If you follow me on social media, you know that I spend A LOT of my time in Pointe-du-Chêne (PDC) and Shediac in the summer. Whether I’m strolling the beach, getting zen at yoga, eating lobster rolls or catching one of their spectacular sunsets—it’s my go-to local destination during the summer months.
With Bubblers arriving this summer (as well as locals on the hunt for local summer activities) I thought I would put together a little list of my favorite basking spots in Pointe-du-Chêne (PDC) and Shediac.
That’s right, if you’re going to spot this Mermaid this summer, there’s a high probability it’ll be at one of these many destinations!
PARLEE BEACH
Let’s start with the obvious one. I spend most of the summer on beaches across the East Coast of Canada, but Parlee Beach is one of my regular go-to’s. (Especially since it’s only 10 minutes from the city.)
With some of the warmest waters around, it’s home to one of my favourite restaurants and it has some of the best sunsets along the coast.
Everyone agrees. Parlee Beach sunsets are the best!
Mermaid Secret: You can park for free at the beach after 5:00 pm which means you can plan a whole evening of beach time, coastal snacks, and sunsets after work.
THE SHEDIAC MARKET
Your weekend visit to Shediac is not complete without a visit to the Shediac Market on Sunday morning!
This darling little market, located in the Parc Pascal Poirier, was my second home the last two summers with Sandy Toes Shop. While my mermaid’s heart hurts a little this summer to not be there, we’re so happy we can still go support vendors and shop local!
And did I mention there is SO MUCH good food to choose from? Bring an appetite, some cash and your reusable bag, and get the family together to visit the Shediac Market this summer!
BEACH YOGA WITH ANNE
If you haven’t experienced yoga on the beach at sunset or in the stillness of the morning—what are you waiting for? Beach Yoga with Anne is offered 2-3 times a week, with one sunset yoga (8:00 pm) and 1-2 Rise and Shine yoga classes (8:30 am) per week.
Into the woo and lunar cycles? Anne includes New Moon and Full Moon ceremonies as part of her summer offering and these classes are the definition of dreamy. Classes are scheduled based on the weather, so make sure to follow Inspire Yoga by Anne on Facebook to be the first to know about classes when they’re announced.
Due to Covid-19 you MUST register for each class, so don’t forget!
EUSTON PARK PARLEE BEACH
Remember I mentioned one of my favourite restaurants earlier? Well, OBVIOUSLY I was referring to Euston Park Parlee Beach: home to one of the most delicious lobster rolls around and a bar clam dip so heavenly, you might want to order your own if someone tries to convince you to share. Just saying.
If you’re already familiar with Parlee Beach, Euston Park is located in the canteen below the old Parlee Beach Restaurant. Just place your order at the canteen window and pick the perfect table on their large patio upstairs with ocean and sand dune views.
Mermaid Tip: You will 100% want to leave room for dessert and try their new ice cream donut sandwich this summer. Trust me on this one.
SHEDIAC PADDLE SHACK
Surfs up at the Shediac Paddle Shack!
This summer, why not give SUP Paddle Boarding a try? Shediac Paddle Shack is where I purchased my new paddleboard earlier this summer and owner Paulette could not be any sweeter! She’s also totally a mermaid!
Whether you’re in the market to purchase your own board or interested in trying one out at her Beginner Paddle Nights, it’s worth stopping in to learn more about this perfect summer activity. Make sure to Like Shediac Paddle Shack on Facebook to be in the know about events, classes, and more!
Mermaid Tip: Keep an eye out for a familiar brand in the shop! Shediac Paddle Shack is a proud Sandy Toes Shop stockist!
POINTE-DU-CHÊNE WHARF
Easily the second best place to watch the sunset, the Pointe-du-Chêne Wharf (PDC Wharf) has been a mermaid haunt of mine since I was a little girl. I love people watching, so grabbing a table and ordering some fresh seafood and drinks at one of several restaurants on the wharf while taking in the views is a must for me each summer.
This year, the PDC Wharf has been newly updated with new decks, retailers, and boardwalks to enjoy it to the fullest. It’s also a great spot to cool off by jumping off the wharf! Strong swimmers only, of course!
Mermaid Tip: Make sure to have some change handy. It’s $3 to drive on to the wharf or you can purchase a season pass for $40 if you’re planning to frequent the wharf this summer. Totally worth it, I promise!
SHEDIAC BAY CRUISES
I LOVE a good boat cruise, but one that offers a cruise AND fresh local seafood? Shell yeah!
Shediac Bay Cruises is a local gem and a must if you’re looking for a fun evening outing for a group of friends or family get together. Set sail with Captain Ron and his family this summer on one of their many tour options.
My pick is the Lobster Tales Cruise, which includes a traditional lobster dinner on board at sea. The cruise features a fully licensed bar on board, so you can order your favourite libation and take in the sea breeze.
Mermaid Tip: I highly recommend booking the 7:00 pm sailing to enjoy a Pointe-du-Chêne sunset from the ocean!
VIVA SHEDIAC
Want to book one of the most fun tours around this summer? Then book with friends of the Mermaid: Viva Shediac! With four tours to choose from, you have plenty of options for everyone you summer with.
Obviously, I’m a little biased and love their Sea Discoveries tour because you not only get to stroll the PDC Wharf to Parlee Beach, you get a delicious meal at Euston Park AND a VIP tour of Homarus Eco-Centre on the wharf.
Find out more about our recent experience here and make sure to let Viva Shediac Founders Francois and Karine know the Mermaid sent you!
POINTE-DU-CHÊNE ICE CREAM SHOP
Is there anything better than an ice cream on a hot day? Turns out there is and it’s called ice cream on the wharf with ocean views as boats sail by.
While there are many spots to treat yourself to delicious ice cream this summer around the Shediac and PDC area, my pick has always been the PDC Ice Cream Shop located right oh the Pointe-du-Chêne Wharf. They have a ton of flavours to choose from, their 1 scoop is very generous, and you can enjoy your treat with some salty air.
THE SANDBAR
Last, but certainly not least, if you want to enjoy a delicious meal during your visit, RIGHT on the ocean, The Sandbar on Pointe-du-Chêne Wharf is the spot. With an expanded patio this year and exceptional safety protocols, there’s a reason there is often a lineup to get into this local favorite. But don’t let that deter you – it’s worth the wait! Just take a peek at their Facebook Page to see some of their mouth-watering dishes!
Mermaid Tip: Want to dine like a mermaid? May I recommend the Sandbar Seafood Deluxe? (Pictured Above)
And there you have it! Want good odds of spotting a mermaid this summer? These ten amazing destinations are a great place to start! Most importantly, why not make this summer the year you support local like never before? Book a tour, set sail on a lobster cruise, support small businesses, take in a yoga class at sunset.
We are so incredibly lucky to call these shores home—let’s make the most of it this summer!
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