Canada

New Brunswick + Prince Edward Island

Prince Edward Island, Canada
New Brunswick, Canada
Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island, Canada
New Brunswick, Canada

Why visit New Brunswick + Prince Edward Island

New Brunswick and Prince Edward Island are maritime provinces in Canada, defined by characterful coastlines, a gentle pace and a deep sense of place shaped by the sea.

New Brunswick offers spectacular scenery and lush forests, alongside remarkable natural wonders such as the Bay of Fundy, one of the world’s finest spots for whale-watching. Here, the tides dictate the landscape, revealing hidden coves, dramatic sea stacks and salt marshes. There is a quiet pleasure in wandering the fishing communities that dot the coastline, where life moves in rhythm with the ocean.

Prince Edward Island has an instantly familiar charm for anyone raised on Anne of Green Gables. Red-sand beaches, historic lighthouses and patchwork farmland create a soft, nostalgic beauty. The island’s seafood, from sweet lobster to tender mussels, is among the freshest you can taste, especially when savoured in a harbourside setting.

Prince Edward Island, Canada

Highlights of New Brunswick and Prince Edward Island 

  • Whale-watching: The Bay of Fundy, on New Brunswick’s south coast, boasts the world’s highest tides. These currents draw plankton and krill, attracting 12 whale species. Minke, humpback, fin and the critically endangered North Atlantic right whale are the most commonly sighted. A private boat trip offers an intimate perspective on these majestic animals.
  • Hopewell Rocks: Perhaps New Brunswick’s most recognisable natural landmark, these extraordinary ‘flowerpot’ formations stand like sentinels along the coast. At low tide, you can walk beneath them across the ocean floor, experiencing the scale and sculpted beauty up close.
  • Saint Andrews: This seaside town charms with clapboard houses and sweeping coastal views. A short boat ride leads to Ministers Island, where a historic mansion, farm buildings and tidal flats await exploration. For hands-on discovery, join a marine biologist on a tidal-pooling adventure.
  • Fundy National Park: A cinematic blend of forest, waterfalls and coastline, Fundy National Park shows New Brunswick at its most dramatic. Trails wind through mossy woodland to viewpoints above the bay, often leaving entire stretches of wilderness to yourself.
  • Fresh seafood: Prince Edward Island is renowned for lobster, mussels and oysters. Savour a home-cooked feast by the water, or let our experts arrange a private sailing charter to haul your own lobster. Then enjoy a gourmet meal onboard while drifting along the island’s sparkling coastline.
  • Red sand beaches: Prince Edward Island’s rust-coloured shores, shaped by iron-rich sandstone cliffs, glow a deep copper in the late-afternoon light. These instantly recognisable beaches are perfect for quiet reflection or a gentle walk.
  • Lighthouses + coastal drives: Prince Edward Island’s coastline is dotted with lighthouses, each with its own story and spectacular views. Cycling or driving along the scenic roads reveals hidden coves, dramatic cliffs and peaceful beaches, with plenty of opportunities for photography or simply soaking in the scenery.
Craft beer

New Brunswick’s craft breweries serve up distinctive flavours using local ingredients such as wild blueberries and spruce tips.

Anne of Green Gables

Prince Edward Island is so closely linked with Anne of Green Gables that you can explore the very landscapes that inspired Lucy Maud Montgomery, including the real farmhouse that became Green Gables itself.

Good to know

Getting to New Brunswick + Prince Edward Island

New Brunswick has three main airports, all offering regular domestic flights to and from major Canadian hubs. International travellers generally connect via Toronto, Montréal, Ottawa or Calgary.

Moncton International Airport (YQM) is the largest in the province and a convenient gateway to south-eastern New Brunswick, including the Bay of Fundy. It is also a convenient entry point for Prince Edward Island. The island is around one hour 30 minutes’ drive via the Confederation Bridge from nearby Cape Jourimain, or along the Trans-Canada Highway.

Fredericton International Airport (YFC) serves central New Brunswick with regular flights to Toronto, Montréal and Ottawa. Saint John Airport (YSJ) is smaller but convenient for the southern coast and the Bay of Fundy, with daily domestic flights.

Prince Edward Island’s main airport is Charlottetown Airport (YYG), with regular flights from Toronto, Montréal, Halifax and Ottawa. Many travellers also arrive by car via the Confederation Bridge or by ferry from Nova Scotia, enjoying a first glimpse of PEI’s sparkling coastline.

When to go

  • J
  • F
  • M
  • A
  • M
  • J
  • J
  • A
  • S
  • O
  • N
  • D
Best time to visit
Good time to visit
Average time to visit

OUR FAVOURITE TIME TO VISIT

New Brunswick and Prince Edward Island are destinations to enjoy year-round. In spring, coastal trails bloom with wildflowers and migratory birds return, while whale-watching season begins along the Bay of Fundy. Summer brings warm weather, red-sand beaches, cycling paths and sailing adventures. In autumn, forests turn vivid shades of red and gold, and countryside drives reveal the islands’ quiet charm. Winter blankets the region in snow, inviting cross-country skiing, snowshoeing and cosy culinary experiences in small towns and rural inns.

 

Chat to an expert to start planning your trip

Get in touch with us and one of our travel experts will answer any questions you may have and help create your dream trip.