Dunes and Discovery Beaches (1:50)
Uncover Nature’s mysteries on our Dunes and Discovery Beaches.
In New Brunswick, we go to great lengths to ensure the preservation of wilderness and wildlife… it’s our commitment to nature. Join us for a respectful encounter that will unleash your senses and endure for years to come.
Follow the Acadian Coastal Drive or the Fundy Coastal Drive to experience our Dunes and Discovery Beaches.
What is a Discovery Beach?
Discovery beaches are generally non-swimming coastlines that are perpetually renewed with each new tide, bringing new wonders onshore to fascinate you.
What is a Dune?
Sand dunes are ever-changing works of coastal art. They are originally formed as plants, particularly marram grass, catch the blowing sand in their roots and force it to pile up. Marram grass, which sends out special roots called rhizomes, actually stabilizes the shifting sands. Constant wind, tides and ocean currents reshape the dunes for which many species of marine and aquatic animals and plant life call home.
“La Dune de Bouctouche”
- Rare plants such as Seaside Pinweed and Catfoot have been found on the Irving Eco-Centre, La Dune de Bouctouche.
- La Dune de Bouctouche is estimated to be 2,000 years old and was created after the last ice age.
Distinctive Dunes
- Tabusintac Bay is a coastal lagoon system protected from the Gulf of St. Lawrence by a 15-km (nine-mi.) long barrier beach and 30 ha (74 acres) of sand dunes which support approximately 3,700 terns, the second largest colony in New Brunswick.
- Castalia Marsh on Grand Manan Island is the perfect place for watching birds or strolling quietly among the sand dunes.
- Sea Lions can be seen soaking up the sun on the amazing dunes of Kouchibouguac National Park of Canada.