Port Hawkesbury lies on the north side of the Canso Strait, and is a few kilometers east of Port Hastings and the Canso Causeway. Port Hawbury is on the Trans-Canada Hihgway #104 which continues from Port Hastings northeast to St Peter’s.
Port Hawkesbury lies on the north side of the Canso Strait, and is a few kilometers east of Port Hastings and the Canso Causeway. Port Hawbury is on the Trans-Canada Hihgway #104 which continues from Port Hastings northeast to St Peter’s.
Originally inhabited by the Mi’kmaq people, who fished, hunted, and gathered in the area. They were joined by European settlers coming in th1700s. The settlement was originally known as Ship Harbour and later renamed Port Hawkesbury after Charles Jenkinson, the 1st Earl of Liverpool, who was known as Lord Hawkesbury. Over the 1800s, Port Hawkesbury grew as an important trading and transportation hub on the Strait of Canso. The town also was an important center for shipbuilding, fishing, and trade.
The construction of the Intercolonial Railway in the late 1800s further boosted Port Hawkesbury’s significance as a transportation hub which drove economic expansion in Port Hawkesbury. The town developed industries such as lumber, coal, and gypsum mining, which contributed to its economic growth. Port Hawkesbury was officially incorporated as a town in 1889.
In 1955, the Canso Causeway connected Cape Breton Island to mainland Nova Scotia, replacing the ferry service to the mainland, and made travel more efficient and reliable. Port Hawkesbury experienced an economic boom and attracted various industries and businesses.
In the 1960s, a heavy water plant was established in Port Hawkesbury as part of Canada’s nuclear energy program. Although the plant was eventually closed, it played a significant role in the town’s industrial history.
The establishment of the Stora Enso (now Port Hawkesbury Paper) mill in the late 1900s became a cornerstone of the local economy. The paper mill is one of the largest employers in the region and a major producer of supercalendered paper.
Port Hawkesbury also has a number of wind turbines atop Tupper Ridge.
10107 Grenville St, St. Peter’s, NS B0E 3B0
902-535-3094
Website
This provincial park offers camping, hiking, and picnicking opportunities with scenic views of St. Peter’s Canal and Bras d’Or Lake. It’s a great place for outdoor enthusiasts.
Route 19, Louisdale, NS B0E 1V0
Located a short drive from Port Hawkesbury, this lighthouse offers picturesque views of the coastline and the Strait of Canso. It’s a scenic spot for photography and picnics.
5473 Highway 19, Judique, NS B0E 1P0
902-787-2708
Website
Located in Judique, a short drive from Port Hawkesbury, this centre celebrates the rich Celtic music heritage of Cape Breton. It features live music performances, interactive exhibits, and music workshops.
2750 West Bay Rd, West Bay, NS B0E 3K0
902-345-2649
Website
Located a short drive from Port Hawkesbury, this resort offers a range of activities, including an 18-hole golf course, swimming, boating, and dining. It’s perfect for a relaxing getaway or a day trip.
63 Granville St, Port Hawkesbury, NS B9A 2G9
902-625-4677
Website
This community theatre hosts a variety of performances, including plays, concerts, and dance shows. It is a cultural hub for the town, supporting local and regional artists.
Granville Street, Port Hawkesbury, NS B9A 2G7
902-625-7891
Website
This popular summer concert series takes place at the Granville Green, offering free live music performances by local and visiting artists. It’s a family-friendly event that draws both locals and tourists.
708 Highway 320, Arichat, NS B0E 1A0
902-226-9364
Website
Situated on Isle Madame, this museum is housed in a restored 18th-century forge. It offers insights into the island’s history, including its Acadian and industrial heritage.
105 Henry St, St. Peter’s, NS B0E 3B0
902-535-3195
Website
This museum is dedicated to the life and work of renowned photographer Wallace MacAskill. It features a collection of his photographs, showcasing the maritime heritage of Nova Scotia.
57 Dennis Dr, Mulgrave, NS B0E 2G0
902-747-3333
Website
This theatre company produces and presents a variety of plays and performances. It is known for its focus on Atlantic Canadian stories and community engagement in the arts.
330 Main St, St. Peter’s, NS B0E 3B0
902-535-3300
Website
Located in St. Peter’s, this museum is dedicated to the history of Nicholas Denys, a French explorer and colonizer. The museum offers exhibits on local history, including Denys’ contributions to the region.
1 Heritage Rd, Point Tupper, NS B9A 1Z7
Website
This heritage site includes a historic church that reflects the region’s architectural and religious history. It’s a quiet spot for visitors interested in local history and architecture.
606 Reeves St, Port Hawkesbury, NS B9A 2R7
(Adjacent to the Trans-Canada Highway)
902-625-2591
Website
The Civic Centre is a modern multi-purpose facility that hosts various events, including concerts, trade shows, sports events, and community activities. It features an arena, fitness centre, and meeting rooms, making it a hub for both recreational and cultural activities.
24 Embree St, Port Hawkesbury, NS B9A 2R8
902-625-2591
Website
This community park offers a range of recreational facilities, including walking trails, sports fields, and playgrounds. It’s a great place for families and individuals to enjoy outdoor activities and relaxation.
11 MacSween St, Port Hawkesbury, NS B9A 2A3
902-625-1956
Website
The museum showcases the history and heritage of Port Hawkesbury and the surrounding area. Exhibits include artifacts, photographs, and documents that highlight the town’s development and cultural heritage.
7 Paint St, Port Hawkesbury, NS B9A 3J9
902-625-0200
Website
The marina offers docking facilities for boats and yachts, along with amenities such as showers, laundry, and a clubhouse. It’s a great starting point for exploring the Strait of Canso by water.
Granville St, Port Hawkesbury, NS B9A 2G7
902-625-2591
Website: Port Hawkesbury Waterfront
The waterfront area features a boardwalk with scenic views of the Strait of Canso. It’s a popular spot for walking, picnicking, and enjoying the maritime atmosphere. The waterfront also hosts seasonal markets and community events.
327 Reeves St, Port Hawkesbury, NS B9A 2R7
902-625-2591
Website: N/A
This small park provides a tranquil setting with views of the Strait of Canso. It features a memorial dedicated to sailors and is a nice spot for relaxation and contemplation.
MacSween St, Port Hawkesbury, NS B9A 2J7
This memorial park honors Sgt. Donald A. MacLean, a local hero. It features a commemorative plaque and a peaceful setting for reflection. The park is also a pleasant spot for a leisurely
