Surrounded by Passamaquoddy Bay, St. Andrews by-the-Sea's relaxed pace can be linked to the rhythm of powerful tides that can rise over 28 feet. The intertidal zone is an ever-changing landscape that nourishes a rich diversity of marine creatures. A guided walk over the tidal flats will prepare you to explore the area's many coves and islands.
Covered bridges and lighthouses lure painters and photographers into the surrounding countryside. Saint Croix Island - site of Sieur de Monts and Samuel de Champlains' 1604 settlement - is a must for sightseers. Ministers Island and the estate of railway magnate Sir William Van Horne can be reached, at low tide, by driving across the ocean floor on your guided tour. There are convenient day trips from St. Andrews to the nearby islands that will take you by road and ferry past coastal scenery that is too picturesque for words. Another wonderful attraction is the spectacular Kingsbrae Horticultural Garden. This 27 acre site is located at the top of the town overlooking Ministers Island.
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Children's Adventures
The Touch Pool at the Huntsman Marine Aquarium is a favourite with young visitors, as is the in-stream aquarium at the Atlantic Salmon Centre.
Sunbury Shores Arts and Nature Centre offers children's programs which encourage them to explore nature and express their discoveries through art.
The St. Andrews Creative Playground - the first in Canada designed by renowned playground architect Robert S. Leathers - offers fun and exercise for children of all ages. Children will also enjoy beach-combing along the never ending and diverse shoreline.
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Experience A Day Adventure
How does "adventure" sound to you? The murmur of a sail boat carving through salt water... the hum of fishing line being ripped off a reel... or the lazy buzz of a picturesque riverside garden? Whatever your answer, St. Andrews' Day Adventure Centres open the door to a world of excitement. Guided tours in a sea kayak, on a bicycle or on horseback, showcase the natural beauty and abundant wildlife for which our coastal landscape is known. Or head out into the Bay to see whales from aboard a square-rigged cutter, a catamaran cruiser or a high speed Zodiac. New Brunswick's Day Adventure Program provides visitors convenient access to the unique attractions in every part of the province. In St. Andrews, the three centres are: in the Chamber of Commerce Welcome Centre next to the arena; at the Adventure Destinations Centre near the town wharf; and in The Algonquin's main lobby.
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Unique Shopping
Shopping in St. Andrews means a pleasant stroll exploring the many unique shops that line Water Street. The commercial district has a distinctive character and appearance which can be attributed to the fact that it has not changed significantly since the 1800's. The wares being offered here however have changed, and today you will find a diverse selection of interesting goods. From quality apparel to gifts with a local flavour, there is something for everyone. St. Andrews also boasts many well known artists whose work is created in a variety of forms, be it in sculpture, pottery, glass, wood, jewelry or on canvas. You will be able to observe many of these artists at work in their studios, or see their offerings at one of several local galleries.
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Heritage
St. Andrews was declared a National Historic District and the Greenock Church was declared a National Historic Site on August 7, 1998. St. Andrews was settled by United Empire Loyalists in 1783 following the American Revolution. Some of the settlers had dismantled their homes in Castine, Maine and brought them here aboard barges where they were reassembled and can still be seen today. The main town plat of St. Andrews has been designated a National Historic District and many of the more than 250 homes that are 100 to over 200 years old, have been marked with descriptive plaques by the St. Andrews Civic Trust. Around the turn of the century St. Andrews by-the-Sea flourished as Canada's first seaside resort town and attracted many of the East's more prominent families. The famous architects, Edward and W.S. Maxwell of Montreal, are responsible for many of the grand summer "cottages" of that era. In addition, the Ross Museum, Sheriff Andrews House, the Blockhouse and Court House, and the many historic churches offer visitors a glimpse into the town's past. Walking tours of these historic sites are available daily.
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Accommodations & Dining
St. Andrews caters to every taste. Quaint bed and breakfasts, historic and modern inns, cottages and an ocean front campground, all welcome visitors. The Algonquin is St. Andrews' dominant landmark and its spectacular setting, overlooking the peninsula, features a wealth of recreational facilities - including an 18 - hole seaside golf course. The town's restaurants range from old world elegance to a 50's style diner. Several offer fresh seafood, many overlook the Bay and they all feature the friendly hospitality of St. Andrews by-the-Sea.
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Location Map
St. Andrews is just a thirty minute drive from the border crossing between Calais, Maine and St. Stephen, New Brunswick.
From Route 1 between St. Stephen and Saint John, take either of the clearly marked exits onto Route 127.
To receive a St. Andrews information package, please contact:
St. Andrews Chamber of Commerce
46 Reed Ave.
St. Andrews, New Brunswick
E5B 1A1 Canada
Telephone: (506) 529-3555
Toll Free: 1-800-563-7397
Fax: (506) 529-8095
E-mail:
stachamb@nbnet.nb.ca
