Port Hawkesbury is located on the southwestern end of Cape Breton Island, on the north shore of the Strait of Canso, in the Canadian province of Nova Scotia. Port Hawkesbury is a major commercial and recreation centre located on the shores of the Strait of Canso.
Year-round services include accommodations, banks, restaurants, shopping malls, liquor store and museums. Swimming, tennis, golfing, hiking, sailing, kayaking are all within easy access. The Creamery Craftfair, located on the waterfront, offers arts and crafts, displays, and internet access. The Festival of the Strait is a week long celebration held at the beginning of July with many activities that may include sailing and canoe races, outdoor concerts, dances and craft shows.