Some places are so well known you think you’ve already seen them—until you stand there in person and realize nothing compares to being there. Peggy’s Cove is one of those places.

The world-famous lighthouse sits perched on ancient granite, surrounded by waves that crash and whisper depending on the day’s mood. I wandered over the rocks, camera in hand, letting the salt air and sound of the sea guide me. There’s something timeless about that little white tower—whether it’s bathed in golden light or standing stoic under a moody sky, it has a way of making you pause and just take it in.

From there, I explored the quiet charm of Indian Harbour. It’s a place where life seems to slow down, the kind of community where you can smell the ocean before you see it. That’s where I met Peter. He welcomed me into his home on the water, sharing stories of his life—tales of faraway mountains, storms weathered, and the joy of simply being present. I took a few portraits of him in his element, the backdrop of the sea telling as much of his story as his words did.

A short drive away, I found myself at Polly’s Cove, a spot that feels like a secret even though it’s just over the hill from Peggy’s. The landscape here is wilder—open stretches of rock and sea, perfect for quiet reflection or simply breathing in the Atlantic air. Along the way, a few birds crossed my path—small moments of life that always make me stop and click, a reminder that beauty isn’t only in the big landmarks, but also in the fleeting, feathered visitors that share the coastline.

By the time I packed up my gear, the light had shifted and the tide had rolled in a little further. My memory card was full, but more importantly, so was my heart. These places—famous or tucked away—hold a kind of magic that makes you want to return, camera ready, to see what stories the next day will tell.