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    Bay of Fundy

    Canada

    Bay of Fundy

    Region

    The Bay of Fundy between New Brunswick and Nova Scotia has the world's highest tides: The water rises and falls by up to 16 meters, twice daily.

    by Felix Gillen

    1. Home
    2. Destinations
    3. Canada
    4. Bay of Fundy
    The Bay of Fundy between New Brunswick and Nova Scotia has the world's highest tides: The water rises and falls by up to 16 meters, twice daily. At the Hopewell Rocks, you can walk across the ocean floor between the rock formations at low tide, and in summer, fin, humpback, and minke whales come to the bay to feed.
    The Bay of Fundy in Canada is known for the world's highest tides, which daily dramatically transform the coastal landscape. Here you can marvel at spectacular rock formations like the Hopewell Rocks in New Brunswick, which emerge from the seafloor at low tide. This unique tidal movement creates a rich ecosystem, ideal for whale watching, featuring humpback, fin, and minke whales. Along the coast you'll find charming fishing villages and the **Fundy National Park** with unspoiled forests and coastal trails. The region is historically shaped by maritime culture and Indigenous peoples. To fully experience the extreme tides, plan your visit around both low and high tide. The best time for whale watching is from June to October.
    Fundy NP

    Place 1 of 2

    Fundy NP

    Immerse yourself in the breathtaking wilderness of Fundy National Park, where the world's highest tides meet rugged coastlines and pristine forests.

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    Hopewell Rocks, New Brunswick

    Place 2 of 2

    Hopewell Rocks, New Brunswick

    These iconic "Flowerpot" rocks are the most spectacular example of the effects of extreme tides and can be walked around at low tide.

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    Sights in Bay of Fundy

    Discover the most important sights and attractions

    Mary Pitcher Falls

    Mary Pitcher Falls

    The Mary Pitcher Falls are an impressive natural phenomenon on the coast of the Bay of Fundy in Canada. Here you'll find a picturesque waterfall that plunges directly into the tidal bay. Its uniqueness lies in the dynamic interaction with the bay's extreme tides, which are among the highest in the world. At low tide, you can often see the full fall, while at high tide, it may be partially covered by seawater. This creates a constantly changing landscape that is worth a visit at any time of day. The surroundings are characterized by rugged cliffs and lush coastal vegetation, making the spot a popular destination for nature photographers. Our Tip: Before your visit, check the tide times to experience the spectacle at different water levels. A walk along the coast at low tide also offers the opportunity to explore the unique rock formations and marine life.
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    Saint Martins

    Saint Martins

    Saint Martins, a picturesque fishing village on Canada's Bay of Fundy, is famed for its dramatic tides and stunning sea cliffs. Here, experience the world's highest tides firsthand: At low tide, walk the ocean floor and explore famous sandstone caves sculpted by water over millennia. These caves are a fascinating natural wonder, offering unique photo opportunities. The village itself boasts a rich history as a shipbuilding center, reflected in its charming architecture. Saint Martins also marks the start of the spectacular Fundy Trail Parkway, offering breathtaking coastal views. Our Tip: Before your visit, be sure to check tide times to access the caves at low tide. For the best photos of the caves and picturesque harbor, we recommend early morning, before most visitors arrive.
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    Walton Glen Observation Deck

    Walton Glen Observation Deck

    The Walton Glen Observation Deck offers a spectacular view of the Walton Glen Gorge, often called the 'Grand Canyon of New Brunswick'. This impressive gorge is a geological marvel, shaped over millennia by erosion, providing deep insights into the region's geological history. From the modern viewing platform, you overlook the deeply carved gorge, the majestic Walton Glen Falls, and the course of the Big Salmon River as it makes its way to the Bay of Fundy. The surrounding wilderness is part of the UNESCO Fundy Biosphere Reserve, highlighting its ecological importance. You reach the deck via the Fundy Trail Parkway, a picturesque coastal road that is an experience in itself. Our Tip: Visit the deck in spring, when the waterfalls are most impressive due to snowmelt, or in autumn to experience the vibrant colors of the deciduous forest. For the best photos, early morning is recommended to enjoy the soft light and fewer visitors.
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    Walton Glen Gorge Falls

    Walton Glen Gorge Falls

    The Walton Glen Gorge Falls, often called the 'Grand Canyon of New Brunswick', are an impressive natural phenomenon on the Bay of Fundy in Canada. This deep gorge was carved by erosion over millions of years and is home to several spectacular waterfalls. Here you'll experience untouched wilderness and unique geological formations, bearing witness to Earth's history. Access is challenging, requiring good physical condition and appropriate equipment. You reach the gorge via the Fundy Footpath, one of North America's most demanding hiking trails. One access point is the Big Salmon River Suspension Bridge. Alternatively, there's the 'Eye of the Needle' path, though it's recommended only for experienced hikers at low tide. The best time to visit is from early summer to autumn, when the trails are dry. For breathtaking photos of the gorge and falls, the viewpoint at the end of the Walton Glen Gorge Trail is recommended. Allow ample time and inquire about trail conditions beforehand, as the area is remote.
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    Parlee Brook Falls

    Parlee Brook Falls

    The Parlee Brook Falls are a remarkable natural destination in the Bay of Fundy region, Canada. You reach them via a picturesque, moderately challenging hiking trail through dense forests. The falls cascade over several tiers, offering a different appearance depending on the season. Their geological formation is typical of the landscape shaped by the Bay of Fundy's enormous tidal forces.The falls are particularly spectacular in spring, when snowmelt intensifies the water flow. In winter, the surroundings transform into a fascinating realm of ice and snow, often forming impressive ice caves. These can be explored with appropriate gear, revealing unique photo opportunities.Our Tip: Visit Parlee Brook Falls ideally in spring for the fullest water flow. Good preparation is essential for exploring the ice caves in winter. Wear sturdy footwear and start early to enjoy the undisturbed tranquility of nature and capture the best lighting for photos.
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    Dining & Drinks

    Westview Fisheries

    Restaurant in St. Martins.
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    Multi Menu Sussex

    Restaurant in Valleyview Dr.
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    Kolody's Perogies and Pizza

    Restaurant in 2551 NB-111.
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    Adair's Wilderness Lodge

    Restaurant in 900 Creek Rd.
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    Food & Drink

    The cuisine at the Bay of Fundy is maritime and down-to-earth.

    Lobster

    In Alma, harbour fish shops sell freshly cooked lobster to enjoy right by the water.

    Scallops from Digby

    Digby scallops from the Nova Scotia side are considered particularly large and sweet.

    Dulse

    The dried red algae is primarily harvested on Grand Manan and sold as a salty snack – a regional specialty.

    Best Time to Visit

    When is the best time for your trip?

    June
    July
    August
    September
    14–19°C
    From June to September, all facilities at the Hopewell Rocks and in the National Park are open. The tides are spectacular year-round, but many visitor centers close in winter. In early summer, fog is common along the coast.
    Monthly average temperatures for Moncton. The tides in the bay reach a tidal range of up to 16 m.

    Seasons

    Jan
    Feb
    Mar
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    May
    Jun
    Jul
    Aug
    Sep
    Oct
    Nov
    Dec
    High season
    Low season
    Quiet Time
    Best Time to Visit
    ▶Show detailed monthly data
    MonthTemp (°C)
    January-8.0
    February-7.0
    March-2.0
    April4.0
    May10.0
    June15.0
    July19.0
    August19.0
    September14.0
    October8.0
    November2.0
    December-4.0

    Culture, Art & History of the Bay of Fundy

    The Bay of Fundy is not only a natural wonder but also a place of profound cultural and historical significance. Its coasts tell stories of millennia of Indigenous settlement, beginning with the Mi'kmaq, whose heritage is inextricably linked to the land and the tides. Their oral traditions and deep connection to nature continue to shape the region today.Later, French settlers, the Acadians, shaped the region with their unique culture, agriculture, and language, until their tragic expulsion in the 18th century. Subsequent British Loyalists introduced further architectural styles and traditions, visible in historic towns like Annapolis Royal. The raw beauty of the tides has always inspired artists and left its mark on maritime traditions such as fishing and shipbuilding, which remain deeply rooted in the local identity to this day.

    Getting Here & About

    Getting ThereThe Bay of Fundy lies between New Brunswick and Nova Scotia. The nearest airports are Moncton (YQM) and Saint John (YSJ) in New Brunswick, and Halifax (YHZ) in Nova Scotia. From Moncton, it's about 40 km to the Hopewell Rocks and a good hour to Fundy National Park.Getting AroundThe Fundy Trail Parkway opens up the coastline east of St. Martins; since 2021, it connects St. Martins with the area south of Sussex.A car ferry connects Saint John across the bay to Digby in Nova Scotia (approximately two hours).Consult the tide schedule for your stops: Experiences like walking on the ocean floor at the Hopewell Rocks are only possible at low tide.

    Round trips through this region

    Canada East Coast Roadtrip

    Canada East Coast Roadtrip

    The route begins in Halifax and leads to Peggy's Cove lighthouse, then to New Brunswick into Fundy National Park, featuring tidal ranges of over ten meters. Via the Confederation Bridge, it continues to Prince Edward Island, and by ferry from Wood Islands, returns to Nova Scotia, culminating in the Cabot Trail on Cape Breton. The longest leg, from Peggy's Cove to Fundy National Park, takes approximately four hours.

    16 Days
    5 stops

    Nearby

    Fundy NP

    Fundy NP

    Immerse yourself in the breathtaking wilderness of Fundy National Park, where the world's highest tides meet rugged coastlines and pristine forests. Here, you will experience a unique landscape that dramatically transforms with the ebb and flow, inviting you to unforgettable adventures.This park is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers who wish to feel the majestic power of nature firsthand while enjoying the tranquility of maritime forests.
    Hopewell Rocks, New Brunswick

    Hopewell Rocks, New Brunswick

    These iconic "Flowerpot" rocks are the most spectacular example of the effects of extreme tides and can be walked around at low tide.
    Peggy’s Cove

    Peggy’s Cove

    Welcome to Peggy’s Cove, a picturesque fishing village that feels like a postcard brought to life from Nova Scotia. Here, where the rugged Atlantic meets iconic granite boulders, you will immerse yourself in a world of maritime beauty and Canadian hospitality. Let the charm of this historic place enchant you and discover unforgettable views that will draw you back time and again.
    Halifax

    Halifax

    Halifax, the capital of Nova Scotia, sits on one of the world's largest natural harbors. Its long waterfront promenade, the Citadel overlooking downtown, and museums of seafaring and immigration define the city, which is also a great base for exploring the Atlantic coast.
    Nordküste (Green Gables Shore)

    Nordküste (Green Gables Shore)

    This picturesque coastline is famous for its dramatic red cliffs, endless sandy beaches and the iconic landscape that inspired Lucy Maud Montgomery's Anne of Green Gables novels.

    Sources & method

    • Photos: Unsplash, Pexels. Each photo carries its credit.
    • The content is based on web research from public, traceable sources. How the content is made · The role of AI