Saints Rest Beach
A scenic coastal gem on the Bay of Fundy, known for dramatic tides and access to Irving Nature Park's trails.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Explore expansive sandbars
Saints Rest Beach
Best Time
Explore expansive sandbars
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A scenic coastal gem on the Bay of Fundy, known for dramatic tides and access to Irving Nature Park's trails.
"Wonderful beach with some nice surf, great views, and a peaceful atmosphere."
Check Tide Times First! :ocean:
The Bay of Fundy tides are extreme! Plan your visit around low tide to explore the vast sandbars.
Explore Irving Nature Park :evergreen_tree:
Don't miss the trails! They offer beautiful views and a chance to see diverse wildlife.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Bay of Fundy's Dramatic Tides
Witness the world's highest tides! Explore vast sandbars at low tide or feel the ocean's power at high tide.
Irving Nature Park Trails
Wander through diverse paths offering stunning coastal views and unique ecosystems.
Moonrise Over Manawagonish Island
Experience a breathtaking celestial display as the moon rises over the tranquil island.
Secluded Beach Strolls
Enjoy peaceful walks along the long, rocky shoreline, perfect for reflection.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Bay of Fundy Tides
Irving Nature Park Access
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check Tide Times First! :ocean:
The Bay of Fundy tides are extreme! Plan your visit around low tide to explore the vast sandbars.
Explore Irving Nature Park :evergreen_tree:
Don't miss the trails! They offer beautiful views and a chance to see diverse wildlife.
Dress for the Weather :cloud:
New Brunswick weather can change quickly. Layers are key, especially near the coast.
Stargazing Gem :star2:
On clear nights, the beach offers a fantastic spot for stargazing away from city lights.
Tips
from all over the internet
Check Tide Times First! :ocean:
The Bay of Fundy tides are extreme! Plan your visit around low tide to explore the vast sandbars.
Explore Irving Nature Park :evergreen_tree:
Don't miss the trails! They offer beautiful views and a chance to see diverse wildlife.
Dress for the Weather :cloud:
New Brunswick weather can change quickly. Layers are key, especially near the coast.
Stargazing Gem :star2:
On clear nights, the beach offers a fantastic spot for stargazing away from city lights.
Birdwatching Opportunities :bird:
Look out for shorebirds, especially during migration seasons.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Saints Rest Beach for its stunning natural beauty, particularly the dramatic tides of the Bay of Fundy and its convenient location within the expansive Irving Nature Park. Many enjoy the peaceful atmosphere, ideal for walks and photography, especially during sunrise and sunset. Some note the cold water and lack of amenities, suggesting it's more for scenic enjoyment than swimming.
"Wonderful beach with some nice surf . We were hoping to see some sandpipers like we did a few years back , but not on this day . I did photograph a couple volunteers that were there also looking for some. It’s at the entrance to the Irving Nature Park which is also beautiful if you have the time to visit ."
Karen Burke
"Nice little beach where you can see the stars at night. Great place to fly a lantern as well"
Jaskarn Bains
"Right in front of the main entrance to Irving Nature Park - very long rocky beach that easily spans over 1km, with another section adding an additional km or so, part of the Sheldon Point Trail. There's some small sand dunes as well."
Mat Bienczyk
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Saints Rest Beach is located at the entrance to Irving Nature Park in Saint John, New Brunswick. You can drive directly to the park entrance, where parking is available. It's easily accessible by car and is a popular spot for locals and visitors alike.
While direct public transport to the beach itself might be limited, Saint John has a bus system that can get you close to the Irving Nature Park area. It's advisable to check the Saint John Transit schedules for routes that service the park's vicinity.
Saints Rest Beach serves as a gateway to Irving Nature Park. You can easily transition from the beach to the park's trail system, which is well-marked and offers various lengths and difficulties.
Walking from downtown Saint John to Saints Rest Beach is a considerable distance, likely over 10 kilometers. It's more practical to drive or take public transport to reach the beach and park area.
Parking at Irving Nature Park, including the area near Saints Rest Beach, is generally free. However, it's always a good idea to check for any posted signs or local advisories regarding parking regulations.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Saints Rest Beach is a public access area and does not require an entrance fee. You can visit and enjoy the beach and its surroundings freely.
Saints Rest Beach is open year-round, 24 hours a day. However, access to Irving Nature Park trails may have specific operating hours, so it's best to check their official website if you plan to visit the park extensively.
Irving Nature Park generally offers free admission to its grounds and trails, making it an accessible natural attraction for everyone.
Dogs are generally welcome at Saints Rest Beach and Irving Nature Park, but they must be kept on a leash at all times. Always be respectful of other visitors and clean up after your pet.
Facilities at Saints Rest Beach itself are minimal. Restrooms and more amenities are typically found within the main areas of Irving Nature Park. It's advisable to check the park's map for their locations.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can enjoy leisurely walks, beachcombing, photography, and simply relaxing by the water. During low tide, exploring the exposed sandbars is a unique experience.
While you can wade in the water, swimming at Saints Rest Beach is not typically recommended due to the cold temperatures and strong currents of the Bay of Fundy. It's more of a scenic and recreational beach.
You might spot shorebirds, especially during migration seasons, and various seabirds. The surrounding Irving Nature Park is also home to diverse flora and fauna.
Yes, families can enjoy the beach, especially during low tide when there's more space to play. However, supervision is crucial due to the tides and the rocky terrain in some areas.
The entire coastline offers stunning photographic opportunities, especially during sunrise and sunset. The moonrise over Manawagonish Island is also a spectacular sight.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no dining facilities directly at Saints Rest Beach. You'll need to travel back towards Saint John for a wide selection of restaurants and cafes.
The Irving Nature Park is a bit removed from major dining hubs. For a variety of options, head back towards Saint John's uptown area, which offers numerous restaurants, pubs, and cafes.
Absolutely! Saints Rest Beach is a perfect spot for a picnic. Pack your own food and enjoy the scenic views. Remember to pack out everything you pack in.
Food trucks and vendors are not a common sight directly at Saints Rest Beach or Irving Nature Park. It's best to plan for bringing your own food or dining in the city.
Saint John offers a diverse culinary scene, from fresh seafood and traditional Maritime fare to international dishes. You'll find everything from casual pubs to fine dining establishments.
📸 📸 Photography
Sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic lighting for photography at Saints Rest Beach, casting beautiful colors across the sky and water.
The expansive coastline, the dramatic tides, Manawagonish Island, and the rocky shores are all excellent subjects. The moonrise is also a unique photographic opportunity.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the vastness of the beach and the Bay of Fundy. A tripod is useful for long exposures during sunrise/sunset or for capturing the moonrise.
Drone usage is subject to Transport Canada regulations and local park rules. It's essential to check current regulations and obtain any necessary permissions before flying a drone in the area.
It's ideal for landscape photography, capturing the power of nature, coastal scenes, and celestial events like moonrises. It also offers opportunities for wildlife and macro photography of beach finds.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Remember to pack snacks and drinks, as amenities are limited. Supervise children closely, especially near the water, due to the powerful tides. The park's natural beauty and the unique tidal experience make it an engaging and educational destination for families looking for outdoor fun.
🚶♀️ Nature Enthusiasts & Hikers
The beach itself offers a unique environment shaped by the powerful Bay of Fundy tides, providing a dynamic landscape to explore. Combine a walk along the beach with a hike through the park's forested and wetland areas for a full day of immersion in nature.
📸 Photographers
+2Bring a wide-angle lens to capture the expansive views and a tripod for low-light conditions. The changing light throughout the day, influenced by the tides and weather, ensures that every visit offers a unique photographic perspective.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Majesty of the Bay of Fundy Tides
Conversely, when the tide comes in, the water level rises rapidly, transforming the beachscape. Visitors can experience the raw energy of the ocean as waves crash against the shore. It's crucial to be aware of the tide schedule before visiting to safely enjoy the beach and avoid getting caught off guard by the incoming water.
This tidal phenomenon shapes the entire coastal environment, influencing the local ecosystem and offering a dynamic and ever-changing natural spectacle for visitors to behold.
Exploring Irving Nature Park
The park is a haven for local wildlife, and visitors often report sightings of various bird species, particularly shorebirds along the coast. The trails are generally easy to moderate, making them accessible for most visitors, including families. The park's layout allows for a peaceful immersion in nature, a perfect complement to a visit to the beach.
Whether you're looking for a brisk walk, a quiet moment of reflection, or a chance to connect with nature, Irving Nature Park offers a rich and rewarding experience. Its proximity to Saints Rest Beach makes it an ideal destination for a combined nature and coastal outing.
Photography Opportunities at Saints Rest Beach
+1Beyond the daytime beauty, the beach is also renowned for its celestial views. The moonrise over Manawagonish Island is a particularly magical sight, offering a unique photographic challenge and a memorable experience. On clear nights, the lack of light pollution makes it an excellent spot for astrophotography and stargazing.
From the intricate details of shells and driftwood on the shore to the sweeping panoramas of the ocean and sky, Saints Rest Beach offers a diverse range of photographic subjects for both amateur and professional photographers.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit