· CA

Shediac

Shediac, New Brunswick, Canada

Shediac, located in New Brunswick, Canada, is a charming coastal town that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, rich history, and exciting activities for visitors of all ages. Known as the "Lobster Capital of the Wo…

#Beach town#Tourist destination#Lobster capital#Acadian culture#Outdoor activities

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Shediac.

Top Hotels in Shediac

Top Flights to Shediac

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Shediac.

Tours

Exploring Parlee Beach

Enjoy a day at one of Canada's warmest saltwater beaches with opportunities for swimming, beach volleyball, and picnics.

Pointe-du-Chêne Wharf

Visit the vibrant wharf area where you can enjoy shopping, dining, and beautiful harbor views.

Shopping

Shopping at Shediac Downtown

Explore the charming shops and boutiques in downtown Shediac offering local crafts and souvenirs.

Outdoor

Shediac Bay Cruises

Learn about the local culture and history on a Shediac Bay Cruise while enjoying the beautiful views of the bay.

Cycling on the Shediac Trails

Experience the beautiful natural scenery of Shediac through its various cycling trails perfect for all skill levels.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Shediac.

Currency
$ | CAD | Canadian Dollar
Population
6.6 thousand
Languages
French, English
Average weather
Shediac
Jan
snow
-2°-11°
Feb
snow
-1°-10°
Mar
snow
3°-6°
Apr
rain
10°0°
May
cloud
17°6°
Jun
sun
23°12°
Jul
hot
26°15°
Aug
sun
25°14°
Sep
clear
20°9°
Oct
rain
13°4°
Nov
cloud
6°-1°
Dec
snow
0°-8°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Shediac.

What people love

Shediac, located in New Brunswick, Canada, is known for its beautiful beaches, particularly Parlee Beach, which is famous for its warm waters and sandy shores. Some of the pros of traveling to Shediac include:

  1. Beaches: Shediac is home to some of the most picturesque beaches in Atlantic Canada, offering visitors the opportunity to relax, swim, sunbathe, and enjoy water sports.

  2. Seafood: Shediac is often referred to as the "Lobster Capital of the World," making it a paradise for seafood lovers. Visitors can indulge in fresh lobster, oysters, clams, and other delicious seafood dishes.

  3. Outdoor Activities: Shediac is a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts, with opportunities for kayaking, paddleboarding, fishing, cycling, and hiking in the surrounding areas.

  4. Shediac Bay Cruises: Visitors can take scenic boat tours of Shediac Bay, offering a unique perspective of the coastline and the chance to spot wildlife such as seals and seabirds.

  5. Parlee Beach Provincial Park: This popular beach park offers amenities such as picnic areas, playgrounds, and walking trails, making it a great spot for families and nature lovers alike.

Overall, traveling to Shediac offers a perfect blend of relaxation, outdoor adventure, delicious cuisine, and stunning natural beauty.

Enjoy your trip to Shediac!

What to know

Some potential cons of traveling to Shediac, New Brunswick, Canada, include:

  1. Weather: Shediac experiences cold winters with significant snowfall, which may not be ideal for travelers seeking warm weather destinations.

  2. Limited Public Transportation: Shediac is a smaller town with limited public transportation options, so getting around may require a rental car or reliance on taxis.

  3. Limited Nightlife: Shediac is known for its quiet and laid-back atmosphere, so travelers looking for vibrant nightlife may find the options limited.

  4. Language Barrier: While many residents speak English, Shediac is a bilingual community, and some travelers may encounter instances where French is predominantly spoken.

  5. Limited Accommodation Options: Shediac is a smaller town compared to larger cities, so the range of accommodation options may be more limited, especially during peak tourist seasons.

  6. Distance from Major Cities: Shediac is located about 30 minutes away from Moncton, the nearest major city, so travelers looking for a variety of attractions and amenities may need to factor in travel time.

Please note that these cons are not exhaustive, and individual experiences may vary.

Shediac, located in New Brunswick, Canada, is often referred to as the "Lobster Capital of the World." It has a rich history that reflects its cultural and economic development over the centuries.

Early History and Settlement

  • Indigenous Peoples: The area that is now Shediac was originally inhabited by the Mi'kmaq people, who have lived in the region for thousands of years. They called the area "Es-ed-ei-ik," meaning "running far in."
  • French Settlement: The French began to settle the area in the 18th century. The name "Shediac" is derived from the Mi'kmaq word, and the area became part of Acadia, a region of French settlements.

18th and 19th Centuries

  • Acadian Expulsion: During the 1750s, the British deported many Acadians during the Great Upheaval. Some returned to the region in the late 18th century.
  • British Influence: After the British took control of Acadia, Shediac became part of the British colony of New Brunswick. Loyalists and English-speaking settlers also moved into the region.
  • Economic Development: Fishing, shipbuilding, and agriculture were the main economic activities. The development of the railway in the 19th century further enhanced Shediac's position as a commercial and transportation hub.

20th Century to Present

  • Tourism Growth: Shediac became a popular tourist destination in the 20th century, known for its beautiful beaches and the annual Shediac Lobster Festival.
  • World War II: During the war, the area was involved in the war effort, with local residents contributing to various initiatives.

Significant Events and Landmarks

  • Shediac Lobster Festival: An annual event that celebrates the local lobster industry, attracting thousands of visitors.
  • Parlee Beach Provincial Park: Known for its warm waters and sandy beaches, it is a major attraction for tourists.
  • The World's Largest Lobster: A famous landmark in Shediac, this sculpture is a popular photo spot and symbolizes the town's connection to the lobster industry.
  • Historic Buildings: The Pascal Poirier House, named after the first Acadian Senator, and the Shediac Cape Lighthouse are notable historical sites.

Notable Figures

  • Pascal Poirier (1852-1933): A prominent figure from Shediac, he was the first Acadian appointed to the Canadian Senate and an advocate for Acadian culture and rights.

Shediac continues to thrive as a community that celebrates its cultural heritage, natural beauty, and vibrant local economy centered around the seafood industry.