Arisaig Provincial Park and Beach

If you ever visit Nova Scotia and are looking for things to do, I highly recommend stopping at Arisaig Provincial Park!

Where is Arisaig Provincial Park?

Located about 20 minutes outside of Antigonish, the park is surrounded by the ocean. If you visit during the right time of year, you could be lucky enough watch the fishing boats haul their gear.

Why Visit Arisaig Provincial Park?

There is a short hiking trail that loops around the park and breath taking scenery. With a couple of benches and scenic look-offs along the way, there are several opportunities for breaks. About halfway through the trail, you can venture down to the shoreline. There, you have access to a long stretch of rocky beach, a waterfall and the opportunity to find fossils!

If you look closely at the photos above, you can see fossilized shells inside of the rock. Swipe for a closer image.

Back at the park’s entrance are several parking sites where you can set up for a picnic. There is also a large grass field that you have access to. It is the perfect place to stop and let your kids play.

Arisaig Beach

Minutes before you arrive at Arisaig Provincial Park is Arisaig’s wharf. Docked at the wharf, you will find fishing boats, and to the side a fish plant and small lighthouse overlooking the ocean.

The beach located to the left of the wharf. The sand is so soft and clean, and you can even go for a dip in the ocean if the water is warm enough.

If you comb the beach, you will be sure to find some sea glass or small sea shells. The most common pieces are green or brown (most likely from broken beer or pop bottles that have washed up). Occasionally, you can also find rare pieces, such as blue or pink. Pictured below are different shades of green and a brown piece that I found from my previous visit.

Both Arisaig Provincial Park and the beach are pet friendly. When there is no-one at the beach, we let Rémi run off-leash. He enjoys playing in the sand and swimming, and there are always so many new smells. He leaves there a tired pup every single time!

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