So, you’re planning a trip to New Brunswick and the first thing on your mind is soaking up some sun on the sandy shores? Well, you’ve come to the right place! In this article, we’ll explore the diverse array of beaches that this charming Canadian province has to offer. From secluded hidden gems to bustling family-friendly hotspots, there’s a beach to suit every taste and preference. So grab your sunscreen and let’s dive into the sandy wonders that await along the coast of New Brunswick!
New Brunswick, located on the east coast of Canada, is home to a wide variety of stunning beaches that attract locals and tourists alike. From the majestic Fundy National Park beaches to the tranquil shores of Grand Manan Island, there is a beach for everyone to enjoy. In this article, we will explore the top beaches in New Brunswick, offering a comprehensive guide to help you plan your next beach getaway.
What Beaches Are Accessible In New Brunswick?
Table of Contents
1. Fundy National Park Beaches
Nestled along the rugged coastline of the Bay of Fundy, Fundy National Park is renowned for its dramatic tides and breathtaking natural beauty. The park boasts several picturesque beaches that are sure to captivate any nature enthusiast.
1.1. Herring Cove Beach
Herring Cove Beach, located near the park’s Visitor Centre, is a popular choice for families and beachgoers seeking a relaxed atmosphere. This sandy beach offers stunning views of the bay and a gentle slope into the water, making it perfect for swimming and sunbathing. The nearby picnic area and hiking trails provide additional opportunities for outdoor recreation.
1.2. Wolfe Lake Beach
If you’re looking for a peaceful and secluded spot, Wolfe Lake Beach is the perfect choice. Situated on the shores of Wolfe Lake, this hidden gem offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. The calm waters of the lake are ideal for swimming and kayaking, and the surrounding forested area provides ample shade and picnic spots.
1.3. Point Wolfe Beach
Point Wolfe Beach, located at the mouth of the Point Wolfe River, offers a unique and scenic setting. The beach is surrounded by towering cliffs, creating a sense of tranquility and seclusion. Visitors can enjoy exploring the rocky shoreline, watching for wildlife, or simply soaking in the breathtaking views of the Bay of Fundy.
1.4. East Branch Beach
As the name suggests, East Branch Beach is situated near the East Branch of the Point Wolfe River. This picturesque beach is known for its stunning rock formations, which provide a picturesque backdrop for sunbathers and photographers alike. The calm waters and gentle waves make it a great spot for swimming and wading.
1.5. Headquarters Beach
Located near the park’s Headquarters and the popular Chignecto Campground, Headquarters Beach offers a convenient and family-friendly beach experience. With its sandy shoreline and shallow waters, this beach is perfect for children to splash and play. The nearby amenities, including washrooms and picnic tables, make it a convenient spot to spend a day by the water.
2. Kouchibouguac National Park Beaches
Kouchibouguac National Park, located along the Acadian Coastal Drive, is home to some of the most pristine and ecologically diverse beaches in the province. With its sandy shores and crystal-clear waters, Kouchibouguac National Park is a haven for beach lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
2.1. Kellys Beach
Kellys Beach is the crown jewel of Kouchibouguac National Park. With its fine golden sands, warm waters, and gentle slope, it’s no wonder this beach is a favorite among visitors. The beach is patrolled by lifeguards, ensuring a safe swimming experience for families. The dunes that back the beach provide a stunning backdrop and serve as a protected habitat for various plants and animals.
2.2. Plage Gagnon Beach
Plage Gagnon Beach is situated along the Kouchibouguac River and offers a unique beach experience. This beach is known for its tidal pools, which are teeming with fascinating marine life. Exploring the tidal pools is a fun and educational activity for both children and adults. The calm waters are also ideal for swimming and kayaking.
2.3. Pointe-Sapin Beach
Pointe-Sapin Beach is a hidden gem within Kouchibouguac National Park. With its secluded location and stunning natural surroundings, this beach is a paradise for nature lovers. The warm waters are perfect for a refreshing swim, and the sandy shoreline is ideal for beachcombing. Don’t forget to bring your camera to capture the breathtaking views of the Gulf of St. Lawrence.
2.4. Petit-Large Beach
Petit-Large Beach, located on the northern edge of the park, offers a serene and untouched beach experience. This secluded beach is accessible by a short hike through a picturesque forested trail. Once you reach the beach, you’ll be rewarded with pristine sands and panoramic views of the surrounding coastline. It’s a great spot to escape the crowds and enjoy a peaceful day by the water.
3. Parlee Beach Provincial Park
Parlee Beach Provincial Park, located near Shediac, is a beloved destination for beach enthusiasts. Known for its warm waters and long sandy shoreline, Parlee Beach attracts thousands of visitors each year.
3.1. Parlee Beach
Parlee Beach is the main attraction of the provincial park and is consistently rated as one of the best beaches in Canada. The soft sands and gentle slope into the water make it a perfect spot for sunbathing and swimming. Lifeguards are on duty during the summer months, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience. The park also offers various amenities, including change rooms, showers, and a canteen.
3.2. Murray Beach
Murray Beach, located a short drive from Parlee Beach, offers a quieter alternative for those seeking a more peaceful beach experience. The calm waters and natural scenic beauty make it a popular spot for families and couples alike. The beach is also equipped with facilities such as picnic tables and washrooms, making it a convenient place to spend a day outdoors.
3.3. Caissie Cape Beach
Caissie Cape Beach, located on the northeastern tip of Shediac Bay, offers a charming and unspoiled beach experience. The beach is characterized by its rugged coastline, sand dunes, and scenic walking trails. Visitors can explore the tidal pools, go for a leisurely stroll along the shoreline, or simply relax and enjoy the stunning views of the bay.
4. Grand Manan Island Beaches
Grand Manan Island, located in the Bay of Fundy, is a hidden gem for beach lovers and nature enthusiasts. With its rugged cliffs, pristine beaches, and abundant wildlife, Grand Manan Island offers a truly unique and unforgettable beach experience.
4.1. Anchorage Provincial Park Beach
Anchorage Provincial Park Beach is one of the most popular beaches on Grand Manan Island. With its beautiful rock formations, sandy shoreline, and panoramic views of the Bay of Fundy, this beach is a favorite among locals and visitors alike. The nearby park also offers camping facilities and hiking trails, providing ample opportunities for outdoor recreation.
4.2. Castalia Marsh Beach
Castalia Marsh Beach, located near the village of North Head, is a hidden gem that offers a peaceful and serene beach experience. The beach is surrounded by a saltmarsh, which serves as a habitat for various bird species. Nature lovers will enjoy watching for migratory birds and exploring the unique ecosystem of the marsh. The beach itself offers stunning views of the coastline and is a great spot for beachcombing.
4.3. Dark Harbour Beach
Dark Harbour Beach, located on the western side of the island, is a remote and untouched beach that is known for its natural beauty. As its name suggests, the beach is surrounded by a dark granite coastline, creating a dramatic and picturesque setting. Visitors can enjoy long walks on the sandy beach, explore the nearby tidal pools, or simply unwind and soak up the tranquility of the surroundings.
4.4. Fish Head Beach
Fish Head Beach, located on the southern tip of Grand Manan Island, is a hidden gem that offers a secluded and rugged beach experience. The beach is named after the nearby Fish Head Lighthouse, which adds to the charm and uniqueness of the area. Visitors can enjoy long walks along the shoreline, search for sea glass and other treasures, or simply enjoy the stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean.
5. Escuminac Beach and Family Park
Located on the Northumberland Strait, Escuminac Beach and Family Park is a popular destination for families and beachgoers seeking a fun and relaxing day by the water.
5.1. Escuminac Beach
Escuminac Beach is a picturesque sandy beach that stretches for kilometers along the coastline. The warm waters and gentle slope make it an ideal spot for swimming and wading. The beach is equipped with picnic areas, washrooms, and change facilities, making it a perfect spot for a family outing. Don’t forget to take a stroll along the boardwalk and enjoy the stunning views of the strait.
6. Murray Corner Provincial Park Beach
Murray Corner Provincial Park Beach is a hidden gem located on the Northumberland Strait. With its pristine sands and calm waters, this beach offers a peaceful and secluded beach experience.
6.1. Murray Corner Beach
Murray Corner Beach is a quiet and secluded beach that is perfect for those seeking a tranquil escape. The beach is known for its warm waters and gentle slope, making it ideal for swimming and sunbathing. The nearby picnic areas and walking trails provide additional opportunities for relaxation and outdoor recreation.
7. Aboiteau Beach and Park
Aboiteau Beach and Park, located in Cap-Pelé, is a popular destination for beach enthusiasts and outdoor lovers. With its sandy shorelines and stunning coastal beauty, this beach has something for everyone.
7.1. Aboiteau Beach
Aboiteau Beach is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. The sandy shoreline and warm waters make it an ideal spot for swimming and beach games. The beach is equipped with various amenities, including change rooms, showers, and a canteen. The nearby park also offers picnic areas, walking trails, and a playground, ensuring a fun and enjoyable day for the whole family.
8. New River Beach Provincial Park
New River Beach Provincial Park, located on the Bay of Fundy, is a must-visit beach destination in New Brunswick. With its expansive sandy beaches, rugged coastline, and picturesque tidal pools, this park offers a truly unique and unforgettable beach experience.
8.1. New River Beach
New River Beach is the main attraction of the provincial park and is known for its pristine sands and stunning natural beauty. The beach offers ample space for beachcombing, sandcastle building, and picnicking. During low tide, visitors can explore the tidal pools and marvel at the diverse marine life that inhabits them. The park also offers camping facilities and hiking trails, making it an ideal spot for those who want to immerse themselves in nature.
9. Mactaquac Provincial Park Beach
Mactaquac Provincial Park, located along the scenic Saint John River, is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. In addition to its various recreational activities, the park also offers a beautiful sandy beach for visitors to enjoy.
9.1. Mactaquac Beach
Mactaquac Beach is a sandy oasis in the heart of Mactaquac Provincial Park. The beach offers stunning views of the Saint John River and is a perfect spot for swimming and sunbathing. The beach is equipped with change rooms and picnic areas, making it an ideal spot for a family outing. After a day at the beach, visitors can explore the park’s hiking and biking trails or enjoy a round of golf at the nearby Mactaquac Golf Course.
10. Marco Polo Land Beach
Situated in Cavendish, Marco Polo Land Beach is a haven for beach lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. With its idyllic setting, warm waters, and scenic beauty, this beach offers a truly memorable beach experience.
10.1. Marco Polo Land Beach
Marco Polo Land Beach is a sandy oasis that stretches along the picturesque Cavendish coastline. The warm waters and gentle waves make it an ideal spot for swimming and bodyboarding. The beach is also equipped with various amenities, including change rooms, showers, and a canteen. After a day at the beach, visitors can explore the nearby attractions, including the famous Green Gables House and the thrilling amusement park, Shining Waters.
In conclusion, New Brunswick offers a diverse range of beautiful beaches that cater to every beach lover’s taste. Whether you prefer the dramatic tides and rugged beauty of Fundy National Park or the tranquil shores of Grand Manan Island, you are sure to find a beach that suits your preferences. So pack your sunscreen, grab your beach towel, and get ready to enjoy the stunning beaches of New Brunswick.
