Independent and unhurried.
As an independent practice, we set our own pace. Allow yourself at least an hour for your visit — sometimes two.
Comprehensive Eye Exams
Thorough. Never rushed. Your personal eye exam, in downtown Halifax.
What to Expect
A comprehensive eye exam isn't just a prescription check. We take the time to look at the full picture — eye pressure, alignment, the retina, the optic nerve, and the early signs of conditions like glaucoma, cataracts, and dry eye.
A conversation first.
We'll talk through what's been going on — anything you've noticed in your vision, any history that matters, what you do day-to-day with your eyes.
Then the exam itself.
Vision and prescription, of course. But also eye pressure, alignment, eye movements, the surface of the eye, the retina, and the optic nerve. Screening for glaucoma, cataracts, macular degeneration, and dry eye is part of every exam — not an extra.
Then what it all means.
We'll walk you through what we found, what it means for you, and what (if anything) to do next — eyewear, contact lenses, treatment, follow-up, or simply see you next year.
Why Ocean Optometry?
Small team. Real focus. Eyewear worth the trip.
The same faces, every visit.
A small team means we know your history without having to look it up. You'll get to know our small crew — and they'll get to know you.
Real depth where it matters.
Dry eye, myopia control, Neurolens, specialty contact lenses — we have the equipment, time, and focused expertise to do it properly.
Eyewear worth the trip.
Our in-house collection is hand-curated from independent designers and small-batch makers — frames you won't find anywhere else in Nova Scotia.
Ready to step into Ocean?
Meet our Team
We're a small team of qualified and experienced optometrists and opticians who are passionate about eye care. We will listen to your concerns, answer your questions, and take the time to explain everything clearly.
Have Questions?
We're here to answer any questions you have before, during or after your eye exam.
Yes. Dr. McGinty and Dr. Brooking both have a particular interest in pediatric eye care. For children whose prescription is changing quickly, our myopia control program offers treatment options to slow the progression of nearsightedness — a meaningful difference for vision later in life.
For most adults, every two years. For children, adults 65 and over, and anyone managing a condition like diabetes or glaucoma, annually — or as recommended.
Plan to give yourself an hour to two. That's the time it takes to do this properly — and to look at anything specific without rushing on to the next appointment.
Current fee for our private exam is $218
MSI covers eye exams for children under 10, adults 65 and over, and patients with certain medical conditions. For everyone else, we direct bill most private insurance providers.
Your current glasses or contacts, a list of any medications you're taking, and your insurance details if you're using coverage. If you've had eye tests elsewhere recently, bringing those notes is useful too.