Plan your visit
Plan your Visit
Timing is everything. Check the tide tables to walk the ocean floor and pack layers for changing coastal weather.
Getting there
Getting around the bay requires a vehicle or a guided tour.
| How | Time | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Car: Driving is the best and most flexible way to explore the expansive coastline along New Brunswick and Nova Scotia. | Varies by route | A vehicle is highly recommended as public transit between major natural sites like Hopewell Rocks and Fundy National Park is virtually non-existent. | |
| Tour: Guided bus tours frequently depart from the Saint John cruise terminal or major cities like Moncton and Halifax. | 5-7 hours | ~$50-$100 CAD | Popular for cruise passengers; typically covers highlights like the Reversing Falls, St. Martins, and Hopewell Rocks. |
| Boat: Whale watching tours and zodiac boats depart from specific coastal towns like St. Andrews, Brier Island, and Digby Neck. | 2.5-4 hours | ~$60-$90 CAD | Essential for spotting humpback, minke, and fin whales during the summer months. |
When to go
- J
- F
- M
- A
- M
- J
- J
- A
- S
- O
- N
- D
QuietModerateBusyPeak
The parks are accessible year-round, but late spring through mid-fall is the primary season. Facilities are fully open from May to October. August is the peak month for spotting whales in the bay.
What to bring
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The bay's water level changes every 6 hours and 13 minutes.
Check official tide tables to schedule your ocean floor walk safely.
How the day runs
How to structure your day around the tides.
A full day focused on experiencing the massive tidal change at the flowerpot rocks.
- Low Tide Walk
Descend the stairs at Hopewell Rocks to walk the exposed ocean floor.
- Explore Demoiselle Beach
Walk to the sandy cove at the southern end of the park.
- Lunch Break
Eat at the park cafe or nearby restaurants while the tide comes in.
- High Tide View
Return to the flowerpot rocks to see the water 50 feet higher.
Explore the New Brunswick coast from Hopewell Rocks down to Fundy National Park.
- Hopewell Rocks
Arrive early to beat the crowds and explore the sea stacks.
- Drive to Alma
Follow the coastal route south to the village of Alma.
- Seafood Lunch
Grab a famous New Brunswick lobster roll in Alma.
- Dickson Falls
Hike the 1.5 km boardwalk trail in Fundy National Park.
Safety and packing
Always check official tide tables before walking on the ocean floor. At Hopewell Rocks, return to the stairs at least two hours before high tide to avoid getting trapped. Keep a safe distance from cliff edges, as tidal erosion makes rocks unstable.
Wear mud shoes or old sneakers, as the red clay will permanently stain your footwear. Bring a windbreaker and fleece layers, because coastal temperatures change quickly. In summer, pack DEET bug spray to ward off black flies and mosquitoes.
Easiest way to do it
Bay of Fundy Moncton–St. Martins Self-Guided Audio Drive
3 h 3.9 (35)
- Flexible access to pause and resume at your own pace
- One booking per vehicle
- Self-guided GPS-triggered smartphone audio tour
- Tour available anytime after download, with no fixed schedule
From$9per person
Cancellation terms differ by platform and listing. Check them before you pay.
Planning questions
What should I wear to visit the Bay of Fundy?
Dress in layers, including a fleece and a windbreaker. Wear closed-toe shoes you do not mind getting permanently stained by red mud. Bring waterproof boots if you plan to walk extensively on the ocean floor.
How long does it take for the tide to come in at Hopewell Rocks?
The tide cycle averages 6 hours and 13 minutes from low to high. The water rises very quickly. Visitors must return to the shore or stairs at least two hours before peak high tide.
Where is the best place to see the Bay of Fundy tides?
Hopewell Rocks Provincial Park is the most iconic location. You can walk on the ocean floor at low tide and watch the water rise to cover the massive sea stacks later in the day.