Braden Lam’s Guide to the Perfect Halifax Beach Day

Sip on a cappuccino made by Mr. Morley himself if you're lucky and snag a new book or used record for later.

The city's most crushable breakfast sandwich.

Underrated gem in downtown Dartmouth for all ages. Open Saturdays and Sundays. The touch tank is the highlight for me! Get up close with some stunning sea creatures, arm yourself with knowledge, and feel inspired to protect our precious oceans.

Pack your lunch, we're going to the beach! I'm not ashamed to admit I eat here probably more than once a week. Meatball sub with the crunchy wedge salad has been my fave lately!

Every time I travel to other cities I regain my appreciation for how many incredible beaches we have so close to the city. Rainbow Haven is my go-to for a quick getaway to what feels like a faraway land. The moment I step onto the boardwalk and hear the grass dancing on the sand dunes my heart rate lowers. You can float out super far into the water and still touch there so I highly recommend bringing along a frisbee or volleyball.

This place deserves many Michelin stars in my books. Serene back patio to enjoy a steak paired with the cheese spätzle and a rotation of creative cocktails.

Keep the patio party rolling. Meet up with some friends for a nightcap of the Milk Punch, oysters, and olives. You can thank me later.

Grab an early coffee for the journey ahead. Your new bestie and fave local artist is probably your barista!

Pastries are my fave food group. Savoury or sweet. You can have it all.

It ain't a day on the South Shore without finding a new ’70s fit, a painting for the wall, or a trinket for the shelf.

This precious time capsule appears out of nowhere in West Dublin and the delicious sandwich on your plate will disappear just as quickly. Also a great time for a second coffee.

White sand for days! Water tends to be more chilly than the Eastern Shore but take a stroll down to where Petite Rivière flows into the ocean for a float. Check the OCEARCH Global Shark Tracker app for any nearby sharks; they all have names and stats that help me feel less apprehensive towards these misunderstood giants, which are critical to our local marine ecosystems. If you have more time to kill check back in to Ploughman's for an afternoon affogato then park at Crescent Beach nearby with a book.

Nothing says Nova Scotia more, or tastes I should say, than objectively the best restaurant in the city. No resos because we like the pace of things a bit slower around here so order a hot toddy while you wait in the lobby. Dutch Mess or Chicken Fricot for your main and make sure to leave room to share a sticky toffee pudding for dessert.