There’s no shortage of incredible sights and scenery to see in New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, PEI, Newfoundland and coastal Quebec*. While iconic spots like Peggy’s Cove, Gros Morne National Park, Toronto and Hopewell Rocks often take the spotlight, there are so many hidden gems as well.
Over the years, we’ve made it our mission to explore beautiful places further off the beaten path. One summer, we dedicated two months to doing exactly that in Nova Scotia!
Let us show you some of the places that have made the biggest impression on us on Canada’s East Coast, from quirky towns and coastal trails to tiny islands in the middle of the St Lawrence!
*Why include Quebec? Well, for me, coastal Quebec has a lot in common with the Maritimes. Think beautiful beaches, authentic fishing villages and a slower pace of life. It’s also easy to weave parts of coastal Quebec into an East Coast itinerary.
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The Acadian Peninsula, New Brunswick
The north-east corner of New Brunswick is home to the Acadian Peninsula (Péninsule acadienne). It is primarily a French-speaking area, with many of the local population being descended from the first French families who settled Canada in the 17th century.
Jean Robert (JR) is a proud Acadian and grew up outside of Shippagan, a small town close to the ‘tip’ of the Peninsula. For that reason alone, the Acadian Peninsula had to be top of this list!
The area is known for its laid back vibe, sandy beaches, seaside communities, local seafood and an amazing bike route, the Véloroute Péninsule. The latter includes 600km of different routes, with around 70km of that being paved and off road. I wrote about exploring it for the Trans Canada Trail.
A great time to visit the Acadian Peninsula is mid August, when the locals celebrate Fête nationale de l’Acadie (Acadian Day). While the observed day is 15th August, many of the communities host events over a whole week with live music, parades (the tintamarre) and themed activities.
Wolfville, Nova Scotia
My top picks for small towns in Eastern Canada are all in Nova Scotia. Two great examples are Wolfville and Antigonish. While they are not geographically super close together, they do have some similarities. If you like small town travel, I’d recommend visiting one or even both!
Wolfville is a place we’ve returned to quite a few times – we love the walkable downtown, local wineries, waterfront pathways, coastal location and historial significance. It’s also just an hour’s drive from Halifax!
Situated on the edge of the Bay of Fundy, Wolfville experiences the world’s largest tides twice daily. The area was originally settled by the Acadians who were expelled by British forces in 1755, which you can learn more about at the Grand-Pré National Historic Site.
Îles de la Madeleine, Quebec
We’ve explored all four of Quebec’s maritime regions, from Bas-Saint-Laurent and the Gaspé to Côte-Nord and the Îles de la Madeleine. There’s so much to share about each one but I will refrain in this post and only include two! First, the Îles de la Madeleine (the Magdalen Islands).
The Magdalen Islands are located in middle of the Gulf of St Lawrence, a group of tiny islands, connected by sand dunes and fringed by crimson cliffs. I honestly think its one of Canada’s best kept travel secrets, at least, to anyone who isn’t Québécois!
Beyond the stunning landscapes, you’ll discover a vibrant Acadian culture, endless opportunities for outdoor adventure and a gourmet culinary scene featuring some of the freshest, most delicious seafood around. Lobster fan? Time your trip with the lobster fishing season – usually May to June.
Îles de la Madeleine can be reached by plane via Quebec or by ferry from Prince Edward Island. The Souris to Cap-aux-Meules ferry route is operated by CTMA and takes around five hours plus loading and unloading time. For more details, head to our dedicated Magdalen Islands travel guide.
The East Coast Trail, Newfoundland
Stretching 336km along the coast of the Avalon Peninsula, the East Coast Trail is a remarkable hiking route. Its easy accessibility allows for both day hikes on many sections of the trail and longer, multi-day adventures. We hiked 140km of the trail a few years ago and were blown away by its beauty.
Starting from Topsail Beach and ending in Cappahayden, the path weaves along the top of high cliffs, next to waterfalls, behind windswept beaches and through many small towns.
We spotted whales from shore, found orchids, watched a geyser erupt, peered into deep gulches (ravines), bumped into a moose and enjoyed a surprising amount of solitude. Our hike ended at Canada’s most easterly point, Cape Spear.
The East Coast Trail is completely free to hike, with no permit required. Of the 12 different sections we explored, I’d recommend the Sugarloaf Path, the Spout Path, the Cobblers Path and the Motion Path the most.
Antigonish, Nova Scotia
Another wonderful small town in Nova Scotia, Antigonish is about two hours drive from Halifax. It’s the ideal place to stop on the way to Cape Breton Island and the Cabot Trail.
As a regional centre and university town, Antigonish’s local restaurant and shopping scene is much more reminiscent of a small city. Check out this Antigonish guide to find out how much you can do in one day there.
Like Wolfville, Antigonish is also located by the coast, on St George’s Bay. Acadians who were expelled from the Grand-Pré area actually settled near here in the late 18th century. While in the area, be sure to road trip on the Cape George Scenic Drive (Highway 337), which features amazing views.
Western Prince Edward Island
Prince Edward Island (PEI) has so much to offer, especially when it comes to gorgeous beaches. Some of my favourite beaches of all time can be found here! While there are plenty of places I could have included on this list, the western side of the Island came to mind straight away.
While there is no doubt that PEI is a mega popular destination in general, the western side receives slightly less tourism. It still boasts numerous beautiful beaches, picture perfect lighthouses and great seafood spots, while also showcasing a interesting mix of Acadian, Celtic, and Mi’kmaq cultures.
Start your trip in Summerside and then make your way to North Point, via West Point Lighthouse and the Village musical acadien. The latter is a cultural center with a restaurant, bakery and regular live music shows. If you’re feeling quirky, head to the iconic Canadian Potato Museum!
The Cape Chignecto Trail, Nova Scotia
Nova Scotia’s premier multi-day hiking route is the Cape Chignecto Trail. It provides a beautiful, varied and challenging hiking experience while showcasing the power of the huge Bay of Fundy tides.
The majority of the route stays close to ocean, providing regular sweeping views of dramatic coastal scenery. Think towering cliffs and dramatic rock formations, overlooking pebble and sand beaches tinged with pink and red.
While the full trail is a 51km loop, many people hike a 39km version of the trail over 3/4 days and skip the long forested inland stretch. Seven campsites are located along the way, with three cabins and a bunkhouse as well.
We’ve hiked the Cape Chignecto Trail twice – once in June and then in July. The second time, we stayed exclusively in the cabins and it felt like a luxurious backpacking experience!
Day hiking opportunities are also available in the park. If you do visit, I’d also suggest spending extra in nearby Parrsboro. This lovely little coastal community has a great local theatre and geological museum. Head to my friend Steph’s Parrsboro travel guide for more details!
The Whale Route, Côte-Nord, Quebec
Looking for an epic coastal road trip packed full of spectacular beaches, waterfalls, local seafood, wildlife watching opportunities and joie de vivre? Check out the Whale Route in Quebec, a 850km journey along the north shore of the St. Lawrence River.
This beyond the beaten path drive along Highway 138 passes a National Marine Conservation Area (Saguenay–St. Lawrence) as well as a national park (Mingan Archipelago) and many colourful coastal communities.
Named for the 13 whale species that inhabit these waters, a summer road trip on this route offers a high chance of seeing them up close, breaching or spouting just offshore. We driven sections of it three times now and have always spotted at least a few whales from shore.
To explore the entire route, I’d suggest 7 to 10 days. Those short on time can still enjoy the highlights by focusing on key sections, taking in the most scenic stretches. Lots of suggestions can be found in our Whale Route guide!
St John’s, Newfoundland
Seeing the title above, you might be thinking, “Wait – St. John’s isn’t exactly a hidden gem!” That may be true but I have included it on this list as I think staying in St John’s for an extended time is an underrated way to experience Newfoundland.
We spent 10 days in colourful St John’s a couple of years ago and found so many fun things to do. The city has some of the best urban hiking I’ve ever experienced, a lovely pedestrianised downtown area in summer, great nightlife and live music, super friendly locals, an impressive food scene and more.
Not only does the city have plenty to offer, there are also countless amazing spots just a 30 to 60 minute drive away! Many of them are even located right on the East Coast Trail, mentioned elsewhere in this guide.
Some great examples are Cape Spear (Canada’s most easterly point), Petty Harbour (super cute fishing community), the Witless Bay Islands Park Reserve (boat trips to see whales and puffins!), La Manche (suspension bridge) and Flatrock (Our Lady of Lourdes Grotto).
Brier Island, Nova Scotia
Those looking to really unplug and connect with nature should head to Brier Island in southwestern Nova Scotia. Two short ferries are required to reach it and those who make the journey will be rewarded with stunning coastal scenery to explore and intriguing local wildlife to spot.
This tiny 7.5km by 2.5km island is home to around 200 full time residents. There is one general store, one gas station, two restaurants and a handful of places to stay.
Brier Island is a popular spot for whale watching. The local operators (of which there are only a few), have self-imposed regulations to avoid harassing or overwhelming the whales. Aside from humpbacks, it is also common to see finback and minke whales plus harbour porpoises and white-sided dolphins.
Besides the whales, there are hiking trails to explore, two lighthouses to find, 300 bird species to try and spot, agates to hunt for on the beaches and local seafood to devour.
Other posts you may find helpful
East Coast Canada Road Trip | 2 and 4 Week Itineraries
12+ of the Best Nova Scotia Campgrounds
Ultimate Two Week Coastal Quebec Road Trip Itinerary
27+ of the Best Beaches in Nova Scotia, Canada
8 Must Do Nova Scotia Road Trips: Itineraries, Tips + Maps
Best Places to Visit in Canada: Travel Ideas and Inspiration for Each Province and Territory
One half of the Canadian/British couple behind Off Track Travel, Gemma is happiest when hiking on the trail or planning the next big travel adventure. JR and Gemma are currently based in the beautiful Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, Canada. Consider buying us a coffee if you have find any of our guides helpful!
What a great list! There are so many great places to visit in Canada. As a Canadian, who travels the world, there is still no place like home. Don’t forget to stop in my hometown of Kingston, Ontario as you are heading east. Happy travels!
Thanks for the recommendation Lori! I’d love to hear about the top things to do in and around Kingston if you have a chance. I’m glad you liked the list
Great article.
NFL and NB are in my bucket list!
Glad u added Killarney, Agawa and the Bruce.
I would encourage folks to check out Pukaskwa after Lake Superior Prov Park (where Agawa is).
The little town of Thessalon 45 min east of Sault Ste Marie on Lake Huron is a hidden gem too.
Thanks for mentioning Pukaskwa, we’ll be sure to try and make it there! Will you make it to Newfoundland and New Brunswick anytime soon do you think?
Being from Nova Scotia, I have to argue that Ontario isn’t really Eastern Canada! But great list!
So interesting to hear a different perspective on the East/West divide! I’m glad you liked the list
I agree with Jenn lol. Ontario is not part of Eastern Canada! Only people in BC and Alberta say that 🙂 If you want to offend the fewest Canadians, describe the provinces east of Manitoba as Ontario, Quebec, and Atlantic Canada.
My suggestions for Ontario — 1) gentle and fun — Awenda park, Wye marsh, Midland area. 2) SCUBA diving at Tobermory 3) Sleeping Giant and Quetico parks (near Thunder Bay)
Enjoy getting to know this part of our amazing country!
Funny how perspective changes so much! 😉 I have to say though, 10 Amazing Places to Visit in Ontario, Quebec and Atlantic Canada is a bit of a mouthful! Thanks or the recommendations! Quetico is high up on our list (heard so many good things). Awenda Park and Wye Marsh are new to me! Cool to hear of good scuba diving too?!
Yes you did! Gaspe Coast, Quebec….just awesome.
Hi Humphrey,
Funnily enough, we did make it to Gaspe that year (2018) and it was amazing! Thanks for sharing