Things To Do
in St. Andrews
St. Andrews (often called St. Andrews by-the-Sea) is a small, historic coastal town on the Bay of Fundy in southwestern New Brunswick, Canada, known for its Victorian architecture, well-tended gardens and maritime heritage. The town is a gateway to dramatic tides, island excursions and coastal wildlife — seals, seabirds and seasonal whale sightings are common. St. Andrews blends relaxed seaside charm with cultural attractions like Kingsbrae Garden, heritage museums, and a compact, walkable downtown full of galleries and crafts.
It’s an easy base for exploring nearby coastal trails, island causeways and the wider Fundy coastline while enjoying local seafood and a slow pace of life.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in St. Andrews and get settled into your accommodations. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café, sampling some fresh pastries and coffee to kickstart your adventure. Take a stroll along the beautiful waterfront to soak in the fresh ocean air and stunning views.
Visit the charming shops on Water Street, where you can find unique handcrafted items and souvenirs. Afterward, explore the historic sites, including the Blockhouse and the Old Burial Ground, which provide a glimpse into the town's rich history. Stop for lunch at a restaurant offering local seafood to test your palate against the flavors of the Bay of Fundy.
Relish a scenic walk along the coast to watch the sunset over the water, creating a perfect backdrop for memorable photographs. Dine at a cozy bistro that features local ingredients, indulging in a meal that exemplifies Maritimes’ culinary delights. End your first evening with a nightcap at a pub, enjoying the lively atmosphere and perhaps some local music.
After breakfast, embark on a short drive to Fundy National Park, famous for having the highest tides in the world. Start your exploration with a guided nature walk, where you can learn about the unique ecosystems and wildlife of the area. Take in the stunning views from the cliffs and trails that border the Bay of Fundy.
Enjoy a picnic lunch in one of the park’s dedicated areas surrounded by beautiful vistas. Spend the afternoon hiking one of the scenic trails, such as the Dickson Falls or the Cape Chignecto trail, which are sure to leave you in awe of the natural beauty. Consider participating in a kayaking tour to experience the bay's diverse marine life up close.
Return to St. Andrews for a relaxing evening. Dinner can be enjoyed at a waterfront restaurant with panoramic views, allowing for the perfect end to your day. Conclude with a leisurely walk through the town, taking in the quaint architecture illuminated by street lamps.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-20 |
| ☕Coffee or tea at a café | $2-4 |
| 🚕Short taxi ride (in town) | $8-20 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $100-200 |
| 🎟️Entrance to gardens/museum | $8-20 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful coastal scenery and access to unique Bay of Fundy tides and wildlife
- Charming, walkable historic town with well-maintained gardens and heritage architecture
- Relaxed pace, good for photography, outdoor activities and a peaceful getaway
- Strong local seafood and seasonal, farm-to-table dining options
- Limited nightlife and nightlife options — not suited for party-seekers
- Seasonal closures: many businesses and tours operate mainly in spring–fall
- Public transportation is limited—a car is helpful to explore surrounding attractions
- Weather can be changeable; tides and coastal conditions require planning
Places to Visit in St. Andrews
Visit one of these nice places.
Meticulously designed formal and informal garden rooms with sculptures, water features and vibrant seasonal displays — excellent for macro and landscape floral photography.
The tidal causeway (only passable at low tide) and the island’s shoreline, historic house and fields create dramatic photos of exposed tidal flats and coastal light.
Classic shots of lobster boats, working wharf activity, tide flats and reflections — especially striking at golden hour and during low tide.
Well-preserved heritage homes, ornate facades and the town’s intimate streets provide attractive architectural and street-scene compositions.
Small headlands and pullouts near town offer expansive views of the Bay of Fundy; long-exposure seascapes and sunset colors are popular.
Food in St. Andrews
St. Andrews Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Local Atlantic lobster is a must-try; enjoy it boiled with butter or in a classic lobster roll. Available at waterfront restaurants and seasonal stands.
Must-Try!
A creamy or tomato-based chowder loaded with local fish, scallops and mussels — a comforting option on cool days, found at cafés and pubs.
Plump bay scallops (from the wider Bay of Fundy/adjacent waters) are frequently on menus pan-seared or baked; ask for local sourcing.
New Brunswick’s wild blueberries appear in pies, jams and pastries — try a blueberry pie or preserve at bakeries and markets.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A seasonal market (spring–fall) featuring local produce, baked goods, preserves, artisan foods and sometimes food trucks; great for picnic supplies and local specialties.
In summer you’ll often find seasonal stands offering lobster rolls, fish and chips, and snacks near the wharf and tourist areas.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Locals are typically polite and friendly—greet shopkeepers and staff, be patient and respectful, and engage with the community courteously.
Stay on marked trails, don’t trespass on private lawns or gardens, and avoid picking flowers or disturbing wildlife. Minister’s Island and other sites may have specific rules — follow posted guidance.
New Brunswick is officially bilingual (English and French). Use English by default in St. Andrews, but a few French phrases are appreciated, and polite efforts to use both languages are welcomed.
Respect tide schedules — causeways and coastal areas can become dangerous with rising tides. Follow local advice and posted warnings.
Safety
Tipping in St. Andrews
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is customary in Canada: around 15–20% in restaurants for table service, $1–$2 per drink at bars, rounding up taxi fares and modest tips for hotel porters and housekeeping. For exceptional service you can tip more.
Credit and debit cards (Visa, Mastercard, Interac) are widely accepted; contactless/tap payments are common. Carry some Canadian cash for small vendors or seasonal market stalls that may be cash-only. ATMs are available in town but may be limited outside business hours.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
High season: warm (comfortable) temperatures, busiest tourist crowds, full schedules for boat tours and gardens, extended hours for attractions and many seasonal vendors and events.
Cooling temperatures and fewer visitors; excellent fall foliage, crisp air, and quieter accommodation rates. Some seasonal businesses begin to close in late fall.
Cold, snowy and quiet — many seasonal businesses and tours are closed or reduced; good for a peaceful, low-cost stay but expect fewer services and limited daylight for outdoor activities.
Variable weather (muddy and cool early on), gardens begin to bloom and seasonal services reopen. Check tide schedules and tour availability as operators ramp up for summer.
St. Andrews at Night
Hiking in St. Andrews
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A relatively short hike offering panoramic views of Passamaquoddy Bay and the surrounding coastline — good for photographers and birdwatchers.
Low‑tide access to the island provides coastal walks, shoreline exploration and historic houseyard trails; check tides and guided‑tour schedules.
A network of coastal footpaths and provincial trails in Charlotte County and along the Fundy coast offering varied terrain, viewpoints and access to rugged shoreline scenery.
Gentle paved and gravel pathways through themed garden rooms — ideal for relaxed walking and accessible routes.
Airports
How to reach St. Andrews by plane.
The closest commercial airport (about a 45–75 minute drive to St. Andrews depending on route). Offers regional and some limited national flights; car rental and shuttle options are available.
About 1.5–2 hours by car north of St. Andrews; serves several national routes and can be a practical alternative depending on flight connections.
Approximately 2–2.5 hours drive; larger range of flights and car rental options, useful if combining travel to other parts of New Brunswick.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Majority of the town’s year-round population — often older median age with multi-generational families who work in tourism, fishing, and local services.
New Brunswick is officially bilingual; there are Francophone residents in the wider region and French-language services are available in some settings.
A significant summer population increase from tourists, weekenders and seasonal homeowners who support the local hospitality economy.
The region is within territories traditionally used by Wabanaki peoples; visitors should acknowledge Indigenous presence and local history and inquire respectfully about cultural sites or partnerships.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Canada’s dominant sport — local rinks host youth and adult leagues and are a community focus in winter.
Recreational sailing, powerboating and fishing are popular in summer due to the harbour and sheltered bays.
Coastal and historic golf courses in the region attract players for scenic rounds, especially in warmer months.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting St. Andrews.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are available at cafés, bistros and some seafood restaurants, but choices can be limited in smaller seasonal menus — check ahead or ask kitchens to adapt dishes using local produce and salads.
Vegan options exist but are less common; look to specialty cafés, bakeries or larger restaurants and mention dietary needs when ordering. Carry snacks for remote excursions.
Many restaurants can accommodate gluten-free requests, but cross-contamination is possible in smaller kitchens; verify with staff if you have severe celiac concerns.