Looking for the best Eastern Canada road trips for your next family adventure? As a family travel blog based on the East Coast, we might be a bit biased, but we believe this part of Canada is truly amazing and perfect for a road trip. From stunning coastal drives to rich cultural and historical sites, there’s just so much to explore.
We’ve done some of these routes more than once, like the Lighthouse Route and the Cabot Trail in Nova Scotia, and others, like the Viking Trail, is high on our must-do list. Our goal with this article is to inspire you and provide all the information you need to embark on your own family adventure across Eastern Canada. So buckle up and get ready to discover the beauty and charm of Canada’s East Coast!
Best Road Trips in Eastern Canada at a Glance
| Route | Distance | Recommended Time |
|---|---|---|
| Cabot Trail, Nova Scotia | 298 km / 185 miles | 2-3 days |
| Fundy Coastal Drive, New Brunswick | 460 km / 286 miles | 2-3 days |
| Points East Coastal Drive, PEI | 253 km / 155 miles | 1-2 days |
| Lighthouse Route, Nova Scotia | 385 km / 239 miles | 3-4 days |
| Acadian Coastal Drive | 750 km / 466 miles | 4-5 days |
| Gaspé Peninsula | 885 km / 550 miles | 5-7 days |
| Viking Trail | 489 km / 304 miles | 3-5 days |
1. Cabot Trail, Nova Scotia
Length: 298 km (185 miles)
Driving Time: 5-7 hours (without stops)
Recommended Length: 3 – 4 days
The Cabot Trail is a stunning scenic drive that loops around the northern tip of Cape Breton Island in Nova Scotia. We’ve done this drive several times now and it’s one we never get tired of.
Known for its breathtaking coastal views, rich cultural experiences, and opportunities for outdoor adventures, the Cabot Trail is perfect for a family road trip. The route is about 300 kilometres long and offers a mix of rugged coastline, picturesque fishing villages, and lush forests. Along the way, there are plenty of hiking opportunities, some great beaches and plenty of stunning lookout spots.
Key Stops
Baddeck
- Start your journey in the lakeside village of Baddeck, where you can visit the Alexander Graham Bell Museum or get out on the water of Bras d’Or Lake.
Ingonish Beach
- Ingonish Beach is a great spot for a family beach day. While it’s not supervised during the summer months anymore, it’s a perfect place for kids to play and for families to relax.
Cape Breton Highlands National Park
- This stretch of the drive is the real highlight, for me at least. As you drive through the national park, take advantage of the numerous family-friendly hiking trails. Trails like the Skyline Trail offer stunning vistas without being too strenuous for little legs. The Bog trail is another great trail for families.
- Keep an eye out for moose, eagles, and whales. The park is teeming with wildlife, and chances are you will see moose while driving through the park.
Pleasant Bay
- Stop in Pleasant Bay and take a whale watching tour. It’s one of the best places on the East Coast to see whales. The tours are family-friendly and offer a chance to see these magnificent creatures up close. If you’re not up for a tour, make a quick stop at the beach to stretch your legs, and take a photo with the whale tail.
Cheticamp
- Explore the Acadian culture in Cheticamp, where you can experience traditional music and food. This is another good spot to go whale watching if you didn’t stop in Pleasant Bay. If you have extra time, head out to Cheticamp Island, with it’s long sandy beach.
Recommended Length
Plan for 3 – 4 days to fully enjoy the Cabot Trail at a relaxed pace. This allows time for stops, exploration, and enjoying the natural beauty without feeling rushed. However, if you’re short on time, it’s possible to drive the Cabot Trail in 2 days.
Tips for Families
- Travel Off-Peak: The Cabot Trail is a popular drive in the summer months, but it’s just as beautiful in the fall and one of the top places to see the fall colours in Nova Scotia.
- Pack Snacks and Essentials: While there are a few places to eat along the trail, having snacks and drinks handy is great for those in-between moments, especially with kids.
- Plan extra time: Keep your schedule flexible to accommodate spontaneous stops. There are numerous lookoff points, trails and spots to stop along the route which will add time to your drive.
- Buy a Parks Canada Pass: You will have to purchase a day pass to Cape Breton Highlands National Park to drive the Cabot Trail.
2. Fundy Coastal Drive, New Brunswick
The Fundy Coastal Drive is known for its spectacular tides, beautiful coastal landscapes, and small-town charm. We drove this route last year, and it quickly became one of our favourite spots on the East Coast. The coastline here is completely different from the cliffs and highlands of the Cabot Trail—but just as stunning. There’s still rugged shoreline, but with red sand, dramatic tides, and colourful little towns tucked along the coast.
Technically, the Fundy Coastal Drive refers to a specific scenic route in southern New Brunswick, but for this trip, we’re looking at the broader stretch along the Bay of Fundy, from Moncton to St. Andrews by-the-Sea. This area is home to the highest tides in the world, and seeing them in action—especially at places like Hopewell Rocks—is something every Canadian family should experience at least once.
Key Stops
Moncton
- Start your Fundy road trip in Moncton, where you can experience Magnetic Hill and spend time at Magic Mountain, a family favourite in the city. There’s plenty to do in Moncton before setting out to explore the coast, so it’s worth spending a day in the city first if you have the time.
Hopewell Rocks
- One of the most iconic stops on the Fundy Coastal Drive is Hopewell Rocks. Here, you can walk on the ocean floor during low tide and explore the impressive sea stacks, also known as the Flowerpot Rocks. Then stay around to see the difference at high tide, when you can kayak between the islands.
- Be sure to wear old shoes or shoes that are easy to clean, as the ocean floor is very muddy!
Alma
- Alma is a small village known for its fresh seafood, especially lobster. This was the first place I remember trying seafood as a kid, and a place that my mom still talks about to this day. And be sure to try the famous sticky buns at Kelly’s Bake Shop.
Fundy National Park
- Fundy National Park offers numerous hiking trails suitable for families. The Dickson Falls Trail is a popular, easy hike with beautiful waterfall views.
- If you’re camping along the road trip, this is a fantastic spot to stay overnight, with a range of options from tent sites and pull-through spots to roofed accommodations.
St. Martins Sea Caves
- At low tide, you can walk right out onto the ocean floor in St. Martins and up to the base of the sea caves—you can’t go inside, but getting that close is part of the adventure. This was one of the highlights of our trip. The kids loved spotting crabs and little sea creatures in the tide pools, and we followed it up with a stop at Octopus Ice Cream just down the road from the beach parking lot—definitely a fun and memorable stop.
St. Andrews by-the-Sea
- This beautiful town is a great place to wrap up your trip along the Fundy coast. With its historic buildings and waterfront views, it’s the kind of town that makes you want to stay just a little longer. A great stop for kids is the Kingsbrae Garden, with its Children’s Fantasy Garden.
- St. Andrews is also a fantastic spot for a whale-watching tour. Many operators offer family-friendly excursions, where you can see humpbacks, finbacks, and minke whales.
Recommended Length
Plan for 2-3 days to comfortably enjoy the Fundy Coastal Drive. This allows time for exploring the key stops, participating in activities, and soaking in the beautiful scenery.
Tips for Families
- Check Tides: Be sure to check the tide schedules in advance, especially for visiting places like Hopewell Rocks and the sea caves in St. Martins. Experiencing both high and low tides can offer different perspectives and activities.
- Pack Layers: The coastal weather can be unpredictable. Pack layers to stay comfortable throughout the day.
- Bring Binoculars: The Bay of Fundy is great for wildlife spotting, including seals, whales, and various bird species. Binoculars are a great idea to bring along for kids and adults alike.
- Fundy National Park: As it’s a National Park, you will need to purchase a day pass to visit, unless you have a Parks Canada annual pass. Day passes to Fundy National Park can be purchased here.
3. Prince Edward Island Coastal Drives
Prince Edward Island (PEI) is a small and beautiful province, known for its charming towns and stunning beaches. With quiet beaches, rolling farmland and colourful seaside towns, it’s the perfect place for a family road trip.
The island’s coastal drives, especially the Central Coastal Drive and Points East Coastal Drive, show off different sides of the island from rolling countryside to rugged coastlines, making it an ideal destination for a family road trip.
We’ve combined these two drives into one recommendation, as the island is small and you can easily do both routes in a few days.
Key Stops
Cavendish Beach (Central Coastal Drive)
- Cavendish Beach, part of Prince Edward Island National Park, is famous for its red sandstone cliffs and beautiful dunes. It’s a perfect spot for families, with soft sand and the beach stretches out for ages, so there’s always room to find a quiet spot. The calm, shallow waters are great for swimming, and it’s an easy place to spend a few hours building sandcastles or playing beach games.
Green Gables Heritage Place (Central Coastal Drive)
- Green Gables Heritage Place is a fun stop even if your kids haven’t read the books. You can explore the trails, wander the gardens and visit the house that inspired Anne of Green Gables. It’s a quick and easy way to add a bit of history and storytelling to your road trip.
Greenwich, PEI National Park (Points East Coastal Drive)
- Greenwich, part of PEI National Park, was one of our favourite stops. The highlight of the Dunes Trail is the floating boardwalk, which was a big hit with my kids. Pictures don’t really do it justice. The trail, which winds through wetlands and across the water before it ends at stunning sand dunes, is flat and easy, so little legs can handle it without a problem.
- The beach at Greenwich also worth visiting. It’s less crowded than others on the island and is perfect for a family day out. The shallow waters are great for kids to splash around in, and the white sand is ideal for building sandcastles.
Souris (Points East Coastal Drive)
- Visit the Souris Lighthouse for panoramic views of the coast and a bit of local history. The nearby beach is great for collecting sea glass.
- Nearby, Basin Head Provincial Park is another fantastic beach with unique sand that “sings” as you walk on it. It’s a large beach with white sand and plenty of room to relax and spend an hour, or the afternoon.
Panmure Island (Points East Coastal Drive)
One of PEI’s oldest provincial parks, Panmure Island Beach is a great spot for families, with warm, calm water and beautiful sand. It’s a long beach with plenty of room to spread out, and one of our favourite beaches in PEI.
Kings Castle Provincial Park (Points East Coastal Drive)
- This fun park is one of the best places in PEI for younger kids. Throughout the park, you’ll find life-sized statues of beloved storybook characters, and a large wooded play structure, including castles and forts, which is perfect to burn off some energy on the long drive.
Recommended Length
Plan for 3-4 days to fully enjoy the Prince Edward Island Coastal Drives. This allows time to explore the small towns, beautiful beaches, and soak in the island’s beauty.
Tips for Families
- Book Accommodations Early: PEI is a popular destination, especially in the summer. Booking accommodations in advance ensures you have a comfortable place to stay.
- Pack a Picnic: There are many scenic spots along the drive perfect for a family picnic. Bring along some local treats and enjoy a meal with a view.
- Bring Swim Gear: The beaches along the coastal drives are perfect for swimming, so be sure to pack swimsuits, towels and beach gear, and keep them readily available in the car.
- Prince Edward Island National Park: Day passes to access Greenwich Dunes and Cavendish Beach can be purchased here. Both sites are included in the same pass.
4. Lighthouse Route, Nova Scotia
The Lighthouse Route in Nova Scotia takes you along the province’s picturesque South Shore, where charming seaside towns and historic lighthouses dot the landscape. This is one of our favourite drives in Nova Scotia, and one that’s not to be missed.
Key Stops
Peggy’s Cove
- Peggy’s Cove Lighthouse is one of the most iconic lighthouses in Canada. There’s a new accessible viewing deck, or you can climb over the rocks for your own viewpoint. Just be safe and stay off the black rocks.
- In addition to the famous lighthouse, you’ll also want to visit the small fishing village, where you’ll find art galleries, boutique shops and excellent coffee.
For more information and ideas on things to do, here’s our full post for visiting Peggy’s Cove.
Lunenburg
- Old Town Lunenburg is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its brightly painted buildings, narrow streets, and a rich maritime history. Take a walking tour, explore the Fisheries Museum of the Atlantic, and keep an eye out for the Lunenburg Bump – a fun, architectural feature on many of the old houses. Or take a picnic lunch and eat on the wharf.
- Lunenburg is also home to the Bluenose II. If she’s in port, you can tour this famous schooner, which is a replica of the original Bluenose.
Mahone Bay
- This small town is famous for its picturesque setting of three churches along the water. We think the best viewpoint is from the parking lot across from Rebecca’s Restaurant (they also have excellent lobster rolls). Then walk through the town, browse the artisan shops or have a meal at a local cafe or restaurant.
Liverpool
- Visit the historic Fort Point Lighthouse and enjoy the interactive exhibits that tell the story of the area’s maritime heritage.
- Stop by Cosby’s Garden Center and explore the unusual trails behind the store that are filled with large concrete statues. It’s a fun stop, and a great way to stretch the legs while seeing these unusual creations.
Shelburne
- Walk along the historic Dock Street, lined with 18th-century buildings and visit the museums to learn about the area’s Loyalist history.
- Nearby beaches like Roseway and Crescent Beach are perfect for a relaxing day by the sea.
Recommended Length
Plan for 3-4 days to fully experience the Lighthouse Route. This allows time to stop along the way, experience small fishing villages, enjoy the coastal scenery, and admire the many lighthouses along the route.
Tips for Families
- Pack Snacks and Drinks: While there are plenty of dining options along the route, having snacks and drinks on hand is always a good idea for hungry kids.
- Bring Swimming Gear: This area of the province has some great beaches, so be sure to keep your swim gear handy.
5. Acadian Coastal Drive, New Brunswick
We finally did the Acadian Coastal Drive last summer, and honestly—I couldn’t believe we waited so long. From the warm waters and wide beaches to the welcoming small towns and l’Acadien culture, this road trip quickly became one of our favourites.
The route winds along the Gulf of St. Lawrence, passing through a string of Acadian communities where you’ll find everything from Bouctouche’s sand dunes to fresh seafood, live music and colourful coastal views. The beaches are known for their warm water (yes, even in the evening), and the pace of this trip just felt easy. Perfect for families looking to slow down and experience a different side of New Brunswick.
Key Stops
Caraquet
- Step back in time at Village Historique Acadien, a living history museum that recreates Acadian life from the 18th to 20th centuries. Kids will love interacting with costumed interpreters and exploring the historic buildings.
- Enjoy a relaxing day at one of the many sandy beaches in the area. Perfect for swimming, picnicking, and beachcombing.
Bouctouche
- Explore these protected dune systems via boardwalks and trails and learn about the local ecosystem at the Irving Eco-centre. It was one of the highlights of the drive for me – I’d seen photos of the dunes, but walking the boardwalk in person, and then continuing across the sand was something else.
Shediac
- The giant lobster in Shediac makes for a great photo op and spot to stretch the legs.
- One of the warmest saltwater beaches in Canada, nearby Parlee Beach is ideal for swimming, sandcastle building, and beach volleyball. The park has excellent facilities, including picnic areas, playgrounds, and camping if you’re looking to spend the night.
Kouchibouguac National Park
- Featuring golden sand dunes, trails that wind through forests, wetlands, and along the coast, and beautiful beaches that are perfect for a day of swimming and relaxing, it’s easy to spend a day or two here. Kouchibouguac National Park really surprised me, and I’m already planning a repeat road trip to explore more.
Miscou Island
- Climb to the top of the historic Miscou Island Lighthouse for panoramic views of the Gulf of St. Lawrence. The surrounding area is great for picnics and exploring the natural landscape, like the unique peat bog ecosystem that is accessible via boardwalk trails.
Recommended Length
Plan for 4-5 days to fully enjoy the Acadian Coastal Drive. This allows time to explore each stop, participate in cultural activities, and relax on the beautiful beaches.
Tips for Families
- Learn Some French: Many Acadians are bilingual, but knowing a few French phrases will go a long way.
- Cultural Engagement: Encourage kids to engage with the Acadian culture through music, dance, and food. It’s a great way to make the trip more memorable.
6. Gaspe Peninsula, Quebec
The Gaspé Peninsula, or Gaspésie, in Quebec, is known for its dramatic landscapes, rugged coastline, and small towns full of personality. It’s a longer road trip, but well worth the time if you’re looking for a mix of outdoor adventure, wildlife spotting and Quebecois culture.
The route loops through Forillon National Park, past the iconic Percé Rock, and along winding coastal roads with some of the best scenery in Eastern Canada. Between the cliffs, coves, and seaside villages, it’s the kind of trip that offers something new at every turn. With family-friendly hikes, quiet beaches, and plenty of space to explore, it’s a great pick for families who love to be outside and don’t mind longer driving days.
Key Stops
Percé
- One of Canada’s most famous natural landmarks, Percé Rock is a massive limestone formation rising out of the sea. You can take a boat tour to get up close and see the rock from different angles, or just admire it from the shore.
- You can also take a boat tour to Bonaventure Island, which is home to one of the largest gannet colonies in the world. The island offers hiking trails, birdwatching opportunities, and historic buildings.
Forillon National Park
- Explore the park’s scenic trails, which offer views of cliffs, forests, and the ocean.
- Look out for seals, whales, and various bird species.
- There’s also a fun zipline that kids will love (or adults too!)
Gaspé
- Visit the site where Jacques Cartier first landed in 1534. The monument and surrounding area provide an interesting historical context.
- Nearby, the Musee de la Gaspésie offers fascinating exhibits about the region’s history and culture. Kids can enjoy interactive displays and learn about the area’s maritime heritage.
Mont-Saint-Pierre
- For adventurous families, Mont-Saint-Pierre is known for its hang-gliding opportunities. Even if you don’t take flight, watching the gliders soar is thrilling.
- If you prefer to stay on land, there are beautiful hiking trails with panoramic views of the mountains and sea.
Chic-Choc Mountains
- Part of the Appalachian range, the Chic-Choc Mountains offer excellent hiking trails with chances to spot moose, caribou, and other wildlife.
Sainte-Anne-des-Monts
- Visit Exploramer, a marine science museum and aquarium that offers interactive exhibits and touch tanks. This is a perfect spot for kids to learn about the marine life of the St. Lawrence River and the Gulf of St. Lawrence.
Recommended Length
Plan for 5-7 days to fully experience the Gaspe Peninsula. This allows time to see the sights, take some hikes and learn about the region’s rich history and culture.
Tips for Families
- Dress in Layers: The weather can change quickly along the coast, so bring layers to stay comfortable.
- Binoculars for Wildlife Viewing: Enhance the experience by bringing binoculars to spot birds, seals, and other wildlife.
- Try Local Cuisine: Don’t miss out on traditional local dishes like fresh seafood, fish soup, rappie pie (not a dessert) and tarte au sucre, which is a dessert.
7. Viking Trail, Newfoundland
The Viking Trail in Newfoundland is a spectacular route that combines stunning coastal scenery with rich historical sites. This route follows the western coast of the island, from Deer Lake to L’Anse aux Meadows, and takes you through rugged landscapes, quiet fishing villages, and some of the most fascinating historical sites in Canada.
Along the way, you’ll find fjord-like lakes, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and plenty of places to spot wildlife—from whales and icebergs to moose and seabirds. It’s a longer drive, but full of memorable stops that bring Newfoundland’s past and natural beauty to life.
Key Stops
Gros Morne National Park
- Explore the Tablelands, a unique geological wonder where the earth’s mantle is exposed. The easy hikes and interpretive trails are great for families, and kids will love learning about the area’s ancient rocks.
- Take a boat tour through Western Brook Pond, a dramatic fjord-like lake surrounded by towering cliffs and waterfalls.
Port au Choix
- Discover the fascinating archaeological site at Port au Choix, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and National Historic Site. Inhabited by different groups over the last 6,000 years, today you’ll find ancient burial sites, original artifacts such as slate spears and harpoons, and a stunning coastline to explore.
L’Anse aux Meadows
- Step back in time at L’Anse aux Meadows National Historic Site, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the only authenticated Norse settlement in North America. Kids will enjoy exploring the reconstructed Norse buildings and interacting with costumed interpreters.
St. Anthony
- Take a boat tour to see humpback whales, orcas, and other marine life. St. Anthony is one of the best places in Newfoundland for whale watching. It’s also a great spot to see icebergs, which are common from late May until early July.
Red Bay
Explore the Red Bay National Historic Site, a former Basque whaling station, and learn about the 16th-century whaling industry.
Recommended Length
Plan for 3-5 days to fully experience the Viking Trail. This allows time to explore the historical sites and fully enjoy this beautiful part of the country.
Tips for Families
- Plan for Weather: The weather in Newfoundland can be unpredictable, so pack layers and rain gear to stay comfortable.
- Book Ahead: Especially during the high summer season, car rentals and accommodations can be tricky to find at the last minute. It’s best to book ahead to ensure you have a place to stay
Conclusion: Best Eastern Canada Road Trips
Eastern Canada is made for road trips, whether you’re chasing coastal views, stopping for seafood in small towns or hiking through national parks. Each route offers something different – from the dramatic cliffs of the Cabot Trail to the family-friendly beaches of PEI and the rich culture along the Acadian coast.
You don’t have to do them all at once—start with one that fits your time and travel style. If you’re after iconic views and short drives, Nova Scotia’s Lighthouse Route is a great place to begin. Looking for something more off the beaten path? The Viking Trail or Gaspé Peninsula offer a longer adventure full of wild beauty and history.
Wherever you go, Eastern Canada delivers the kind of road trip memories that stick—slow mornings, spontaneous stops, and the joy of seeing somewhere new together as a family.
Let us know in the comments which route you’re most excited to explore. Happy travels!
