9-Day Maritime Road Trip: Ontario to Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island, and Newfoundland

Day 1: Omemee to Halifax, Nova Scotia

Morning: Depart early from Omemee and drive through the scenic Ontario‑Quebec border, stopping at Ottawa's Parliament Hill for a quick photo stop.

Afternoon: Continue through the scenic routes of New Brunswick, with a quick lunch in Moncton, then cross the Confederation Bridge to Prince Edward Island for a brief rest.

Evening: Arrive in Halifax, set up at a provincial campground near the harbor, and enjoy a sunset walk along the waterfront.

Day 2: Halifax & Surroundings

Morning: Explore the historic waterfront at Halifax Citadel and enjoy the views from the Citadel’s ramparts.

Afternoon: Visit the maritime museum at Maritime Museum of the Atlantic, followed by a stroll through the vibrant Halifax Public Gardens.

Evening: Dine at the waterfront and stroll through the historic Halifax Waterfront Boardwalk before returning to the campground.

Day 3: Halifax to Cape Breton (Cabot Trail)

Morning: Depart early and drive along the scenic route to the Cape Breton Highlands, entering the famous Cabot Trail at Baddeck.

Afternoon: Stop at Uisge Ban Falls for a short hike and scenic views.

Evening: Arrive at a provincial campground in Ingonish and enjoy an evening by the lake.

Day 4: Cabot Trail Exploration

Morning: Drive the scenic section of the Cabot Trail with stops at Cape Breton Highlands National Park for wildlife spotting.

Afternoon: Visit the picturesque fishing village of Baddeck and the iconic Alexander Graham Bell Museum.

Evening: Return to the campground for a relaxed evening under the stars.

Day 5: Cape Breton to New Brunswick (Fundy Coast)

Morning: Drive through the scenic Canso Canal, crossing into New Brunswick and head towards the Bay of Fundy.

Afternoon: Explore the world‑famous tides at the Hopewell Rocks and walk the scenic trail.

Evening: Set up camp at a provincial campground near St. Andrews and enjoy a quiet seaside dinner.

Day 6: Fundy Coast to Prince Edward Island

Morning: Travel to the Confederation Bridge and cross into Prince Edward Island.

Afternoon: Visit the historic Charlottetown downtown and the iconic Confederation Centre of the Arts.

Evening: Stay at a provincial campground near Charlottetown, enjoy a sunset at the nearby Victoria Park.

Day 7: PEI National Park & Island Exploration

Morning: Explore the dunes and coastal trail at Prince Edward Island National Park in Cavendish.

Afternoon: Visit the charming village of Northwest Harbour and the historic Green Gables house.

Evening: Return to the campground for a relaxing evening.

Day 8: Ferry to Newfoundland (St. John’s)

Morning: Take the ferry from Port aux Basques to St. John’s (note: overnight ferry; enjoy the ship’s amenities).

Afternoon: Arrive in St. John’s, set up camp at a provincial campground near the city, and stroll the colorful streets of Jellybean Row.

Evening: Enjoy a dinner of local seafood and a walk up Signal Hill for panoramic city views.

Day 9: St. John’s & Departure

Morning: Visit the iconic Cape Spear, the easternmost point of North America, and the historic Signal Station.

Afternoon: Explore the Room of Wonders at the Newfoundland and Labrador Museum, then begin the drive back toward Ontario.

Evening: Stop for a final dinner in Fredericton, a scenic spot to conclude the road trip.

Time and Cost Estimates

• Halifax Citadel – 2 hrs – $10 (admission)
• Maritime Museum of the Atlantic – 1.5 hrs – $12 (admission)
• Cabot Trail (Ingonish) – 4 hrs – $0 (road)
• Uisge Ban Falls – 1.5 hrs – $0 (trail)
• Hopewell Rocks – 2 hrs – $13 (park entry)
• Confederation Bridge – 15 mins – $1.50 (toll)
• Charlottetown downtown – 2 hrs – $0 (walk)
• PEI National Park – 3 hrs – $9 (park fee)
• Green Gables – 1.5 hrs – $8 (admission)
• Signal Hill – 2 hrs – $8 (cable car)
• Cape Spear – 1.5 hrs – $5 (parking)
• Ferry Port aux Basques to St. John’s – 8 hrs – $200 (vehicle + passengers)
• Provincial campground stays (9 nights) – 9 nights – $135 (average $15/night)
• Fuel (estimated 3500 km) – 3500 km – $500
• Meals (average $25/day) – 9 days – $225

Total Estimated Cost: $1,231.50

Tips

If you need to extend the trip, consider adding an extra day in each province to explore more local attractions such as the Gros Morne National Park in Newfoundland or the Lunenburg World Heritage site in Nova Scotia. To shorten the itinerary, consider skipping the night ferry to Newfoundland and instead take a quick flight from Halifax to St. John’s, which will save travel time but increase airfare costs. Adjust the number of campground nights based on your comfort level—camping at provincial sites keeps costs low while providing scenic surroundings.