Some places can only be reached by a single bridge — and the moment you cross it, you feel like you’ve stepped back a hundred years in time. That’s exactly how Campobello Island Canada struck us. A small island in the Bay of Fundy, where Canada meets America, where the tides transform the landscape beyond recognition every six hours, and where you might genuinely not see more than five people the entire day. I mean that literally.
This island has something that’s hard to put into words — a peculiar stillness, salty air mingled with the scent of spruce trees, and a feeling that the world simply isn’t in a rush here.
In this article, you’ll find a complete guide to Campobello Island — from tips on what to see and do, to practical advice on how to get there (because it’s not exactly straightforward), to where to eat and where to stay. I’ve put together an overview of the island’s most beautiful spots, including the famous Roosevelt summer home, the iconic Head Harbour Lightstation, and other corners that will take your breath away.
TL;DR
- Campobello Island is a small Canadian island in the Bay of Fundy (New Brunswick province), most easily accessible by car from the USA via a bridge from Lubec, Maine.
- The main attraction is Roosevelt Campobello International Park with President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s summer home — admission is free.
- The stunning Head Harbour Lightstation (East Quoddy Lighthouse) is only accessible at low tide — check the tide tables!
- Herring Cove Provincial Park offers beautiful beaches, a golf course, and hiking trails with Bay of Fundy views.
- Only about 900 people live on the island, so don’t expect big-city amenities — it’s a quiet, authentic slice of Canada.
- The best time to visit is June to September, when most attractions are open and whale watching season is in full swing.
- You can go whale watching from the island — the Bay of Fundy is home to humpbacks, minke whales, and rare North Atlantic right whales.
- Plan to spend at least a full day on the island, ideally two nights.
- If you’re coming from the Canadian side (not via Maine), you’ll need to take a seasonal ferry from Deer Island — it only runs in summer.
When to visit Campobello Island and how to get there
Campobello Island isn’t the kind of place you stumble upon by accident. It sits on the far eastern tip of Canada, in the Bay of Fundy between New Brunswick and Maine, and getting there takes a bit of planning. But don’t worry — once you’ve sorted the logistics, the reward is enormous. Let’s walk through the best time to go and your transport options.
Best time to visit
The season on Campobello Island is fairly short. The best time to visit is from mid-June to early September. During this period, Roosevelt Campobello International Park is open, ferries are running, restaurants are operating, and whale watching season is underway.
We visited in late July and the weather was absolutely perfect — around 22 °C (72 °F), sunny with the occasional sea mist that lent the landscape an almost mystical atmosphere. Be prepared, though: even in summer it can be chilly and windy along the coast, especially near the lighthouse. A fleece and a windproof jacket are essentials.
June is great for fewer tourists and blooming lupins along the roadsides. July and August are the warmest and liveliest months. September brings gorgeous autumn colours, but some attractions start closing. Off-season (October–May) the island is very quiet, most services shut down, and the ferry from Deer Island doesn’t run.
How to get to Campobello Island
Here’s where it gets interesting. Campobello Island is Canadian territory, yet paradoxically the easiest way to reach it is from the USA. 😅
Option 1: Via the bridge from Lubec, Maine (year-round)
The simplest and most common route. From the small town of Lubec in Maine, the Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial Bridge crosses the strait directly to Campobello Island. The bridge is open year-round, 24 hours a day. There are border checkpoints on both sides — you’ll need a valid passport (or for US and Canadian citizens, a NEXUS card will do). The crossing is quick, and there are rarely any queues.
This is important: if you’re travelling through Canada and don’t want to go through the US, you’ll need to take a different route.
Option 2: Ferry via Deer Island (seasonal)
If you’re touring New Brunswick and don’t want to cross into the USA, you can reach Campobello by ferry from Deer Island. First, take the free ferry from Letete (near St. George) to Deer Island, then continue on the paid East Coast Ferries service to Campobello. The ferry runs from approximately late June to early September, and the fare is around 20 CAD (roughly €14) for a car with driver. The timetable depends on the tides — yes, even the ferries here run according to nature.
We always have good results with RentalCars, which we use all over the world — and you’ll definitely need a car on Campobello Island. There’s no public transport on the island whatsoever.
Option 3: From Eastport, Maine (seasonal ferry)
In summer, a small ferry also runs from Eastport in Maine to Deer Island, from where you continue on to Campobello. This option is more for adventurous travellers wanting to explore the entire Bay of Fundy by water.
Whichever route you choose, keep in mind that you’re crossing an international border. Even though it’s just a small bridge, you’re travelling between Canada and the USA. A passport is a must.
For UK-based travellers, the most practical approach is to fly into Boston, Portland (Maine), or Halifax, then pick up a hire car and drive. British passport holders need an eTA for Canada and an ESTA for the USA (since you’ll likely be crossing between both countries). Make sure both are sorted before you go.
Where to stay on Campobello Island and how much it costs
Lodging on Campobello Island is… let’s say limited. But that’s part of its charm — you’re not in a tourist resort, you’re on a real island where most homes belong to locals. There aren’t many accommodation options, so during peak season (July–August) I’d recommend booking well in advance.
On the island, you’ll mainly find B&Bs, small guesthouses, and whole-house rentals via Airbnb or VRBO. Don’t look for a standard hotel here — and that’s actually a good thing, because you’ll get to enjoy an authentic atmosphere.
Approximate prices per night (peak season):
- B&B / Guesthouse: 120–180 CAD (€80–120) for a double room with breakfast
- House/cottage rental (Airbnb/VRBO): 150–300 CAD (€100–200) per night, depending on size
- Campobello doesn’t have a proper hotel or large campsite — if you want to camp, head to Herring Cove Provincial Park, which has basic pitches (around 30–40 CAD / €20–27 per night)
If you can’t find accommodation on the island or want to save money, you can stay in Lubec, Maine (just across the bridge) — there’s a slightly wider selection and similar prices.
Approximate total budget for two nights for two people:
- Accommodation (2 nights): 300–400 CAD (€200–270)
- Food (restaurants + groceries): 120–180 CAD (€80–120)
- Petrol: 30–50 CAD (€20–34)
- Whale watching (optional): 140–200 CAD (€95–135) for two
- Total for two: approx. 600–830 CAD (€400–560) excluding flights and car hire
Campobello Island: 12 things to see and do
Now let’s get to the best part — what to actually do on Campobello Island. The island may be small (about 14 km long), but it’s surprisingly packed with things to see. From a presidential summer home to lighthouses, beaches, trails, and whale watching. Here are 12 top tips for making the most of what Campobello has to offer.
1. Roosevelt Campobello International Park — the summer home where history was made
This is hands-down the main reason most people head to Campobello Island, and rightly so. Roosevelt Campobello International Park is a unique international park jointly managed by Canada and the USA — the only one of its kind in the world.
At the heart of the park is Roosevelt Cottage, the Roosevelt family’s summer home where Franklin D. Roosevelt spent holidays from childhood. It was here, in 1921, that polio struck him — an illness that changed his life forever and, paradoxically, may have helped prepare him for the presidency. The house is preserved in its original state and tours are completely free. The guides (mostly students) enthusiastically explain how the family lived, where FDR went fishing, and where his wife Eleanor hosted picnic lunches.
Besides the main house, you can also visit other historic cottages — Hubbard Cottage and Wells-Shober Cottage. The entire grounds are beautifully set in the coastal landscape with views over Passamaquoddy Bay.
The park is open from late May to mid-October, daily from 9:00 to 17:00 (during peak season). Let me say it again — admission is free. In North America, where you seem to pay for everything, that’s a wonderful exception. 😊
2. Head Harbour Lightstation (East Quoddy Lighthouse) — the lighthouse at the end of the world
This place will blow you away. Head Harbour Lightstation, also known as East Quoddy Lighthouse, stands on a rocky islet at the very northern tip of Campobello Island. It’s one of the most iconic and most photographed lighthouses in all of Canada — and once you see it, you’ll understand why.
Here’s the crucial detail: you can only reach the lighthouse at low tide. The Bay of Fundy sees tidal differences of up to 8 metres (among the highest tides on Earth!), so at high tide the islet with the lighthouse is completely cut off from land. At low tide, a short path over rocks and iron ladders leads you there.
Before heading out, check the tide table — you can find it on the Fisheries and Oceans Canada website or at the island’s visitor centre. Ideally, arrive about an hour before the lowest tide to give yourself plenty of time for the round trip. The water rises faster than you’d expect, and getting stranded at the lighthouse during high tide wouldn’t exactly be ideal. 😅
The journey to the lighthouse is an adventure in itself — you scramble over wet rocks, cross patches of kelp and seaweed, and finally climb metal stairs. Your reward is a gorgeous red-and-white lighthouse with a cross on top and panoramic views of the Bay of Fundy, where with a bit of luck you might even spot whales.
3. Herring Cove Provincial Park — beaches, trails, and the best views on the island
If you love nature (and I’ll assume you do, since you’re heading to Campobello), Herring Cove Provincial Park will delight you. This provincial park covers a large portion of the island’s southeastern side and offers a bit of everything — beaches, hiking trails, a golf course, and stunning coastal scenery.
Herring Cove Beach is a long stretch of pebbles and sand where at low tide the sea reveals fascinating rock formations and pools teeming with starfish, crabs, and other marine creatures. For kids (and honestly for adults too), exploring these tidal pools is an absolutely captivating experience.
Several hiking trails of varying lengths and difficulty levels start from the park. I’d particularly recommend the Herring Cove Trail (about 3 km), which follows the coastline with lovely views of the bay. The trails are well-marked and manageable even for casual walkers.
Entry to the park is free. The only things you pay for are the campsites and the golf course. Speaking of which, golf at Herring Cove is apparently a wonderful experience — a nine-hole course with ocean views for just a few dollars. We don’t play golf ourselves, but even non-golfers will appreciate the views.
4. Whale watching in the Bay of Fundy — humpbacks within arm’s reach
The Bay of Fundy is one of the best places for whale watching in all of North America. The cold, nutrient-rich waters attract humpback whales, minke whales, finback whales, and even critically endangered North Atlantic right whales.
Whale watching trips from Campobello and the surrounding area typically last 2–3 hours and cost around 60–100 CAD (€40–67) per person. Most operators run from St. Andrews or from Eastport in Maine, but some smaller companies offer excursions from the island itself.
Peak whale watching season runs from July to September, with August being the absolute best month. Besides whales, you’ll often spot seal colonies, ospreys, and maybe even sharks if you’re lucky (or unlucky, depending on your perspective 😅).
If you’ve never seen a whale in the wild, don’t miss this chance. The moment a humpback’s three-metre fluke surfaces just a few dozen metres from the boat is something you simply can’t describe — you have to experience it.
5. Friar’s Head — dramatic cliffs with panoramic views
On the northwestern side of the island you’ll find Friar’s Head, a volcanic-looking rock formation that offers stunning panoramic views of the American coastline, Eastport island, and the full breadth of Passamaquoddy Bay.
The climb is short — from the car park it takes about 10–15 minutes on a well-worn path to reach the top. Up there you’ll find a bench and plenty of space for a picnic. On a clear day, you can see for miles. We sat there for about half an hour just gazing — there’s truly no need to rush here.
The rocks have an interesting reddish-brown colour and an unusual shape that resembles a friar’s cowl — which is probably where the name Friar’s Head comes from. It’s one of those places where you really appreciate the geological power of the Bay of Fundy.
6. Mulholland Point Lighthouse — the most photogenic lighthouse on the island
While Head Harbour Lightstation is the dramatic, adventurous one, Mulholland Point Lighthouse is the romantic, easy-to-reach one. It stands right by the main road near the bridge from Lubec, so you can’t miss it — and you really shouldn’t, because it’s gorgeous.
The white-and-red lighthouse sits on a grassy area with views over the strait and the American shoreline. It’s one of the most photographed spots on the island — understandably so. The lighthouse itself isn’t open to the public, but the grounds are freely accessible and it’s a perfect spot for a picnic or simply a quiet moment with a view.
At low tide, the rocky seabed around the lighthouse is exposed, and you can observe marine life. At sunset, this place is absolutely magical — the sun dips behind the American coast and the lighthouse stands silhouetted against an orange sky.
7. Con Robinson’s Point and Liberty Point — wild coastline without the crowds
If you want to experience absolute solitude and wild, untouched nature on Campobello, head to the southern tip of the island — Liberty Point and Con Robinson’s Point. This area is part of Roosevelt Campobello International Park, but most visitors never make it here because they focus on the Roosevelt house.
Liberty Point is a dramatic cliff where the full force of the Bay of Fundy crashes against dark rocks. You stand on the edge as enormous waves roll in below — it’s mesmerising. An easy trail leads from the car park to the cliffs (about 1 km), so it’s genuinely accessible to anyone.
Con Robinson’s Point is similar but even more remote. We didn’t see a single soul here — just us, the rocks, the wind, and the sea. If you’re looking for a place to meditate or simply be alone with your thoughts for a while, this is it.
8. Tidal pools — nature as an aquarium
One of the most amazing things about Campobello Island (and the Bay of Fundy as a whole) are the tidal pools that appear at low tide. Picture this: the water retreats by several metres, and all along the shoreline, small rock pools brimming with life are left behind — starfish, sea urchins, crabs, anemones, snails, and sometimes even small fish.
The best spots for exploring tidal pools are along Herring Cove and around Head Harbour Lightstation. I’d recommend wearing wellies or old shoes you don’t mind getting wet — the rocks are slippery from seaweed. And most importantly: put everything back where you found it, and don’t take anything with you.
This is an activity that thrills absolutely everyone — from small children to grown-up marine biology enthusiasts.
9. Herring Cove Golf Course — nine holes with an ocean view
Even if you’re not normally a golfer (like us), Herring Cove Golf Course is worth a mention. It’s a nine-hole course right inside the provincial park, with views over the Bay of Fundy, and it’s said to be one of the oldest golf courses in New Brunswick.
Prices are ridiculously low compared to what you’d pay elsewhere — around 25–35 CAD (€17–24) for 9 holes. The course is open from June to September. Even if you don’t play, you can wander the area and soak up the scenery — those views alone are worth it.
10. Campobello Island Heritage Trail — a walk through the island’s history
Around the island you’ll find several interpretive panels and heritage trails that walk you through Campobello’s history — from its Indigenous roots (the Passamaquoddy nation) through the era of wealthy American families’ summer estates, right up to the present day.
The Heritage Trail runs through the centre of the island past historic buildings, an old cemetery, and original fishing harbours. The full walk takes about an hour and a half and is a lovely way to appreciate Campobello not just as a natural destination but as a cultural one too.
You can pick up a brochure with a trail map at the visitor centre by Roosevelt Park. I’d recommend starting there — the guides are happy to advise on what’s happening on the island and what the current weather’s doing (it changes quickly here in the Bay of Fundy, as you might expect).
11. Birdwatching — a paradise for ornithologists
Campobello Island is an exceptional birdwatching destination. Thanks to its position on a migratory route and its diverse habitats (coastline, wetlands, forest), you can spot dozens of bird species here.
Among the most prized sightings are ospreys, which nest on tall poles along the roads — their massive nests are hard to miss. You’ll also find bald eagles, various shorebird species, puffins (on nearby Machias Seal Island, accessible by boat), and in the forest, woodpeckers and warblers.
The best birdwatching spots are Herring Cove Provincial Park, the area around Head Harbour, and the wetlands in the centre of the island. If you’re serious about birding, try to arrange a trip to Machias Seal Island — one of the few Atlantic puffin colonies on the east coast — with boats departing from Seal Cove on Grand Manan Island.
12. Sunset over the strait — a ritual you mustn’t miss
This isn’t an “attraction” in the traditional sense, but it might be the most powerful experience you’ll take away from Campobello Island. Watching the sunset over the strait between Campobello and the American town of Lubec is something truly special.
The best spot to watch the sunset is at Mulholland Point Lighthouse or from anywhere along the island’s western shore. The sun sinks behind the American town, the water in the strait turns shades of orange and pink, and if you’re lucky you’ll see the silhouettes of fishing boats heading back to harbour.
We watched the sunset with a bottle of Canadian wine and a baguette from the local shop — and it was one of those moments that remind you why you travel. No crowds, no noise, just us and nature. ☺️
What to eat and drink on Campobello Island
Let’s be honest — you don’t come to Campobello Island for the dining scene. 😅 The island has fewer than 900 residents, and the number of restaurants can be counted on one hand. But what’s here is worthwhile, and besides, you’ll find the freshest seafood imaginable.
Local restaurants
Family Fisheries — this is probably the best-known establishment on the island. It’s housed in a simple building by the road and serves fresh fish and seafood at reasonable prices. Fish and chips cost around 15–18 CAD (€10–12) and it’s exactly as good as you’d expect from a place where fishermen bring in their catch every morning. Lobster is obviously a must — if it’s in season (usually spring and summer), order a lobster roll and you’ll be in heaven.
Herring Cove Restaurant — if it’s open (it operates seasonally), you’ll find a simple but tasty menu focused on local ingredients.
Tip: There’s one small grocery shop on the island where you can pick up basic supplies. But the selection is limited, so if you’re planning to cook, stock up in Lubec or St. Stephen beforehand. We made the mistake of counting on the island shop, and ended up having tinned soup and crackers for dinner. Romantic. 😅
What to try
- Lobster — in any form, but ideally a whole boiled one or a lobster roll
- Scallops — the Bay of Fundy is famous for them
- Dulse — dried seaweed that’s a Bay of Fundy speciality. It looks suspicious but tastes surprisingly good — salty and a bit like crisps
- Fish and chips — a classic, made with freshly caught fish here
- Fiddleheads — young fern shoots, a seasonal delicacy (spring). If you come across them, give them a try!
Food in Lubec, Maine
If you need more choice, pop across the bridge to Lubec. You’ll find several more restaurants and cafés there — Water Street Tavern serves solid burgers and seafood, and Lubec Brewing Company offers local craft beers with harbour views.
Practical tips for visiting Campobello Island
Getting around the island
You need a car on the island. There’s no public transport, no taxis, no Uber. The roads are in good condition but narrow, and some wind through the forest. You can drive across the entire island in 20 minutes, so don’t worry — navigation is easy.
Look for affordable flights to Boston, Portland (Maine), or Halifax and then pick up a hire car. From the UK, you can find good deals with airlines like British Airways, Virgin Atlantic, or budget carriers via Icelandair or WestJet.
Mobile signal and internet
Mobile signal on the island works but can be patchy in more remote spots. Wi-Fi is available at most accommodation and in the visitor centre. If you need reliable data, consider an eSIM from Holafly — it works brilliantly in both Canada and the USA, which comes in handy when you’re crossing the border.
What to pack
For Campobello you’ll definitely need to dress in layers — the weather changes quickly. A waterproof jacket and good hiking boots are essential, especially if you’re planning to clamber over rocks to the lighthouse. For detailed packing advice, check out our guide on how to pack into carry-on luggage.
Travel insurance
For a trip to Canada (and especially if you’re combining it with the USA), absolutely don’t skip travel insurance. Healthcare in North America is eye-wateringly expensive. We recommend SafetyWing, which we use for our longer trips. For UK travellers, make sure your policy covers both Canada and the USA, since you’ll likely be crossing between the two.
Border crossings
Remember, crossing the bridge from Lubec to Campobello means crossing an international border. You need your passport. On the Canadian side, they’ll ask about the purpose of your visit and how long you’re staying — say “tourism” and “one/two days” and you’re sorted. Same thing on the way back into the US. It’s usually quick and hassle-free, though in peak season there can be short queues. UK passport holders need a valid ESTA for the US side and a Canadian eTA — both can be applied for online in advance.
Money
The island uses Canadian dollars. Most businesses also accept US dollars, but the exchange rate won’t be in your favour. You can pay by card almost everywhere, but it’s worth having some cash on you — it comes in handy at smaller establishments.
What to see near Campobello Island
If you have more time, Campobello makes an excellent base for exploring the wider Bay of Fundy region. Here are a few day-trip ideas:
- Lubec, Maine — the easternmost point of the contiguous USA. A charming little town with galleries, cafés, and excellent seafood. You can walk there across the bridge.
- St. Andrews-by-the-Sea, New Brunswick — a gorgeous historic town with colonial architecture, whale watching trips, and superb restaurants. About 1.5 hours by car (via Lubec and the US, or by ferry via Deer Island).
- Grand Manan Island — a larger island in the Bay of Fundy, accessible by ferry from Blacks Harbour. Perfect for puffins, whale watching, and hiking.
- Fundy Trail Parkway — a scenic road along the Bay of Fundy with breathtaking viewpoints and waterfalls.
- Hopewell Rocks — the famous “flowerpot rocks” sculpted by the tides. An iconic New Brunswick landmark.
If you’re planning a longer road trip across Canada, have a look at our guide to a road trip through western Canada — the east coast is a completely different world, but the planning principles are similar. And if your travels take you to Niagara Falls, we’ve got an article for that too. 😊
FAQ — Frequently asked questions about Campobello Island
How do I get to Campobello Island?
The easiest way is by car via the Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial Bridge from the town of Lubec in Maine, USA. The bridge is open year-round. Alternatively, in summer (approximately late June to early September) you can take a seasonal ferry from Deer Island in New Brunswick if you’d rather not cross into the US. In both cases, you’re crossing an international border, so you’ll need a valid passport.
Do I need a passport to visit Campobello Island?
Yes, almost always. If you’re arriving via the bridge from Lubec (Maine), you’re crossing the US–Canada border and a passport is required. The only exception is the ferry from Deer Island if you’re travelling entirely within Canada — but even then we’d recommend having your passport, since the island is so close to the US that it may come in handy.
How much time do I need to explore Campobello Island?
For a basic tour of the main attractions (Roosevelt Cottage, Head Harbour Lighthouse, Herring Cove), one full day is enough, but I’d recommend spending two nights on the island. That gives you time for whale watching, exploring the more remote trails, and — crucially — timing your visit to the lighthouse around the tides.
Is Campobello Island suitable for families with children?
Absolutely! Children love exploring the tidal pools to find starfish and crabs. Roosevelt Cottage has interactive interpretation suitable for younger visitors, and the nature trails at Herring Cove are comfortable even for smaller kids. Whale watching is an unforgettable experience for children. Just keep in mind there are no theme parks or big attractions — it’s all about nature and tranquillity.
When is the best time to visit Campobello Island?
The best time is from mid-June to early September, when Roosevelt Park is open, ferries are running, and all services are available. July and August are the warmest months (around 20–25 °C / 68–77 °F) but also the busiest. June offers fewer tourists and blooming lupins. September brings autumn colours, but some attractions start to close. Off-season (October–May), most services are shut.
How do the tides work on Campobello Island?
The Bay of Fundy has some of the highest tides in the world — the difference between high and low tide can reach up to 8 metres (26 feet). This affects access to Head Harbour Lightstation (only reachable at low tide), the appearance of the beaches, and even the ferry timetable. Always check the current tide table on the Fisheries and Oceans Canada website before heading out.
Are there restaurants and shops on Campobello Island?
Yes, but very limited. You’ll find a handful of seasonal restaurants on the island (Family Fisheries is the best known) and one small grocery shop. I’d recommend stocking up on basics in Lubec (Maine) or St. Stephen (New Brunswick) beforehand. In Lubec, just across the bridge, there’s a slightly wider selection of restaurants and services.
Tips and Tricks for Your Vacation
Don’t Overpay for Flights
Search for flights on Kayak. It’s our favorite search engine because it scans the websites of all airlines and always finds the cheapest connection.
Book Your Accommodation Smartly
The best experiences we’ve had when looking for accommodation (from Alaska to Morocco) are with Booking.com, where hotels, apartments, and entire houses are usually the cheapest and most widely available.
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance
Good travel insurance will protect you against illness, accidents, theft, or flight cancellations. We’ve had a few hospital visits abroad, so we know how important it is to have proper insurance arranged.
Where we insure ourselves: SafetyWing (best for everyone) and TrueTraveller (for extra-long trips).
Why don’t we recommend any Czech insurance company? Because they have too many restrictions. They set limits on the number of days abroad, travel insurance via a credit card often requires you to pay medical expenses only with that card, and they frequently limit the number of returns to the Czech Republic.
Find the Best Experiences
Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace where you can book guided walks, trips, skip-the-line tickets, tours, and much more. We always find some extra fun there!
