Grand Manan Island is a hidden gem located in the Bay of Fundy, New Brunswick, Canada.
This picturesque island is known for its rugged coastline, natural beauty, and charming fishing villages.
Grand Manan is a paradise for nature lovers, offering an array of outdoor activities and experiences that are sure to leave you breathless.
From hiking to birdwatching, kayaking to beachcombing, there is no shortage of things to do on this island.
Let’s jump in and explore some of the best things to do on Grand Manan Island, so that you can make the most of your visit to this beautiful and unique destination.
Looking for somewhere to stay? Check out our guide – Grand Manan accommodation.
Things to Do on Grand Manan Island in New Brunswick
Grand Manan is home to some stunning natural scenery, from its rocky shores and wildflower meadows to its lush forests and lighthouses.
For those looking to explore the great outdoors, there are plenty of activities to choose from.
Whether it’s a leisurely stroll along one of the island’s many beaches or a challenging hike up North Head Trail, there’s something for everyone.
There are also plenty of opportunities for fishing, kayaking, canoeing, boating, and whale watching trips.
Experience Local Culture on Grand Manan
Grand Manan is home to a unique culture that blends Maritime traditions with Acadian culture.
There are plenty of ways to experience this culture during your visit—from attending traditional ceilidhs (a type of traditional music session) at local pubs or restaurants to sampling delicious local seafood dishes like lobster rolls or fish chowder.
You can also enjoy cultural performances by local artists or take in some history at one of the island’s many museums or heritage sites.
Explore Nature
Grand Manan is an ecotourism paradise; its beautiful coastal scenery is perfect for exploring and taking in all that nature has to offer.
You can walk along the shoreline at low tide and observe the variety of wildlife that calls the island home—from seabirds nesting on cliffsides to seals basking in the sun near Seal Cove Beach.
You can also visit one of Grand Manan’s many nature preserves and watch birds such as bald eagles soaring overhead or spot whales spouting offshore.
Visit the Swallowtail Lighthouse
Swallowtail Lighthouse is located on the east coast of Grand Manan Island in New Brunswick, Canada.
The lighthouse was built in 1860 and is listed as a heritage site by the Canadian government.
It stands 46 feet tall, making it one of the tallest lighthouses in the region.
Visitors can tour the grounds and explore its unique history with a knowledgeable guide.
The lighthouse is open to visitors throughout the summer months and is an ideal spot for whale watching at certain times of year.
Grand Manan Whale and Seabird Research Station
The Grand Manan Whale and Seabird Research Station is a great place to observe wildlife on the island.
Located in North Head, it is dedicated to the conservation of whales and seabirds that inhabit the waters around Grand Manan.
Visitors can take part in a variety of activities such as whale watching tours, bird watching and educational programs about marine life.
Guides provide an informative experience, teaching visitors about local species, their environmental impact and how they interact with each other.
The research station also offers lodging for those who wish to stay longer and explore more of the area’s natural beauty.
Grand Manan Museum
The Grand Manan Museum is a must-see for visitors to the island.
Located in North Head, it offers a comprehensive look at Grand Manan’s rich history, from its geological past to its human and cultural roots.
The museum features interactive exhibits on fishing heritage, shipbuilding legacy and more.
Visitors can also learn about the lives of early settlers through artefacts such as tools, clothing and photographs. Guided tours are available in both French and English. T
he museum is open year round and admission is free on select days, making it a great option for those seeking an educational experience while exploring Grand Manan Island.
Go Hiking on Grand Manan
There are a number of hiking trails located on Grand Manan Island.
Most of these trails offer stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean, as well as peaceful forests and meadows.
The trails follow winding paths along the coastline, providing visitors with spectacular vistas at every turn.
Along their routes, hikers can spot a variety of wildlife such as bald eagles, seals and whales in their natural habitat.
The trails are open all year round and several access points are available for easy navigation.
Grand Manan Adventure Tours
On Grand Manan there are a number of tours that offer some of the best activities and experiences on the island.
Visitors can choose from a variety of excursions, such as kayaking, fishing, whale watching and hiking.
Tour guides will provide an informative experience while exploring some of the island’s unique features.
With its knowledgeable staff and experienced guides, these tours are sure to create unforgettable memories for all visitors looking to explore the beauty of Grand Manan Island in New Brunswick.
FAQ
What is Grand Manan known for?
Grand Manan is an island in the Bay of Fundy, New Brunswick, Canada.
It is famous for its rugged coastline, stunning natural beauty, and picturesque fishing villages.
The island is a popular destination for birdwatchers, hikers, and nature lovers, as it is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including many rare and endangered species.
Grand Manan is also known for its lobster industry, and visitors can sample some of the freshest and most delicious lobster in the world.
Do you need a car on Grand Manan?
While having a car on Grand Manan can be convenient, it is not necessary to get around the island.
The island is relatively small, and many of the main attractions, such as hiking trails and beaches, are within walking distance of each other.
Visitors can also rent bicycles, scooters, or even golf carts to explore the island.
However, if you plan on visiting some of the more remote parts of the island, or if you have mobility issues, a car may be necessary.
How do you see puffins on Grand Manan Island?
Grand Manan is one of the best places in the world to see puffins in their natural habitat.
The best time to see puffins on the island is from May to August, when the birds are breeding and nesting.
Visitors can take a boat tour from the island to Machias Seal Island, which is a protected sanctuary for puffins and other seabirds.
The tour takes about 2-3 hours and includes close-up views of puffins, as well as other seabirds and marine life.
Can you live on Grand Manan Island?
Yes, it is possible to live on Grand Manan Island.
The island has a permanent population of around 2,500 people, and many of them live there year-round.
The island has basic infrastructure, including a hospital, grocery stores, and schools.
However, it is important to note that the island can be isolated, especially during the winter months when ferry service may be limited or canceled due to weather conditions.
Employment opportunities on the island are also limited, and many residents work in the fishing industry or provide services to tourists.
Is Grand Manan Island worth visiting?
Grand Manan Island is definitely worth visiting, especially if you are a nature lover or looking for a peaceful and relaxing getaway.
The island’s rugged coastline, stunning vistas, and diverse wildlife make it a unique and unforgettable destination.
Visitors can enjoy hiking, biking, kayaking, and fishing, as well as exploring the island’s charming fishing villages and sampling fresh seafood.
While the island can be challenging to get to, especially for international visitors, the effort is well worth it for those looking for an authentic and off-the-beaten-path travel experience.
Visiting Grand Manan Island
With so much to see and do on Grand Manan Island, it’s easy to understand why it’s become such a popular tourist destination over the years!
Whether you’re looking for adventure or relaxation, this picturesque Canadian island has something for everyone – from outdoor enthusiasts who want to explore its stunning natural beauty, to cultural aficionados eager to experience its unique Maritime traditions firsthand.
So what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip today!
