The Bay of Fundy is a place where the rhythm is naturally created by the 12 hour cycles of the ocean tides.

The Bay of Fundy – a Natural Wonder

The Bay of Fundy is a special place in so many ways, a perennial favorite for travelers from around the world. I went to have a look thanks to New Brunswick Tourism and Tourism Nova Scotia. 

Top Things to Do around the Bay of Fundy

Here are the top things to do around the Bay of Fundy by theme.

Adventure travel

From hiking to ziplining to sea kyaking and horseback riding, there is much around the Bay of Fundy for the adventure traveler. Top of the list has to be riding the Tidal Bore. I had no idea what to expect. I thought it was like rafting but, other than than the fact that you’re riding in a zodiac and you get wet in wild water, it’s nothing like rafting. 

Food and Wine

I ate great food and drank local wine around the Bay of Fundy every single day. From road side stops for excellent lobster rolls to fine dining restaurants overlooking the ocean, I had consistently excellent meals. I also discovered a few surprisingly good wineries!.

Music

Maritimers are known for their music. I stepped into the heart of the music scene in St. Andrew’s by the Sea when I met Jamie Steel. But there's so much great music in New Brunswick. Our music editor, Kerry Dexter, compiled a fun playlist. Listen:

Geology and Paleontology 

Who knew? There is lots to dig around the Bay of Fundy. For those into rocks and fossels, there is the Geological Museum in Parrsboro, Nova Scotia and the geopark in and around Saint John, New Brunswick.

Marine experiences

This is no surprise, but some of the activities were. Of course, you can go fishing and whale watching, but have you dug clams with a man who has done so for 40 years? He’ll teach you the technique. Add to that dulce harvesting and you have a unique Fundy Experience.

Spectacular Scenery

If all you want is to relax and enjoy beautiful scenery, the Bay of Fundy is your place. It is an incredibly beautiful area. Of particular note are the Sea Caves in St. Martins.

History

This history around the Bay of Fundy starts with the Mi’kmaq people. Moving forward in time, Europeans were there in the 1600s. The City of Saint John was the first incorporated city in Canada and it’s right on the Bay. In the 1800s, the region was alive with summer resorts and private retreats.

Acadian Homecoming

In the Expulsion of 1755, the Acadians (french speaking) of Nova Scotia were removed from the area by the English. Consequently, there is an Acadian diaspora all over the world. The Grand Pré National Historic Site of Canada commemorates the Acadian settlement and is a destination for those with Acadian heritage, including the cajuns of Louisiana.

Hospitality of the People

There are no people in the world like those from the Maritimes. Happy, relaxed, and helpful, it’s important to take the time to mingle. Go to Slocum and Ferris in the Saint John City Market - you'll see what I mean.

Flora and fauna

How can I forget the pleasure of watching deer in the wild or enjoying the beauty of the wild flowers? I was particularly taken with the fields of buttercups punctuated by stands of wild irises that we rode horseback through. And don't forget the birds...

Have you had a Bay experience? Please share in the comments below. 

Janice Waugh publishes Solo Traveler, the blog for those who travel alone and is author of The Solo Traveler’s Handbook. She has spoken at The Smithsonian Institute and been quoted in many media outlets including the Washington Post, Chicago Tribune, LA Times and the Toronto Star. She speaks on a variety of topics including travel, blogging and life changes. Her blog offers solo travel stories, tips, safety advice and destination ideas as well as a couple of free ebooks including Glad You’re Not Here: a solo traveler’s manifesto.