Have you ever dreamed of walking on the ocean floor? At Burntcoat Head Park in Nova Scotia, Canada, you can do just that! This hidden gem, located just over an hour’s drive north of Halifax, is home to the world’s highest recorded tides. Twice a day, the Bay of Fundy’s tides rise and fall by over 12 meters (40 feet), exposing the vast ocean bottom and allowing visitors a unique opportunity to explore this fascinating ecosystem up close.
As seasoned travelers always on the lookout for off-the-beaten-path adventures, my partner and I couldn’t resist making the scenic drive from Halifax to Burntcoat Head Park one sunny autumn afternoon. What we discovered was a natural wonder that exceeded all our expectations. In this guide, I’ll share our experience and give you all the tips you need to plan your own unforgettable visit to the Bay of Fundy’s majestic tides.
When to Visit: Timing is Everything
The key to a successful trip to Burntcoat Head Park is checking the tide charts and planning your arrival to coincide with low tide. The park’s website has a handy tool that shows the predicted tide times for each day. Aim to get there about an hour before the lowest point so you have plenty of time to make your way down to the ocean floor and explore before the tide starts rolling back in.
We timed our October visit for a 5pm low tide and arrived around 3:30pm, which worked out perfectly. A friendly park attendant greeted us, gave some helpful safety tips, and let us know when we’d need to head back to higher ground. Then we descended the staircase and stepped out onto the squishy, slippery surface of the bay’s bottom, ready for an adventure!
What to Expect on the Ocean Floor
Walking on the ocean floor is a surreal and wondrous experience. The damp, uneven terrain can be tricky to navigate, so wear sturdy waterproof boots with good traction (my Blundstones worked great). As you ramble around the base of the “flowerpot” rock formations rising from the seabed, take time to crouch down and observe the tidal pools teeming with tiny crabs, snails, and other sea creatures. But be careful not to disturb these delicate ecosystems!
The vastness of the Bay of Fundy is humbling, and it’s mind-boggling to think that in just a few hours, this alien landscape will once again be submerged under 160 billion tons of swirling seawater. While exploring, keep an eye on the time and the tide—you definitely don’t want to get stranded out there when the tide comes rushing back in.
Other Activities and Amenities
In addition to the self-guided ocean floor walk, Burntcoat Head Park offers guided “Tidal Reveal” tours led by knowledgeable local interpreters. During the 1-2 kilometer walk, they share fascinating insights about the tides, geology, ecology and history of the area. It’s a great option for families or anyone looking for a more in-depth experience.
Be sure to also check out the park’s replica lighthouse, which houses a small interpretive center with exhibits about the Bay of Fundy and the area’s lighthouses and history. The park has picnic areas and a few short walking trails with nice views of the bay as well.
If you want to see the full tidal change in action, stick around for about 6 hours and watch in amazement as the water level rises 12+ meters, completely transforming the landscape from a muddy expanse to a churning sea. There’s plenty to do nearby while you wait, like hiking local trails, visiting museums and historic sites, or sipping wine at a scenic local vineyard.
Know Before You Go
- Check the tide charts and plan your visit around low tide for the best experience
- Wear sturdy, non-slip waterproof footwear
- Stay away from cliff edges and be mindful of the incoming tide
- Don’t disturb wildlife or remove anything from the park
- No camping allowed; park open dawn to dusk, mid-May to mid-October
- Dogs welcome but must be leashed
- Bring layers as weather can change quickly
- Pack out all trash to preserve this special place
Final Thoughts
Our afternoon at Burntcoat Head Park was a true highlight of our Nova Scotia road trip. Walking in the giant footsteps of the world’s highest tides was both humbling and exhilarating—a powerful reminder of nature’s incredible force and beauty. While this unique adventure may fly under the radar compared to Nova Scotia’s more famous attractions, it’s an unforgettable experience that I can’t recommend highly enough. Trust me, you won’t regret making the trip to witness the magnificent Bay of Fundy tides for yourself!
Have you visited Burntcoat Head Park or the Bay of Fundy? Share your experiences and tips in the comments below. And if you found this guide helpful, please like and share it with your travel-loving friends. Happy tide walking!
