Kennington Cove Beaches - Fortress of Louisbourg National Historic Site

Highlights

Note: Due to COVID-19, the visitor experience at Parks Canada places will be different than it has been in the past. The health and safety of visitors, employees and all Canadians is of the utmost importance.

Parks Canada is asking visitors to comply with recommendations from Nova Scotia public health authorities by wearing a mask in indoor public spaces, and by respecting recommended social distancing measures at all times.

Parks Canada’s network of protected places is large and diverse. Visitor access, services, and even opening dates may vary across Cape Breton Island and Canso depending on local circumstances. Please visit pc.gc.ca/ns and follow Parks Canada’s social media channels for information and updates on the status of all Parks Canada places.

Overview

Discover two pristine, sandy beaches at the secluded Kennington and Anson’s Coves. Beautiful coastal scenery and outdoor experiences invite you to spend the day on the doorstep of the Atlantic Ocean. Walk this shoreline steeped in 300 years of history or get refreshed with a swim in the rolling waves. Enjoy family fun building sandcastles and splashing in the freshwater brook, and keep your eyes peeled for seals bobbing off the coast. These beaches are popular with locals and visitors alike during the warmest days of summer and fall. Visit in the early morning or late afternoon for a quiet and rejuvenating experience. Visit http://louisbourg.ca/ for annual special events organized by the community of Louisbourg. 

A must-visit place for history buffs, the first beach is where James Wolfe landed in 1758, marking a pivotal event in the Seven Years War and the beginning of the second siege of Louisbourg. This event is commemorated with its own national historic site designation. 

Geocaching enthusiasts and those who want to learn more about the natural history of the area should investigate the Earth Cache located at Kennington Cove. This digital treasure hunt reveals information about unique geologic features. 

To access this coastal gem, drive along Kennington Cove Road, past the Fortress of Louisbourg National Historic Site. The first beach is Kennington Cove. The second beach found at the end of the road is called Anson’s Cove. There are a limited number of parking spaces available at each beach. A short walk through the woods is required to access Anson’s Cove. 

Rip tides are known to occur at both beaches. Therefore, caution should be used at all times, especially when swimming. Users of the beaches and facilities do so at their own risk. Cell service is unreliable in this area. Pit privies and picnic tables are available. Dogs and other pets must be kept on leash at all times, We thank you for picking up after your pet and disposing of droppings in the proper refuse containers. 

#KeepitWild

Please be responsible and join with us in caring for our environment. Take your garbage with you, keep wildlife at a safe distance, and stay on designated trails to protect fragile plant life. 

Nature, other visitors, and future generations will be thankful for your stewardship.