Natural Attractions

The Bay of Fundy is an eco-attraction like no other and teems with an abundance of diverse and enchanting wildlife. There are more kinds of whales, more often, than anywhere else! Moreover, there is a long list of natural wonders including exquisite salt marshes, geological formations, sandstone sea coves and fossils galore. The Bay of Fundy is the only place in the world where you can see tides rise to 48 feet (14 metres) – as high as a four storey building! Twice daily, a hundred billion tonnes of saltwater makes its way in and out of the bay. At low tide, you can explore the bottom of the sea floor and seek out sun-warmed tidal pools where various tiny sea creatures dwell. This rise and fall of the ocean is created by the gravitational pull of the sun and the moon and is an unforgettable marvel of nature.

The Charlotte Coastal Region is lucky to be home to the Bay of Fundy’s Fundy Aquarium Ecozone. The Fundy Aquarium Ecozone is situated where the mouth of the Bay of Fundy meets the Gulf of Maine in the Atlantic Ocean. Upwelling deep ocean water generated from tides surging into the Bay of Fundy fosters an ideal environment for marine life. Up to fifteen species of whales, plus porpoises, basking sharks, dolphins, seals, sea birds and eagles are highlights of this “aquarium without walls”. Environmentally sensitive whale-watch tours and kayaking excursions are a unique and exhilarating way to explore this incredible eco-system.

A trip to the Bay of Fundy would not be complete without visiting the beautiful Fundy Isles. Explore the geological marvels of Grand Manan or see the more than 240 species of birds that call the island home. Off Deer Island see the “Old Sow”, the largest tidal whirlpool in the western hemisphere. Go whale watching off the coastal islands, visit Campobello Island by ferry or challenge the rising tides in a sea kayak.

Enjoy the great outdoors by visiting one of Charlotte Coastal Region’s provincial parks. New River Beach Provincial Park, tabbed “The Living Beach”, located on Route #1, provides ocean-side camping. You can relax on the large sandy salt water beach or take part in an interpretive tour. New River Provincial Park also has hiking trails along the coast and provides opportunities for sea kayaking.

Herring Cove Provincial Park, “An Island Retreat”, is located on Campobello Island. You can enjoy the challenging, well groomed 9-hole golf course and licensed dining lodge; or you can camp, hike, enjoy interpretive programs, try your hand at beach combing or visit Roosevelt Campobello International Park while visiting the Island.

The Anchorage Provincial Park,“An OceanWildlife Site” located on Grand Manan, is a picturesque campground on the Bay of Fundy. The park offers hiking trails, interpretive programs, day adventure excursions and a golden opportunity for migratory bird watching.