Things To Do
in Shediac
Shediac is a small coastal town in New Brunswick known as the self-proclaimed "Lobster Capital of the World" and home to the iconic giant lobster sculpture by the harbour. The town sits on Shediac Bay on the Northumberland Strait, offering sandy beaches, warm shallow water in summer and a strong Acadian cultural presence. Visitors find a relaxed, small‑town atmosphere with seafood shacks, summer festivals and easy access to nearby nature reserves and parks.
Shediac is bilingual (English/French), friendly to families and popular as a summer beach and seafood destination.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely walk along Shediac Beach, enjoying the cool ocean breeze and the sound of waves lapping against the shore. After your stroll, settle in for a delicious breakfast at a nearby café, overlooking the sandy coastline. Feel the sun warm your skin as you sip on freshly brewed coffee, soaking in the tranquil morning atmosphere.
Spend your afternoon exploring the town's famous giant lobster sculpture, capturing photos and learning about its history from the local guides. Following this, indulge in a seafood lunch at one of the local restaurants, savoring the fresh catch of the day. As the day unfolds, take a guided kayak tour in Shediac Bay, surrounded by beautiful landscapes and vibrant marine life.
As the evening approaches, find a cozy spot along the beach to watch the sunset, painting the sky with hues of orange and pink. Treat yourself to dinner at an upscale seafood restaurant, where you can taste the region's unique flavors while enjoying the view of the harbor. Conclude your day with a leisurely stroll along the beach, feeling the soft sand beneath your feet as the stars begin to twinkle above.
Head to Parlee Beach Provincial Park early to beat the crowd, taking advantage of the calm morning serenity. Walk the designated trails, appreciating the natural beauty and unique flora of the park. Pair your adventure with a hearty breakfast picnic prepared beforehand, relishing it amid the picturesque surroundings.
Spend your afternoon lounging on the golden sands of Parlee Beach, where the water is known for being warm and ideal for swimming. Engage in beachfront activities like volleyball or windsurfing, making the most of the sunny weather. Alternatively, consider renting a bicycle to explore the scenic coastal routes nearby.
As the sun sets, gather for a beachfront bonfire, sharing stories and roasting marshmallows with newfound friends. After the fire, head back into town for a casual dinner at a local pub, where you can enjoy live music and great company. Relish the sounds of laughter and the scent of ocean air while reflecting on a day well spent.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee (regular) | $3-4 |
| 🍺Beer (domestic, pint) | $6-8 |
| 🚕Short taxi ride (3–5 km) | $8-15 |
| 🏨Midrange hotel (per night) | $90-160 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Exceptional fresh seafood and lobster culture
- Beautiful beaches with relatively warm summer water
- Strong Acadian culture and bilingual charm
- Relaxed small‑town atmosphere with easy access to nature
- Limited nightlife and services off‑season
- Fewer specialized dining or vegan options compared to larger cities
- Crowded in peak summer and higher prices during festivals
- Limited public transit; a car is useful to explore the region
Places to Visit in Shediac
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic giant lobster sculpture on the harbour—classic photo op at any time of day; evenings produce nice light and fewer crowds.
Wide sandy beaches and shallow warm water that glows in late afternoon; boardwalks and dunes provide varied foregrounds for coastal shots.
Photograph fishing boats, lobster traps, and waterfront activity—sunrise brings calm water and soft light for reflections.
Scenic drives offer cliffs, marshes and coastal panoramas—great for sunset photos and capturing local fishing life.
Long boardwalk over dunes and wetlands—excellent for nature photography, birdlife and dramatic coastal landscapes.
Food in Shediac
Shediac Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Whole boiled lobster, lobster rolls, or lobster supper plates; available at waterfront shacks and restaurants across town—the must‑try item in Shediac.
Must-Try!
Fresh Northumberland Strait mussels prepared steamed or in a creamy chowder; commonly found at casual seafood houses and family restaurants.
A traditional Acadian dish made from grated potatoes and meat (typically chicken), found in local diners and at cultural events—great to try for a taste of Acadian home cooking.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Look for trucks and stalls near the wharf where local fishers sell freshly caught lobster, crab and seasonal fish—excellent for takeaway or a casual seaside meal.
Summer markets and roadside stands selling local berries, baked goods and preserves—perfect for picnic supplies and regional specialties.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Shediac has a strong Acadian (French‑speaking) community; a few polite French phrases are appreciated. Always be respectful about language and cultural heritage.
People are friendly and casual; greetings, holding doors and polite conversation are common. Avoid loud or disruptive behavior in residential areas.
Do not tamper with lobster traps, private docks or posted areas; ask permission before walking on private shoreline property or photographing people at work.
Safety
Tipping in Shediac
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is customary: 15–20% in sit‑down restaurants for good service, $1–$2 per drink at a bar, and rounding up for taxis. For exceptional service you can tip more; delivery drivers typically receive a few dollars or 10%.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; contactless payments are common. ATMs dispense Canadian dollars (CAD). Some small vendors or market stalls may prefer cash—carry some CAD, especially in summer markets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Peak season: warm, sunny days, beach crowds, open restaurants and weekly festivals. Book accommodations early; expect the highest prices and most services available.
Crisp air and colourful foliage; fewer tourists and lower prices. Good time for coastal walks, seafood dining without queues and quiet photography.
Cold, snowy conditions with limited tourist services; ideal for those who enjoy quiet towns and winter sports nearby, but many seasonal businesses close—check hours and road conditions.
Variable weather and a slow reopening of seasonal businesses; migrating birds and early blooms make it pleasant for nature walks, though water remains cool until summer.
Shediac at Night
Hiking in Shediac
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A long wooden boardwalk through dunes and wetlands, excellent for easy, scenic walks and birdwatching—about a short drive from Shediac.
Gentle coastal walks and viewing points along the Parlee Beach area—ideal for sunset or early morning strolls.
Larger park with varied hiking trails (forests, bogs, beaches) located roughly 1.5–2 hours north—good for a day trip to explore diverse coastal ecosystems.
Short forested and urban trails in nearby Moncton for easy hikes and lookout points—useful if you want more green‑space options close by.
Airports
How to reach Shediac by plane.
Primary nearby airport, about 30–40 minutes by car from Shediac with domestic flights and some seasonal connections; easy drive or shuttle services to town.
Located on Prince Edward Island, roughly 1.5–2 hours including ferry/bridge travel from Shediac; useful if combining PEI with your itinerary.
Major Atlantic Canada airport about 2.5–3 hours by car—an option for more international connections or if combining Nova Scotia travel.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A significant portion of the local population identifies as Acadian, maintaining French language, culture and traditions—important to local identity.
Many residents are anglophone, creating a bilingual community with services available in both languages.
Summer visitors and seasonal cottagers swell the population in peak months, influencing the local economy and cultural calendar.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Hockey is widely played and followed at community rinks and local youth programs—typical Canadian culture throughout the region.
Water sports are popular seasonally: sailing, kayaking and paddleboarding on Shediac Bay and nearby coves.
Several regional golf courses draw players during the summer months—golfing is a common pastime for visitors and locals.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Shediac.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are available but limited compared to seafood; many cafés offer salads, vegetarian sandwiches and vegetables, and larger restaurants will usually accommodate requests—ask staff in English or French.
Fewer dedicated vegan or gluten‑free restaurants in town; look for salads, roasted vegetables, and request gluten‑free bread where possible. Moncton (30–40 minutes away) has more varied specialized options if needed.
Shellfish is central to the local cuisine—always inform servers about severe allergies. Many kitchens are not strictly allergen-free, so take precautions and consider carrying necessary medication.