It’s the perfect day- the sun is shining, the sky is blue- that is, until you step outside. The blistering, melting heat of summer 2018 is bringing quite the punch to everyone in Charlotte County. It’s always beautiful here this time of year, but sometimes we forget about how sweaty and icky it can get when doing all those fun-summertime-things. Regardless, have NO fear, because here are a few of the BEST ways to cool down this summer in between your adventures.
1. Connors Bros Nature Reserve at Pea Point (Blacks Harbour)
Trails start in 3 places to make this a long but magnificent coastal hike along rugged rock formations and sandy beaches. Look for signs to begin the trails off Wallace Cove Road in Blacks Harbour, NB. Tide pools with crabs, sea stars, jellyfish and many types of seaweed can be found. Seaglass and other treasures are along your way but “tinkle beach” is a favorite. While the lighthouse grounds are open and accessible to the public at low tide, the lighthouse tower is closed. Please note that tides of the Bay of Fundy are high and change quickly. Looking for the perfect spot for adventure, search no more.
2. New River Beach (Eastern Charlotte County)
New River Beach is the PERFECT place for the whole family. For both the playful and relaxing type, New River offers a beautiful view of the Bay of Fundy, staggered between green islands and land masses. There are barbecues available, as well as a volleyball net to “test” your skills. If the water of the Bay still isn’t cold enough for you, the New River Beach Canteen will treat you with some classic ice cream. Enjoy sand sculpture competitions in July, hike a magnificent walking trail at Barnaby Head or just put out a blanket and soak up the Maritime sun. This is certainly one of the best ways to spend an entire day, just don’t forget that sunscreen!
3. Green’s Point Lighthouse (L’etete Passage)
Enjoy both the breeze and the view. From this point you can see Blacks Harbour and the Grand Manan Ferry and the Deer Island Ferry at crossing times. It is common to see seals and porpoises as well as the occasional whale and there is an eagle that is always lurking about. Greens Point Light Association Inc. 1996 is a not for profit community foundation that has owned the lighthouse site since 2008. A marine museum is open from July to August. What better way to beat the heat than sit with the ocean surrounding you.
4. Deer Island Point (Deer Island)
A 20 minute free ferry ride will take you to Deer Island. Old Sow is the oldest whirlpool in the western hemisphere and boasts currents of more than six knots, tides reaching 26 feet and chartered depths of 405 feet. From the point you will see the town of Eastport in Maine and Campobello Island. This is also where you would catch the ferry to Campobello.
5. Chocolate Park (St. Stephen)
Although not made of chocolate it is perfect for kids. The Chocolate Park is one of the best places to bring them on a hot sunny day. The park is complete with playground equipment as well as a splash pad to splash around in. Often in the summertime you can hear music being played far and wide from the Rotary Club Gazebo, bringing both tourists and locals together to hear some wonderful talent. Kids bored on a sunny Sunday afternoon? Look no further!
6. Kingsbrae Garden (St. Andrews by-the-sea)
Kingsbrae is one of those places that make you ask yourself, “is this real?”. Encompassed by flowers and sculptures galore, Kingsbrae Garden is a place to be explored by all ages. Mostly shaded by trees, enjoy a gentle stroll and learn about nature. Meet some furry friends at the petting zoo or stop by for lunch when they bring the alpacas and goats out for their walk, or bee-friend some bees in the bee garden; it’s up to you to decide what you would like to explore. After you’ve seen some marvelous scenery, enjoy a delicious bistro-style lunch at the Garden Café.
7. Katy’s Cove (St. Andrews by-the-sea)
Wanting to have the perfect beach time, but don’t have all day? Katy’s Cove is the perfect place for you. Enjoy floating around in a small saltwater beach, with a gorgeous view of the Passamaquoddy Bay. Complete with white sand, chairs and a playground, Katy’s Cove is great for both a few hours or the whole day. Bring the kids or just bring yourself, relaxation awaits either way!
8. Ganong Nature Park (St. Stephen)
Great for those who are adventurous at all levels, Todd’s Point- located at the end of the Ganong Nature Park– is of the many “hidden beauties” Charlotte County has to offer. This location is perfect for a friendly picnic in the shade, a stroll along the water, or for the perfect sunset watching time. The simple breeze from the water will keep you cool for your time spent here. I won’t tell you much more about Todd’s Point, though; you have to explore it for yourself.
9. Beaver Harbour Wharf (Beaver Harbour)
It may be directly in the sun, but the ocean’s breeze is sure to cool you off! This working wharf is a hidden gem and anyone visiting or traveling by should take a moment to stop. An amazing view of this quaint and picturesque spot awaits if you stand on the end of the wharf. A rich salt-water breeze can be endlessly felt while you watch the boats come and go. Chat with some of the quirky locals, snap some awesome photos, and look for shells on the beach. Walk to the Community Archives and Museum for interesting history and see the Quaker building. Definitely a “cool” hangout spot and you never know … you could spot an eagle.
10. Pete’s Dairy Bar (St. George)
In the early 1960s, in a corner of the Capitol Theatre lobby, Pete Rubin offered fountain soda, fresh-cut French fries and vanilla soft-serve ice cream. In fact, the very first soft-serve ice cream machine in St. George was installed in that concession area. Pete’s Dairy Bar continued to grow, and evolve, and is now offering nearly 50 flavours of ice cream and a large variety of other cold treats from milkshakes to slushies. It is a trend that shows no signs of slowing down or stopping. Soft serve vanilla, chocolate, swirl and coffee are popular and if you’re visiting in late August do ask for blueberry which is only available for Blueberry festival week.
