U-pick operations are a great opportunity to harvest your own fresh fruit and experience just a little taste of life on the farm, while learning about the work that goes into growing those vine-ripened treats.

Juicy, ripe strawberries, available each June and July, are a favourite and a local specialty.

Depending on the season, cranberries, raspberries and blueberries are also available.

For more information, ask at a local visitor information centre and roadside markets for directions to U-picks, farms and wineries that offer the pick-your-own option.

And, thanks to the efforts of the Kingsburg Coastal Conservancy, the natural beauty that marks Gaff Point and Hirtles Beach in Kingsburg will be preserved for future public use.

Whether you’re inclined to go for a quick surf or swim in the refreshing tidal waters of the North Atlantic, or if your eye is on a rigorous, invigorating climb along the cliffs at Gaff Point, it’s all there for you to take advantage of.

An inspiration to both artists and athletes, the Hirtles Beach and Gaff Point area is a must-see for visitors to the South Shore and locals alike.

The South Shore Regional Library, in fact, has a staff of more than 30 skilled individuals and services in three towns — Bridgewater, Lunenburg and Liverpool — plus two mobile branches that serve both Lunenburg and Queens counties.

Today, farm markets throughout the region offer a wide variety of fresh fruits, vegetables, grocery items, baked goods and crafts.

Many roadside markets are independently operated by local farming families and are open seven days a week during the height of the growing season.

Some streets and communities are lined with specialty stores, while others cater to those hunting for big box brands.

Whatever your fancy, whether looking for the traditional or nouveau, the ordinary or the extraordinary, you’ll be sure to find something you just can’t put down.

The Nova Scotia Drag Racers Association runs four different classes of vehicles in competition at Greenfield, including Super Pro, Pro, Sportsman and Bike and Sled, attracting racers from throughout the Atlantic region and, in many cases, from far beyond.

The last race of the 2006 season drew more than 230 vehicles to the competition and, according to officials, it’s not at all uncommon for crowds of between 800 and 1,200 spectators to show up and cheer on their favourite racers.

There are five races planned for the 2007 season, including the season-ending finale scheduled for September 22 and 23.

Big Tancook, home to a little over 100 full-time residents, offers a venerable paradise, complete with a museum and a tasty eatery. The island is also home to Tancook Island School.

Although known in modern times for its ocean-borne industry, when the island was first settled by European families in 1829, those early settlers were engaged primarily in agriculture.

Little Tancook Island, also accessible via the ferry from Chester, is home to roughly 35 residents, and also maintains a close connection to the brine stew that surrounds the isle.

Both islands would make for an ideal day-trip destination.

In November of 2001, Lunenburg artisan Laurie Huck was commissioned by the Town of Lunenburg to craft a series of metal fish and other marine life to replace aging flower baskets.

The unique array of fishy designs subsequently found their way to the midpoints of utility and light poles throughout the town, bringing yet another creative and colourful accent to the community.

In addition to her creative craftwork that is enjoyed by the Lunenburg townsfolk and visitors alike, Ms Huck’s talents have also caught the eyes of some rather famous international art aficionados, including actor Beau Bridges, who commissioned Ms Huck to produce three aluminum mermaids for his Hawaiian home in 2000.

Some of the best waves occur during the hurricane season, which stretches from June to November. Waves can range in size from knee-high wee ones to literally metres overhead.

For the best waves, check out Hirtles Beach, near Kingsburg, and Cherry Hill Beach, near Voglers Cove.