7 Offbeat Maritimes Towns To Visit In 2025
The Maritimes is a region in Eastern Canada along the Atlantic coastline. It consists of three provinces: New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island, and Nova Scotia, and it houses around 5% of the country’s population. The Maritime Provinces shine with seafaring heritage, and people from all over can learn about shipbuilding, fishing, and the region’s nautical past.
Behind the obvious destinations like Halifax lie many offbeat gems, perfect for a 2025 vacation. These towns not only boast coastal charm but they also have unique attractions like ghost tours and tidal roads, which will make any experience interesting. From Shediac’s giant lobster statue to the Island Chocolates chocolate store in Victoria-by-the-Sea, these seven offbeat towns are perfect to visit in 2025.
Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island
Home to 40,000 people, Charlottetown often comes off as a major city, and it is the largest in Prince Edward Island. That said, it is bursting with vibrance, from historic landmarks to cultural fests and artisan shops. Those here to explore the past will be in awe of sights like the St. Dunstan’s Basilica. Completed in 1907, it may not be the oldest structure you have seen, but the cathedral’s immense presence is palpable with its 61 metre (200 ft) tall spire. It has even been blessed by Pope Pius XI, making it the perfect place for a religious experience.
A short walk away, the Confederation Centre of the Arts is another unexpected charmer. This massive complex in central Charlottetown is home to theatres, an art museum, and more. Visitors interested in the arts can experience everything from the 3,250 square metres (35,000 sq ft) exhibition space full of artwork to the 1,100-seat theatre hosting performances like the Million Dollar Quartet in August 2025. When not featuring a regular performance, this facility is also the site of the Charlottetown Festival from May to October. Taking place since 1965, the event features everything from musicals like Anne of Green Gables to theatre training programs for youngsters. Last but not least, end the day with a boat excursion from Peake’s Wharf for a breath of fresh air in the Atlantic waters.
Shediac, New Brunswick
Enter the true maritime spirit in the town of Shediac in New Brunswick, known as the “Lobster Capital of the World.” This name has many reasons, from the annual lobster fishing festival to the world’s largest sculpture of the crustacean. The Shediac Lobster Festival takes place during July with over 50 unique activities, from music concerts and dance parties to a 600-guest open lobster dinner on Main Street. When the streets aren’t full of lobster dishes, The World’s Largest Lobster is the place to be in Shediac. This offbeat statue stands at a massive 11 metres long and five metres tall, weighing over 90 tonnes. Visitors can take a picture within the gigantic claws of this marine animal.
After taking in all the lobster glory, experience the marine life yourself at Parlee Beach. It has been awarded the international Blue Flag eco-certification, so tourists can be sure that it is a beautiful experience. One can spend time camping in the adjacent campground, swimming in the water, or grabbing a bite at the Euston Park Patio. For even more maritime fun, stop by the Homarus Centre, an interpretive facility with everything from lobsters to marine ecosystems.
Lunenburg, Nova Scotia
Located along the Atlantic Ocean in Nova Scotia, the town of Lunenburg is a treasure trove for history lovers. The entire town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, considered one of the best examples of a planned British colonial settlement in North America. A short walk through Old Town’s streets abounds with the original 1800s layout from the town’s early days, with wooden vernacular architecture all around. The area has about 40 buildings listed on the Canadian Register of Historic Places, such as the 1793 Knaut-Rhuland House, which is now a museum offering tours of its unique British Classicism design. Nearby, St. John’s Anglican Church is another rustic establishment, dating back to 1753. It was the second Church of England built in the province, and it has a crypt where 18 people are buried. The best way to take it all in is on one of the Trot in Time Carriage Tours, where one can explore by horse-drawn carriage.
While historic buildings are a blast to the past, there are many more cultural options in Lunenburg. The Fisheries Museum of the Atlantic is a major draw, open from May through October. It details the town’s fishing heritage, with everything from floating shops along the wharf to a great gift shop to grab a souvenir. As the sun sets, a trip to the Ironworks Distillery is in order. This micro-distillery is an offbeat gem, set in an old marine blacksmith’s shop with craft spirits and unique flavours like blueberry vodka.
Summerside, Prince Edward Island
While the name Summerside may bring images of beaches and water to mind, there is much more in this scenic town. Located on the western part of Prince Edward Island, this community of 16,000 abounds with a mix of history, art, and sporting activities. That’s right; sports are a large part of the town’s culture, which is evident when you visit the Summerside Raceway. This standardbred harness racing track is the oldest racing track in the country, and it opened in 1886. It still hosts races to this day, so tourists can book a ticket and join in on one of the events in 2025. For those who want to get active themselves, the Credit Union Place is next door. As a multi-purpose facility, it has everything from a 25-metre (82 feet) swimming pool to a bowling alley.
While there is much more to see in town, from hiking trails along the waters to delicious restaurants and boutiques, those visiting in 2025 should plan their trip for one of the town’s events. For example, the Summerside Lobster Festival is set for July, with carnival food, lobster culinary demonstrations, a parade, and more. For a different experience, the adventurous can opt for one of the local ghost tours, which cover spots like the Yeo House. Built in 1865, this Gothic Revival mansion is a historic site during the day and an eerie legend with ominous voices at night.
Saint Andrews, New Brunswick
About four hours west of Summerside, Saint Andrews rests along another part of the Maritimes' beautiful coastline. The rustic town was settled in the 1780s by Penobscot Loyalists, and soon after saw an influx of Irish immigrants. Surprisingly, the town square laid out in the 18th century is still in use today, and it is lined with classical architecture and vibrant storefronts. Those who want to learn more about the past can visit the Ross Memorial Museum, a 19th-century Georgian home showcasing furniture, fine art, and more. Further history abounds at the St. Andrews Blockhouse, a blockhouse fortification from the War of 1812. Built to protect from American raids, it is Canada’s last surviving blockhouse, and a perfect site to tour.
Beyond the history, modern attractions in Saint Andrews have an offbeat charm that is rarely seen elsewhere. For example, Minister’s Island is an interesting gem located just east of the town. While there is a road to the island, it disappears underwater during high tide, so you can only drive over when the tide is low. That said, it is worth the wait as the 2.8 square kilometre (1.1 sq mi) is home to many sites like the 1901 Covenhoven, the estate of Sir William Van Horne. For a more maritime-esque experience, visitors can opt for a whale watching excursion instead. Many companies like Island Quest Marine offer boat tours showcasing humpback, minkes, and sometimes even North Atlantic right whales in their natural habitat.
Victoria-by-the-Sea, Prince Edward Island
Book a trip to Victoria-by-the-Sea to join one of the 100 residents in this storybook village. From its touristy streets lined with restaurants to its red sand beaches, it is a dream destination for anyone planning a vacation. That said, before going into the obvious charmers, Victoria has some offbeat features that many people overlook. Island Chocolates is one such spot, which might make dessert your meal of choice throughout the day. People of all ages will adore its handmade skill and specialized processes, creating award-winning concoctions. From foil-wrapped chocolate to chocolate drinks, it is a wellspring of sweet goodness. After you are full, head over to the vibrant Victoria Playhouse for a show. This community hall turned theatre hosts all kinds of quirky and high-quality shows like Perk Up, Pianist!, which is a piano-influenced comedy.
When not watching a show, Victoria’s coastal attractions are a must-visit. Those interested in maritime history will adore some time at the Victoria Seaport Lighthouse Museum. Here, one can tour an operating lighthouse known for its stunning white and red paint, as well as check out the Keepers Of The Light exhibit, detailing seafaring tales. Not far from the lighthouse is the local farmers' market on Sundays. From handmade goods to food service, it is a bustling event full of life.
Bouctouche, New Brunswick
Those looking to enjoy nature while still having an offbeat experience should add Bouctouche to their itinerary. The town is famed as the entry to La Dune de Bouctouche, or the Great Little Harbour in English. This 12-kilometre (7.5 mi) stretch of sand along the Atlantic Ocean is lined with dunes, offering a scenic mix of beige and blue. Adventurous travellers can hike the trail or rent a cycle for a leisurely stroll along the coast. The ridge itself spans nearly 10 kilometres, so you will have plenty of time to take it all in. The Irving Eco-Centre is also here, offering a fantastic viewpoint and educational events like their “Mini-walk,” a guided tour about the dune and its ecosystem.
After exploring the dune, visitors can also spend time in the town itself. The Farmers' Market and historic Le Pays de la Sagouine are worth a stop. The latter is a cultural theme park that brings Acadian traditions to life through live performances, music, and storytelling.
Vacation In The Maritimes
Each of these towns offers something just a little different, from lobster sculptures and ghost tours to floating museums and tidal roads. The Maritimes may be known for lighthouses and coastal views, but within this familiar setting are stories, landmarks, and traditions that make every visit feel personal and new. For travellers seeking memorable experiences beyond the obvious, these offbeat gems are waiting to be explored in 2025.
