Canada's Warmest Saltwater Beach Is A Fun Destination With Hiking Trails & Seaside Camping

Tucked into the Acadian coast of southeastern New Brunswick, Parlee Beach Provincial Park offers something rare in Canada: warm ocean water you can actually swim in without shivering. This sandy, family-friendly spot near the town of Shediac boasts what's widely considered the warmest saltwater beach in the country, with water temperatures that can hit the low 80s Fahrenheit in the summer. Better yet, it's just 20 minutes from Moncton, which is one of the most underrated cities in Canada you should visit at least once. 

We're not exaggerating when we say the waters here are just plain inviting. Thanks to its protected location in the Northumberland Strait, the beach offers gentle waves and a long, shallow entry, so it's perfect for swimmers of all ages. On top of that, it's super accessible. There's a mobi-mat to accommodate visitors on wheels, family restrooms, and plenty of parking. Lifeguards are on duty for extra peace of mind, and the beach's soft, golden sand stretches wide, offering plenty of space to spread out a towel or toss a frisbee. However, bear in mind that Parlee isn't open to dogs, so furry family members will have to skip out on this one.

But the fun isn't limited to the water. Parlee Beach is also known for its festive, family-friendly vibe. Visitors can enjoy themselves all day long at Parlee's volleyball courts and sand bars, and seasonal events like sandcastle contests and outdoor concerts keep the energy up all summer long. If you work up an appetite, there's a beach canteen called Euston Park that serves up bites and local brews. And if you time it right, you might just catch one of those famous pink-and-orange Maritimes sunsets that light up the entire bay.

While Parlee Beach is best known for swimming and beach days, there's more to this park than the sun and surf. The beach proudly holds Blue Flag eco-certification, which means it's top-notch when it comes to sustainable management and accessibility. The area around the beach has several hiking trails that wind through the coastal woods and grassy dunes, offering a peaceful escape into well-cared-for natural areas.

One popular route is the Pointe-du-Chêne walking trail, which connects the beach area with local woods and scenic overlooks along the Shediac Bay. This is a great option for families or casual strolls. While hiking in the region, you'll likely spot seabirds, wildflowers, and whales (from May to October), as well as the occasional fox or deer wandering through the forested parts.

A longer trek can be found in the Parlee Beach Loop, an easy round trip trail of just under 8 miles. If you're in the mood for something more active, the town of Shediac is filled with more than 7 miles of walking trails and bike paths to explore. And of course, nothing beats a simple beachside stroll along the water's edge (take the Parlee Beach Stroll route), especially in the morning or sunset hour when the crowds thin out and the tide seems to be glowing under the sky.

If you're looking to turn your visit into an overnight seaside stay, the campground within Parlee Beach Provincial Park is a top pick. With more than 200 campsites — including options for tents and RVs — the campground is just a short walk from the beach and includes shower facilities, a canteen, and even some sites with electric hookups. Entry rates vary, but plan to spend about $50 per vehicle during the high season from May to September. Falling asleep to the sound of ocean waves is never a bad way to end the day.

If camping isn't really your style, you'll find plenty of places to stay nearby in Shediac, which also happens to be the "Lobster Capital of the World." While you're there, grab a photo with the town's iconic giant lobster statue — arguably one of the world's weirdest giant objects to visit. There are also some kayak and paddle board rentals nearby. Be sure to stop in at one of the many seafood shacks that serve fresh-caught lobster in every form — rolls, chowder, steamed whole, you name it — at least once (or way more) during your stay.

Parlee Beach is just a 25-minute drive from the Moncton airport and easily accessible by highway, making it a popular, but not overcrowded, summer escape for both locals and road-trippers. Visitors who pass through Moncton (home to the closest airport) won't want to miss the strange natural phenomena of Magnetic Hill, which is like a real-world nature-defying illusion where cars roll uphill on their own. Whether you're spending the day bodyboarding and hiking or staying overnight to stargaze from your tent, this scenic stretch of the Acadian coast is a must-visit destination for beach bunnies who also love the great outdoors.