Shédiac Travel Guide

Explore the culturally important attractions, natural wonders, and outdoor adventures of Shédiac, as well as its local culture, food and drink scene, and transportation options.


Introduction to Shédiac

Located in Southeastern New Brunswick, Shédiac is a picturesque seaside town known for its rich history, natural beauty, and warm hospitality. Known as the “Lobster Capital of the World,” Shédiac is a must-visit destination for seafood lovers looking to indulge in the freshest lobster and seafood dishes. With its charming villages, pristine beaches, and diverse range of cultural and outdoor activities, Shédiac attracts visitors from all over the world.

List of Places to Visit in Shédiac

Whether you’re interested in learning about the area’s history, exploring its natural wonders, or simply enjoying the beautiful scenery, Shédiac has something for everyone. Here are some of the top places to visit in Shédiac:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Le Pays de la Sagouine: This historical village is a living museum dedicated to the Acadian culture and way of life, showcasing traditional architecture, folk music, and dance.
  • Shédiac’s Parish Church: This beautiful church dates back to 1887 and features stained-glass windows, a pipe organ, and stunning architecture.
  • Shédiac Museum: Located in a charming 19th-century house, this museum showcases the area’s history and cultural heritage through interactive exhibits, artifacts, and photos.

Natural Attractions of Shédiac: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Parlee Beach Provincial Park: This scenic beach is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and long walks on the shore.
  • Pointe-du-Chêne Wharf: Known as the “Gateway to Shédiac Island,” this iconic landmark offers stunning views of the harbor and is a popular spot for fishing, boating, and water sports.
  • Shédiac Bay Wildlife Preserve: This pristine nature reserve is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including migratory birds, seals, and turtles.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Shédiac

For outdoor enthusiasts looking to explore the natural beauty of Shédiac, there are many hiking and biking trails to choose from. Here are some of the best routes:

  • The Dobson Trail: This 58-kilometer trail connects Riverview and Fundy National Park and offers stunning views of the surrounding scenery.
  • The Shediac Bay Trail: This scenic trail follows the coastline of Shediac Bay and offers a panoramic view of the Gulf of St. Lawrence.
  • Parlee Beach Trail: This easy, 3-kilometer trail is perfect for families and offers stunning views of the beach and surrounding area.

Best Things to Do in Shédiac: Activities and Tours

From cultural experiences to outdoor adventures, Shédiac offers a diverse range of activities and tours for visitors to enjoy. Some of the best things to do include:

  • Explore Shédiac’s Lobster Industry: Take a tour of a local lobster pound or join a lobster boat tour to learn about the lobster fishing industry and taste the freshest lobster.
  • Kayak or Canoe in Shédiac Bay: Take a guided tour of Shediac Bay by kayak or canoe and explore the diverse range of wildlife and natural beauty.
  • Visit the Giant Lobster: Take a picture with the world’s largest lobster statue (measuring 11 meters tall) and learn about Shediac’s lobster industry at the same time.

Week-Long Itinerary for Shédiac

To make the most of your visit to Shédiac, consider the following week-long itinerary:

Day Activity
1 Explore the historic village of Le Pays de la Sagouine
2 Relax on the pristine beaches of Parlee Beach Provincial Park
3 Take a lobster boat tour and learn about the area’s lobster industry
4 Hike the Dobson Trail and enjoy the stunning scenery
5 Visit the Shédiac Museum and learn about the area’s history
6 Explore the Pointe-du-Chêne Wharf and go fishing or boating
7 Relax and enjoy the local food, drinks, and nightlife

Food and Drink Scene of Shédiac

Shédiac is known for its delicious seafood dishes, particularly lobster, which is harvested locally. In addition to seafood, there are many other local dishes to try, as well as a range of local beverages.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Lobster Roll: A classic local dish made with fresh lobster, served on a toasted bun with a side of fries.
  • Rappie Pie: This traditional Acadian dish consists of grated potatoes and meat, cooked together in a pie.
  • Poutine: This Canadian classic dish consists of French fries topped with cheese curds and gravy.

Local Beverages

  • Sangria: A refreshing drink made with local fruit and wine.
  • Beer: There are several local breweries in the area, including Flying Boats Brewery and CAVOK Brewing Co.

Where to Stay in Shédiac: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

There are many accommodation options in Shédiac, from luxurious hotels to budget-friendly hostels and guesthouses. Here are some of our top picks:

  • Auberge Gabrièle Inn: This charming inn is just a short walk from the beach and features cozy rooms, a hot tub, and a delicious breakfast.
  • Seely’s Motel: This budget-friendly motel is located near many of Shédiac’s top attractions and features comfortable rooms, a swimming pool, and free Wi-Fi.
  • Maison Tait House: Located in a historic mansion, this elegant guesthouse features beautifully decorated rooms, a cozy lounge, and a delicious breakfast.

What to Buy in Shédiac: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Whether you’re looking for a unique souvenir or a local product to bring home, Shédiac has many options to choose from. Some of the best things to buy in Shédiac include:

  • Lobster: Purchase fresh or frozen lobster to bring home and enjoy later.
  • Local Art: There are several local art galleries in the area, showcasing the work of talented artists.
  • Maple Syrup: This sweet treat is made locally and is a popular souvenir for visitors to bring home.

Local Culture and Customs of Shédiac

Shédiac is proud of its Acadian heritage and culture, which is evident in its museums, music, and food. Visitors are encouraged to learn about the area’s history and traditions, including the Acadian flag, which is flown throughout the area.

Best Time to Visit Shédiac

The best time to visit Shédiac is in the summer, when the weather is warm and the beaches are at their best. However, visitors can also enjoy the area’s natural beauty and outdoor activities in the shoulder seasons of spring and fall.

Do’s and Don’ts of Shédiac

Do:

  • Enjoy fresh lobster and seafood dishes.
  • Learn about the area’s Acadian culture and heritage.
  • Explore the natural beauty of the area through hiking, kayaking, and other outdoor activities.

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage the natural environment.
  • Disrespect local traditions or customs.
  • Disturb wildlife or natural habitats.

Safety and Health

Safety in Shédiac

Shédiac is a safe and welcoming town, but visitors should be cautious when swimming or boating and always follow the posted safety guidelines. Visitors should also be aware of the area’s wildlife and take appropriate precautions while hiking or exploring the natural areas.

Health in Shédiac

Visitors to Shédiac should be up to date on their routine vaccinations and should take precautions to prevent mosquito and tick bites. Visitors should also drink only bottled or boiled water and be cautious when consuming seafood, particularly raw or undercooked shellfish.

Getting to Shédiac: Transportation Options and Logistics

Shédiac is easily accessible by car, bus, or plane. Here are some of the transportation options available:

Airports Near Shédiac

  • Greater Moncton International Airport: Located approximately 18 kilometers from Shédiac, this airport offers daily flights to major cities across Canada and the USA.

Bus Stations Near Shédiac

  • Acadian Lines: Offers bus service to Shédiac from a variety of locations throughout New Brunswick and the Maritimes region.

Other Options

  • Car Rental: Several car rental companies are available at the airport and in nearby Moncton.
  • Taxi: Taxis are available throughout the town and can be hailed on the street or called ahead for pick up.

How to Get Around in Shédiac

For visitors without a car, there are several transportation options available in Shédiac, including:

  • Shuttle Service: Several shuttle services are available to transport visitors to nearby attractions and destinations.
  • Bicycle Rentals: Bicycles are available for rent at several locations throughout the town and are a great way to explore the local area.
  • Public Transportation: A local bus service is available for transportation within the town and to nearby communities.

Where to Go Next from Shédiac: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

For visitors looking to explore more of the region, there are several nearby destinations and excursions to consider, including:

  • Moncton: Located just a short drive from Shédiac, Moncton offers world-class attractions and cultural experiences, including the famous Magnetic Hill.
  • Kouchibouguac National Park: This stunning national park is located just a short drive from Shédiac and offers a diverse range of outdoor activities, including hiking, camping, and swimming.
  • Fundy National Park: Located approximately 2 hours from Shédiac, this beautiful park offers some of the best hiking trails and scenic views in the region.

Conclusion

Shédiac is a must-visit destination for travelers looking to experience the best of New Brunswick’s natural beauty, cultural heritage, and warm hospitality. With its pristine beaches, charming villages, and diverse range of activities and attractions, Shédiac offers something for everyone. We hope this comprehensive guide has given you a good starting point for planning your visit to this beautiful part of Canada.

Lobster sculpture Lobster sculpture Parlee Beach Lagoon and Light Parlee Beach Lagoon and Light