Top Spots to Experience the World’s Highest Tides in Nova Scotia
The world’s highest tides, reaching up to 53 feet, were measured in Nova Scotia’s Bay of Fundy. Did you know these tides set the stage for epic adventures like kayaking, tidal bore rafting, fossil hunting, and tidal pool exploration? Here are five spots to experience the tides:
Hike 90m cliffs, explore sea stacks, and discover fossils at Five Islands Provincial Park: Rising majestically from the shores of the Bay of Fundy, Five Islands Provincial Park is one of Nova Scotia’s premiere outdoor destinations. Situated 24 km (15 mi) east of Parrsboro, the park features 90-metre (300-ft.) sea cliffs overlooking the world’s highest tides, a spectacular setting for camping or any of the many opportunities that abound for hiking, beachcombing, rock collecting, and clam digging.
Continue exploring nearby attractions including Joggins Fossil Cliffs UNESCO World Heritage Site where rare fossils reveal details of life as it was in the “Coal Age”, panoramic views from Cape d’Or Coastal Park and Fundy Geological Museum where you can explore an ancient Nova Scotia and travel back in time 200-million years ago when dinosaurs roamed the Earth.
Walk on the ocean floor at low tide and witness dramatic tidal changes at Burntcoat Head Park: the exact site of the world’s highest tides! Here, you can experience the wonder of ocean life in tide pools, exploring for hours on the ocean floor. Enjoy stunning vistas of red Fundy cliffs and flowerpot islands; book your very own guided tour of the shoreline or explore on your own.
To fully experience the breathtaking power of the Bay of Fundy, visit at both low and high tide. Pass the six hours between tides enjoying the park’s historic lighthouse, trails, picnic areas, and interpretive displays, then exploring attractions of the local community – from museums and art galleries to world-famous tidal bore rafting! Park access is free.
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Watch fishing boats on the ocean floor at low tide in the charming fishing village of Hall’s Harbour: an authentic fishing village dating back to 1779, when Captain Hall and his privateers used this natural harbour as a base. Take a walk along the harbourfront boardwalk and explore the Lobster Pound’s buildings which date back to the 1820s whilst interpretive panels provide you with a history of the buildings and area. Enjoy the excellent views of the world famous Bay of Fundy tides along the way – and after your tour enjoy a delectable seaside meal of lobster at Hall’s Harbour Lobster Pound and Restaurant on the waterfront.
Ride the tidal bore on the Shubenacadie River for an exhilarating, messy adventure: Go Tidal Bore Rafting and feel the rush of riding waves that can be up to 4 metres (13 feet) high in a Zodiac boat as the power of the world’s highest tides in the Bay of Fundy turn the Shubenacadie River into a water roller coaster only found in Nova Scotia. Expert guides take you cascading down rapids as the incoming ocean reverses the flow of the river. This fun-filled voyage isn’t complete without going mudsliding, too!
Kayak along towering cliffs and secluded coves at Cape Chignecto Provincial Park: best described as a wilderness park, this Provincial Park has 18 miles of pristine coastline, deep valleys, sheltered coves, rare plants, and remnant old-growth forests. Over 33 miles of wilderness trails, Cape Chignecto is Nova Scotia’s largest park offering back-country and day use trails, beaches and camping.
About Nova Scotia: With more than 13,000 km of coastline to explore, Nova Scotia is an ocean playground and filled to the brim with stunning natural beauty, diverse cultures, rich heritage, and warm, friendly people. Home to some of the most authentic, exclusive and extraordinary coastal experiences in North America, the province is rich in history - boasting 6 UNESCO designated sites - and is known for its spectacular beaches, and a top-notch locally sourced culinary scene shaped by the sea. For more information visit novascotia.com.