Dots & Loops combine everything that I love about Inkwell, the Independent Mercantile and Duly…read moreNoted into one beautiful shop. I've only actually been once, but it was enough to make me swoon. I mean...I've been following them on social media for ages and have drooled over their photos, but now that I've been inside, yep, it's love. I love that just about everything in the shop is made in Canada, and there is so much love for local Nova Scotian artists too! I could have bought a car full of goodies - Rifle Paper Co journals? Adorable prints? Jewellery dishes shaped like woodland animals? And then the jewellery itself that is just so gorgeous, it's hard not to want a little bit of everything. The store is packed full of goodies in every space available, but it doesn't feel cramped or crowded. The set up is perfect for browsing in a crowd (even though I was there in the off-season). I can't say enough about this charming shop! I can't wait to go back.

Just. YES. After a…read moreday of shopping the south shore, inundated by stereotypical 'maritime' crap that I just can't get down with, I almost let out an audible cry of happiness when I walked into this brand new addition to the Lunenburg scene. The modern, open and bright space really let the products on the shelves shine rather than forcing customers into an awkward stumble through overpacked aisles of random nick-knacks. Within seconds of seeing all the inspiring and adorable prints, handmade pillows and stuffed toys, quirky greeting cards and stationery, and tons more, I knew I was in trouble. Much like a similar store in Halifax (Love, Me Boutique), I just wanted it all. And that's okay...because every purchase helps support a legitimate local artist or crafter which makes me feel MUCH better about gift-giving than just picking up your average mass-produced 'Authentic Nova Scotian' anything. Besides, there were so many great products available for less than $20 which makes it easy to do some damage without having to hate yourself for it later. I will absolutely be back. Hopefully soon and often.

Another appealing gift shop along Water Street, Marshalls is a bit larger than the others and sells…read morea greater variety of goods. Lots of Canada and Nova Scotia souvenirs, local products and some clothing item that drew our attention. We liked a certain hoodie but wanted a different "graphic" emblazoned across the front (one that read "Digby: World Famous Scallopsl"). No problem; we waited about 15 minutes while our helper did a neat heat transfer. The result was exactly what we wanted. And the shop can take any size hoodie or sweatshirt you desire and put any graphic you prefer on it. It's a neat thing for families.

This is one of the nicer arts and craft stores in Mahone Bay. There are some local and area…read moreartists who sell their wares here. The shop is centrally located in the town.

Lovely shop with a smart line of women's clothing, handbags, jewelry and locally made crafts and…read morewind chimes. The store is large. Parking is always an issue in this beautiful historic village, but this shop is near the city lot on the waterfront where public bathrooms are also available.

What caught my eye for this place was the little knight standing right outside. I was a little…read moredisappointed that there weren't more fantastical items, it was mostly touristy things. I was kind of expecting a store similar to Little Mysteries before I walked in. The items they did have were nice and they also sold swords (yes, swords with dragons on them).

This really is the strangest little shop on the South Shore…read more.. Nestled in on a street of mostly predictable purchases for the area-nautical this, tartan that-Bluestone is three-quarters maritime souvenirs, one-quarter mystical, magical, fantasy collectibles. And I don't just mean pictures of Stonehenge here, people. We're talking sexy witch figurines complete with clear sight-lines up their skirts, swords and daggers, and all kinds of things ranging from legit pagan books, to Dungeons & Dragons decor. Now, just because there's a solid representation of other-worldly stuff, that's not to say they don't have a really good handle on your typical tourist souvenirs. There's all kinds of east coast must-haves like lighthouses, seagulls, seashells, fishing ropes and nets, postcards, books, keychains, shot glasses, and the whole lot. Strange? Sure. But all in all, an easy place to do your necessary gift shopping for the folks back home. Including that awkward nephew who spends too much time in the basement.

Again, still a sucker for hand made products. Lots of beautiful ornaments, and souvenirs to take…read morehome from your trip to Halifax. Have to say, I'm taking stuff back with me.

If you don't book the tour online prior to your visit you miss the commentary and walk through even…read moreif you pay the $15/person and you cannot join tour. The manager told me that the tour was private. I asked a sales associate how we sign up for a private tour and she said that is what we paid for--the $60. Taz who did the pewter demonstrations was great but her great service was overshadowed by the manager leading to a 2 star review.

I've been going to Wile's since I can remember. It was a traditional stop for my family on our…read moreweekly drives to and from our cottage every summer. And now that I have a family of my own, it's a traditional stop for my husband and I (and ALL of our friends!). This market started off as a produce market, selling fruit and veggies from the Wile's farm, and a bakery. Eventually the shop started to expand to include not only the bakery, but also other local produce, a huge garden centre and a gift shop. They've also recently added an area with "comfort food to go". All the recipes used in the bakery are just the same now as they were when the place opened in 1985! And they're FANTASTIC! They're baking from the time they open in the morning until it's all gone in the evening. Everything is delicious, and made in-house - you can even look through the window and see into the kitchen where they're baking up new treats! We love stopping by on the way to the cottage to grab all our fresh fruits, veggies and baked goods. The ladies that work the cash are so helpful, kind and funny. They always remember a face (maybe not your name though!). Stop by Wile's next time you're on your way to Keji (it's on the route, just past exit 13!) or if you're in that end of the province and grab some of their delicious white,brown or raisin bread or a fantastic molasses cookie or freshly baked pie. You will NOT be disappointed!

This is a great farm market, with a good selection of apples. I usually buy my plants here in the…read morespring, they have an enormous selection of flower, vegetables, herbs, fruits, and trees! The staff is friendly and knowledgable. They also have a nice little section of gifts, as well as ice cream in the summer. They are open from April to October, I believe.

A great selection of everything for your yard or inside your house. Cool selection of funny…read moregreeting cards and other lawn ornaments. There is even a cafe inside.

From the owner: Landscape design, Plants, Gardening Advice, Christmas decor,/Wreaths, unique plants, outdoor…read moreliving, gift shop, Custom Planters. Stems Cafe

What a terrific selection of artistic handmade items. The shop itself is a site to visit...right…read moreon the water ot Big Tancook Island. Lovely Angela will greet you and tell you about the art work she has collected and answer any questions. The special treat you get at her shop is to visit with RUBY the pot bellied pig....black, cute, loveable, comes with a pink bow and loves her belly scratched. Has a piggy door to her little yard....Angela just opened this wondrous place two months ago and coming from Arizona, in the U.S. it was a welcome stop on our visit to Nova Scotia. FIVE STARS FOR ANGELA and RUBY!!

I visited Lunenburg last fall and happened to walk in here thinking it would be a good place to buy…read moresome post cards for loved ones back home in Ontario. This place is a bit of a rummagey mess. It is filled to the brim with bad quality, cheesy trinkets. I suppose this isn't unusual for a touristy place such as Lunenburg. The real reason I'm writing this review is because this older man on staff, whom I can only describe as a condescending, kept trying to pressure me into buying something! ugh! If you are looking for something cute from Nova Scotia wander a couple streets up. There are some nice and unique stores with reasonable prices in that direction.

A beautiful little shop in a great little shopping area…read more It's a cozy spot filled with just about all the local Nova Scotian flavour you could hope for. Everything from birdhouses to geo-caching containers. It's got it all, something to bring home from your visit, or to add to your home. The prices are slightly touristy. The woman running the shop is delightful and was incredibly helpful. It's situated within an old container, which I think is just awesome. This shop, and all of the hidden gems on the wharf are a must see.

Creative ideas and awesome selection. We go to Shore Things when we are looking for something new…read moreto decorate with that has an authentic Nova Scotia feel. If you are looking for something that is high quality and original, Shore Things is the place to go!