Winding along wind-swept coasts dotted with charming wineries and boutique inns, the Maritimes offer much more than picturesque lighthouses and polite residents (yes, the rumors are true — they really are that nice)! Take a Canadian road trip along the East Coast and experience all the region has to offer. Just don’t expect to find a Tim Hortons on every corner — that’s more of a Toronto thing.
When people think of Canada’s East Coast, their imagination tends to stop at Peggy’s Cove or whale tours. Doing the same would be a mistake that could prevent you from experiencing one of the most charming and effortless Canadian road trips.
A road trip along the Canadian East Coast offers travelers a mix of Acadian culture, beautiful landscapes, and historical sights. From the rugged beauty of Cape Breton Island’s Cabot Trail to the world’s highest tides in the Bay of Fundy, your journey will include breathtaking vistas and endless coastal charm.
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Have You Visited the Canadian East Coast?
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Where is Canada’s East Coast
Just over the Great Lakes and wrapping around New York, Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine, six provinces make up Eastern Canada — New Brunswick, Newfoundland, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, Quebec, and Ontario.
When it comes to Canada’s Atlantic Coast, it includes:
- The island of Newfoundland,
- Prince Edward Island,
- Nova Scotia, and
- The majority of New Brunswick.
Sage Advice: Discover more amazing places to explore in America’s neighbor to the north with this Canada travel guide.
Planning Your Canadian Road Trip
Before you start perfecting your “eh,” let’s cover some basics for planning your adventure. Don’t worry, there’s no pop quiz at the end — although knowing the difference between a lobster and a snow crab might come in handy.
Best Time to Visit
The ideal time for a Canadian road trip along the East Coast is during the summer months. Between June and September, the weather is warm, and must-see attractions are fully operational. If you visit earlier or later in the year, you may find many places closed for the season.
Determining Your Road Trip Route
While you should always plan a road trip around your road trip style and interests, I highly recommend that your route include can’t-miss destinations like the world’s highest tides at the Bay of Fundy in Fundy National Park and the scenic drives of Nova Scotia’s Cabot Trail. For urban centers, stop in Halifax for an all-around experience, Saint John for history and architecture, and sleepy Charlottetown for a delightful place to rest and recuperate.
Booking Accommodations
Because this region attracts the most visitors during the summer months, you’ll want to book your accommodations early. A range of options is available, from hotels in major cities to campsites in national parks such as Gros Morne National Park. If you are camping, keep in mind that many places have a two-night minimum when booking a reservation.
What to Pack
When exploring Canada’s East Coast, you’ll definitely want to pack weather-appropriate clothing. It rains frequently in this region, and the temperatures can drop quite a bit at night. As with all road trips, a first aid kit and updated navigation tools are also a must. And maybe pack a thesaurus — you’ll need new ways to say “beautiful” after the first dozen lighthouses. Oh, and don’t forget your sense of adventure — you’ll need it when trying to decipher local accents and menu items like “toutons” and “rappie pie.”
Highlights Along the East Coast
The Canadian East Coast is steeped in history and culture. The Maritime provinces are a hodgepodge of architectural styles and historical sites influenced by both the British and the French. The region’s past success is linked to commerce, forestry, and fishing. Although some provinces have fallen on harder times, you can still get a glimpse of past grandeur through the grime left by modern oil, pulp, and ship manufacturers.
Historic Sites and Cultural Attractions
Travelers can immerse themselves in the region’s past at Halifax’s Citadel Hill and the vibrant atmosphere of the Halifax waterfront. Cultural richness unfolds in the Acadian villages, where you can discover traditional music and stories that have shaped local identities. Wherever you go, try to learn more about the indigenous history of the Mi’kmaq, Maliseet, Passamaquoddy, Beothuk, and Innu, the First Nations who traditionally made their homes in this region.
Natural Wonders and Parks
The East Coast includes the Bay of Fundy, where the world’s highest tides deliver a dramatic seascape. Cape Breton’s Cabot Trail presents a breathtaking journey through the highlands and lush parklands, a serious draw for those who love outdoor adventures.
Coastal Towns
Quaint coastal towns like St. Andrews provide a taste of Maritime life and fresh local seafood. Lunenburg in Nova Scotia is a beauty that is not to be missed. Prince Edward Island’s potatoes, mussels, and lobster are must-try delicacies, reflecting the region’s deep ties to the sea.
Transportation Options
Whether you drive your personal car or rent a car to explore East Coast Canada, you’ll find that the roads are relatively accessible. Therefore, any vehicle with sufficient room for your passengers and luggage will work.
Stay informed of local weather conditions, especially during winter months when roads can be hazardous. As in the United States, the local emergency number is 911 across Canada. It’s also wise to keep a list of hospitals and service stations handy, particularly when exploring remote areas.
Local Cuisine
Canadian East Coast cuisine features flavors that are as rich as its cultural heritage, with each Maritime province offering its own unique and iconic dishes. From potatoes to seafood, white fish to cider, there is no shortage of delicious local dishes in the area. And remember: calories don’t count when you’re on vacation, especially if you’re exploring all of those scenic coastal hiking trails.
Understandably, seafood dominates the local food scene. Lobster rolls are typically served like they are in Maine, with fresh, succulent lobster meat mixed with mayonnaise and celery served in a toasted bun. Known for their size and sweetness, scallops from Digby, Nova Scotia, are often pan-seared to a golden finish. Wild blueberry pie made with locally harvested blueberries is a must-try for dessert.
Acadian cuisine is another part of Canada’s food history. It’s hearty, homey, and full of flavors that showcase Canada’s French heritage.
Dropping Anchor in Eastern Canada
Canada’s East Coast is filled with natural wonders and Maritime charm. As you plot your course through this coastal wonderland, prepare to set sail for an adventure that’ll have you saying “sorry” for ever doubting Canada’s coolness. And who knows? You might even pick up a slight Maritime lilt to your “aboot” by the end of the trip.
Have You Road Tripped Along Canada’s East Coast?
What did you love the most? Did you discover a hidden gem or a quirky roadside attraction that deserves a shoutout? Maybe you’ve got some helpful tips to make the journey even better. Did you master the art of eating lobster without wearing half of it? Tell me all about it in the comments below!
Portions of this article originally appeared on Food Drink Life.
