Shediac New Brunswick
Welcome to Shediac
The mention of Shediac, New Brunswick brings back fun-filled, carefree, summers at Parlee Beach Provincial Park, but Shediac, is so much more than the fine white sandy beaches it boasts. Although, with the warmest waters north of Virginia, you know this is one of the prime reasons vacationers return year after year. Located just southwest of Pointe-du-Chêne, Shediac is historically known as the last eastern link between the European, and North American Railway, and the famous stopover for the massive Pan-Am’s transatlantic “Clipper” air service seaplanes. Shediac is also steeped in Acadian roots back to 1751, and was one of the major Mi’kmaq camps in southeast New Brunswick. Now, it is an art, heritage, and cultural centre of activity, with great food, outdoor adventures, and stunning sunsets. Welcome to Shediac!
World’s Largest Lobster
Shediac is the Lobster Capital of the World, as it processes over 35 tonnes of lobster meat to supply global demands, and it is home to the World’s Largest Lobster. A Lobster Festival is typically held every July to celebrate the towns connection to lobster fishing. Shediac’s giant iconic landmark greets you as you enter town, just in case you did not know how important this crustacean is to the community. Weighing in at 82 metric tonnes, and measuring 11 metres long, and 5 metres tall, this reinforced concrete, and steel statue was created, and constructed by the late Canadian artist and notable animal sculptor Winston Bronnum. It took three years to complete costing $170,000 and for this reason, this bad boy caused quite a bit of controversy from taxpaying townspeople questioning its necessity. However, naysayers have long been silenced by the yearly half million visitors that flock to see it, making it one of the most photographed attractions in the Maritimes. The community now embraces the spring touch up painting by local artist Monette Léger, to keep this king of crustaceans looking spiffy. Lobster rules here, and there is no better place to enjoy it. Keep an eye out for signs of lobsters throughout town, they are cleverly hidden in plain sight.
Shediac Rotary Park Boutiques
Open May through September, the brightly coloured information boutiques in Shediac Rotary Park are a fun grouping of shops to pick up souvenirs, or an extra beach coverup, or towel. Pop in after you visit the giant lobster, and see the helpful tourism guides for everything you need to know to enjoy Shediac.
Shediac Paddle Shack
The turquoise shack in Rotary Park is the Shediac Paddle Shack. This is your stop to experience some water sport adventures on the Scoudouc River (directly behind the building). They offer one and two-person kayaks as well as stand up paddle boards. Private, group and corporate lessons are also available for all ages and abilities. Check out their SUP (Stand-Up Paddle Board) Activities on their social media pages including SUP Paddle with your Dog Night, SUP Yoga, SUP Meditation, SUP Beginner Paddle Nights and SUP Date Night.
Adorable Chocolat
A mid-morning break was enjoyed at Adorable Chocolat. This local chocolate shop guarantees assured quality, with no compromise, no additives, and no preservatives. Lucie and I enjoyed our chocolate croissants, and I had a tasty latte made to perfection.
Shediac History
Just across the bridge is a 3D mural highlighting life on wharfs in the South-East region of the province during the ‘50s. Learn about the real life historical figures from Shediac’s history depicted in this display through the information on-site.
Centre-Ville Shediac Downtown
The heart of the community is the downtown. Centre-Ville Shediac Downtown is open year-round and the parking is free. Lively dining spots and shopping, public artworks, historical buildings, and Pascal Poirier Park are here. This pretty park is the hub and location for many unique, community gatherings, musical entertainment, festivals, activities and events, including the weekly Sunday Market. Did you know that in 1925, Shediac resident Edward R. McDonald invented a board game called Crossword Game? The wood tile game featuring letters of the alphabet with point value was played on a checker board. It was patented in 1926 predating the first version of the Scrabble Word Game by 12 years, but said not to be related. Hmm… very curious, I say. Learn more about this coincidence on the Main Street display downtown and decide for yourself.
Acadian Roots
The History Tree of Acadians - 400 Years of History sculptured tree in front of the Pascal-Poirier Historic House, as well as the Acadian Flag Project mural entitled: Un Patrimoine à Découvrir - A Heritage to Discover, were both created by the talented sculptor/artist Monette Léger. Discover the deep Acadian Roots in Shediac.
Viva Shediac
Exploring downtown with Viva Shediac, through their Foodie Tour, is the best way to get a great understanding of what Shediac has to offer. Entrepreneurs & co-owners Karine and François offer three different tours in the area. The Foodie Tour experience takes you on a downtown walking tour highlighting the past, present and future. There are also four stops at well-renowned local eateries to enjoy a generous sample of their specialties. Learn so much more about Shediac through this interactive, enjoyable, and culinary adventure. I highly recommend it. Karine & Frank also offer an Evening Bar Hop, and a Sunday Drive Tour that showcases the best spots on the Acadian Coastal Drive. Contact Viva Shediac to book your experience to get to know Shediac in an extraordinary way.
Le Moque-Tortue
After checking into Le Griffon Bed & Breakfast, and a little downtime, Lucie and I were recharged. We returned to Le Moque-Tortue Bistro for a wonderful evening of live music, more delicious food, and fun boardgames. This Alice in Wonderland-themed bistro will blow your mind with its topsy-turvy decor, great food, Atlantic Canada's largest accessible board game collection, and escape rooms.
Le Griffon Bed & Breakfast
Le Griffon B & B is a four-star Victorian house in downtown Shediac. Owners, Chef Sébastien Després and his wife Heather, and their three girls, welcome their guests to enjoy their exquisite home. Each room is well-appointed, and well-equipped with modern amenities, a private bath, and a comfortable queen-sized bed. You are spoiled in the morning to a tasty hot breakfast served for you in the country kitchen, too. Sébastien & Heather also own Le Moque-Tortue Bistro. These two are multi-talented and have a fascinating story that brought them together, then to Shediac, where Sébastien wanted his girls to be raised next to the beach, surrounded by family, just as he was growing up.
Parlee Beach Provincial Park
Parlee Beach is one of North America’s finest beaches. Enjoy the warmest salt water in Canada, a supervised swimming beach, volleyball, ultimate frisbee and daily sports activities. The park’s seaside campground also has over 190 campsites on the property.
Pointe-du-Chêne Wharf
Dive into local culture at Pointe-du-Chêne with a bite to eat, a refreshing drink, and a stroll through Art on the Wharf. Witness local kids jump off the wharf, a cherished tradition here! ️ Don’t miss LobsterTales - an evening of pure entertainment aboard Shediac Bay Cruises. Captain Ron will keep you in stitches as he shares lobster lore and demonstrates how to crack open a lobster before you savour your own delicious lobster dinner, all while enjoying the warm bay breezes. It’s an experience that captures the essence of summer!
Stay & Play in Shediac
I hope you will stay & play in Shediac, and discover, or rediscover, all that this vibrant Acadian town has to offer. Tell them the Maritimes Maven sent you.
This post was sponsored by Centre-Ville Shediac Downtown; Viva Shediac, Experience Shediac, Le Griffon & Le Moque Tortue; however, all thoughts and opinions are my own. Follow Maritimes Maven on FaceBook, Instagram, Pinterest, Threads & LinkedIn. Be the first to receive my latest articles by clicking on the ‘subscribe’ link at the top of this page. PIease share articles you love with your social media community. There’s No Place Like Home!