Alma: New Brunswick's Hidden Gem

Nestled on the southeastern coast of New Brunswick, Canada, Alma is a charming village boasting breathtaking scenery and a plethora of attractions. Located in the heart of the Bay of Fundy, Alma offers visitors the chance to witness the world-renowned Fundy Tides, with vertical differences between high and low tides exceeding 53 feet at times. The village serves as the gateway to the expansive Fundy National Park, providing ample opportunities for hiking, kayaking, and exploring. Alma's tidal harbour is also a hub for lobster and scallop fishing, contributing significantly to the local economy. The village exudes a warm and welcoming atmosphere, with delightful tourist experiences, including vendors lining the roadside and businesses exuding charm along the main street. Visitors can stroll along the Alma wharf, admire boats resting on the seafloor at low tide, and savour delicious seafood, including freshly cooked lobster, paired with local craft beer.

Alma's famous Fundy Tides

Almas famous Fundy Tides

Alma, New Brunswick, is known for its incredible tidal views. The Bay of Fundy, which can be seen from Alma, boasts the most variable tides in the world, with a difference of up to 50 vertical feet every 6 hours. This dramatic change is caused by the combination of normal tidal action and the 'seiche' effect—like water sloshing in a bathtub due to underwater rock formations at the bay mouth.

Within just six hours, boats floating next to the pier at hour one will be sitting on the dry ocean floor, resting on brackets to keep them upright. This phenomenon leaves the ocean floor exposed for miles, allowing visitors to walk out into the bay. The Fundy National Park, located right next to Alma, offers a fantastic opportunity to witness these tides and explore the coastline.

For those interested in experiencing the tides up close, kayaking tours are available through local excursion groups such as Fresh Air Adventure. These tours are organised around the tidal flow, allowing visitors to observe the vast tidal changes over time.

Alma's wharf is another excellent spot to witness these tides. Visitors can stroll along the wharf or opt to dine at one of the local restaurants with a view of the bay. The nearby Cape Enrage Lighthouse also offers a unique perspective of the tides from its cliff-top location.

Alma Wharf and ocean floor at low tide

The Alma Wharf is a great place to stroll and observe the highest tides in the world. At low tide, you can walk on the ocean floor and explore the ocean's floor on Alma Beach. Search for shells, marine life, and fossils, or take a saltwater dip. You will get to see the boats sitting on the dry ocean floor on brackets, a mere six hours after bobbing at the top of the 15-foot-high wharf. The tides can vary by up to 50 vertical feet every 6 hours, so it is a truly dramatic sight to behold.

The quaint fishing village of Alma offers a variety of fresh seafood shops, a bakery, gift boutiques, and small general stores. You can also go kayaking with tour groups like Fresh Air Adventures or take a boat tour of the coastline.

Alma is also the gateway to Fundy National Park, which offers beautiful coastal views with miles of hiking trails along rugged shores and bubbling forest streams. The park includes attractions such as Dickson Falls, Laverty Falls, and the Caribou Plain.

Alma's seafood restaurants

Alma, New Brunswick, is known for its stunning natural scenery, including the famous Fundy National Park, which offers miles of hiking trails, beautiful beaches, and the chance to witness the world's highest tides. The village of Alma itself is a charming destination, with a picturesque wharf and a variety of restaurants serving fresh local seafood.

When it comes to seafood restaurants in Alma, there are several options to choose from:

Tipsy Tails Restaurant

Tipsy Tails is consistently ranked as one of the best restaurants in Alma and is particularly well-known for its seafood offerings. Diners rave about the lobster roll and seafood chowder, and the restaurant also receives excellent reviews for its drinks and atmosphere.

The Octopus' Garden Cafe And Bistro

This cafe and bistro offers a unique dining experience with a mix of Canadian, contemporary, and Central-Italian cuisine. While it serves a variety of dishes, including vegetarian options, it is also known for its seafood chowder and lobster sandwich.

Alma Lobster Shop

The Alma Lobster Shop is a popular choice for travellers seeking great seafood at reasonable prices. It offers a range of seafood dishes, including the famous lobster roll, and has received high praise from diners.

Wharfside Patio

Wharfside Patio is a Canadian restaurant that also serves seafood and is known for its outdoor seating, offering diners the chance to enjoy their meals while taking in the beautiful views of Alma.

Muddy Rudder Bar & Grill

This bar and grill is known for its seafood chowder, scallops, and fried haddock. It has received positive reviews for its food and service, and its ambiance has been described as one of the best in all of New Brunswick.

Collins Lobster Shop

Collins Lobster Shop is a well-regarded seafood and Canadian restaurant. In addition to lobster dinners, they offer a variety of items to choose from, including smoked salmon.

Whether you're looking for fine dining or a casual meal, Alma's seafood restaurants offer something for everyone. Be sure to sample the local lobster and other seafood delights while enjoying the charming atmosphere of this maritime village.

Alma's local shops and vendors

Alma, New Brunswick is a charming village with plenty of local shops and vendors to explore. Here is a guide to some of Alma's local offerings:

Kelly's Bake Shop

This popular bakery is known for its delicious sticky buns, as well as its doughnuts and cookies. It's a great spot to satisfy your sweet tooth and enjoy some fresh-baked treats.

Collins Lobster Shop

Collins Lobster Shop is a well-loved lobster shop in Alma, known for its friendly service and delicious offerings. In addition to lobster, they also offer smoked salmon, as per a review from 2019.

Harbour View Market

Harbour View Market is a grocery store and supermarket located in Alma. It's a convenient spot to pick up some local produce and other food items during your visit.

Thankful Too Family Fisheries Inc

Located on the Main Street, Thankful Too Family Fisheries Inc is a popular spot for seafood lovers. They offer a variety of fresh seafood options and are worth a visit if you're looking for a true taste of New Brunswick.

Philosophy Boutique

Philosophy Boutique is a lovely little store that offers a variety of gift items, ladies' wear, handbags, and jewellery. It's a great place to find unique items and support local businesses.

Local Restaurants

In addition to these shops, Alma also boasts a variety of restaurants, cafes, and bars, including the Tipsy Tails Restaurant, The Octopus' Garden Cafe And Bistro, and the Buddha Bear Coffee Roaster & Café. These eateries offer a range of cuisines, from seafood to Italian, and are perfect for a quick bite or a relaxing meal.

So, whether you're looking for sweet treats, seafood delights, or unique gifts, Alma's local shops and vendors have something to offer everyone.

Cape Enrage

Location and History

Natural Wonders

The Bay of Fundy, one of the Marine Wonders of the World, can be witnessed in all its glory from Cape Enrage. Here, you can observe tides rising up to 16.3 metres (53 vertical feet) over a 12-hour period twice a day. The powerful display of nature, combined with the towering cliffs, creates a spectacular sight.

Established in 1838, the Cape Enrage Lighthouse stands as a testament to maritime history. The lighthouse is still operational, with its light and foghorn guiding ships through the treacherous waters. The surrounding area offers incredible views, and the lighthouse itself is a popular spot for photographers and those seeking a glimpse into the past.

Activities and Adventures

• Zip-lining: Soar through the air and take in the breathtaking views of the Bay of Fundy and the surrounding landscape.
• Rappelling: Challenge yourself and try rappelling down the cliffs with the guidance of experienced instructors.
• Beach Fossil Tours: Explore the pebble beach and discover ancient fossils. It's a tricky trek, but the unique experience is worth it.
• Tide Pool Exploration: During low tide, wander along the beach and discover tide pools teeming with snails and other fascinating sea life.
• Dining: Indulge in delicious lobster rolls and fish sandwiches at the on-site restaurant, where friendly staff will take care of you.

Practical Information

When planning your visit to Cape Enrage, keep in mind that the area's roads are quite steep, narrow, and winding. It's about an hour's drive from Moncton, and the scenery along the way is beautiful. Check their website for the latest information on operating hours and tour options.

Frequently asked questions