Canada As You Like It Blog
Coastal Wonderland of Atlantic Canada
Atlantic Canada is a coastal paradise filled with breath-taking vistas, rich history, vibrant traditions, plentiful outdoor adventures, friendly local characters, and, of course, the freshest seafood. Explore New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia, and Prince Edward Island, each offering its own distinct charm. Visit Atlantic Canada and discover the wonders of these provinces for yourself.

Wildlife and Whale Spotting
Prepare to be captivated as a whale breaches the ocean’s surface, lunges through the waves, and re-enters with a dramatic splash. Summer and autumn are the best seasons for whale watching in Nova Scotia. Join a whale-watching tour featuring lively commentary and local tales as you spot any of the 12 whale species that visit each year, including fin whales, minke whales, pilot whales, humpback whales, and blue whales.
In New Brunswick, whale watching in the Bay of Fundy is equally awe-inspiring. Known for its record-breaking tides, the highest in the world, the bay creates the perfect feeding grounds for whales, thanks to an abundance of plankton, krill, and fish. Witnessing these majestic creatures in this unique setting is a humbling and unforgettable experience.
Newfoundland and Labrador is one of the most spectacular whale-watching destinations on the planet. Each year, the world’s largest population of humpback whales returns between May and September. Whether from a tour boat, a sea kayak, or a seaside trail, seeing these incredible mammals up close is truly magical.

Maritime and Acadian History
Atlantic Canada is steeped in rich history, shaped by Irish, English, French, and Indigenous influences. Immerse yourself in the culture through hands-on experiences and authentic encounters that bring the past to life.
Stay in a lighthouse keeper's residence in Quirpon, help craft a traditional boat in Winterton, or build a hand-laid rock maze in English Harbour. Fish for cod from a Newfoundland dory in Cox’s Cove or join an archaeological dig near Ferryland. For a trip back in time, visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site at L’Anse aux Meadows and experience Viking life as it was over 1,000 years ago.
Nova Scotia brims with vibrant arts and culture. Explore the languages, music, art, and cuisine that define its lively traditions. Along the Cabot Trail, artisans create stunning works in pottery, silver, and glass, while the South Shore boasts handmade pewter, stained glass, and hooked rugs.
Prince Edward Island's cultural tapestry weaves together the stories of Indigenous, French, English, Black, Acadian, Irish, Scottish, Lebanese, and other communities. This diversity shapes its history and continues to evolve, much like the tides that surround the island.
The culture of New Brunswick as felt in its music, foods, language, festivals, and history-is a fascinating mélange influenced by Indigenous, French, British, Irish and Scottish settlers. Be sure to spend time along the eastern shores to discover a captivating "joie de vivre" while being surrounded by Acadian culture.

Hiking and Climbing
Newfoundland and Labrador is a dream for outdoor enthusiasts, offering 29,000 kilometres of pristine coastline, 300 hiking trails, and untouched wilderness. From coastal strolls to challenging backcountry treks, every trail is an adventure.
Foodies can enjoy foraging and culinary hikes that include traditional boil-ups and picnics, while thrill-seekers can take on bucket-list trails, such as those leading to the most easterly point in North America at Cape Spear or to the summit of an inland fjord at Western Brook Pond.
Walk ancestral trails that predate modern roads or delve into history with fossil and geology hikes. Photography enthusiasts will find plenty of inspiration, from the dramatic cliffs of St. John’s to the scenic Avalon Peninsula. Gros Morne National Park’s spring Trails, Tales, and Tunes walking festival and September’s Roots, Rants & Roars festival in Elliston, featuring hiking and gourmet food stops, are not to be missed.

High Tides and Icebergs
The Bay of Fundy’s tides rise an astounding 16 metres (52.5 feet), moving 160 billion tonnes of seawater in and out of the bay twice daily. Experience this natural wonder at The Hopewell Rocks Provincial Park, where you can walk among towering sea stack monoliths at low tide and kayak around them at high tide. The Reversing Rapids in Saint John and Moncton’s tidal bore also highlight the bay’s remarkable tides.
Icebergs drift through Newfoundland and Labrador’s Iceberg Alley from spring to early summer. These massive glacial fragments, often originating from Greenland, are awe-inspiring. April and May offer the peak viewing months, with late May and early June providing the best experiences.
Boat tours, kayaking, and coastal hikes provide up-close views of these icy giants, as well as opportunities to spot whales and seabirds. Or simply admire the icebergs from the rugged coastline as they glide majestically by.

Beaches and Lighthouses
Dreaming of carefree days filled with sunsets, birdwatching, or stargazing? Atlantic Canada’s provincial and national parks offer endless green spaces and pristine beaches. Build sandcastles, fly kites, or stroll barefoot along Prince Edward Island’s golden beaches and Nova Scotia’s sandy and cobblestone shores. The warm saltwater beaches along New Brunswick’s Northumberland Strait can reach up to 29°C, making them the warmest in Canada.
Lighthouses dot the coastline, standing as timeless reminders of Atlantic Canada’s maritime heritage. In New Brunswick, visit the Miscou Island lighthouse for panoramic views or the iconic Swallowtail Lightstation on Grand Manan Island. These historic structures provide scenic backdrops for picnics, kayaking, and birdwatching.
Wherever your journey takes you, Atlantic Canada’s coastal wonders promise unforgettable memories and endless adventures.





