Nova Scotia Lobster Crawl Festival

UPDATED JANUARY 18, 2026

It’s All for Lobster & Lobster for ALL!

Every February, Nova Scotia’s South Shore—from Barrington to Peggy’s Cove—comes alive in celebration of its most iconic catch. The Nova Scotia Lobster Crawl invites visitors to stay & play, sip & savour, and shop & hop their way through a month-long feast of lobster-inspired experiences. And yes, it truly is all for lobster and lobster for all.

Hitting the Road: The Lobster Crawl Roll Off

My good friend Lucie and I began our Lobster Crawl adventure by traveling to Saint John, then crossing the Bay of Fundy aboard Bay Ferries’ Fundy Rose to Digby. Our first stop was ADJA Studio & Gallery in Liverpool, where a lobster fishing–inspired exhibition showcased paintings, sculpture, jewelry, and photography. A whimsical lobster-loving cat by local artist Andre Haines quickly stole my heart.

Next up: Lane’s Privateer Inn, where we sampled a standout lobster roll with generous chunks of lobster dressed in a zippy horseradish mayo, tucked into a buttery brioche bun, and served with hand-cut fries. Paired with a crisp Las Moras Chardonnay, it was easy to see why this roll was among one of a dozen restaurants competing in the Annual Lobster Crawl Roll Off.

Oceanside Indulgence at Quarterdeck Resort

We checked into our two-bedroom luxury loft at Quarterdeck Resort just in time for dinner at The Grill, overlooking Summerville Beach. A hearty bowl of seafood chowder brimming with scallops, haddock, shrimp, and lobster was served alongside a warm jalapeño cheddar biscuit with whipped herb butter. The Grill’s motto said it best here: “A view you will always remember. A taste you will never forget.”

That night, powerful winds knocked out the electricity along the coast, but thoughtful touches from extra blankets to flashlights made us feel well cared for. By morning, calmer skies and coffee delivered straight to our door by the manager had us ready to explore again.

Lovely Lunenburg & Blue Rocks

Lunenburg, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, welcomed us with colourful 18th- and 19th-century homes, cozy cafés, galleries, and seafood restaurants. Wandering its streets feels like opening a brand-new box of crayons, bright, joyful, and endlessly inspiring.

Just beyond town, Blue Rocks offered quiet magic. This rugged fishing village is visited frequently by artists and filmmakers, and for good reason. We were even treated to a rare sun-snow shower over one of the region’s most photographed fishing sheds, a fleeting and unforgettable moment.

Barrington—The Lobster Capital of Canada

With power still out back in Summerville, we were graciously relocated to Salty Shores Inn in Barrington Passage, where owner Natasha welcomed us with warmth and ease. What felt like an inconvenience quickly became a gift, allowing us more time to explore Barrington—The Lobster Capital of Canada.

A local tip led us across the causeway to Cape Sable Island, the southernmost point of Nova Scotia. The coastal drive alone is worth the trip, and it’s a place I know I’ll return to explore more fully.

Lucy the Lob’Star & Lobster Legends

No February visit would be complete without meeting Lucy the Lob’Star, Barrington’s beloved weather predictor. Each year on February 2nd, Lucy emerges out of the ocean to forecast the weeks ahead. This year, she whispered “six more weeks of winter” though with grass peeking through and pussy willows already blooming, it felt more like spring.

Lucy’s charm extends well beyond Groundhog Day. She’s also the star of a delightful children’s book, sharing her story with young readers while celebrating lobster fishing heritage, coastal life, and community pride. It’s a lovely way to introduce children to Nova Scotia’s maritime culture, and a reminder that Lobster Crawl truly offers something for all ages. Lucy the Lob’Star will captivate young imaginations and families will delight in reading this courageous tale of what happens when you follow your heart. For a complete list of locations where you can purchase the book online or locally while on the Lobster Trail —click here.

Chowder Chowdown Showdown

A windstorm altered some plans—including the Lobster Chowder Chowdown Showdown and a full run to Peggy’s Cove—but with over 160 Lobster Crawl experiences, there was no shortage of things to do. We couldn’t resist another award-winning lobster roll at Captain Kat’s Lobster Shack (and rest assured, Lucy the Lob’Star was simply relaxing comfortably in the spa).

In Mahone Bay, winter quiet gave way to lively local energy at Saltbox Brewing Company. Over traditional maritime music and friendly conversation, we sampled Crustacean Elation, a lobster-infused pale ale with subtle salinity and buttery notes, along with a bright, tart Haskap cider.

A Final Stay & Farewell Feast

Back at Quarterdeck Resort, our Scandinavian-style loft with heated floors, plush beds, rainfall shower, fuzzy robes, and sweeping beach views, made it hard to leave. With Summerville Beach at our feet and spa, pool, and sauna nearby, I was already planning my return.

Our final morning was spent at White Point Beach Resort, enjoying the Lobs’Art Show and a shoreline walk alongside the resort’s resident rabbits before boarding the ferry home.

Bay Ferries earned two claws up for their onboard lobster poutine, the perfect finale to our South Shore Lobster Crawl.

Seas the Day and Shellebrate

Make February delicious and crawl aboard the Nova Scotia’s 2026 South Shore Lobster Crawl. From Barrington to Peggy’s Cove, this month-long festival celebrates lobster through food, art, culture, and coastal adventure.

Dive in to learn more about Lunenburg, Blue Rocks & Mahone Bay by clicking on the hyperinks or photo links below.

Seas the Day and Shellebrate! It’s all for lobster and lobster for all.

This article was sponsored by: The Quarterdeck Resort, Bay Ferries, Saltbox Brewery, The Nova Scotia South Shore Tourism & Nova Scotia Lobster Crawl; however, all thoughts and opinions are my own. Follow Maritimes Maven on FaceBook, Instagram, Pinterest, LinkedIn & Threads. Subscribe to be the first to receive my latest articles. Share articles you love with your social media community so they, too, will discover, There’s No Place Like Home!