2024's 7 Most Scenic Towns In The Maritimes
Home to the breathtaking Acadian forest, rugged coastlines, and endless iconic landmarks, the Maritimes offers a unique and unforgettable experience in eastern Canada. The provinces of Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, and New Brunswick attract millions annually to experience its one-of-a-kind blend of beauty and culture. This article will explore the seven most scenic towns in the Maritimes for 2024.
Lunenburg, Nova Scotia
How special is Lunenburg? Special enough to be just one of two urban communities on the entire continent of North America to be honored as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The calendar-worthy shore, dotted with a tapestry of colorful 18th-century buildings, still stands proudly today as a testament to the town's storied history. Aside from scenic waterfronts, tourists have the opportunity to witness and sail the Bluenose II, one of Lunenburg's top attractions, and a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to be on the water to experience what it's like to be a crew member. During your trip, you will learn the art of sailing, in addition to taking on other tasks, such as cleaning the deck and assisting the captain with any duties they may assign you to do. For a more leisurely experience, tag along with other tourists on a guided tour through Lunenburg Walking Tours—you'll have the advantage of walking through historic streets, seeing exceptional Victorian architecture, and walking by the esteemed Castle on the Hill, among many other landmarks.
Mahone Bay, Nova Scotia
Mahone Bay is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. This charming coastal destination is close to over 350 islands, making it an ideal spot for sea kayaking. On your journey, you might encounter bald eagles, ospreys, tuna, and even porpoises—majestic creatures that resemble dolphins. To see why this town is considered among the most scenic in the area, visit the iconic three churches along the waterfront on Edgewater Street—the beautifully aligned churches enhance the already beautiful shoreline, but on calm days, their reflections can be seen in the waters to create an alluring ambiance. Mahone Bay is also home to the annual Scarecrow Festival, where residents gather from September 27 - October 14 to enjoy a wide range of activities like attending the Mahone Bay Museum free of charge, in addition to relishing some savory corn cobs and engaging in the lively MBU'S Country Fair. For those seeking a more secluded spot, Bachman's Beach is just a 19-minute drive away, offering crystal-clear waters, soft sands, and minimal crowds for a peaceful atmosphere by the sea.
St. Andrews-by-the-Sea, New Brunswick
The history of St Andrews can be traced back to 241 years ago when loyalists from Maine escaped and settled near the shores after the American Revolution. Fascinatingly, the Historic District of St. Andrews includes the town's oldest area, where many of the original buildings still stand immaculately today. If you're staying overnight, consider the Algonquin Resort, a historic yet luxurious hotel established all the way back in 1889. The hotel is best known for its timeless architecture, but it also offers breathtaking coastal views and warm hospitality, among a wide range of other amenities for maximum comfort. This town is also located near the famous Bay of Fundy, which is known to have some of the world's highest tides—if not the highest—providing incredible views of sea cliffs and the vast ocean, but be mindful of rapidly changing tides, as they can rise very quickly.
Shelburne, Nova Scotia
Shelburne is a charming small town with a rich history. It was more than 13,000 years ago when members of the Mi'kmaq First Nation settled by the Roseway River, becoming the first humans to set up encampments and utilize the natural resources of the area. Centuries later, Shelburne became a major shipping hub, which played a crucial role in the town's economy during the 18th century and onwards. Presently, many historic sites stemming from that era still remain, including Heritage Hall, Joseph McGill Shipbuilding and Transportation Company Office, and the scenic Sandy Point Lighthouse, one of the region's most iconic landmarks. Unlike most lighthouses perched on cliffs or rocky shores, this one is uniquely positioned on a sandbar, surrounded by the Atlantic waters.
Victoria-by-the-Sea, Prince Edward Island
Fancy yourself some delicious muscles and lobsters fresh out of the sea? You found the right place. Victoria-by-the-sea is full of scenic views, colorful buildings, and delectable food. There are many great dining options here, with Landmark Oyster House ranked first on TripAdvisor, being a top choice for some mouthwatering seafood. Following your feisty meal, visit the 35-foot Victoria Seaport Lighthouse Museum to witness picturesque views of the harbor and the Northumberland Strait. For arts and crafts lovers, Victoria-by-the-Sea contains a wide range of artisan shops offering meticulously handmade crafts. Among these shops is Coach House Antiques, where you can skim through a great selection of vintage crafts, furniture, dishes, and books. Another artisan shop, Bittersweet Rose, specializes in special gifts to take home for friends and loved ones, open daily from 11 am to 5 pm.
Annapolis Royal, Nova Scotia
Annapolis Royal is recognized as one of the earliest communities in the area. Founded in 1605, nearly 420 years ago, the town was the site of the first permanent French settlement established by François Gravé Du Pont and Samuel de Champlain. Like many coastal towns, Annapolis Royal features several art galleries, and while there are many to choose from, the two that stand out among them are the Far-Fetched Antique & Art Gallery and Tripp's Art Gallery. The former enables you to enter a world of wonder with its authentic and mysterious collection of artifacts, while the latter primarily offers paintings related to Prince Edward Island's dreamy landscapes. To learn more about this historic town, take advantage of the nearby Port-Royal National Historic Site, a 2.5-acre compound built sometime between 1605 and 1613. The towering site is primarily made from wood, which adds to its mysterious and commanding aura.
Shediac, New Brunswick
Capping off the list is "The Lobster Capital of the World." Aside from boasting delicious seafood and a giant lobster sculpture, this town boasts a rich Acadian history, proudly celebrating it for 75 years through the Festival de la Homard, held annually in early July. The next one is in 2025, but fret not! For the time being, several landmarks and cultural attractions await your visit—one of them being the award-winning Parlee Beach Provincial Park, considered one of the warmest saltwater beaches in Canada. The beach was honored with the prestigious title of Blue Flag International eco-certification, a title given only to the most pristine beaches that meet robust safety measures and standards. The beach is a major hotspot for swimming during the summer months but also offers a peaceful retreat for campers during this time of the year. As you prepare to leave Shediac, don't miss the chance to snap a photo of the previously mentioned giant lobster statue, a favorite photo spot among travelers. And, if you're feeling extra adventurous, hop on the Croisières Shédiac Bay Cruises to witness the breathtaking beauty of Shediac Bay's coastline.
