Tides are one of the world’s most remarkable natural phenomena, attracting visitors from all over the world. Tides are a result of the unique geography and topography of an area, making it a complex and fascinating system to observe and experience. When travelling to Gaspésie, you’ll most likely visit Gaspé and therefore have to figure out the various Gaspé tides.
How Do the Gaspé Tides Work?
The Gaspé tides are formed by a combination of factors, such as the gravitational pull of the moon and the rotation of the Earth.
The tides in this region can range from 1-3 metres in height, creating a stark contrast between low and high tide. The high tides, which occur twice a day, bring a surge of seawater into the bay, creating a powerful and mesmerizing sight. Visitors can witness this spectacle from the many viewing points along the coast or even take a boat tour to see the tides up close.
The Gaspé tides have a significant impact on the lives of both visitors and residents in the area. For residents, the tides are essential to their way of life as they rely on the bay for fishing and harvesting seafood. The tide schedule also dictates the day-to-day activities of the area, such as when boats can leave or enter the bay and when seafood can be harvested.
Visitors are also affected by the tides, as they can make for challenging and exciting activities, such as kayaking and windsurfing. Many tourists also come to the Gaspé Peninsula specifically to witness the tides and experience the unique natural sights.
The tides also offer an excellent opportunity for wildlife spotting, as many species of birds and marine life can be seen during the high tide.
Schedule of Gaspé Tides
Tides happen twice a day. Here is an example of what a week looks like. You can research tides for your trip using this reliable tide checker.
Low Tide
Apr 20 6:41 am 0.2 m 7:19 pm 0.1 m
Apr 21 7:31 am 0.1 m 7:47 pm 0.1 m
Apr 22 8:18 am 0.0 m 8:13 pm 0.1 m
Apr 23 9:03 am -0.0 m 8:38 pm 0.1 m
Apr 24 9:44 am -0.1m 9:04 pm 0.1 m
Apr 25 10:26 am -0.1 m 9:29 pm 0.1 m
Apr 26 11:08 am -0.1 m 9:53 pm 0.2 m
Apr 27 11:49 am -0.0 m 10:19 pm 0.2 m
High Tide
Apr 20 12:30 am 0.7 m 12:45 pm 0.9 m
Apr 21 1:06 am 0.8 m 1:30 pm 0.9m
Apr 22 1:41 am 0.9 m 2:11 pm 0.8m
Apr 23 2:15 am 1.0 m 2:49 pm 0.8m
Apr 24 2:48 am 1.1 m 3:26 pm 0.7m
Apr 25 3:20 am 1.2 m 3:59 pm 0.6m
Apr 26 3:53 am 1.2 m 4:32 pm 0.6m
Apr 27 4:29 am 1.2 m 5:04 pm 0.5m
Local Tips to Get the Most Out of Your Trip
To fully appreciate and experience the Gaspé tides, I encourage visitors to consider the following.
1. Plan Your Visit Around the Tides – The best time to see the Gaspé Tides is during high tide, which typically occurs within 2 hours of the moon’s highest point in the sky. It is important to check the tide schedule before your visit to ensure you don’t miss both sides of this natural wonder.
2. Choose the Right Location – The most popular spot to see the Gaspé Tides is at the Percé Rock, a massive natural arch only accessible during low tide. However, other locations and hiking trails along the Gaspé Bay offer equally stunning views, such as Bonaventure Island and Forillon National Park. Locals often recommend exploring different viewpoints to get a different perspective on the tides.
3. Take a Boat Tour – For a more up-close experience, consider taking a boat tour during high tide. This will allow you to witness the tides from a different vantage point and learn more about the area’s history and geology from knowledgeable guides.
Stay Safe
Here are a few things to keep in mind to stay safe when visiting Gaspé:
- Check the tide schedule before visiting and plan accordingly
- Be aware of the changing tide conditions and always stay alert
- Stay on designated pathways and do not venture onto the tidal flats
- Wear appropriate clothing and footwear for walking on uneven surfaces
- Do not swim or wade in the tide, as strong currents and shifting sands can be dangerous
- Keep a safe distance from cliffs
- Do not climb on or touch any wildlife, especially birds nesting on the cliffs
- Respect all posted signs and warnings
Overall, the best way to experience the Gaspé tides is to plan ahead and choose the right locations. By following these tips, you can witness this natural wonder in all its glory and gain a deeper appreciation for the beauty and power of the tides.
Here are some other articles related to the area for you to enjoy:
- 5 Best Lakes in Quebec, Canada to Visit Now
- 5 Best Quebec Fishing Resorts
- Top 6 Gaspé Snowmobile Trails
- Whale Watching in Tadoussac – Complete Travel Guide and FAQ
- Best Quebec Snowmobile Resorts
- Best Quebec Road Trips
- Whale Nation: Each of Them a Lesson, Each of Them a Wonder
What to Do in Gaspésie region and How to Organize Your Trip
Curious about how to spend your day in the Gaspésie region? Here’s a list of the top activities to consider adding to your plans:
- Explore Gaspe’s famous scenery, visit Bonaventure Island to see nesting sea birds and Rocher Percé on a 3-day tour.
- Visit Gaspésie National Park on your own during a snowshoeing trip.
- Go on a guided safari with whale watching by zodiac from Gaspé.
- Discover canyoning in the heart of the Gaspé Peninsula near Forillon and Gaspé National Parks.
- Live a unique experience by sleeping in domes located near the Percé UNESCO Geopark or stay in a cute chalet in Gaspe.
- Enjoy a stay in a hotel near a golf course and with an ocean view at Hotel Baker or in a charming B&B under the trees.
Preparing For Your Trip
When I look for things to do in my destination, I always have a look at Viator, GetYourGuide, Manawa, Civitatis and sometimes even Expedia.
It’s first off a great way to find out what there is to do, but always a quick and easy method to book cheaply and efficiently with these renowned platforms.
Need a place to sleep? I find most of my accommodations on Booking.com but I also use Hotels.com for their rewards program (11th free night) as well as Expedia. When booking smaller places in Quebec, you might not find them here and need to contact them directly.
Looking for a cheap flight to the Outaouais through Montreal? Have a look on Cheapoair or Skyscanner I use regularly.
Once you’re there, rent a car to roam free with DiscoverCars, AutoEurope or RentalCars or hop on a bus around Gatineau, Montreal, Quebec, and surrounding cities with Busbud.
Wanna save this article for later? Pin it to your Pinterest board!
No Comments