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

day 1
Arrival and Introduction to St. Andrews
morning
:

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.

afternoon
:

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.

evening
:

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.

day 2
Exploring Fundy National Park
morning
:

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.

afternoon
:

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.

evening
:

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.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔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.

Kingsbrae Garden

Meticulously designed formal and informal garden rooms with sculptures, water features and vibrant seasonal displays — excellent for macro and landscape floral photography.

Minister’s Island Causeway and Island

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.

St. Andrews Harbour and Wharf

Classic shots of lobster boats, working wharf activity, tide flats and reflections — especially striking at golden hour and during low tide.

Victorian Streets and Architecture

Well-preserved heritage homes, ornate facades and the town’s intimate streets provide attractive architectural and street-scene compositions.

Coastal Lookouts & Sunsets over the Bay of Fundy

Small headlands and pullouts near town offer expansive views of the Bay of Fundy; long-exposure seascapes and sunset colors are popular.

Culinary Guide

Food in St. Andrews

St. Andrews’ cuisine centers on fresh Atlantic seafood, local produce and farm-to-table preparations. Expect lobster, scallops, mussels and freshly caught fish alongside bakeries, coffee shops and small bistros serving regional specialties and seasonal fare. The town’s small size means dining is often intimate — many places highlight local growers, foragers and fishermen.

St. Andrews Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Fresh Lobster (lobster roll or boiled lobster)

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!

Seafood Chowder

A creamy or tomato-based chowder loaded with local fish, scallops and mussels — a comforting option on cool days, found at cafés and pubs.

Digby-Style Scallops

Plump bay scallops (from the wider Bay of Fundy/adjacent waters) are frequently on menus pan-seared or baked; ask for local sourcing.

Wild Blueberry Desserts

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

St. Andrews Farmers’/Seasonal Market

A seasonal market (spring–fall) featuring local produce, baked goods, preserves, artisan foods and sometimes food trucks; great for picnic supplies and local specialties.

Harbourfront Stands & Food Trucks

In summer you’ll often find seasonal stands offering lobster rolls, fish and chips, and snacks near the wharf and tourist areas.

Climate Guide

Weather

St. Andrews has a temperate maritime climate influenced by the Bay of Fundy: summers are mild and pleasant, while winters are cold with snow and occasional coastal storms. Spring and fall are transitional with variable weather; fog can occur, and coastal winds moderate temperatures year-round.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Politeness and Friendliness

Locals are typically polite and friendly—greet shopkeepers and staff, be patient and respectful, and engage with the community courteously.

Respect for Private Property and Nature

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.

Bilingual Sensitivity

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.

Tide Awareness

Respect tide schedules — causeways and coastal areas can become dangerous with rising tides. Follow local advice and posted warnings.

Safety Guide

Safety

St. Andrews is generally very safe with low violent crime rates. The main safety concerns are environmental: rapidly changing tides, slippery rocky shorelines, and unpredictable coastal weather. Always check tide charts before crossing causeways or exploring tidal flats, wear appropriate footwear, have layers for wind and rain, and dial 911 for emergencies. Carry travel health insurance for medical evacuation or specialized care.

Tipping in St. Andrews

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

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.

Payment Methods

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...

Summer

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.

Fall

Cooling temperatures and fewer visitors; excellent fall foliage, crisp air, and quieter accommodation rates. Some seasonal businesses begin to close in late fall.

Winter

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.

Spring

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.

Nightlife Guide

St. Andrews at Night

Nightlife in St. Andrews is low-key and relaxed: think cozy pubs, seasonal live music, intimate wine bars and occasional outdoor summer events. There are no major clubs; evenings are best spent enjoying a waterfront dinner, a local brew or a small concert at a community venue.

Hiking in St. Andrews

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Chamcook Mountain Overlook

A relatively short hike offering panoramic views of Passamaquoddy Bay and the surrounding coastline — good for photographers and birdwatchers.

Minister’s Island Shore Walks

Low‑tide access to the island provides coastal walks, shoreline exploration and historic houseyard trails; check tides and guided‑tour schedules.

Fundy Coastal Trails (nearby coastal areas)

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.

Kingsbrae Garden Paths

Gentle paved and gravel pathways through themed garden rooms — ideal for relaxed walking and accessible routes.

Airports

How to reach St. Andrews by plane.

Saint John Airport (YSJ)

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.

Fredericton International Airport (YFC)

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.

Greater Moncton International Airport (YQM)

Approximately 2–2.5 hours drive; larger range of flights and car rental options, useful if combining travel to other parts of New Brunswick.

Getting Around

Walkability

Downtown St. Andrews is highly walkable: most attractions, shops and restaurants are within easy walking distance of the harbour. Sidewalks and short blocks make it pleasant to explore on foot, though some scenic viewpoints and trails require a short drive or hike.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Anglophone Residents

Majority of the town’s year-round population — often older median age with multi-generational families who work in tourism, fishing, and local services.

Francophone Community

New Brunswick is officially bilingual; there are Francophone residents in the wider region and French-language services are available in some settings.

Seasonal Visitors & Cottagers

A significant summer population increase from tourists, weekenders and seasonal homeowners who support the local hospitality economy.

Indigenous Peoples (Wabanaki Nations)

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.

Hockey

Canada’s dominant sport — local rinks host youth and adult leagues and are a community focus in winter.

Sailing & Boating

Recreational sailing, powerboating and fishing are popular in summer due to the harbour and sheltered bays.

Golf

Coastal and historic golf courses in the region attract players for scenic rounds, especially in warmer months.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic is generally light outside of peak summer weekends; roads are two-lane and easy to navigate. Expect occasional congestion near popular lookouts and at peak arrival/departure times in summer. Public transportation within town is minimal — most visitors rely on cars, bicycles or walking. Plan extra time for drives during summer events and be mindful of narrow rural roads.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting St. Andrews.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

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

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.

Gluten-Free

Many restaurants can accommodate gluten-free requests, but cross-contamination is possible in smaller kitchens; verify with staff if you have severe celiac concerns.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

The town has primary care clinics and community health services; for emergency or specialized care, the nearest full-service hospitals are in Saint John (approximately a 45–75 minute drive depending on conditions). Pharmacies are available locally but may have limited hours outside peak season. Visitors should have travel insurance and carry documentation of any prescriptions.

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