Head Harbour Lightstation - check tide times if you plan to cross
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Campobello Island

4.7
·134 reviews·, Canada

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

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Summer mornings

Best light for photos

CrowdMedium
Loading map...
Head Harbour Lightstation - check tide times if you plan to cross

Campobello Island

Best Time

Summer mornings

Best light for photos

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

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

4.7
(134 reviews)

"A delightful gem! The end of island lighthouse - gorgeous! And the Roosevelt summer home, house for tea with Eleanor!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 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!

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Roosevelt Cottage National Historic Site

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.

Reddit
Herring Cove Provincial Park

Herring Cove Provincial Park

Southwest Head

Discover rugged coastlines, hiking trails, and breathtaking views of the Bay of Fundy. Perfect for nature lovers.

Instagram
Head Harbour Lighthouse

Head Harbour Lighthouse

North Head

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

Reddit
Seaglass Beaches

Seaglass Beaches

Various locations, notably Pollock Cove

Hunt for colorful seaglass treasures along the island's tranquil shores. A peaceful and rewarding beachcombing experience.

Instagram
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Planning Your Visit

Navigating the Island's Unique Geography

Campobello Island's charm lies in its remote beauty, but getting there requires a bit of planning. Since it lacks a land link to mainland Canada, you'll likely drive through Maine, USA, crossing the border at Lubec. Factor in border crossing times and ensure your vehicle documents are in order. Instagram

Embrace the Island Pace

This is a place to unwind. Don't overschedule! Many visitors recommend taking your time to explore the numerous beaches and enjoy the stunning sunsets. Booking the 'Tea with Eleanor' experience at the Roosevelt Cottage is a highly recommended historical immersion. Reddit

Best Times

When
Summer mornings
Why
Best light for photos
Crowd
Medium
When
Late afternoon for sunsets
Why
Spectacular golden hour views
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekdays
Why
Fewer crowds
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Campobello Setting Day, Nov 9 — The fishing boats of Campobello Island line up and wait for the DFO (Dept. of Fisheries and Oceans) to blow the horn at 7am Atlantic Time to kick off the start of their winter lobstering season. This is known as "setting day" because they set their traps for the season. All the boats are loaded up with tons of traps, with the crew often standing on top of them. Musi...
awoodworthphoto
35 likes • 1.2K views

🚗 Drive Through Maine

Access Campobello by driving through Lubec, Maine, USA. Ensure your passport is ready! Instagram+1

☕ Book 'Tea with Eleanor'

A must-do historical reenactment at the Roosevelt Cottage. Book in advance! Reddit

Sailing to Campobello Island for Seaglass September? Here are 7️⃣ mermaid-approved experiences that must be on your itinerary! 🏡 Stay at @pollockcove Seaside Resort. It’s as dreamy as it looks online AND it’s on one of the best seaglass beaches on the island! 🐋 Watch for whales! You can easily see humpbacks, finbacks, minkes and more from the ferry, from the lighthouses, from the land — lite...
eastcoast_mermaid
198 likes • 14.6K views
48 hours solo through 📍Downeast and 🇨🇦Campobello Island. Those shells at the end are all handmade chocolate btw. 👌 Not pictured: all the swimming, camp meals, seals I saw and antiquing I did. #downeast #campobello #summerisntover #maine #canadatravel #cabinlove #cabinchronicles
halfmoonvalleyhomestead
117 likes • 1.3K views

🥾 Pack Comfortable Shoes

Lots of walking and hiking opportunities on trails and beaches. Instagram

🌊 Check Tide Charts

Essential for accessing Head Harbour Lighthouse and exploring some beaches. Reddit

Top 7 places to visit in New Brunswick🇨🇦 1. Campobello Island🏝️ ( This island is operated by 2 countries, i.e. Canada & US both. It has mesmerizing views with cute little café to enjoy the island vibes.😎🍹) 2. Oppenheimer Museum 🏫 ( Yes, i am talking about museum not the Oppenheimer movie. This museum is an ancient house building which converted into an museum now due to its architecture, ancien...
atlanticnewbie
0 likes • 610 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Drive Through Maine

Access Campobello by driving through Lubec, Maine, USA. Ensure your passport is ready! Instagram+1

☕ Book 'Tea with Eleanor'

A must-do historical reenactment at the Roosevelt Cottage. Book in advance! Reddit

🥾 Pack Comfortable Shoes

Lots of walking and hiking opportunities on trails and beaches. Instagram

🌊 Check Tide Charts

Essential for accessing Head Harbour Lighthouse and exploring some beaches. Reddit

📱 Download Offline Maps

Cell service can be spotty. Be prepared with downloaded maps for navigation. Instagram

🦞 Savor Fresh Seafood

Enjoy delicious local catches, especially lobster, at island eateries. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.7
(134 reviews)

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

Beautiful scenery and sunsets
Historic Roosevelt Cottage
Tranquil and uncrowded atmosphere

What People Dislike

Limited time to see everything

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. Instagram+1 Ensure you have your passport ready for border crossings. There is no direct ferry service from mainland Canada to Campobello Island. Instagram

Currently, there is no direct ferry service from mainland Canada to Campobello Island. The primary access is via the bridge from Lubec, Maine. Instagram

The border crossing from Lubec, Maine, into Campobello Island is generally straightforward. Have your passports readily available for inspection by border officials. Instagram+1

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. Instagram

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. Instagram

🎫 🎫 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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Instagram

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. Reddit

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. Instagram+1

🎫 🧭 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. InstagramReddit+2

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. Instagram

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. Instagram+1

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. Instagram+1

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. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ 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. Instagram

The local cuisine heavily features fresh seafood, with lobster being a particular highlight. You'll also find classic coastal fare. Instagram

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. Reddit

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. Instagram

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. Reddit

📸 📸 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. InstagramReddit+1

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. Instagram+1

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. Reddit

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. Instagram+2

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. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Campobello Island offers a refreshing escape for families looking for a blend of history, nature, and relaxation. The Roosevelt Cottage National Historic Site provides an engaging historical experience, and the 'Tea with Eleanor' event is often a hit with children. Reddit Many of the island's beaches are perfect for kids to explore, build sandcastles, and search for treasures like seaglass. Instagram+1

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. Reddit

🚗 Road Trippers & Day-Trippers

For road trippers exploring the Maine coast or the Maritimes, Campobello Island is a fantastic detour. Its unique cross-border access via Lubec, Maine, adds an interesting element to any journey. Instagram+1 You can easily spend a full day exploring the highlights like the Roosevelt Cottage and Head Harbour Lighthouse, or dedicate a couple of days to truly soak in the island's atmosphere. Reddit

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. InstagramReddit Remember to factor in time for border crossings and potential waits, especially during peak travel seasons.

🌿 Nature & Wildlife Enthusiasts

Campobello Island is a paradise for those who love the outdoors. Herring Cove Provincial Park is a must-visit for its scenic hiking trails and dramatic coastal views. Instagram The island's shores are also excellent for birdwatching and observing marine life. Instagram

Don't miss the opportunity for whale watching tours, which offer a chance to see humpbacks, finbacks, and other cetaceans in their natural habitat. Instagram+1 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

Campobello Island holds a significant place in American history as the summer retreat of President Franklin Delano Roosevelt. The Roosevelt Cottage National Historic Site is a must-visit, offering a tangible connection to the past. Visitors can explore the expansive summer home, which has been meticulously preserved to reflect its appearance during the Roosevelt era. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Instagram

Exploring Campobello's Natural Beauty

Campobello Island is a haven for nature enthusiasts, boasting a rugged coastline and diverse natural landscapes. Herring Cove Provincial Park is a prime example, offering a network of hiking trails that wind through forests and along dramatic cliffs, providing stunning vistas of the Bay of Fundy. Instagram The park is ideal for those seeking solitude and immersion in nature.

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. Instagram+1

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. Instagram+1

Navigating the Island: Access and Transportation

Reaching Campobello Island is an adventure in itself, as it's not directly connected to mainland Canada by a bridge. The most common route involves driving through Lubec, Maine, USA, and crossing the Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial Bridge. This means you'll need to cross an international border, so ensure you have your passports ready. Instagram+1 This unique geographical arrangement means that to reach a part of Canada, you must first travel through the United States. Instagram

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. Instagram

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. Instagram

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