Point Pleasant Park is a 75-hectare green oasis at the southern tip of Halifax. It’s known for its seaside trails, historic fortifications, off-leash dog areas, and stunning harbour views. You’ll find beaches, picnic spots, memorials, and the Prince of Wales Tower, the oldest Martello tower in North America.
Getting There
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By Car: Parking lots at Tower Road (upper lot) and Point Pleasant Drive (lower lot). Lower lot closes at 10 pm; the upper lot has no gates.
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By Transit: Several Halifax Transit routes stop near Tower Road and South End; from there, it’s a short walk.
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On Foot / Bike: About a 20–30 min walk from downtown Halifax or the Seaport. Cycling is allowed only on designated routes.
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By Taxi: Quick ride from downtown or cruise terminal.
You can check the Translink Website for the current Skytrain schedules.
Hours & Facilities
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Hours: 5:00 am – 12:00 midnight daily.
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Admission: Free.
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Facilities: Washrooms, picnic tables, benches, interpretive panels, and seasonal performances (e.g., Shakespeare by the Sea).
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Accessibility: Main paths are wide and accessible; some trails have uneven terrain.
Rules & Guidelines
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Dogs: Off-leash allowed throughout most of the park. Exceptions:
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Sailors Memorial Way (no dogs after 10 am).
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Cambridge Drive and all parking lots (leash required).
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No open fires, BBQs, or camping.
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Cycling: Only on designated routes (Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays on some trails).
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Respect wildlife, signage, and burn/fire bans.
Highlights & Things to See
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Prince of Wales Tower: Built in 1796, the oldest Martello tower in North America.
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Historic Batteries & Monuments: Cambridge Battery, Chain Rock Battery, and memorials scattered throughout.
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Black Rock Beach: Small rocky beach with great ocean views (unsupervised swimming).
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Sailors Memorial Way: Scenic coastal path with benches and memorials.
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Forested Trails: Kilometres of wooded trails perfect for walking, jogging, or winter snowshoeing.
Suggested Self-Guided Route (1.5–2 hours)
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Start at the Tower Road entrance (upper lot) and grab a map.
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Visit the Prince of Wales Tower and viewpoints.
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Follow the shoreline trail to the Cambridge Battery – summer stage area.
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Stop at Black Rock Beach for photos or a break.
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Continue along Sailors Memorial Way to see coastal views and memorials.
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Loop back through wooded interior trails toward Tower Road or exit at the lower lot.
Tips for Visitors
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Best times: Morning or late afternoon for quiet walks and beautiful light.
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Photography: Harbour views and historic ruins are excellent subjects.
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Bring water & wear good shoes: Trails can be long, and some uneven.
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Dog owners: Check signage at entrances for updated leash/off-leash rules.
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Events: Look out for Shakespeare by the Sea performances in summer.
Nearby
Point Pleasant is close to downtown Halifax, making it easy to pair with:
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Halifax Seaport (cafés, market, and boardwalk).
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Halifax Public Gardens or Citadel Hill for more outdoor and heritage stops.
Final Note
Point Pleasant Park blends natural beauty, history, and recreation. It’s free, central, and rewarding whether you want a short stroll, a seaside picnic, or a full afternoon exploring Halifax’s coastal history.