Moncton 
New Brunswick is home to the only beach in Atlantic Canada recognized with a prestigious Blue Flag award, which signifies its high environmental, safety, and cleanliness standards.
Matthew Hewitson/Tourism New Brunswick
The Blue Flag is a global certification for beaches and marinas that meet rigorous standards, including excellent water quality and environmental management. This certification is assessed by the Toronto-based environmental protection organization Swim, Drink, Fish, under the guidance of the Foundation for Environmental Education in Copenhagen, Denmark.
To receive a Blue Flag, beaches must pass rigorous environmental assessments, including tests for Escherichia coli and intestinal enterococci levels. Additionally, these areas are required to maintain high standards of cleanliness and upkeep in their surrounding environments, including pathways and parking areas. For marinas, the criteria extend to include sustainable water and waste management practices.
In 2025, Blue Flag certification was awarded to 25 locations in Canada, including Parlee Beach and Shediac Bay Yacht Club Marina in New Brunswick. This achievement highlights the province’s commitment to maintaining excellent recreational spots with high environmental and safety standards.
Parlee Beach, located along the warm waters of the Northumberland Strait, offers more than just pristine sands and water. It’s a haven for beach sports enthusiasts and hosts an annual sand sculpture competition. Furthermore, the park offers a range of food options, notably the Euston Park Social, renowned for its lobster rolls.
For those interested in camping, Parlee Beach Provincial Park offers over 200 sites with accommodations for RVs and motorhomes. However, camping directly on the beach is discouraged due to the tides. The park also boasts a 2.5-kilometre boardwalk trail through local salt marshes.
Credit: Tourism New Brunswick
Parlee Beach has enhanced its accessibility by installing rubber mats to facilitate water access for individuals with mobility challenges.
Also awarded the Blue Flag, Shediac Bay Yacht Club Marina can accommodate up to 175 boats and offers various amenities, including sailing classes and organized social events. It operates seasonally from Victoria Day until early October.
😂😂 Northumberland 🚽💩
I wouldn’t let my dog swim in the water at Parlee Beach. Just look up how the beach has been shut down for several years due to bacteria.