Parlee Beach Provincial Park wilderness guide
Provincial Park · New Brunswick

Parlee Beach Provincial Park

Parlee Beach Provincial Park is one of New Brunswick’s premier coastal parks, renowned for its warm saltwater beach and family-friendly recreational opportunities along the Northumberland Strait.

Provincial Park484+ Trails

Designation

Provincial Park

Total Wilderness Area

48

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Parlee Beach Provincial Park

Parlee Beach Provincial Park is one of New Brunswick’s premier coastal parks, renowned for its warm saltwater beach and family-friendly recreational opportunities along the Northumberland Strait.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Located in southeastern New Brunswick near the town of Shediac, Parlee Beach Provincial Park is celebrated for having one of the warmest saltwater beaches north of Virginia. The park stretches along the picturesque Northumberland Strait, offering expansive sandy beaches, calm tidal waters, and well-maintained facilities. The area is characterized by a gentle coastal landscape with fine white sand, tidal flats, and coastal dunes, providing habitat for diverse wildlife including shorebirds and marine species. Established in 1959, Parlee Beach has grown into a popular summer destination attracting thousands of visitors for swimming, sunbathing, picnicking, and general beach recreation. The park also offers playgrounds, picnic areas, and a marina with boating access, making it an ideal spot for families and water enthusiasts. Notable landmarks include the iconic Beach House and the well-marked boardwalk that runs parallel to the beach, offering scenic views and easy access. Additionally, nearby trails provide opportunities for walking and bird-watching. Year-round, Parlee Beach plays a role in protecting coastal ecosystems while supporting tourism and local culture. Visitors are drawn not only by the warm waters but also by seasonal events and festivals held close to the park. Its proximity to Shediac, known as the 'Lobster Capital of the World,' adds to the cultural and culinary appeal of a visit here.

Field Guide · Provincial Park
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Parlee Beach Provincial Park

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 60 miles.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Warm saltwater beach reputed to be some of the warmest north of Virginia✦ Extensive sandy shoreline ideal for swimming and family activities✦ Beach House providing amenities including washrooms, concessions, and rentals✦ Accessible boardwalk offering scenic coastal views and wildlife observation
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Parlee Beach Provincial Park

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

Park Recreation

Swimming

Available in Parlee Beach Provincial Park
Park Recreation

Beachcombing

Available in Parlee Beach Provincial Park
Park Recreation

Picnicking

Available in Parlee Beach Provincial Park
Park Recreation

Boating

Available in Parlee Beach Provincial Park
Park Recreation

Fishing

Available in Parlee Beach Provincial Park
Park Recreation

Bird Watching

Available in Parlee Beach Provincial Park
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Parlee Beach Provincial Park
Park Recreation

Walking

Available in Parlee Beach Provincial Park
Park Recreation

Family Recreation

Available in Parlee Beach Provincial Park
Park Recreation

Kite Flying

Available in Parlee Beach Provincial Park
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Parlee Beach Provincial Park.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Daily parking fees from June through September; no entrance fee to access beach areas outside parking zones

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Parlee Beach Provincial Park

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Shediac, New Brunswick
⌖ 3.95 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Shediac, New Brunswick

Shediac is a laid-back coastal town known for Parlee Beach’s warm sands and excellent paddling in Shediac Bay. It’s a perfect spot for casual cycling, bird watching, and camping with easy access to maritime outdoor activities.

Late Spring to Early Fall
Explore Town
Shédiac, New Brunswick
⌖ 3.95 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Shédiac, New Brunswick

Shédiac is New Brunswick’s coastal hub for tidal adventures, from kayaking the Bay of Fundy’s massive tides to cycling scenic waterfronts. With world-class beaches and fresh seafood, it’s a perfect spot for outdoor enthusiasts and food lovers alike.

Late Spring to Early Fall
Explore Town
Pointe-du-Chêne, New Brunswick
⌖ 5.62 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Pointe-du-Chêne, New Brunswick

Pointe-du-Chêne is a coastal village in New Brunswick where kayaking, hiking, and birdwatching come alive along the iconic Bay of Fundy. Offering tidal adventures, quiet beaches, and fresh seafood, it’s an inviting outdoor destination from late spring to early fall.

Late Spring to Early Fall
Explore Town
Beaubassin-est, New Brunswick
⌖ 5.67 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Beaubassin-est, New Brunswick

Beaubassin-est, New Brunswick, invites paddlers, birdwatchers, and hikers to its peaceful tidal marshes and quiet trails. Experience coastal wilderness, lush estuaries, and cultural heritage on land and water.

Late Spring to Early Fall
Explore Town
Beaubassin East, New Brunswick
⌖ 5.67 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Beaubassin East, New Brunswick

Beaubassin East, New Brunswick blends coastal charm and quiet wilderness perfect for kayaking, bird watching, fishing, and gentle hikes. Its tidal estuaries and marshlands create a calm retreat for outdoor lovers seeking peaceful nature adventures.

Late Spring to Early Fall
Explore Town
Dieppe, New Brunswick
⌖ 8.67 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Dieppe, New Brunswick

Dieppe offers easy access to river trails, paddling on the Petitcodiac River, and gentle biking routes. Its year-round outdoor options include winter skiing and bird watching, making it a great quiet base near New Brunswick’s scenic waterways.

Late Spring to Early Fall; Winter for snow activities
Explore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Parlee Beach Provincial Park

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.

One Hour of Pure Throttle: Jetski Rush from Pointe-du-Chêne
ADVEXPEDITION
Pointe-du-Chêne, New Brunswick
Jet Ski RentalADV Bookable

One Hour of Pure Throttle: Jetski Rush from Pointe-du-Chêne

A one-hour jetski rental that puts beginners and thrill-seekers on premium Sea‑Doos to glide across the waves—this guide explains what to expect, what to bring, and who fits the ride.

Jet Ski RentalPT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Llamas on the Shore: A Short 1‑km Beach Walk at Petit Cap
ADVEXPEDITION
Beaubassin-est, New Brunswick
Walking TourADV Bookable

Llamas on the Shore: A Short 1‑km Beach Walk at Petit Cap

A gentle, 45‑minute guided 1 km stroll on Petit Cap Beach that pairs easy seaside walking with up‑close encounters and photo time with llamas and alpacas.

Walking TourPT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip