Photo by Nova Scotia Tourism, Culture & Heritage

Nova Scotia vacation rentals

We found 1,822 vacation rentals — enter your dates for availability

Select from 757 houses, 415 apartments, and other vacation rentals to find the perfect place for your stay in Nova Scotia. Vacation homes offer the amenities you expect for your stay with friends, family, or just your pet, like WiFi and parking. At the end of the day, you're sure to find a rental to meet everyone's needs, including a place that is accessible or non-smoking.

Popular Nova Scotia destinations on Vrbo

Vacation rentals with weekly discounts - Nova Scotia

Showing deals for:Jul 17 - Jul 24

Find out more about Nova Scotia

Why visit Nova Scotia

  • Breathtaking landscapes: Nova Scotia boasts stunning coastal views, picturesque lakes, and serene beaches.
  • Family-friendly activities: Enjoy a variety of outdoor adventures and relaxing beach days perfect for all ages.
  • Rich maritime history: Discover unique cultural sites and historical attractions that tell the story of the region.
  • Charming accommodations: Choose from cozy cottages, private vacation homes, and modern apartments for a home-like experience.
  • Welcoming communities: Experience the friendly atmosphere in vibrant downtown areas and local neighborhoods.

Popular types of accommodation in Nova Scotia

Planning a getaway to Nova Scotia? The adventure begins with selecting the perfect place to stay. Discover a variety of accommodations, including charming houses, cozy cottages, and modern apartments. Whether you're looking for cottage rentals by owner or select private homes, Nova Scotia offers a wealth of options to suit every traveler’s needs. Dive into the beauty of this stunning destination while enjoying the comforts of home.

  • Houses: The top choice for travelers in Nova Scotia, offering spacious and comfortable accommodations perfect for families or groups.
  • Cottages: A beloved option for a cozy getaway, these charming retreats provide a unique experience amidst nature.
  • Apartments: Ideal for those seeking convenience, these rentals offer a home-like atmosphere with easy access to local attractions.
  • Cabins: Perfect for nature enthusiasts, these rustic accommodations provide an authentic wilderness experience.
  • Condos: A modern choice for vacationers, offering amenities and comfort in prime locations.**

Top attractions in Nova Scotia

Nova Scotia is perfect for outdoor and family beach vacations, offering a variety of attractions such as lakes, urban parks, and islands. Whether you seek scenic landscapes or relaxing beach experiences, you'll find plenty of points of interest to explore. Ideal for solo travelers, groups, or families, Nova Scotia promises a memorable getaway filled with natural beauty and recreational opportunities.

  • Halifax Waterfront Boardwalk: This vibrant boardwalk offers a scenic stroll along the harbor with shops, restaurants, and stunning views. Perfect for families, it features outdoor activities and cultural events, making it a lively spot to relax and enjoy the local atmosphere.
  • Cape Breton Highlands National Park: A breathtaking national park known for its dramatic landscapes, hiking trails, and outdoor adventures. Experience stunning coastal views, diverse wildlife, and the thrill of exploring nature in a serene environment.
  • Bayers Lake Business Park: A bustling hub of commerce featuring various shops and services. Ideal for business travelers, it provides a modern atmosphere with convenient amenities and a focus on professional development.

Things to do recommended for couples

Experience romance in Nova Scotia by exploring the stunning Cabot Trail, perfect for scenic drives. Enjoy a cozy picnic at Peggy's Cove and witness the iconic lighthouse. End your day with a candlelit dinner at a local seafood restaurant, savoring fresh catches and breathtaking ocean views.

Things to do recommended for families

Families visiting Nova Scotia can explore the captivating Halifax Citadel, enjoy hands-on activities at the Discovery Centre, and take a scenic whale-watching tour in Bay of Fundy. Don't miss the charming beaches and coastal trails perfect for a family picnic or a leisurely stroll.

Things to do recommended for groups

Groups visiting Nova Scotia can explore the breathtaking Cabot Trail, enjoy whale watching tours in Bay of Fundy, and visit the historic Fortress of Louisbourg for a taste of 18th-century life. Don't miss the local seafood cuisine at charming waterfront restaurants.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

What do I need to keep in mind when booking a vacation in Nova Scotia

When planning your trip—whether it's with a group, family, pets, or for an extended stay—be sure to prioritize your preferences using the right filters. Here are some helpful Vrbo booking tips to assist you.

  • Traveling to Nova Scotia with a group: Think about how many bedrooms you’ll require, along with features like a fully equipped kitchen or outdoor areas for group gatherings. Luckily, you can easily filter for these options and more on Vrbo.
  • Traveling to Nova Scotia with young kids: Traveling with young kids can be a bit tricky. It's important to prioritize their comfort and safety, along with having access to suitable amenities like a private swimming pool. Additionally, thinking about how close you are to family-friendly attractions is a wise move.
  • Taking your pets with you to Nova Scotia: For many families, a vacation wouldn’t feel complete without their furry companion by their side. If that resonates with you, explore Vrbo listings that welcome pets. Many of these pet-friendly properties come equipped with feeding bowls and beds, ensuring that all family members feel comfortable and at home.
  • Planning for a long term stay visiting Nova Scotia: If you're searching for vacation rentals that offer great deals for stays of a month or more, you've come to the right spot. By using the appropriate filters, you can effortlessly discover and save on monthly rental options. Don't forget to include features like a parking space, a well-equipped kitchen, or even a private pool in your search criteria.

Where to stay in Nova Scotia

Nova Scotia offers a delightful blend of outdoor adventures, family-friendly beaches, and rich history. Explore the picturesque South Shore, breathe in the fresh air, and enjoy the friendly atmosphere in vibrant downtown areas. Just a short drive away, New Brunswick adds to the experience with its unique charm. Whether you're seeking relaxation or adventure, Nova Scotia's stunning scenery and welcoming communities make it the perfect vacation destination.

  • Halifax: Nestled on the eastern coast of Canada, Halifax is a vibrant city known for its rich maritime history and stunning waterfront. Travelers flock to Halifax for family-friendly activities, outdoor adventures, and business opportunities. Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the boardwalk, where you can soak in the scenic views of the harbor, or explore the many shops at local shopping centers. Don’t miss the chance to visit landmarks like the Halifax Citadel and the nearby beaches, which offer a perfect blend of relaxation and exploration. Whether you're visiting a modern university or enjoying the lively tourist precinct, Halifax promises a memorable experience.
  • Dartmouth: Just across the harbor from Halifax, Dartmouth is a charming city that offers a unique blend of urban convenience and natural beauty. Known for its family-friendly atmosphere and business opportunities, Dartmouth features bustling shopping centers and a picturesque boardwalk. The local attractions, including lakes and beaches, provide ample opportunities for outdoor fun. Visitors can explore the tourist precinct and enjoy the vibrant community spirit. With modern college universities nearby, Dartmouth is not only a great place to visit but also a fantastic spot for learning and cultural experiences.
  • Downtown Halifax: As the cultural and commercial hub of Halifax, Downtown Halifax is a lively neighborhood that attracts visitors for its outdoor spaces, family-friendly activities, and bustling city life. The boardwalk is a must-visit, lined with shops and eateries, perfect for a day of leisure. With numerous shopping centers and malls, you can find everything from local crafts to global brands. Key attractions include the modern college university and event conference venues, making this area an exciting destination for both leisure and business travelers alike.

Best time to go to Nova Scotia

If you're planning a trip to Nova Scotia, it's a good idea to check both the weather and property rates. The warmest months are July and August. Peak season runs in April, July and September, while off-peak times, like October to December tend to have fewer bookings and better deals.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January23.7°F (-4.6°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
February22.8°F (-5.1°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
March28.4°F (-2.0°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
April38.8°F (3.8°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly HighAverage
May48.9°F (9.4°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
June58.1°F (14.5°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
July66.6°F (19.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
August66.6°F (19.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
September59.7°F (15.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
October49.8°F (9.9°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowAverage
November39.6°F (4.2°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
December30.9°F (-0.6°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowAverage

Booking with Vrbo is simple

Are you hoping to save money on your next adventure? Being flexible with your travel dates can make a difference, as prices often fluctuate. Additionally, you can enjoy substantial savings by opting for a longer stay. To discover a Vrbo property that suits your budget, utilize our filters to sort by price, location, and type of vacation rental. We're here to help you find the perfect fit for your trip.

Vrbo Trips: Planning made easy

Vrbo's Trip Board provides a convenient hub for planning your travels, whether you're starting new trips, refining your plans, or managing your existing reservations. Your saved or booked properties are neatly categorized into Potential, Upcoming, or Current Trips for easy access. To discover more about Trip Boards, please visit: https://www.vrbo.com/trips.

**Based on Vrbo properties bookings.

Natural grandeur and outdoor pursuits await in Nova Scotia

A picturesque province in eastern Canada, Nova Scotia is destination for outdoorsy types, wildlife enthusiasts and history buffs alike. Scattered across a peninsula and offshore islands, it's a haven of postcard-perfect coastal scenes, with its weathered cliffs, quaint old lighthouses and wild seals basking in the sun. The vacation rentals in Nova Scotia provide a basecamp for a wealth of outdoorsy adventures ranging from hiking to sea kayaking, while those in search of more relaxed pursuits will find them in abundance within the region's cities – such as the capital Halifax, known for its star-shaped citadel and buzzing waterfront.

UNESCO historical treasures in Nova Scotia

One of Nova Scotia's star attractions is Old Town Lunenburg, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Situated beside a quaint harbor, the 18th-century settlement is known for its colorful historic houses, and is home to pretty shops, award-winning eateries and the legendary Bluenose II. A replica of the original ship launched here in 1921, the elegant vessel offers 2-hour cruises to visitors. Another of Nova Scotia's UNESCO sites is Joggins Fossil Cliffs. Situated on the breathtaking Bay of Fundy, the site encompasses 15 kilometers of exposed rugged rock formations, jam-packed with fossils that date back millions of years.

Whether you want exhilaration or calm, Nova Scotia caters

If there's one thing Nova Scotia doesn't lack, it's activities. A real treat for those who love the great outdoors, the province is a maritime playground for sea kayaking, white-knuckle tidal bore rafting, sportsfishing and year-round surfing. The province is also a hotspot for those wanting to tick whale watching off their bucket list. If you're more of a landlubber, though, the region's unspoiled natural scenery provides a picturesque backdrop for hiking, mountain biking and wildlife watching too, with cross-country skiing come winter. When it comes to taking it easy, the beaches, seaside wineries and quaint vacation rentals in Nova Scotia are just what the doctor ordered.

Comfy summers and cozy winters in Nova Scotia

Fringed by the sea, Nova Scotia's climate resembles a maritime one, with both winter and summer temperature extremes kept in check by the ocean. Winters, however, tend to reach freezing point, much more so than the inland areas to the west of the peninsula, and snow is common all round. Unless snowshoeing and cross-country skiing is your thing, it's probably better to visit Nova Scotia between June and October time, when the weather is comfortably warm, the water heats up and the skies are blue.

Explore Nova Scotia's peaceful forests

The vacation rentals in Nova Scotia are scattered throughout the province's mainland peninsula, though it's not so big you can't venture around if you have a car. The unspoiled scenery that blankets the province is what makes it such a treasure, and ranges from rugged cliffs and flourishing forests, to gently lapping lakes and romantic coastline scenes straight from the pages of a novel. Rivers meander through the landscape, as they did when they provided waterways for the Mi'kmaq people centuries ago, and serene beaches boast views across the sea towards Nova Scotia's offshore islands – all beckoning to be explored.

How to get to and around Nova Scotia

The nearest airport is in Stanfield Intl. Airport (YHZ), located 16.8 mi (27 km) from the city center.

If you're traveling by train, you can make your way to Halifax Station.

Frequently asked questions

What is the best area to stay in Nova Scotia when booking a vacation rental?
Dartmouth is one of the more well-liked areas to find a vacation home in Nova Scotia. Searching for some cool things to do and see here? Make your way to Alderney Landing and RBC Centre.
What is the most popular type of vacation rental accommodation in Nova Scotia?
Cottages are the most popular type of vacation rental in Nova Scotia, according to our data. Even if you've got a different idea about what you'd like, Vrbo has vacation homes in a variety of shapes and sizes. Browse our many options to find your perfect fit.
How much does it cost to rent a vacation rental in Nova Scotia?
The average price for a vacation home in Nova Scotia can vary based on factors like season, property type and length of stay. Whether you're searching for a sprawling villa with room to move around or a cozy cabin for you and your other half, just add your travel dates to see stays with unbeatable value.
How much does it cost to rent a beach house in Nova Scotia?
Prices for beach houses in Nova Scotia differ depending on the size and style of the property and time of year you're traveling. All you have to do is enter your travel dates into Vrbo and how many guests to see your rental options and prices. From there you can use our filter tool to tailor your search by ratings, nearby activities and more.
Are there vacation rentals with WiFi in Nova Scotia?
Choose from 527 vacation rentals with WiFi in Nova Scotia. If you want to disconnect from daily life during your break, but still need to be connected to the web, these getaways have what you need. Narrow your search by applying the WiFi filter on Vrbo.
How old do you have to be to rent a vacation rental in Nova Scotia?
Age restrictions can vary across properties on Vrbo, so be sure to check the rules of the vacation home in Nova Scotia you're interested in. But typically, it's 16, 18 or 21.
How long can I rent a vacation rental in Nova Scotia for?
It's really down to the Nova Scotia property. To look at a list of options offering extended stays, simply enter your travel dates and number of people into Vrbo's search page. You can look forward to having the entire place to yourself, along with home comforts such as air conditioning, a fully-equipped kitchen and a backyard to run around in. Keep your eyes open for any long-term stays that offer weekly or monthly discounts.
Does Vrbo offer discounts for vacation homes in Nova Scotia?
In Nova Scotia, you'll find some fantastic deals and discounts for weekly and monthly discounts on vacation rentals, as well as newly listed homes on Vrbo. Whether you're off on a mini vacay or a longer stay, we offer plenty of options to suit your style.

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