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A group of whale watchers spot a whale

Digby & Islands

What is Digby & Islands known for?

Located on the Bay of Fundy, Digby & Islands is known for exceptional whale watching, world-famous Digby scallops, and the unique island communities of Digby Neck, Long Island, and Brier Island. Visitors come to experience marine wildlife, dramatic coastal scenery, fresh seafood, and outdoor adventures shaped by the world’s highest tides. Many travellers use Digby as a base for exploring the region’s islands, lighthouses, and Bay of Fundy coastline.

What are the top things to do in Digby & Islands area?

  • Go whale watching from Brier Island, one of Nova Scotia’s premier whale watching destinations.
  • Sample world-famous Digby scallops and fresh seafood at waterfront restaurants.
  • Stroll the Admiral’s Walk along the Digby waterfront, where you’ll find shops, restaurants, harbour views, public art, and one of the best places to experience the town’s maritime character.
  • Explore Brier Island, Long Island, and the fishing villages along Digby Neck.
  • Discover the legacy of renowned folk artist Maud Lewis, who lived and painted in the Digby area, and explore attractions connected to her life and work.
  • Visit lighthouses, coastal lookoffs, and hiking trails overlooking the Bay of Fundy.
  • Discover local museums, maritime history, and island culture.
  • Experience the world’s highest tides along the Bay of Fundy coastline.

When is the best time to visit Digby & Islands?

Late spring through fall offers the widest range of experiences in Digby & Islands. Summer is ideal for whale watching, island exploring, hiking, seafood experiences, and coastal sightseeing. Fall brings comfortable temperatures, scenic coastal drives, and fewer crowds. Many whale watching tours, restaurants, and seasonal attractions operate from spring through autumn.

A couple overlooks Digby's wharf and scallop fishing fleet at sunset
Digby Waterfront

Digby & Islands Frequently Asked Questions

Digby & Islands is located along the Bay of Fundy in western Nova Scotia and is most easily reached by car. Visitors travelling from New Brunswick can also arrive via the Saint John to Digby ferry. A vehicle is the most convenient way to explore Digby, Digby Neck, Long Island, Brier Island, and surrounding coastal communities. Small ferries connect Digby Neck, Long Island, and Brier Island, making island-hopping part of the experience.

Digby scallops are famous for their sweet flavour, firm texture, and large size. Harvested from the cold, nutrient-rich waters of the Bay of Fundy, they are shaped by the region’s powerful tides and ideal growing conditions. Digby is also home to one of the world’s largest scallop fishing fleets, earning the community its reputation as the Scallop Capital of the World.

Digby & Islands offers a variety of accommodations, including oceanfront resorts, inns, cottages, bed and breakfasts, campgrounds, and vacation rentals. Staying in Digby provides convenient access to restaurants, whale watching tours, the ferry terminal, and nearby Bay of Fundy attractions, while accommodations on Digby Neck and the islands offer a quieter coastal experience.

Two to three days is enough to experience many of the region’s highlights, including whale watching, island exploration, seafood dining, and coastal sightseeing. Visitors planning multiple tours, hikes, or island excursions may wish to stay longer to experience Digby Neck, Long Island, and Brier Island at a more relaxed pace.

Digby & Islands is busiest during the summer months, particularly from July through August when whale watching tours, accommodations, and restaurants see increased demand. Visitor numbers are also higher during weekends and peak vacation periods. Booking accommodations and whale watching tours in advance is recommended during the busiest times of year.

Yes. Fall is an excellent time to visit for coastal drives, hiking, fresh seafood, and fewer crowds. Spring also offers excellent whale watching opportunities later in the season and access to many outdoor experiences. While some seasonal tours, restaurants, and attractions may reduce hours or close outside the peak tourism season, the region remains a rewarding destination for visitors seeking coastal scenery and marine experiences.

Digby & Islands offers a variety of accessible accommodations, restaurants, attractions, and experiences. Many visitor facilities, museums, and waterfront areas provide accessible features, although accessibility varies by location. Some coastal lookoffs, beaches, trails, ferry landings, and outdoor attractions may involve uneven terrain, gravel surfaces, stairs, or steep grades. Visitors should contact accommodations, attractions, ferry operators, and tour providers directly before their visit to confirm accessibility features that meet their specific needs.

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