Coasting Along: The Ultimate East Coast Canada Road Trip
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Are you planning an epic East Coast Canada road trip? Look no further - I’ve got the ultimate itinerary for you!
The East Coast of Canada is home to some of the country's most iconic and beautiful landscapes, from the rugged coastlines of Prince Edward Island to the rolling hills and forests of New Brunswick. This region is also rich in culture, history, and delicious cuisine, making it the perfect destination for a road trip.
In this blog post, we'll share our top recommendations for stops along an East Coast Canada road trip, broken down by province. We'll take you from the bustling capital cities of the Maritimes to the charming villages tucked away along the coast. Along the way, you'll have the opportunity to explore national parks, sample seafood fresh from the ocean, and visit historic sites.
Whether you're a nature lover, history buff, or foodie, there's something for everyone on this ultimate East Coast Canada road trip itinerary. Dust off that copy of Anne of Green Gables. It’s time to hit the open road and discover all that this amazing region has to offer.
IN THIS GUIDE
Follow This East Coast Canada Road Trip Itinerary
New Brunswick Road Trip Itinerary
New Brunswick is the underdog of the Maritime provinces.
It’s often referred to as the “drive-through province” as tourists tend to only pass through while en route to Nova Scotia or Prince Edward Island. Don’t be like those people. New Brunswick ended up being my favorite province of the entire trip.
The landscape of New Brunswick is diverse, with forests, rivers, and rugged roads winding through the region. The province is home to several national parks, including Kouchibouguac National Park and Fundy National Park, which are known for their beautiful natural landscapes and outdoor activities.
New Brunswick is also home to a number of charming towns and villages, each with their own unique character and history. The province has a rich cultural heritage, with a mix of Indigenous, French, and English influences. Whether you're looking for outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or a relaxing getaway, New Brunswick has something to offer.
Day 1 & 2: Saint Andrews
St. Andrews is a town located in the province of New Brunswick, just a stone’s throw away from the border with Maine. If you’re traveling from Ontario, this makes a great starting point, as it’s literally on the edge of the Maritimes.
The town sits on the Bay of Fundy, known for its dramatic tides and whale-watching opportunities. It’s a surprisingly popular tourist destination, known for its beautiful natural surroundings and charming small-town atmosphere.
The town has a rich history, with roots dating back to the 18th century. It was founded by Loyalists who fled the United States during the American Revolution and has retained its historic character to this day. Visitors can explore the town's historic sites, such as the Kingsbrae Garden and the Charlotte County Archives, or visit the St. Andrews Blockhouse, a National Historic Site that dates back to the early 1800s.
In addition to its history and natural beauty, St. Andrews is also home to a range of recreational activities, including golf, fishing, and hiking. With its charming atmosphere and many attractions, St. Andrews is a must-visit destination on any trip to New Brunswick.
During our visit, we spent two nights at the Algonquin Resort, a luxurious and historic hotel located in the center of town. It was originally built in 1889 and has housed a number of notable figures, including King Charles, Princess Diana, Theodore Roosevelt, and virtually every Canadian Prime Minister.
Day 3 & 4: Saint John
The next stop is Saint John, the oldest incorporated city in Canada founded in 1785.
It only takes about an hour to reach Saint John from St. Andrews and it’s worth taking the scenic route. If you have the time, consider stopping at Ossie's Lunch for a bite to eat — the portions are huge and the prices are quite reasonable. We split a “small” seafood platter for under $25 and found ourselves full for the entire day. Also consider stopping at Lepreau Falls, which is located only 20 minutes outside of the city.
Saint John is also home to a number of cultural attractions, including the New Brunswick Museum, which houses a collection of art and historical artifacts from the region, the Imperial Theatre, a historic performing arts venue, and the famous City Market.
I highly recommend taking this small-group driving tour through Saint John with a local guide. It includes a walking tour of the City Market and a visit to both the Carleton Martello Tower and the historic Fort La Tour.
In addition to its cultural offerings, Saint John is home to a number of festivals and events throughout the year. The city is known for its music scene, with a number of local bands and musicians performing regularly in clubs and bars throughout the city. The Saint John Sea Dogs, a junior ice hockey team, is also a popular attraction for sports fans.
I spent two nights at the Mahogany Manor Bed & Breakfast, which offers cozy rooms in a restored home from 1905. It’s located right in the old town (and offers free parking), which is perfect for exploring the city on foot.
Day 5: Hopewell Rocks & Moncton
Driving from Saint John to Moncton, you’ll pass by two important places: Fundy National Park and the Hopewell Rocks.
The Fundy National Park is known for its stunning landscapes and wide range of wildlife. Beyond its natural beauty, it’s also home to a number of historical and cultural attractions, including the Fundy Trail Parkway, a scenic drive that follows the coast of the Bay of Fundy, and the Point Wolfe Historic Site, which features a number of well-preserved 19th-century buildings.
If you have the time, consider spending an extra night here — something we wish we had done. The Fundy National Park has a range of activities and recreational facilities. You can pitch a tent or book one of their yurts.
The Hopewell Rocks, also known as the Flowerpot Rocks or simply The Rocks, are a group of rock formations located on the Bay of Fundy. The rocks are unique in that they are shaped by the extreme tides, which have carved them into unusual shapes, including "flowerpot" formations, which give the rocks their name.
You can explore the rocks at low tide by walking on the ocean floor, or take a boat tour to see the rocks from the water. The site also has a visitors center and gift shop. This is a must-see for every road trip through the East Coast of Canada.
At the end of a long travel day, you can make your way to Moncton, the largest city in New Brunswick. It’s home to a number of museums and historical sites, including the Moncton Museum, which houses a collection of artifacts and exhibits related to the city's history, and the Thomas Williams House, a 19th-century heritage home that is open to the public for tours.
You can also visit the city’s parks and green spaces, including the Irishtown Nature Park and the Centennial Park Arboretum. Or some more off-the-beaten-path attractions, like Magnetic Hill.
We spent one night in Moncton at the Amsterdam Inn & Suites, which is located at the edge of town, right off the highway. If you want to avoid staying in the city altogether, check out the Shepody Bay Inn. It’s a quaint country home only 10km away from Hopewell Rocks.
Before leaving New Brunswick, make sure you try out some of their local specialties like Covered Bridge Potato Chips and Sussex Ginger Ale!
Nova Scotia Road Trip Itinerary
Nova Scotia is chalked full of stunning natural beauty, including forests, beaches, and a rocky coastline. The province is home to a number of national parks, including Cape Breton Highlands National Park and Kejimkujik National Park, which offer a range of outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and bird watching.
It also has a rich cultural history, with a strong connection to the sea. Nova Scotia has a long tradition of fishing and boat building, and its coastal communities have a distinct maritime culture. You can experience this through seafood, music, and festivals such as the Halifax International Busker Festival and the Lunenburg Folk Harbour Festival.
Beyond its natural and cultural attractions, Nova Scotia is also home to a number of vibrant cities. Halifax, the provincial capital, is known for its lively waterfront, which features a range of restaurants, shops, and entertainment options. Other cities in the province, such as Sydney and Dartmouth, offer a range of cultural and recreational activities.
This is a diverse and beautiful province. Its combination of natural beauty, rich cultural history, and vibrant cities make it a must-visit destination.
Day 1 : The Glooscap Trail
For a good introduction to Nova Scotia, start with the Glooscap Trail.
This is a scenic driving route that stretches from the Bay of Fundy to the Annapolis Valley, passing through a number of charming towns and villages along the way. The trail is named after Glooscap, a legendary Mi'kmaq chief and cultural hero.
Along the route, you can explore small towns and villages, visit local farmers’ markets and wineries, and enjoy outdoor activities. The trail is also home to a number of historical and cultural sites, including the Glooscap Heritage Centre, which showcases the history and culture of the Mi'kmaq people.
Don’t miss the Joggins Fossil Cliffs, a series of cliffs on the Bay of Fundy known for their rich fossil deposits, which date back millions of years. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a must-see destination for anyone interested in learning about the earth's history.
This region is also home to some charming seaside towns, like Advocate's Harbour, where we had a big black bear run in front of the car!
We spent two nights at a historic bed and breakfast called the Apothic Inn (the original owner was one of the founding members of the Confederation), which has since shut down. As a close replacement, I recommend staying at the Parrsboro Mansion Inn - a 19th-century estate set on 4 acres, close to the ocean.
Day 2 & 3: Lunenburg
A few hours away from the Glooscap Trail, sits the historic town of Lunenburg, which is also a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site and is known for its charming architecture.
If you’d prefer to take the scenic route, I recommend getting off the main highway in Upper Tantallon and stopping at the Acadian Maple Products store to pick up some local specialties! From there, take Highway 3 all the way to Lunenburg, driving through some lovely seaside towns like Chester and Mahone Bay.
Once you’re in Lunenburg, you can spend some time wandering the small streets and admiring the colorful buildings.
The town was founded in 1753 and has a long maritime tradition, with a strong connection to the fishing industry. Lunenburg is home to a number of historical landmarks, including the Lunenburg Academy, a 19th-century schoolhouse that is now open to the public as a museum, and the Fisheries Museum of the Atlantic, which showcases the town's rich maritime history.
Lunenburg is located on the Atlantic coast and is surrounded by a number of beaches and parks, including the Lunenburg Waterfront. If you have the time, make sure to visit Blue Rocks, a small coastal community just outside of town — it’s a photographer’s dream.
We spent two nights at the Smugglers Cove Inn, which is located right across the street from the famous docks.
Day 4 & 5: Peggy’s Cove and Halifax
If you’ve been doing some reading on the East Coast of Canada, chances are you’ve heard of Peggy’s Cove.
This small fishing village is known for its picturesque setting, with a lighthouse and a number of charming houses and shops set against a backdrop of rocky coastlines. It’s an extremely popular tourist destination, with a number of attractions and activities available for visitors. These include boat tours, hiking trails, and opportunities to observe local wildlife, such as seals and seabirds. You can even take a half-day trip from Halifax to Peggy’s Cove, which includes transportation and the expertise of a local guide.
Peggy's Cove is also home to a number of cultural and historical sites, including the Peggy's Cove Lighthouse, which has been in operation since 1868 and is now a national historic site. The village is also home to a number of local art galleries and studios, showcasing the work of talented local artists.
Overall, Peggy’s Cove was a bit of a letdown for me. The lighthouse was smaller than expected and the crowds were outrageous. If you’re driving the coast, I think there are so many other (less touristy) coastal towns in Nova Scotia for you to visit. Regardless, you should check it out for yourself and draw your own conclusions.
From here, you can make your way to Halifax, the capital city of Nova Scotia. This is the largest city in the Maritime provinces, known for its lively waterfront and rich history. The city is home to a number of cultural attractions, including the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic, which showcases the city's maritime history, and the Art Gallery of Nova Scotia, which features a collection of artworks by Canadian and international artists. Be sure to climb up to the historic Citadel for an amazing view of the city and cross the bridge into Dartmouth for a different perspective of the city.
In addition to its cultural offerings, Halifax is a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The city is located on the Atlantic coast and is surrounded by a number of parks and green spaces, including Point Pleasant Park and the Halifax Public Gardens. There are also a number of opportunities for water sports, such as sailing and kayaking.
We spent two nights at The Inn at Fisherman’s Cove. It’s nothing fancy, but it is a real East Coast experience - most of the rooms have a view of the water! If you’d prefer something a bit more upscale, check out the Prince George Hotel, which is arguably the best hotel in Halifax. On your second day, consider driving into Annapolis Valley.
Day 6 & 7: Cape Breton and the Cabot Trail
While New Brunswick was my favorite province on the trip, Cape Breton and the Cabot Trail were the absolute highlight of my East Coast Canada road trip. This is something that you have to come and experience for yourself.
Cape Breton is a large island located off the eastern coast of Nova Scotia, known for its range of landscapes and the Cape Breton Highlands National Park. It has a surprisingly rich history, with strong connections to both the Gaelic and Mi'kmaq cultures. The island is home to a number of cultural attractions, including the Gaelic College of Celtic Arts and Crafts, which offers classes and workshops in traditional Gaelic arts and crafts, and the Fortress of Louisbourg National Historic Site, which is a well-preserved 18th-century French fort.
The Cabot Trail is a scenic driving route located on Cape Breton. It’s named after the explorer John Cabot, who is credited with discovering the island in the 15th century. The Cabot Trail stretches for about almost 300km and follows the coastline of the island, offering stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and the Cape Breton Highlands.
Along the route, you can enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking and whale watching, visit local craft shops and art galleries, and experience the island's rich cultural history. The trail is also home to a number of small towns and villages, each with its own unique character and charm. I highly recommend hiking the famous Skyline Trail, where you will almost certainly see a moose or two and be rewarded with some of the most scenic views in Nova Scotia.
We stayed at this really chic place called the Iona Heights Inn. It’s a converted motel that has a sweeping view of the nearby lake, a delicious on-site chocolate shop, and a restaurant. For such a remote location, it really doesn't get much better than that!
Prince Edward Island Road Trip Itinerary
Prince Edward Island (PEI for short) is a small province with sandy beaches, rolling hills, and picturesque coastlines. PEI is home to a number of national parks, including Prince Edward Island National Park, which offers a range of outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and beachcombing.
PEI is known for its long tradition of fishing and boat building, and its coastal communities have a distinct maritime culture. You can experience this by immersing yourself in seafood, music, and festivals such as the Prince Edward Island International Shellfish Festival and the PEI Fall Flavours Festival.
The province is also home to a number of charming towns and villages. Charlottetown, the provincial capital, is known for its historic architecture and lively waterfront, which features a range of restaurants, shops, and entertainment options. Other popular towns on the island include Cavendish, known for its beautiful beaches and the Green Gables house, and Victoria-by-the-Sea, a picturesque fishing village.
Four days will give you more than enough time in the province and enough time to complete at least some of the famous scenic coastal drives.
Day 1 & 2: Charlottetown
All of PEI is fairly easy to navigate, but whether you’re arriving by ferry or bridge, all roads lead to Charlottetown, the capital city of the island.
Charlottetown is a charming city with a vibrant arts scene. It’s home to a number of cultural attractions, including the Confederation Centre of the Arts, which features a range of performances and exhibitions, and the Founders' Hall, which showcases the history of the city and the province.
Perhaps the best part of town is the beautiful waterfront, which features a number of restaurants, shops, and entertainment options. The city is home to a number of festivals and events throughout the year, including the Charlottetown Festival, a theater festival, and the PEI International Shellfish Festival, which celebrates the island's seafood industry. Be sure to enjoy some of the delicious treats like the Anne of Green Gables Chocolate Shop and the famous Cow's ice cream — I’ll be dreaming about those scoops for years to come.
You might also want to consider taking a guided walking tour of Charlottetown with a local guide, who will teach you all about the city’s history and point out the best things to see. And if you have the time, consider making the drive to the nearby Port-la-Joye-Fort or driving to the Eastern side of the island.
We spent two nights in town at the Sonata Inn, a historic home in the center of the city.
Day 3: Cavendish and Green Gables
It won’t take you long to reach Cavendish, a small town but quite possibly the island’s largest tourist trap. It’s kitschy in the best way possible.
It’s best known for its cultural attractions, like the Green Gables Heritage Place, a national historic site that celebrates the life and work of Lucy Maud Montgomery, the author of Anne of Green Gables. There’s an amusement park across the street and an entire replica of the Avonlea Village just down the road. My tip? Avoid buying a Raspberry Cordial in the village or at Green Gables and head to the grocery store instead - you will easily save yourself $4.
Beyond Green Gables, Cavendish is home to beautiful beaches and green spaces too. It’s a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, with a range of activities available such as hiking, biking, and beachcombing.
While there are a lot of places to stay in Cavendish, not all of them have great reviews. I recommend sticking to the touristy atmosphere and booking one night at the Boardwalk Motel, where every room has its own BBQ. The perfect place to cook up your own dinner.
Day 4: Summerside & North Cape
Prince Edward Island is the perfect place to end your East Coast Canada road trip and gear up for a long drive back home.
A bit further west is Summerside, the second-largest city on the island. It’s home to a number of museums and historical sites, including the Eptek Art & Culture Centre, which showcases the work of local artists and artisans, and the Spinnaker's Lookout, a historic lighthouse that offers panoramic views of the surrounding area. It can be a bit quiet here, especially in the off-season, which sort of adds to the charm.
I highly recommend driving one of the scenic routes found on this side of the island or hitting up a local beach.
To finish off our Eastern Canada road trip, we booked a night at the Tyne Valley Country Inn, which is a historic home situated directly on the North Cape scenic drive. Although the property dates back to 1886, it’s been converted into a modern bed & breakfast. It’s peaceful, secluded, and still an easy drive back to the bridge on your departure day.
Resources for Planning Your Trip
A road trip through East Coast Canada is an unforgettable experience that offers something for everyone. From the stunning natural beauty of Cape Breton and Prince Edward Island to the vibrant cities of Halifax and Moncton, there is always something to see and do.
So why wait? Start planning your trip today and discover all that this beautiful region has to offer!
Here are some resources to help you plan your trip:
Official tourism boards - Visit the official tourism websites for New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, and Prince Edward Island to find a wealth of information on things to see, local events, transportation, and more.
Social media - Search for hashtags (like #eastcoastcanada, #cabottrail, #explorenb) or location tags of the specific places you want to visit to see content from people who have been there recently. This is a great way to get photography inspiration for your upcoming visit or at least give you something to look forward to.
Hotel booking and comparison tools - Websites like booking.com offer a wide range of options for accommodation on the East Coast of Canada, including hotels, guest houses, and vacation rentals. You can always find something that suits your needs and budget. It’s convenient, offers price comparisons to other websites, includes thousands of user reviews, and great customer service. Plus, most of the options come with free cancellation.
Travel experience booking tools - Websites like getyourguide.com allow you to book tours, activities, and other travel experiences on the East Coast. You can browse a wide range of options, book and pay for the experiences in advance, view detailed descriptions, and read reviews from other travelers. This is super convenient when you’re traveling to a new city with limited time and want a well-rounded experience.
Don’t stop there. Continue exploring more of Canada, check out some of my guides:
Thanks for reading. Happy travels!
