The Bay of Fundy is a fascinating place for those visiting Nova Scotia to explore one of the area's most impressive natural landscapes. It's known in the Guinness Book of World Records as having the highest average springtime tides, with tidal changes being more extreme to the point of walkable shallow levels, to impassable high waters.
It's also home to a dig site for fossils and has a unique history that brings many people to its shores. Whether visiting for the Not Since Moses Run or visiting just to see this incredible tide pattern in action, here are some things to know beforehand.
10 You Can Walk On The Ocean Floor In This Part Of The Bay
Burntcoat Head Park is an iconic location on the Bay of Fundy known for its dramatically high tides. Alternatively, when the tide is low, it leaves plenty of waterless room for visitors to walk right out onto the seabed. This is an incredible experience for those who have never seen the bottom of a bay before and leaves areas exposed with the occasional fossil, shell, or unique rock. This also creates tide pools that temporarily trap native marine life, which visitors can then observe as they explore this muddy landscape. Tours are also available and will take groups through the area's trails and sea caves.
9 Fossils Can Be Found In Surrounding Cliffs, Not Just On The Seabed
Those fascinated by prehistoric life are also drawn to the surrounding cliffs at the Bay of Fundy. These rocks hold secrets that are millions of years old, and the location has become popular with fossil-hunters looking for that one unique artifact. Visitors can book tours through multiple tour guides, such as Joggins Fossil Cliffs UNESCO World Heritage Site, Fundy Treasures Tours, and the Fundy Geological Museum.
8 The Bay Of Fundy Is Also Popular With Surfers
There are two times throughout the day when surfers line up to catch the influx of water that flows through the rivers in the upper bay. This strange phenomenon produces a tidal wave that flows upstream, filling in the Petitcodiac. What's so incredible about catching this wave is that it can go on for an extended distance, making it quite a sight to witness for those observing from Bore Park in New Brunswick.
7 Factor In Some Wildlife Watching During Your Trip
The Bay of Fundy is home to a wide variety of Grand Manan Island is one of the best places along the Bay of Fundy for wildlife-watching, especially for those wishing to catch a glimpse of several whales, including humpbacks, minke, finback, North Atlantic species. Visitors might also have the chance to witness harbour porpoises, dolphins, puffins, and grey seals.
6 Snorkeling Is Also Something That Can Be Done At The Bay Of Fundy
The most popular spot for this is the Inner Bay, which is swarmed by salmon in September. Visitors will need a dry suit in order to combat the chilly temps of this water, but it's worth it for experienced snorkelers who want to get an up-close look at this incredible fish species. The best days to do this can be found on the Bay of Fundy park site.
5 The Best Time To Visit Is During The Summer, For A Number Of Reasons
For starters, the Bay of Fundy experiences the best weather during the summer which is why it's considered the peak season. However, there are more reasons why one should consider visiting during these months, including the opening of its most popular landmarks, such as Hopewell Rocks park. Additionally, those interested in bird-watching will have the best chance of witnessing the most native bird species during this time.
4 The Bay Of Fundy Is Home To Many Waterfalls
Nova Scotia's Bay of Fundy is full of surprises which include its many waterfalls. While most people have their eyes on its incredible tides, the waterfalls surrounding the bay are also quite an incredible sight to behold. With four main waterfalls to seek out - Match Factory Falls, Third Vault Falls, Bennet Brook Falls, and Dickson Falls - hikers should have their cameras ready to capture the beauty that exists on these wooded trails.
3 The Sea Caves Are A Must During Low Tide
Even more secrets unfold at the Bay of Fundy during low tide when its sea caves are revealed. The St. Martins Sea Caves are an iconic part of the landscape and are only accessible when the seabed is dry, aka during low tide. While visitors are walking around this muddy ocean floor, they'll find the caverns along the cliffs; it should be noted that these are about an hour west of the park, however.
2 Hiking Isn't The Only Way To Explore The Bay Of Fundy
One doesn't even need to exit their vehicle in order to appreciate the beauty and magic of the Bay of Fundy. A scenic drive along the Bay of Fundy coastline will exhibit incredible waterside views without any hiking or tours involved whatsoever. Scenic overlooks provide a chance for visitors to get out and take in the scenery from the cliffs, making this a very relaxed way of exploring this natural wonder.
1 Dine At The Bottom Of The Bay Of Fundy
Interested in a little below-sea-level dining? It can be done with an experience curated by restaurateur Chris Velden, who brings to life a unique meal at the Bay of Fundy during low tide. Those attending will have a lesson in foraging and searching for edible marine snacks prior to the meal, which incorporates local and seasonal ingredients to create incredible dishes.