The Bay of Fundy is a fascinating place for those visiting Nova Scotia to explore one of the region’s most impressive natural landscapes. It is known in the Guinness Book of World Records as having the highest average spring tides, with tidal changes being more extreme at the point of shallow levels reachable by foot, to impassable high waters.
It is also home to a fossil excavation site and has a unique history that draws many people to its shores. Whether you’re visiting for the Not Since Moses Run or just visiting to see this incredible tidal pattern in action, here are a few things to know ahead of time.
ten You can walk on the ocean floor in this part of the bay
Burntcoat Head Park is an iconic location in the Bay of Fundy known for its extremely high tides. Alternatively, when the tide is low, this leaves plenty of water-free space for visitors to walk directly on the seabed. It is an amazing experience for those who have never seen the bottom of a bay before and leaves exposed areas with the occasional unique fossil, shell or rock. It also creates tidal pools that temporarily trap native marine life, which visitors can then view 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 the surrounding cliffs, not just on the seabed
Those fascinated by prehistoric life are also drawn to the surrounding Bay of Fundy cliffs. These rocks hold secrets millions of years old, and the location has become popular with fossil hunters in search of this unique artifact. Visitors can book tours through several tour guides, such as Joggins Fossil Cliffs UNESCO World Heritage Site, Treasures of Fundy Toursand the Fundy Geological Museum.
8 The Bay of Fundy is also popular with surfers
There are two times of day when surfers line up to catch the influx of water flowing through the rivers of the Upper Bay. This strange phenomenon produces a tidal wave that flows upstream, filling the Petitcodiac. What’s so amazing about catching this wave is that it can last for a long distance, making it a sight to behold for those watching from Bore Park in New Brunswick.
seven Consider wildlife sightings during your trip
The Bay of Fundy is home to a wide variety of islands Grand Manan is one of the best places along the Bay of Fundy for wildlife viewing, especially for those wishing to spot multiple whales, including ring-tailed whales. humpback, minke, Atlantic species. Visitors may also have the chance to observe harbor porpoises, dolphins, puffins and gray seals.
6 Snorkeling is also something that can be done in the Bay of Fundy
The most popular place for this is the Inner Bay, which is teeming with salmon in September. Visitors will need a drysuit to combat the cold temperatures of this water, but it’s worth it for experienced divers who want to see this incredible species of fish up close. The best days to do so 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 peak season. However, there are more reasons 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 seeing the most native bird species during this time.
4 The Bay of Fundy is home to many waterfalls
The Bay of Fundy in Nova Scotia is full of surprises, including its many waterfalls. While most people are staring at its incredible tides, the waterfalls surrounding the bay are also quite an amazing sight to behold. With four main waterfalls to search for – Match factory scraps, Third Vault Falls, Bennet Creek Fallsand 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 at low tide
Even more secrets unfold in the Bay of Fundy at 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, i.e. low tide. As visitors wander over this muddy ocean floor, they will find the caverns along the cliffs; it should be noted that these are however about an hour west of the park.
2 Hiking isn’t the only way to explore the Bay of Fundy
You don’t even have to get out of your vehicle to appreciate the beauty and magic of the Bay of Fundy. A scenic drive along the Bay of Fundy coast will provide incredible waterfront views without any hiking or sightseeing. Scenic viewpoints give visitors the chance to get out and take in the scenery from the cliffs, making it a very relaxed way to explore this natural wonder.
1 Dine at the bottom of the Bay of Fundy
Interested in a little dinner below sea level? This can be done with an experiment organized by restaurateur Chris Velden, which brings to life a unique Bay of Fundy meal at low tide. Attendees will have a lesson in foraging and edible marine snacks before the meal, which incorporates local and seasonal ingredients to create amazing dishes.
