On the rugged Bay of Fundy coast in New Brunswick, the ocean rises and falls with the highest tides in the world—up to 12 metres twice a day. This extraordinary natural rhythm defines Fundy National Park, a place where you can walk on the ocean floor in the morning, then kayak over it by afternoon.

For Canadians seeking a staycation that blends dramatic seascapes with lush inland forests, Fundy delivers. It’s a park of contrasts—saltwater and freshwater, tidal mudflats and cascading waterfalls, coastal cliffs and dense Acadian woodland—all within a compact 207 square kilometres.

Overview of the Park

Established in 1948, Fundy National Park sits near the village of Alma, making it an easy escape for New Brunswickers and Maritimers alike. The park protects a diverse range of ecosystems, from the Bay’s intertidal zone to the inland highlands.

The extreme tides shape both the landscape and local life. Twice a day, the ocean retreats to reveal vast mudflats rich with marine life, then rushes back to fill harbours to the brim. Inland, the park is home to over 25 waterfalls, 100 kilometres of hiking trails, and a thriving population of moose, beavers, and songbirds.

Best Staycation Activities

1. Witness the World’s Highest Tides
   Head to Herring Cove Beach or Point Wolfe at low tide to walk along the sea floor. Return six hours later to see the same spot transformed into a bay full of water.
2. Hike to Waterfalls
   Highlights include:
   »Dickson Falls – A short but spectacular walk through mossy forest to a cascading waterfall.
   » Laverty Falls – A moderate hike leading to a popular swimming hole beneath the falls.
   » Third Vault Falls – At 16 metres, it’s the tallest waterfall in the park and worth the longer trek.
3. Kayak the Bay
   Guided tours from Alma let you paddle along the cliffs and sea caves. The changing tides make each trip unique.
4. Explore the Acadian Forest
   The park’s inland trails lead through mixed-wood forest, home to red spruce, sugar maple, and yellow birch. Autumn here is a riot of colour.
5. Stargazing
   Far from city lights, Fundy is a designated Dark-Sky Preserve. On clear nights, the Milky Way stretches across the horizon.

Where to Stay: From Campsites to Coastal Comfort

Fundy offers accommodation for every kind of traveller:

• Fundy Highlands Motel & Chalets – Overlooks the Bay, with self-catering units perfect for longer stays.
• Parks Canada oTENTik Units – A cross between a tent and a cabin, offering comfort without the full camping setup.
• Chignecto North Campground – Family-friendly with serviced and unserviced sites.
• Point Wolfe Campground – More secluded, with sites near the ocean.
• Inland Cabins – Rustic, cosy options deep in the forest for a quiet retreat.

Nearby Alma also has B&Bs and inns, where fresh-caught lobster is often on the menu.

Seasonal Highlights

• Spring (May–June):
  Waterfalls run strong, and wildflowers emerge. Fewer visitors mean you’ll have trails to yourself.
• Summer (July–August):
  Ideal for kayaking, swimming, and camping. The tides are warmest for barefoot walks on the ocean floor.
• Autumn (September–October):
  The Acadian forest bursts into colour, and cooler temperatures make for comfortable hiking.
• Winter (November–March):
  Fundy transforms into a snow-covered wonderland, with opportunities for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.

Tips for Planning Your Trip

• Tide Charts: Timing is everything. Check tide schedules before planning beach walks or kayaking.
• Footwear: Wear waterproof shoes with good grip for exploring the ocean floor—it can be muddy and slippery.
• Parks Canada Pass: Required for entry; day or annual passes are available.
• Wildlife Etiquette: Moose and black bears roam here. Keep a safe distance and store food properly.
• Layer Up: The coastal climate can change quickly—bring extra layers even in summer.

Indigenous Connections and Cultural Heritage

The Bay of Fundy region is part of the traditional territory of the Mi’kmaq people. For thousands of years, they have harvested the rich marine resources and travelled the forests and waterways of what is now Fundy National Park.

While the park’s early history involved displacement of local communities, including Mi’kmaq and Acadian families, recent efforts have sought to include Indigenous perspectives in interpretive programming and cultural exhibits. Visitors can learn about traditional uses of local plants, Mi’kmaq language place names, and the deep cultural connection to the tides.

Sustainable Travel in Fundy

With such a delicate ecosystem, sustainability is key:

• Stay on Trails: Protect sensitive vegetation and tidal flats.
• Pack Out Waste: Even biodegradable items can harm wildlife.
• Buy Local: Alma’s small businesses thrive on visitor support.
• Use Refillable Water Bottles: Reduce plastic waste.
• Respect Tidal Life: Avoid disturbing shellfish, crabs, and other intertidal creatures.

The Takeaway

A staycation in Fundy National Park is an immersion in nature’s rhythm. Here, the ocean literally breathes—advancing and retreating in a timeless cycle that shapes the land and life along its shores.

You can start your morning watching fishing boats return with their catch, spend midday hiking to a waterfall hidden in mossy forest, and end the day watching the tide sweep in under a sky full of stars.

It’s a place that feels both grand and intimate—where the vastness of the ocean meets the detail of a single seashell on the beach.

Next, we’ll head to the Pacific coast for Pacific Rim National Park Reserve, British Columbia, where wild beaches, temperate rainforests, and crashing waves await.