Twenty-five years ago, my parents first brought me to Grand Manan Island. Never in my wildest dreams could I have imagined that twenty-five years later, it would become our second home.
Perhaps one of New Brunswick’s best-kept secrets or hidden gems, the Queen of the Fundy Isles is the kind of place that once you’ve experienced it, it’ll stay with you long after you watch Swallowtail lighthouse disappear in the distance from the ferry. Once Grand Manan casts its spell on you, you’ll understand why it’s impossible to stay away.
Over the last decade, I’ve published my annual Guide to Grand Manan Island.
It began because every time I’d post photos of our visits, back before we were lucky enough to have a place of our own on the island, I’d receive messages from followers or friends, asking the same thing: “I want to experience Grand Manan as you do. I want the exact itinerary.”
For years, I’ve tried to be fair and include everyone and everything in the guide, but I realized that, in doing so, I’ve moved away from sharing how I explore and toward sounding a bit like yet another travel guide. A quick Google search will tell you everything you need to know. This year, I wanted to write something from the heart. To really share my favourite haunts. All while still giving you the essentials needed to plan the dreamiest island visit.
Shall we start?
Welcome to Grand Manan Island.
Home to one of Canada’s most photographed lighthouses, defined in the sea by its otherworldly cliffs and sweeping views of the Bay of Fundy, boasting the highest tides in the world. A summer destination for not only tourists but for humpback whales, white-sided dolphins, sharks, and yes, even a legendary orca whale named Old Thom, who poetically travels with a pod of a hundred or so dolphins. True story.
For whale watchers, birders, or nature lovers, Grand Manan is the only escape you need this summer. It boasts arguably some of the most scenic hiking trails in the province and is home to rock formations, a fault line, secret mermaid lagoons, and shipwrecks offshore. For seaglass lovers and beachcombers, the island is a treasure trove just waiting to be discovered.
I’m a pinch biased, but I truly believe Grand Manan Island is the most charming destination in the province.
To know me is to know that I believe in romanticizing everything about life. That starts with romanticizing the 1.5-hour ferry ride from Blacks Harbour, New Brunswick. Hundreds of crossings later, and I don’t tire of it. Especially in the summer, when the weather is something out of a dream, and you can sit outside on the deck, basking in the salt air and sunshine.
During the summer months, it’s common to see whales, porpoises, and seabirds during your crossing, so keep your eyes peeled. Over the years, I’ve had unforgettable whale sightings from the ferry deck!
There is no cost on the way over, but you must pay on the return trip to the mainland. Budget $65 to $90 for a couple or a family of four (depending on the age of your children). Ferry reservations are STRONGLY recommended and often needed, especially during the summer. Finally, you MUST arrive 45 minutes before your reservation (both ways) to check in, or you will lose your guaranteed spot.
Book your ferry & learn more here.
I’m most often asked, ‘How long should I stay?’ And if I’m being honest, I always have a hard time answering this question because the answer varies. Want to go whale watching? Add a day. Want to explore White Head Island while you’re here? Add a day. Want to slow down, stroll the beaches, and have your only agenda item be catching the sunset at the Whistle? Add a day.
While Grand Manan can be done as a day trip, you’re doing yourself and the island a disservice by rushing the experience. Sure, you can see the highlight reel, but you won’t have time to meet the humpback whales, sample the island’s best lobster rolls, and catch the sunset, which, quite frankly, is a Grand Manan rite of passage.
My recommendation? Plan to spend at least three nights.
But if a day trip or one-night stay is all you can swing, make sure to check out my itinerary: How to Visit Grand Manan Island in Less Than 24 Hours. It’s older and may be a bit outdated, but you’ll get the gist!
We have so much to cover, so let’s cover a few essentials, shall we?
Pets: The island is pet-friendly, with many accommodations, such as Turning Tide Cottages, that welcome pets. There is also a pet room and/or designated area on both ferries, but if you’re comfortable doing so, you can also leave your pet in your vehicle below deck. It’s temperature-controlled.
Groceries: There is one grocery store on the island, the Independent, as well as Castalia Convenience, which has an excellent section of local meats, seafood, and produce. We also have only one liquor store, located within the Independent. You can also stock up on items at Vicki’s Convenience, just past Grand Harbour and by the Anchorage.
Gas: The Independent is also home to the only gas station on island. It’s open from 7:00 am to 9:00 pm Monday through Saturday. On Sunday, it opens only at noon and closes at 6:00 pm. So while there are less awesome places to be stranded with no gas, it’s best to ensure you fill up after a day of adventuring before closing.
Cell Service: Due to its proximity to the US, you may, at certain points on the island, pick up US cell towers. This has happened to me in Dark Harbour and at the Southern Head Cliffs. To avoid roaming charges, switch into airplane mode or ensure you have a data plan just in case.
Bank/ATM: There is no bank on the island, but there are ATMs scattered across it, including at the Independent Grocery store.
Pharmacy: Need a prescription or some toiletries while you’re visiting? Swing by the Grand Isle Drug Store in North Head. They have everything you need, from the usual pharmacy items, such as seasickness meds for ferry rides or whale watching, to clothing, a small grocery and produce section, and a variety of souvenirs and gifts. It’s a one-stop shop!
Ticks: Just because it’s an island doesn’t mean there aren’t ticks. We have ticks, which can be unavoidable, but that doesn’t mean you need to skip out on any island adventures. Always do a tick check after hiking, on the trails, or in the woods, and check your pets. If you find a tick, visit the Grand Manan Hospital for a quick check, removal, and, if needed, a prescription, out of precaution.
I know you’re not coming to Grand Manan Island to skip the beaches, especially if you’re a beachcomber. Grand Manan Island is a haven for sea glass lovers. Beaches like Stanley Beach, replenished twice daily by the world’s highest tides, offer abundant opportunities to discover beautifully weathered sea glass treasures. And yes — even seaglass stoppers! I’ve found two on the island so far!
Here’s a quick look at some of my favourite beaches:
Stanley Beach (North Head): A mix of sandy and rocky, this beach is one of my regular haunts and the best place to visit for seaglass. Whether it’s high tide or low tide, you’re bound to find treasures. It’s just minutes from the ferry, and is also an excellent spot for a beach day!
Pettes Cove (North Head): My other go-to beach, Pettes Cove, is where I go to put my feet in the ocean and where, on a hot summer day, I’m often brave enough to dive in for a quick dip. It offers stunning views of Swallowtail lighthouse and the ferry coming and going. If you’re lucky, you may find a piece or two of seaglass or mermaid tears. You’ll no doubt spot playful seals and may even see a whale or two.
Whale Cove Beach: A crescent beach with stunning views of the Bay of Fundy, Hole in the Wall, and playful seals in the herring Weirs. Whale Cove Beach is quite rocky; proper footwear is a must, but it’s an excellent spot for beachcombing with driftwood treasures aplenty to find.
Love to Kayak? Whale Cove is one of the many beaches where Adventure High Kayaking’s tours begin. This has been on Dan’s and my island bucket list for years, and I’m hoping to get out on the water with them this summer. Learn more and book your kayaking adventure here.
Seal Cove Beach: A crowd favourite, though we rarely venture past North Head when it’s beach weather. This sandy beach stretches seemingly forever and is excellent for beach picnics, sandcastle building, and playing in the waves. However, those waves are chilly, even in the summer.
Deep Cove Beach: A stunning southern beach on the island. Deep Cove looks entirely different at high tide and low tide. At low tide, it’s a great place to set up a beach chair and ride some waves on your boogie board.
Anchorage Beach: Nestled within Anchorage Provincial Park, Anchorage is a beautiful crescent beach that you can walk on for miles. It’s also an excellent destination for birdwatching and seeing the famous island bunnies.
Grand Manan is known for its incredible hiking trails. There are so many to choose from that I haven’t scratched the surface. Each summer, we create a wish list and check off some new trails. Here are some of our favourites worth adding to your itinerary:
Eel Brook Beach: This short but rewarding hike (about 10–15 minutes one way) still packs a workout, with a mostly downhill trek in and a steady uphill climb back out. It’s one of my favourite hikes to do in spring, summer, and fall, though if you’re visiting in the summer, I recommend heading out in the morning before the heat sets in.
Eel Brook Falls: Start on the same trail from the Whistle Road, but follow signs to Eel Brook Falls. Like Eel Brook Beach, this is a short hike, under 15 minutes one-way, but the falls are beautiful. I recommend doing this hike in the spring, after the snow has melted and we’ve had some rain, as the falls may be quite dry during the summer months.
Hole in the Wall: A true island classic, the Hole in the Wall hike is located within the North Head Campground and Park. It’s another short and sweet hike, very family-friendly. There’s even a scavenger hunt for kids. Ask for the Discovery Trail map when you arrive at the Campground & Park entrance. The hike is also home to what I have nicknamed the Mermaid Lagoon. While in the campground, also check out the Fish Head Observation Deck and Bull’s Eddy Observation Deck.
Long Eddy Lighthouse to Ashburton Head: To hike the Lighthouse Trail to Ashburton Head, park at Long Eddy Lighthouse at the end of the Whistle Road and enter the trail behind the helipad. We hiked about 1.5 hours along the trail to Ashburton Head lookout, then hiked through the woods via the BLUE Trail back to Whistle Road, where we walked about 10 minutes back to our car. The whole hike took us about 2 hours. While on the trail, make sure to follow the signs to the Bishop Lookout. It’s worth it! It’s equally impressive from the water, if you’re on a cruise around the island.
Flock of Sheep: One of the island’s most spectacular coastal hikes, known for its dramatic black volcanic cliffs topped with giant white granite boulders that resemble a flock of sheep from the water. The Flock of Sheep trail winds along the rugged coastline with breathtaking ocean views, lava spires, and plenty of photo-worthy lookout points. While parts of the trail can be uneven and muddy, the hike itself is considered fairly easy and incredibly rewarding. The easiest place to access the trail is from the parking lot at the Southwest Head Lighthouse. From there, follow the coastal trail heading east.
When asked what I love most about living in New Brunswick, it’s that on any given day in the summer, you can go play with the whales. And that’s something I will never take for granted. Whale watching in the Bay of Fundy is hands down one of the most magical and unforgettable experiences you can have during your time on Grand Manan Island. It’s worth staying an extra night or cutting your seaglass hunting short.
And while on occasion the whales can be spotted from shore or out at Swallowtail Lighthouse, the best way to see them is to book a cruise with Lambert Family Adventures for an unforgettable encounter. Captain Matt knows these waters like no other, and I firmly believe the whales know he’s good people. I’ve been fortunate to have whale-watched on the West Coast and off the Hawaiian Islands, and no experience has ever compared to sailing on the Meaghan Lorraine with Captain Matt. It’ll be the best whale watching experience of your life.
You’ll likely see humpback whales (the showboats of the Bay of Fundy), finback whales, minke whales, porpoises, and seals, as well as many shore birds. And if you’re really, really lucky, you may also see Atlantic White Sided Dolphins, puffins (yes, puffins!), the endangered Northern Atlantic Right Whales and maybe, just maybe, Old Thom – the Orca Whale that calls the Bay of Fundy home in the summer.
Curious about puffins? This once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to get up close and personal with puffins is with Sea Watch Tours and books up fast, as Sea Watch Tours is the ONLY tour company in Canada licensed and permitted to bring visitors to Machias Island to see the puffins. Learn more here.
Want to learn more about the whales and seabirds? Make sure to visit the Grand Manan Whale & Seabird Research Station and gift shop in North Head during your visit. It’s just steps from the ferry and worth a visit.
Swallowtail Lighthouse is, without a doubt, my favourite spot on the island. I’ll never tire of it. I still get emotional when we approach it on the ferry, and I could spend hours out there watching the whales swim past. It really is something out of a dream. There is a reason it is one of the most photographed lighthouses in Canada. Even now that we spend more time on the island, we still regularly walk out to the lighthouse, and no cruise around the island is complete without a drive-by.
There is no cost to walk out to the lighthouse, and if the lighthouse is open to visitors, there is only a small fee per person to tour the lighthouse and go to the top. Recommended if you get the opportunity, as the views are spectacular. It’s also an excellent location to catch the sunrise, so set your alarm and pour yourself a cup of coffee to go. It’s well worth the early morning wake-up call.
Grand Manan is known for its sunsets, and while there are many places you can view the sunset, like the Southern Head Cliffs and Dark Harbour, my go-to (and a local favourite) is the Whistle. It’s also an AMAZING spot to see seals, porpoises, eagles and more, while watching the sunset. You may even get lucky and spot a whale!
From Tatton’s Corner in North Head, take the Whistle Road all of the way until you reach Long Eddy Lighthouse Station and helipad. Both are excellent spots to watch the sunset, meet new friends, and make memories to last a lifetime. There is a parking lot, and you can also park anywhere along the road, just be mindful not to block anyone’s driveway or traffic!
The Southern Head Cliffs can be found at the southernmost point of the island and will absolutely take your breath away every single time. Whether you catch them on a sunny day or in the fog, they’re a must! I would say they are one of my top destinations on the island.
To get to them, drive until the very end of the island until you can’t drive anymore. They’re free to access and are absolutely majestic at sunset. You may even see some whales at sea! Travelling with small children? These cliffs are massive, and there is no fencing along the edge. If your toddlers are at that running stage, these cliffs are not as family-friendly as other parts of the island.
A visit to Grand Manan Island simply isn’t complete without stopping to see the island’s famous wild bunnies at Anchorage Provincial Park. Over the years, these friendly rabbits have become a beloved Grand Manan tradition, often hopping right up to visitors and gently eating out of your hand. I love them so much, and we regularly take drives to the park to bring them treats. It’s just another example of how whimsical the island can be. Bring a little patience, move slowly, and you’ll likely make a few fluffy new friends during your visit.
Hop aboard the free ferry to White Head Island for the perfect little island-hopping adventure from Grand Manan Island. Spend the day beachcombing along quiet shores, packing a picnic to enjoy by the water, and exploring the island’s peaceful coastal roads. Make sure to walk out to the iconic White Head Lighthouse for sweeping Bay of Fundy views, salty sea air, and maybe, just maybe, the opportunity to spot a whale!
Stay tuned for the East Coast Mermaid White Head Island Itinerary washing ashore soon!
Dark Harbour is one of the coolest spots on the island. It gets its name because the high cliffs keep the harbour relatively dark even on the sunniest day—a great spot to enjoy the sunset or explore at low tide. Dark Harbour’s vibe changes depending on the tide. You can walk along the beach and explore the harbour at low tide, while at high tide, you’ll only be able to travel as far as the wharf. There is no power in Dark Harbour, so properties sprinkled along the shore operate on generators or solar power, which is pretty neat.
Make sure to stop by Green Sea Harvest on your way in or out of Dark Harbour to pick up some fresh dulse — one of Grand Manan Island’s most iconic coastal snacks. Harvested straight from the Bay of Fundy and naturally dried in the salty ocean air, dulse has a chewy texture and salty flavour that locals and visitors alike swear by. Whether you’re already a longtime dulse lover or trying it for the first time, it’s a true taste of island life and absolutely mermaid-approved.
One of my favourite things about Grand Manan Island is that some of the best little finds happen when you least expect them. Scattered across the island, you’ll discover charming shops, roadside studios, galleries, honour stands, and boutiques filled with locally made art, handcrafted goods, coastal décor, knitwear, pottery, jewellery, photography, and one-of-a-kind treasures.
The Grand Manan Art Gallery is always worth a visit and opens for the season on May 31st through to September 11th. Admission is only $2 and there is no charge for children under 12.
In North Head, make sure to stop by Pettes Cove Arts. When you leave the ferry terminal, turn right, and you can’t miss it on the left as you head toward Pettes Cove. Owner Sue has curated a beautiful collection of gifts and artwork from island artists, alongside handmade jewellery, cozy knitted items, whale toques, puffin sweaters, and other keepsakes that feel uniquely Grand Manan. It’s the perfect first stop to begin exploring the island’s creative community, but don’t stop there. As you make your way around Grand Manan, keep your eyes open for handmade signs, tucked-away studios, and small local shops sprinkled across the island. Some of the best coastal treasures are waiting just off the main road.
I don’t know about you, but I LOVE a good game of Mini Golf. I’m embarrassed to admit that Dan and I only got around to trying the Mini Golf in Seal Cove on Grand Manan last summer, and oh boy, we’ll be back next summer. This charming little course is never busy and offers a fun, laid-back activity that’s perfect for families, couples, or a little friendly competition with friends. It’s the kind of nostalgic summer experience I crave.
The Grand Manan Museum is such a hidden gem — I can’t recommend it enough. We love to go every summer, explore the new exhibits and spend time enjoying our favourite collections all over again. Their Shipwreck Gallery is so cool, especially if you’re a mermaid and into shipwrecks.
They also have a fantastic number of outdoor exhibits for you to peruse, so while it’s an excellent rainy day activity, do make sure to take a stroll to explore what they have to offer outdoors, including a wonderful observation deck!
The museum is open seasonally from June to September (exact dates yet to be announced) from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm Monday through Friday in June and September, and Monday through Saturday in July and August. It is closed on Sunday. To plan your visit, check out their website here.
Grand Manan has a variety of accommodations to choose from around the island, including cozy seaside cottages like Turning Tide Cottages, charming inns and bed-and-breakfasts like the Compass Rose, a glamping dome, an eco-friendly cabin retreat called Castalia March Retreat that offers stunning views and plenty of Airbnbs & private rentals. There is also a delightful motel called the Surfside Motel, where I stayed for 20+ years before we bought our cottage.
Wherever you decide to stay, booking in advance is highly recommended during peak travel months. Because this is one of the most common questions I’m asked, I’ve compiled a list that I keep updated on East Coast Mermaid for you to explore when booking your island adventure.
But a few notable mentions:
Surfside Motel: The only place I’ve stayed on the island in over 25 years. You simply cannot beat its location in North Head, as it’s minutes from the ferry landing and located on the island’s best seaglass beach. It’s an excellent option for one-night or extended stays, offering both motel rooms and housekeeping units with kitchenettes. Book your stay here.
Turning Tide Cottages: We’ve been fortunate to visit these beautiful cottages located on Grand Harbour, with stunning views. Located mid-island, these cottages are just minutes from Ingall’s Head Wharf, where Lambert Family Adventures and the White Island ferry depart. You couldn’t be closer to the action, and owner Alie has created something very special for guests. Bonus: some cottages have hot tubs, and it’s pet-friendly! Book your stay.
Compass Rose: If you’re looking for a beautiful bed & breakfast experience, look no further than Compass Rose in North Head. Again, minutes from the ferry and Stanley Beach, this property has stunning views of the North Head Fisherman’s Wharf and the beach. Owners Linda and Kevin are excellent hosts. Book your stay.
Park Place Retreat: If glamping is your thing, look no further than Park Place Retreats, the island’s only dome accommodation. It offers stunning views of Swallowtail Lighthouse in the distance and North Head, and is just minutes from the ferry landing.
Castalia Marsh Retreats: If you’re looking for a more rustic experience, Castalia Marsh Retreats offers a number of accommodations to choose from, including a Sea Captain’s cottage, a vintage RV, and yurts.
Grand Manan Island is home to some amazing restaurants, takeouts, and roadside treat stands, but it’s important to remember that it is an island, and you won’t find the franchise coffee shops or restaurants you’re used to seeing on the mainland. If you’re planning to visit the island for an extended stay, you should always plan accordingly. Bring some groceries from the mainland or hit up the island’s grocery store when you arrive to stock up your rental or campsite.
Here are my island favourites:
Sunrise Seafoods: The perfect spot to head to after a day of exploring on the island, or a day at one of the many beaches, and bring your appetite because everything on the menu is amazing. Known for several items, including their fried clams, halibut bites, and gull’s nest (a twist on onion rings), their lobster roll is a crowd favourite and comes in two sizes. Trust me when I say, if you love lobster, go for the large! I promise you won’t find a lobster roll this size at a better price around these waters. IMPORTANT: They ONLY TAKE CASH, so bring your sand dollars.
The Seaquel: Every island or seaside town has one diner where you can go and be sure to see someone you know and/or be greeted by name when you arrive. On Grand Manan Island, that’s the Seaquel in North Head. The Seaquel is located just steps from the ferry landing (literally) in North Head, making it an easy first stop on the island if you’re hungry. I absolutely adore their burgers, nachos, and hot turkey and hot hamburger sandwiches. Don’t leave without a piece of Selena’s famous homemade pies.
Newtons: A regular haunt for this mermaid, Newton’s Café & Mercantile is my favourite island cafe. Located in Grand Harbour, it’s not only my go-to spot for coffee, treats, breakfast, and lunch, but it’s also home to the most darling gift shop. They make the most delicious baked goods, cookies, and pastries—you won’t be able to resist the Whale Tail Skor Shortbread. It’s also an excellent lunch spot with a number of delicious sandwiches to choose from and a fresh daily soup option – their chilli is AMAZING!
High Seas Convenience: Located in Seal Cove and easy to miss, High Seas Convenience is on a hill in an older building converted into a convenience store. Don’t let the “convenience store” aspect deter you. High Seas makes some incredible takeout dishes. As an example, their Halibut Fish and Chips is worth upgrading from regular fish and chips. During the summer months, they’re also known for their lobster rolls and lobster poutine.
Post Office Pizza: You truly haven’t lived until you’ve picked up a delicious, fresh, homemade pizza to feast on while catching an epic island sunset or while watching the fishermen come in for the day at the North Head Fisherman’s Wharf. And you can fulfill this beauty of a tradition by visiting Walter & Gina at Post Office Pizza, located inside the old North Head Post Office. Just steps from the ferry landing, this pizza will be one of the best you’ve had, I a’shore you!
Trapped Deck: Only open in July & August, Trapped is home to the best lobster dip you will ever have. Patio only, it is the spot to head to on a gorgeous sunny day on the island. If you wash ashore on the right night, there may even be live music on the patio! And while they only serve a dozen or so items, EVERYTHING is delicious. My husband swears their lobster roll is the best in the province. They also serve several different types of dip (I love their Greek dip), a delicious homemade salsa, pulled pork sandwiches and nachos, and a Skor dip for dessert that is a must! You can order delicious smoothies, beer and wine, as well as Rhubarb Punch, my go-to! Make sure to check out their Trapped coastal apparel line in their clothing store, too!
Grand Manan Brewing Co.: This island gem quickly became a favourite island stop for locals after opening last year, especially thanks to its beautiful location right alongside the golf course. Their spacious deck is the perfect place to unwind on a hot summer day with a cold craft beer, ocean air, and views of the greens. Whether you’ve just finished a round of golf or are simply looking for a laid-back afternoon hangout, it’s well worth adding to your Grand Manan itinerary. And yes, they have a Puffin Ale and check out that custom puffin tap!
My Little Honour Stand: Located on Whistle Road in North Head, My Little Honour Stand is a roadside dessert and treatery with the most decadent homemade pies, cookies, cake pops, squares, and more! Her Pistachio is out of this world! Cash or e-transfer is accepted, and it’s open most days the sun is shining!
The Sweet Spot: You know summer has truly washed ashore when the Sweet Spot in North Head opens for the season, and the smell of ice cream and freshly made mini donuts fills the air. A must-visit when in the ferry lineup, the Sweet Spot is open daily and serves coffee, beverages, donuts, ice cream, and more. For a true Mermaid experience, try the Fundy Fog Sundae. You can thank me later! Note: The Sweet Spot is not yet open for the 2026 season. I will update when it is!
We may not have dozens of restaurants to choose from (and there are a handful I haven’t mentioned that are popular spots too, such as The Harbour Grille & Tides Inn & Social) but you won’t go hungry on island! As a word of caution, many restaurants close early on the island (7pm is common) so always check hours before venturing out for dinner.
And again — don’t skip out on a lobster roll from Sunrise Seafood or Trapped!
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Thank you so much for reading this year’s guide to Grand Manan Island. This island holds such a special place in my heart, and it means the world to share its quiet beauty, salty air, coastal adventures, and hidden gems with all of you.
If you’re planning a visit, I hope your trip is filled with foggy mornings (but that the fog burns off by 8 am), whale sightings, seaside picnics, unforgettable Whistle sunsets, seaglass treasures, island bunny nose boops, and all the little moments that make island life feel so magical. And if you have questions while planning your getaway, please don’t hesitate to reach out or connect with me online — I’m always happy to help fellow ocean lovers plan the dreamiest Grand Manan escape.
Disclaimer: This post is not sponsored in any way. All opinions and recommendations are my own. I will do my best to keep this guide updated as the summer approaches and stores, restaurants, and attractions open.
Planning a trip to Grand Manan, Deer Island or Campobello? Make sure to download my FREE Guide to the Fundy Isles to learn everything you need to know to plan a dreamy island escape this summer. Download here.
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