During the 19th century, Yarmouth developed into an important shipbuilding center, and its ships could be found in all the major ports of the world. However, as wooden shipbuilding went on the decline by the end of the 19th century, shipbuilders started to invest their money in factories, railways, and iron-hulled steamships.
Today, the small town of Yarmouth, which features a population of around 6,500 people, serves as a port and a shopping and service center for southwestern Nova Scotia. The town boasts a rich cultural heritage, constituted of Mi'kmaq, Acadian, and Gaelic influences, which can be traced in the food, music, and languages of the people in the area. The architecture of the town includes sea captain homes that were built in the 19th century, lofty churches such as the Musee Eglise Sainte-Marie — the largest wooden church in North America — and the famous Cape Forchu Lighthouse.
The area also features several major rivers and over 364 lakes, as well as trails, parks, and beaches where visitors can immerse themselves in the great outdoors. Tourists can also enjoy local festivals, excellent restaurants, art galleries, boat trips, and museums.
When Is the Best Time to Visit Yarmouth, NS?
Despite the fact that Yarmouth is on the coast, it features a humid continental, rather than a maritime, climate. However, the winter and summer temperature extremes that are typical of continental weather are moderated by the ocean, with temperatures typically ranging from an average low of about 27.4 degrees Fahrenheit in February to an average high of 63.3 degrees in July and August. In general, temperatures seldom drop below 9 degrees or exceed 75 degrees. The area features rain throughout the year, with the highest rainfall taking place from October through February. The months that are the driest are May, July, and September.
If you want to make use of the beautiful trails, parks, and waters of the area, the best time to visit Yarmouth is from early July to early September when the average temperature ranges from 63.3 degrees in July to 58.9 degrees in September. During these months visitors can enjoy a wealth of festivals and events, such as the Maritime Festival that takes place in early September along the historic South Quay of Yarmouth and features street theater, folk music, arts and crafts, and lots of free activities.
As the temperatures are a bit higher during these months, this is the most humid period of the year in Yarmouth. These are also the months that see the most tourists, which means that hotel accommodation prices are at their peak — you may need to book in advance to secure lodging.
The winter months in Yarmouth are cold and rainy, with temperatures ranging from an average of 34.6 degrees in December to 27.4 degrees in February. With the winter months also comes snowfall and stronger winds, which, together with the rain and lower temperatures, make for rather unpleasant weather. However, as these months are also the least popular with tourists, you are bound to find excellent accommodation rates during this time.
Tourism is also slow during the fall, that is, late September through November, so prices are also attractive during this period. Although temperatures start falling during this time, ranging from around 50 to 60 degrees, these months are not so rainy and windy, so you may want to visit the area then.
Below is a chart of the current pricing seasonality of hotels and motels in Yarmouth, NS:
Yarmouth, NS: Prices by Star Rating Class
Below we've posted 3 graphs illustrating avg. price patterns by star rating class in Yarmouth, NS. Browse these charts to determine the best time period to make a reservation in Yarmouth for any future trips.
Where Are Luxury Hotel Options in Yarmouth, NS?
Take a 40-minute drive out of Yarmouth to Trout Point Lodge of Nova Scotia if you want to stay in luxury lodgings. Trout Point Lodge, which is located on the banks of the Tusket River in East Kempville, is a luxury wilderness resort that offers spacious and upscale suites and cottages. On the premises is the Main Lodge, which is a three-story structure that features a mezzanine library, two bars, dining rooms, and recreational facilities. The suites in the Main Lodge boast eclectic decor, local Acadian handmade furniture, hand-cut stone fireplaces, porches or patios, and Frette linen.
Guests can also opt to stay in one of the two-bedroom Black Bear Cottages, located on East Meadow Lake. These cottages offer a full kitchen, a comfortable living area, a wood-burning fireplace, two spacious bedrooms with handcrafted furniture, a barbecue, a deck, and a sun porch. Apart from the luxurious accommodation, Trout Point Lodge also offers fine dining, cookery courses, stargazing, canoeing and kayaking, hiking trails, geo-tours, and an outdoor barrel sauna.
What Are Some Budget-Friendly Hotels in Yarmouth, NS?
If you're looking for affordable accommodation rates in Yarmouth, Comfort Inn, which is a five-minute walk away from Yarmouth Mall and about an 11-minute walk from Mariners Center, is a great option. At a very affordable rate, you'll get a clean and air-conditioned room with an LCD TV, a safe, and a desk, as well as a complimentary full breakfast. Amenities include Wi-Fi, which is available at a surcharge, a business center, free self-parking, and a 24-hour front desk. Pets are also allowed at a nominal daily rate.
Another venue that offers super-affordable rates, is El Rancho Motel in Yarmouth, which is located about a five-minute drive from Yarmouth Mall and about 2.8 miles from Mariners Center. El Rancho Motel is also in close proximity to Lake Milo, which means that guests have easy access to water sports like windsurfing, snorkeling, and canoeing. The rooms at the motel are air-conditioned and feature balconies, desks, free Wi-Fi, and flat-screen TVs. Amenities include an outdoor and indoor pool, as well as a picnic area and barbecue grills.