Unexpected Discoveries in the Bay of Fundy & Annapolis Valley
This area is famous for its world-record tides, whale watching, fossil hunting and growing wine industry. But there are other hidden gems waiting t...
A visit to Nova Scotia is not complete without witnessing the incredible tides of the Bay of Fundy. Each day, twice a day, 160 billion+ tons of seawater flow in and out of the Bay of Fundy!
Fun Fact: Burntcoat Head Park in the Minas Basin within the Bay of Fundy is in the Guinness Book of World Records for the highest tides in the world!
Tidal changes on the Bay of Fundy typically range 14.5 metres (47.6 feet) from high tide to low tide however, tidal changes in the Bay of Fundy have been measured in extreme conditions at 16.3 metres (53.5 feet).
Before venturing out on the Bay of Fundy when the tide is out, be sure you have checked the tide times to know when high tide and low tide times are. Always be back onshore two hours before high tide. Click here to view tide times at tidal sites around the Bay of Fundy.
Walk on the ocean floor at Burntcoat Head Park
Visit Burntcoat Head Park, site of the highest recorded tides in the world, where at low tide you can easily make your way down the staircase to explore the ocean floor. Look for fossils, watch ocean life in the tidal pools, join a guided tour for expert insights, explore the caves, or simply marvel at the incredible scenery. A mere 6 hours later the mudflats where you once stood will be covered in up to 42 feet of water. Walking trails, a lighthouse, picnic area and scenic viewpoint of Cobequid Bay and the Minas Basin round out the experience. Don’t forget sturdy shoes you don’t mind getting muddy and sunscreen!
Run on the ocean floor at the Not Since Moses Run
If you thought walking on or exploring the ocean floor was a one of a kind experience, how about running a race on the ocean floor? You are literally outrunning the tides as the conditions are only ideal for this race for just a few hours. Lace up your running shoes (that you don’t mind getting muddy) and head to the village of Five Islands where you can participate in a 5K or 10K event. Watch for crabs and ocean plant life as you slip and slide your way through the course.
Experience Tidal Bore Rafting
One of the most fun and exciting ways to experience the Bay of Fundy tides, and found only in Nova Scotia, is riding the tidal bore on a tidal bore rafting adventure. When the Bay of Fundy’s incoming tide meets the Shubenacadie River, an abrupt change in the river current turns the calm water into a washing machine of waves! The rolling waves led by the lead wave, the tidal bore, can range from 8 to 20 feet high and creates the perfect roller coaster ride on water. Board a Zodiac raft, hold on tight and prepare for the thrill of a lifetime as your expert guide skillfully maneuvers through the waves.
Added bonus: go mudsliding down the smooth and slippery mud along the river banks.
Yes, you will need to bring a change of clothes!
Dig for Dinosaurs
Not only is the Bay of Fundy famous for high tides, but its shoreline cliffs and beaches are home to the world’s most complete fossil record of life 300 million years ago, making it part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site AND a UNESCO Global Geopark. It may be hard to believe but in pre-historic times, lush forests covered the area.
Explore the rocky shoreline with an experienced guide such as Fundy Treasures Tours or through Joggins Fossil Cliffs UNESCO World Heritage Site in Joggins or the Fundy Geological Museum in Parrsboro.
Dining on the Ocean Floor
So, you’ve explored the ocean floor, rode the tidal bore and discovered dinos. Now what? How about enjoying a gourmet meal on the ocean floor? Yes, we mean a multi-course, white linen, gourmet meal hosted at Burntcoat Head Park at low tide! Guests will enjoy an intimate 3-course meal consisting of local ingredients all paired with local beer and wine.
This is an extremely popular event that sells out every year so plan in advance to get tickets to experience this once in a lifetime culinary experience.
Kayak the Bay of Fundy coastline near Cape Chignecto Provincial Park
The Bay of Fundy’s coastline is rocky, rugged and dramatic. Embark on a paddling excursion with NovaShores Adventures ranging from a day trip of a few hours exploring the fabled Three Sisters rock formation, coastal caves and sea stacks and a shore lunch to a two- or three-day overnight paddling and camping adventure. Regardless of your trip length, you will see striking cliffs, experience the spectacular coastline from a unique vantage point on the water, and see the juxtaposition of the blue/green waters against the orange cliffs. Keep an eye out for sea birds and marine life with several species of coastal bird and seal sightings being common.
Learn about the tides at the Fundy Tidal Interpretive Centre
All this exploring of the Bay of Fundy may leave you wanting to know more. Visit the Fundy Tidal Interpretive Centre for a detailed explanation of the tides and local history. A tidal observation deck overlooks the Shubenacadie River and provides the perfect vantage point to view the tidal bore phenomenon first hand if you time your visit right.
Time your visit just right and you could watch the tidal bore push its way up the Shubenacadie River changing the calm river to a rage of rapids to the delight of tidal bore rafters!
Go Whale Watching
In addition to incredible tides, the Bay of Fundy is also home to several species of whales during the summer months, including the rare right whale. Step aboard a whale watching tour boat departing from Digby Neck, Long Island or Brier Island and head off the Bay of Fundy coast to look for whales. Your knowledgeable tour guides will point them out and answer your questions.
May to September is the best time for whale watching tours in Nova Scotia. Seeing a whale up close in its natural habitat is truly an indescribable experience – be sure to bring your camera!
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