This history-steeped city serves up access to whales, beaches, and wild adventure.
Set in a bay of the St. Lawrence River, Baie-Comeau has two urban centers, with part of the population living in Hauterive. This city has all the amenities youâd expect and is set on Quebecâs Whale Route, offering superior opportunities to view the worldâs largest mammals from both land and sea. Baie-Comeau highlights include the highly photogenic red-and-white striped Pointe-des-Monts Lighthouse and a neat interactive exhibit explaining the areaâs glacial geography. Head outside of town for diverse nature trails and more scenic waterfronts.
So many whales visit the warm waters of the St. Lawrence in summer that it is possible to spot them from the shore of this park, though going out on a guided cruise will give you the best chance of encountering blue whales, belugas, fin whales, and humpbacks. Hiking trails run through the terrestrial sections of the park, a perfect spot for fishing and sea kayaking.
Located on a sandspit, this park covers nine ecosystems (including boreal forest, peat bog, alder forest, salt marsh, and sand flats), supporting an incredibly diverse range of wildlife that includes 255 bird species. The park offers camping (for tents and RVs, plus a range of cabins and âbirdhousesâ for sleeping in the trees), as well as stargazing, beaches, and hiking.
This reconstructed historic village and museum tell the stories of the early settlers and lumberjacks who once lived in the area. Hit the hiking trails around the village and the bakery nearby.
Travel 25 minutes north (sometimes on gravel roads, so be careful if you have a rental car) to find this secluded and peaceful hike out to tumbling waterfalls.
Baie-Comeau doesnât fully shut down in winter, but some attractions may only be open in the main tourist season from mid-May to October. This is also prime time to visit because itâs when youâre most likely to see whales in the St. Lawrence. The city boasts a full schedule of festivals and events throughout summer, and you can expect ski hills and winter activities in the snowy season.