Explore the Sandy Coast
The island offers several types of beaches, from the sandy beaches of Seal Cove, Anchorage and Deep Cove, to the rockier beaches of Stanley’s Beach, Whale Cove and Dark Harbour. There is something for every kind of beach-comber and sun-worshipper out there!
Nature’s Hidden Treasures
While brown, green, and white are very common, beaches come in all sizes, shapes, and textures on Grand Manan and the term “beach” is used liberally for both sand and cobble. The height of the tide leads to a wide expanse of shoreline exposed twice daily. All beaches are very scenic, and wildlife is often present – seals, seabirds, sometimes even whales or porpoises just offshore. Treasures such as beach glass, pottery shards, driftwood, shells, and sand dollars can be found on some beaches or shorelines. While brown, green, and white beach glass are very common, cobalt blue, lavender, turquoise, and red can also be found, but in much smaller quantities.
Tide Pools & Coastal Wonders
Many of the more common beaches are described in our additional resources, but you may find your own special beach as you explore the islands. Diverse tide pools with many species of seaweeds, and intertidal areas can also be explored at low tide. Don’t expect to find tender sea life high up on the beach – the long exposure because of the height of the tides is too much for them to tolerate, but along the low watermark or at the floating docks at the wharves, you can glimpse sea stars, sea urchins, sea slugs, etc. More tolerant sea life hide under rocks and seaweeds when the tide is out.
Beaches to Explore
| Castalia Marsh Beach | Woodwards Cove Beach | Eagle Rock Beach | Castalia Provincial Park |
| Anchorage Beach | Seal Cove Sand Beach | Red Point Beach | Deep Cove Beach |
| Dark Harbour Sea Wall | Bradford Cove Beach | Wood Island Beach | Sandy Cove Beach |