Canada's Scenic Island Is A Nature Getaway With Uncrowded Beaches, Trails, And A Lighthouse

When you think of coastline, you don't always think of Canada — but you should! Not only does it have one of the most beautiful coastlines around the world, it also has the world's longest coastline. And along this estimated 151,019 miles of coastline, there are thousands of islands. Some are well-known, like Prince Edward Island, the perfect destination for outdoor adventures. And some fly under the radar, like Grand Manan, a small island in the Bay of Fundy off the coast of New Brunswick. 

The Bay of Fundy is known for its record-breaking tides and is considered one of the most beautiful places in Canada. And the queen of the famous Bay of Fundy? Why, that's Grand Manan Island! This quaint spit of land, home to approximately 2,500 year-round residents and a thriving fishing industry, is one of Canada's true hidden gems. 

The uncrowded beaches, pristine waters teeming with whales and other marine life, cliffside trails and iconic lighthouses are all accompanied by quaint villages and island charm. The island is also a haven for bird-watchers, who come to various points to spot some of the islands' estimated 240 bird species (including Atlantic puffins, the undisputed cutest bird in the world). The small villages are home to excellent restaurants featuring local cuisine and shops full of artisan crafts. Grand Manan is the best of New Brunswick, encapsulated in less than 55 square miles.

Canada was recently voted best in the world for hiking, and Grand Manan certainly helps it live up to this reputation. While there are hikes for every level, one trail every visitor (who can) must experience is the Swallowtail Lighthouse. Perhaps Grand Manan's most famous site, the historic 18th-century lighthouse stands tall over the Bay of Fundy. A short hike from the nearby parking lot will take you to the base of the lighthouse; pay $1-2 to climb the 54 steps to the top and visit the lighthouse museum exhibits on the way.   

You can also see the Swallowtail Lighthouse during another ideal Grand Manan pastime: kayaking. Launch from Seal Cove and paddle past dramatic cliffs and unique rock formations, hidden coves and below lighthouses. You can rent a kayak and venture out on your own or join a guided kayaking trip — highly recommended unless you're a very experienced paddler! Another way to get out on the water is via a whale-watching tour. The Bay of Fundy attracts various species of whales, drawn to its nutrient-rich waters, and thus, Grand Manan is a world-class whale-watching destination. Even if you don't embark on a tour, you'll have ample opportunity to spot humpbacks, minke and fin whales, from the ferry, your kayak, or even the shore. 

Speaking of the shore — Grand Manan has a prime selection of uncrowded beaches. Families with smaller children should head to Seal Cove with its shallow waters and fine sands...and so should sea glass enthusiasts, as this is a favorite spot to find these sparkling treasures. Deep Cove Beach is considered one of the best thanks to its pristine sands, and lies about 24 minutes south of North Head, where ferries arrive from the mainland.

To reach Grand Manan, there's ferry service departing from Blacks Harbour, New Brunswick. Blacks Harbour is approximately 45 minutes southeast of Saint John, one of New Brunswick's largest cities (not to be confused with St. John's on Newfoundland). There are four daily crossings, with more added in the summer months, to reach this idyllic island most Americans don't know about. The 90-minute trip starts at approximately $9-10 for walk-on passengers and $28 for vehicles. Make a reservation ahead of time to guarantee a spot! 

It's best to have a car to explore Grand Manan, to reach the harder-to-access spots and to fully enjoy the highway that traverses the coastline of the island. Fuel up ahead of time, gas stations are few and far between on Grand Manan! While Grand Manan has its different charms in every season, summer is considered peak for whale and bird-watching ... and for warmer weather, of course. Spring and fall still has plenty of beautiful weather with fewer crowds, although some amenities may be closed for the season. No matter when you go, though, you'll likely run into some fog, one of the island's signature weather patterns.

Ferries from Black Harbour arrive at North Head, where much of the island's accommodations and amenities are. North Head is also close to some of the island's most iconic sights, including Swallowtail Lighthouse. Other notable villages on Grand Manan include Grand Harbour, known for its museum and bird gallery, and Seal Cove, a historic fishing village with a lovely beach.