Grand Lake is located in the eastern quarters of Halifax County, along a lake of the same name, and is just 44.2 km (27.5 mi.) from Halifax. Originally, the Mi'kmaq used Grand Lake as an overland waterway, and called the land Tuludagik, which means "camping ground." The Kenty family, in the early 1800s, received a land grant in the Grand Lake area, and with the land came a saw mill. The total area of the land they received was 2,265 acres. Today, Grand Lake is a tourism attraction, and due to its close proximity to the Halifax/Dartmouth area and International Airport, Grand Lake is a convenient destination.

Just outside of Grand Lake is the Laurie Provincial Park, which boosts 60 acres of natural beauty, and offers various activities such as swimming, walking its tranquil trails, picnicking, camping and more. Also in nearby Grand Lake is the Oakfield Golf and Country Club, ranked one of the best courses in Nova Scotia, this course is 18-holes of world class golf. The Oakfield Provincial Park offers a small beach, boat launch, picnic areas, the Shubenacadie Grand Lake and trails.

Grand Lake accommodations include campgrounds.