for cruising the coast, or an affordable, fuel-efficient option to get the most mileage out of your trip, Turo has a rental car for your style and budget.
When you book with a trusted host on Turo, you get expertise from a local guide that a traditional rental car company just can’t offer. Don’t wait to hit the road – the perfect rental car for your Maritime adventure awaits on Turo!
Want to be the one to bring this road trip to life? We’re searching for someone to take on this road trip and capture the magic along the way. If you’re a traveller, storyteller, or content creator ready to hit the road and share this experience, submit your idea to Pitch a Trip for a chance to have Turo cover your vehicle booking. Every month, we select our favourite pitches—this could be your opportunity to turn this itinerary into a reality and share the story with us!
Take control of your financial future and start building your car sharing business on Turo!
Get started
Browse thousands of cars for every occasion and budget near you, or wherever you’re going.
Browse cars
