Top 8 things to do in Bathurst | Summer 2021

Located at the estuary of the Nepisiguit River in northern New Brunswick, Bathurst is the vibrant hub of the Chaleur region. Whether you're in Bathurst for the beach, the golf or the beer: you'll have plenty of great things to do while you're here!

Here are 8 of our favourite things to do in Bathurst this summer!

1) Visit a micro-brewery 

Beer lovers rejoice! You'll find no shortage of amazing microbrews in Bathurst thanks to the 26 fully-stocked taps at AU BOOTLEGGER and its burgeoning brewery scene.

Within walking distance of each other, you'll find two local breweries: FOUR RIVERS BREWING and 13 BARRELS BREWERY.

[Four Rivers Brewing Co.]

FOUR RIVERS BREWING, named after the rivers that flow into the Bathurst harbour, is a family-owned and operated 15-barrel brewery that produces award-winning American style Ales. You'll find flights of beer, a cozy tasting room, guided tours and plenty of live bands throughout the season!

[13 Barrels Brewing]

13 BARRELS BREWERY, named after the local prohibition-driven 13-barrel alcohol "heist" of 1920, overlooks the Bathurst harbour. Head brewer Benjamin Doucet creates high quality and unique brews -- best sampled in their large tasting room on the waterfront.

2) Go Kayak Fishing 

[Bass Attack Fishing]

If you're looking for the kind of experience that's action-packed AND nautical, this is it. Bass Attack Fishing will take care of preparing everything for your adventure: fishing kayak, saltwater rod & lures, snacks and a guide. They even offer fillet service! A typical trip is around 4-5 hours. Be sure to book ahead!

3) Eat a fresh lobster from McLean's Fish Shop 

[McLean’s Fish Shop]

When it comes to lobster, the local consensus is: eat it fresh. If you're in Bathurst, those same locals are very likely to recommend going to McLean's Fish Shop. Located at 624 Garden St, McLean's will take good care of all your lobster-devouring needs. If you're doing a feast, get their freshest catch of live lobster. If you're indulging, maybe go for a bag of claws and some garlic butter. Either way: make sure we're invited.

4) Play some Golf 

It's not every day you get to play on a world-class golf course.

Unless you're in Bathurst. 

Officially opened in 1958 as a nine-hole venue, and expanded to 18 holes of play in 1962, Gowan Brae Golf & Country Club was designed by one of the top golf course architects in Canada at the time: Mr. C.E. (Robbie) Robinson. With views of the beautiful windy shores of Bathurst Harbour, it sports what many consider to be two of the toughest holes in Canada. Challenging and breathtaking. 

After you’ve had an enjoyable day on the links, it’s time to fuel up! Pub58 is Gowan Brae’s very own restaurant and bar, and it comes with a view! Overlooking the 18th hole, Pub58 boasts classic maritime fare (did someone say Lobster Rolls??) and cold drinks, aiming to satisfy your post-game hunger!

Are you itching to get out on the course, but the forecast says rain? Gowan Brae has a solution! Inside the clubhouse (where it’s warm and dry) there are two Indoor Trackman golf simulators! Times are booked by the hour (max 2 person per booking), and can be booked by phone or online (don’t forget your clubs!)  

[Gowan Brae Golf and Country Club]

Across the harbour, and only a short drive away, you'll find one of Atlantic Canada's most beautiful and enjoyable 9 hole golf courses: the Squire Green Golf Club.

Professionally designed by Ward Northup and Associates of Delray Beach, Florida, Squire Green stretches up to a majestic 3421 Yards from the back tees. Squire Green is also a residential community with luxury condos and exceptional housing developments.

Feeling thirsty after completing your first round? Stop by Squire Green’s bar and patio overlooking the 9th hole! The bar was handcrafted by local artisans back in 2017, and is a great place to grab a drink before or after your tee time!

[Squire Green Golf Club]

If the green is calling, you'll find the answers at Gowan Brae Golf & Country Club and Squire Green Golf & Country Club in the Chaleur Region. Be sure to pack your clubs with you! 

5) Beach day 

[Youghall Beach]

Here's what you do: you get a good book, turn off all electronics and pack the beach bag full of snacks and water. Then head to Youghall Beach. Keep a copy of our guide with you at all times to know the tide schedule and spend a day at the beach with your friends or the kids...or both!

6) Explore Daly Point Nature Reserve 

[Daly Point Nature Reserve]

Do you love to explore our natural world? Daly Point provides the wonders and diversity of protected forests, salt marshes, and beaches right at your feet. The extensive trail system passes through 100 acres of pristine Acadian Forest and leads to various parts of the shoreline. Pack a picnic lunch, and head to Daly Point for an afternoon adventure!

7) Eat a Danny Burger 

[Big D]

New Brunswick's last drive-in restaurant -- Big D -- is in Bathurst, and its famous Danny Burger is calling your name. Here, you'll find all the things you expect from a classic drive-in restaurant: onion rings, milkshakes, soft-serve ice cream and more. The legendary Danny Burger is worth the stop, even if you're only in the area for a few hours.

8) La Promenade Waterfront 

[La Promenade Waterfront]

There is a real gem in Downtown Bathurst-- La Promenade Waterfront! A boardwalk nestled up against the Bathurst Basin, lined with shops, eateries, and a boat launch not far away (so don’t forget your kayak or paddle board!)

1. R&J Bakery

R&J offers traditional French baked goods, such as croissants, brioche, baguettes and more! Make sure to get there early; there's nothing like it in town!

2. ChalBaie Artisans Boutique

ChalBaie offers beautiful local hand-crafted jewelry, accessories, decor, and much more! Need something for someone special? ChalBaie is a great start!

3. Baybreeze Gallery

The store with the yellow door! BayBreeze Gallery has a beautiful display of artwork from local artists. Come in and see what talent lies in the Bathurst region (and maybe leave with a new piece for your art collection)!

4. Monty's Pretzelria

Monty's is a Bathurst staple. They sell a variety of freshly made soft pretzels, mouth-watering pizza, and pretzel dogs (a hot dog wrapped in a pretzel)! Whether you’re looking for sweet or savoury, Monty’s has what you need.

5. Frostbites Ice Cream

Your classic ice cream shop, right on the boardwalk! Enjoy an ice cream, milkshake, parfait, and more outside overlooking the water. 

6. Out of the Closet Boutique

Are you feeling thrifty? Out of the Closet Boutique is a ladies consignment shop, and can make your fashion dreams come true (without breaking the bank). 

Before you go, check out Main Street for great shops, cafés and restaurants:  

Andrea's Confectionery

Artisan chocolates and a candy store! At Andrea’s, you can find nostalgic favourites and something new!

Lucia's Cuisine

Homemade Filipino Cuisine. Lucia serves up fresh homestyle meals from the Philippines and does it with a smile! PS: try the battered shrimp ;)

Classic Burger

Located in the Best Western hotel, Classic Burger is known for, well, their awesome burgers! You can find the classics, as well as something a bit dressed up.

Kaffeine Espresso Bar

You can find the best espresso drinks, local handmade goods and baked treats at Kaffeine! They also do brunch baskets!

Catherine & Company

Another local favourite, Catherine & Company is a gift shop, but it's much more than that! You can find items for every room in the house, every occasion, and even ladies clothing!

Captain's Cabin

How many good quality men's clothing stores can you find nowadays? Captain's Cabin has got you covered! Finely tailored suits, casual wear, clothing for every season (and exceptional service). Although they have mostly menswear, there is an excellent ladies section as well!

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Of course, part of the beauty of the Chaleur region is the close proximity between each town and city. If you're looking for activities within a short distance from Bathurst, you may want to take a look at our other Summer 2021 suggestions:

• Top 6 things to do in Belledune | Summer 2021
• Top 9 things to do in Pointe-Verte-Nigadoo | Summer 2021
• Top 6 things to do in Petit-Rocher | Summer 2021
• Top 6 things to do in Beresford | Summer 2021
• Top 5 things to do in the Chaleur Local Service Districts | Summer 2021

We'll see you this summer in the Chaleur region!