
Campobello Island
A serene island in the Bay of Fundy, offering historical charm, rugged coastlines, and abundant wildlife. A peaceful escape.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Best light for photos

Campobello Island
Best Time
Best light for photos

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene island in the Bay of Fundy, offering historical charm, rugged coastlines, and abundant wildlife. A peaceful escape.
"A delightful gem! The end of island lighthouse - gorgeous! And the Roosevelt summer home, house for tea with Eleanor!"

🚗 Drive Through Maine
Access Campobello by driving through Lubec, Maine, USA. Ensure your passport is ready!
☕ Book 'Tea with Eleanor'
A must-do historical reenactment at the Roosevelt Cottage. Book in advance!

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Roosevelt Cottage National Historic Site
Welshpool
Step back in time at FDR's summer home. Explore the historic grounds and enjoy a unique 'Tea with Eleanor' experience.

Herring Cove Provincial Park
Southwest Head
Discover rugged coastlines, hiking trails, and breathtaking views of the Bay of Fundy. Perfect for nature lovers.

Head Harbour Lighthouse
North Head
An iconic lighthouse accessible by foot at low tide. Offers stunning photo opportunities and a glimpse into maritime history.

Seaglass Beaches
Various locations, notably Pollock Cove
Hunt for colorful seaglass treasures along the island's tranquil shores. A peaceful and rewarding beachcombing experience.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating the Island's Unique Geography
Embrace the Island Pace
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Drive Through Maine
Access Campobello by driving through Lubec, Maine, USA. Ensure your passport is ready!
☕ Book 'Tea with Eleanor'
A must-do historical reenactment at the Roosevelt Cottage. Book in advance!
🥾 Pack Comfortable Shoes
Lots of walking and hiking opportunities on trails and beaches.
🌊 Check Tide Charts
Essential for accessing Head Harbour Lighthouse and exploring some beaches.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Drive Through Maine
Access Campobello by driving through Lubec, Maine, USA. Ensure your passport is ready!
☕ Book 'Tea with Eleanor'
A must-do historical reenactment at the Roosevelt Cottage. Book in advance!
🥾 Pack Comfortable Shoes
Lots of walking and hiking opportunities on trails and beaches.
🌊 Check Tide Charts
Essential for accessing Head Harbour Lighthouse and exploring some beaches.
📱 Download Offline Maps
Cell service can be spotty. Be prepared with downloaded maps for navigation.
🦞 Savor Fresh Seafood
Enjoy delicious local catches, especially lobster, at island eateries.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Campobello Island's stunning natural beauty, rich history, and tranquil atmosphere, often highlighting the Roosevelt Cottage and scenic lighthouses. It's praised as a less crowded alternative to popular tourist spots, offering a relaxing escape with opportunities for hiking, beachcombing, and wildlife viewing. Some wish they had more time to explore its entirety.
"When you need beautiful scenery, history, and a bite to eat and don’t want to deal with the crowds of Acadia it’s time to come here.
This is a great location to spend a relaxing day as you walk, hike, learn and eat. If you can make sure to book the free tea with Eleanor experience."
Michelle Furman
"It was amazing the sunsets were gorgeous and the weather was great!
There were so many beaches to explore and they have playgrounds right next to them for your kids if they get bored!
Roosevelt park was such a great experience and was so historic and fun!
Over all it was a great experience for everyone!"
Andi Calder
"What a delightful gem! The end of island lighthouse - gorgeous! And the Roosevelt summer home, house for tea with Eleanor! Just a wonderful, well run, cared for place!"
C B
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Campobello Island, New Brunswick, Canada, is best accessed by car. You'll typically drive through Maine, USA, crossing the border at Lubec, Maine, and then crossing the Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial Bridge to reach the island. Ensure you have your passport ready for border crossings. There is no direct ferry service from mainland Canada to Campobello Island.
Currently, there is no direct ferry service from mainland Canada to Campobello Island. The primary access is via the bridge from Lubec, Maine.
The border crossing from Lubec, Maine, into Campobello Island is generally straightforward. Have your passports readily available for inspection by border officials.
Yes, you can drive to Campobello Island from Bar Harbor, Maine. The drive involves heading north towards Lubec and crossing the border. The distance is approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic and border wait times.
From the United States, head towards Lubec, Maine. Once in Lubec, follow signs for Campobello Island, New Brunswick, Canada, and cross the bridge. From other parts of New Brunswick, you will need to drive south through Maine to reach the island via Lubec.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Campobello Island itself does not require an entry ticket. However, specific attractions like the Roosevelt Cottage National Historic Site may have admission fees or require reservations for special events like 'Tea with Eleanor'. It's advisable to check their official website for current pricing and booking information.
The Roosevelt Cottage National Historic Site typically operates during the summer season. Hours can vary, so it's best to check the Parks Canada website for the most up-to-date operating hours and any seasonal closures.
Herring Cove Provincial Park is a provincial park, and while day-use access is generally free, there might be fees for specific facilities or camping. It's recommended to check the New Brunswick Parks website for any applicable charges.
Yes, Head Harbour Lighthouse is a popular attraction. Access to the lighthouse itself is often tide-dependent, meaning you can walk out to it during low tide. There may be a small fee for guided tours or access.
Several tour operators offer various experiences on Campobello Island, including whale watching tours, historical tours, and general island exploration. Checking local tourism websites or asking at the visitor center upon arrival can provide current options.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Top activities include visiting the Roosevelt Cottage, exploring Herring Cove Provincial Park, walking to Head Harbour Lighthouse at low tide, beachcombing for seaglass, whale watching, and enjoying the scenic drives and tranquil atmosphere.
Absolutely! Campobello Island offers numerous hiking trails, particularly within Herring Cove Provincial Park, with stunning coastal views. The island's natural beauty makes it a great destination for walkers and hikers.
Yes, whale watching is a popular activity. You can often spot whales, seals, and dolphins from shore, especially during certain seasons. Boat tours are also available for a closer look.
Campobello Island features a variety of beaches, from rocky shores perfect for exploring to sandy stretches ideal for relaxing. Many are known for their seaglass treasures.
Compared to more mainstream tourist destinations, Campobello Island is generally less crowded, offering a more tranquil experience. However, it can get busier during peak summer months. Visiting on weekdays can help avoid larger crowds.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Campobello Island offers several dining options, from casual cafes to restaurants serving fresh seafood. Many accommodations also offer dining. Look for local spots to enjoy the island's culinary offerings, especially lobster.
The local cuisine heavily features fresh seafood, with lobster being a particular highlight. You'll also find classic coastal fare.
Many of the island's eateries are family-friendly, offering a relaxed atmosphere. Some beaches also have nearby playgrounds, making it easy to combine a meal with family activities.
While seafood is prominent, many restaurants are accommodating and may offer vegetarian or vegan dishes. It's always a good idea to inquire about options when ordering.
This is a unique historical reenactment at the Roosevelt Cottage where an actress portrays Eleanor Roosevelt and serves tea. It's a delightful way to learn about the history of the cottage and the former First Lady. Booking in advance is highly recommended.
📸 📸 Photography
Iconic spots include Head Harbour Lighthouse, the rugged coastline of Herring Cove Provincial Park, the Roosevelt Cottage grounds, and the scenic ocean views from various points along the island. Sunsets are particularly stunning.
Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best light for photography, with golden hour providing beautiful, soft illumination. Sunsets are a major draw for photographers.
Yes, photography is generally permitted on the grounds of the Roosevelt Cottage National Historic Site. However, specific restrictions might apply inside buildings, so it's best to check signage or ask staff.
The unique dual-country aspect (accessible via the US), the tide-dependent lighthouse access, and the abundance of seaglass offer distinctive photographic subjects. Wildlife, like seals and whales, also present great opportunities.
A versatile camera with a good zoom lens is recommended for capturing landscapes and potential wildlife. A wide-angle lens is great for coastal scenes, and a tripod can be useful for low-light sunset shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Look for accommodations that are family-friendly, and take advantage of the playgrounds located near some beaches. The slower pace of the island makes it ideal for a less stressful family vacation. Remember to pack essentials like sunscreen, hats, and comfortable walking shoes for everyone.
🚗 Road Trippers & Day-Trippers
Consider combining a visit to Campobello with nearby Lubec and Eastport, Maine, which offer their own charm and attractions. This allows for a comprehensive exploration of the 'Downeast' region. Remember to factor in time for border crossings and potential waits, especially during peak travel seasons.
🌿 Nature & Wildlife Enthusiasts
Don't miss the opportunity for whale watching tours, which offer a chance to see humpbacks, finbacks, and other cetaceans in their natural habitat. Even from shore, you can often spot seals and other marine creatures. The island's relatively undeveloped nature provides an authentic experience for nature lovers.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Roosevelt Legacy on Campobello
Beyond the cottage itself, the surrounding grounds and the 'Tea with Eleanor' experience provide a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the history. This popular reenactment allows visitors to interact with an actress portraying Eleanor Roosevelt, offering insights into her life and the era. It's a highly recommended activity that brings history to life.
The presence of the Roosevelt family has left an indelible mark on Campobello, contributing to its charm and historical significance. It's a key reason many visitors are drawn to the island, seeking to understand this important chapter in American and Canadian shared history.
Exploring Campobello's Natural Beauty
The island is also renowned for its beaches, which range from rocky coves to sandy stretches. Many of these beaches are prime locations for seaglass hunting, a popular pastime for visitors. The tranquil waters and scenic shores make for a relaxing day of exploration.
Wildlife viewing is another significant draw. Keep an eye out for seals basking on the rocks, and with a bit of luck, you might spot whales and dolphins in the surrounding waters. Boat tours are available for those eager to get a closer look at the marine life.
Navigating the Island: Access and Transportation
Once on the island, driving is the primary mode of transportation. While the island isn't vast, having a car allows for the most flexibility in exploring its various attractions, from the Roosevelt Cottage to the provincial parks and lighthouses. Public transportation options are limited, so a personal vehicle or a rental is highly recommended for independent exploration.
For those without a car, consider island tours which can provide a convenient way to see the main sights. Some accommodations may also offer shuttle services or be centrally located to key attractions. Planning your transport in advance is key to a smooth visit.





Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit