Côte-Nord is a vast, untamed land shaped by nature and its people. From whales and lighthouses to coastal villages and endless scenic roads, every stop reveals a different side of the region.
These are the must-see experiences, places and moments that capture the true spirit of Côte-Nord.
Whale watching and cruises
Take the time to discover Côte-Nord's remarkable marine wildlife. Whales, seals and seabirds can often be spotted from the shoreline or out on the water. To experience the giants of the St. Lawrence up close, choose the adventure that suits you best: paddle alongside an experienced guide in a sea kayak, enjoy the thrill of a zodiac excursion, or relax aboard a comfortable cruise boat. Just keep your eyes on the horizon—you never know what you'll see next.
Mingan Archipelago
Made up of around twenty islands and a hundred islets, this archipelago is home to the largest concentration of sea- and wind-sculpted monoliths in Canada. A haven for birds, including the famous Atlantic puffin, as well as Arctic plants and marine mammals, the Mingan Archipelago National Park Reserve offers a truly unique immersion in nature and a complete change of scenery
Beaches and coastline
With its long sandy beaches and seemingly endless coastline, Côte-Nord offers unparalleled access to the St. Lawrence River. It's the perfect place to walk barefoot, relax by the water, enjoy the fresh sea air—and even go for a swim. Local tip: the water is often warmer when the tide is coming in after the sun has heated the sand, making for a more comfortable swimming experience.
Tadoussac and the Saguenay Fjord
Discover one of Québec's most iconic destinations, where the Saguenay Fjord meets the St. Lawrence River. Known for its spectacular scenery, rich history and exceptional marine life, Tadoussac is the gateway to unforgettable experiences. Explore the breathtaking fjord, watch whales from shore or at sea, hike scenic trails, visit charming heritage sites, and enjoy one of the best places in North America to experience nature, culture and adventure—all in the heart of Côte-Nord.
Indigenous culture
Discover the rich cultures of the Innu and Naskapi peoples through nine Innu communities and the Naskapi community of Kawawachikamach. Visit Vacances Essipit, Tourisme Pessamit, the Shaputuan Museum, the Atikuss Economuseum, and the Innu Culture House in Ekuanitshit, or experience the vibrant Innu Nikamu Festival. These authentic experiences offer a meaningful opportunity to learn about Indigenous traditions, history, craftsmanship and the deep connection between the First Nations and the land of Côte-Nord.
The Whale Route
Follow the legendary Route 138 to its very end and discover Côte-Nord along the way. Stretching across seven regions of Québec, nearly half of Route 138—about 850 km—runs along Côte-Nord's spectacular coastline, where it is known as the Whale Route. Along the journey, you'll pass through 36 municipalities and Innu communities, each offering breathtaking scenery, outdoor adventures, local flavours and warm hospitality. Complete your road trip with a photo at the iconic End of Route 138 sign in Kegaska, the eastern gateway to this unforgettable coastal adventure.
Anticosti Island
The largest island in Québec and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Anticosti Island is a destination unlike any other. Renowned for its extraordinary geology, rich history and abundant wildlife, it is home to one of the world's highest populations of white-tailed deer. A paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, Anticosti offers unforgettable experiences in hiking, wildlife watching, hunting and Atlantic salmon fishing, all in the heart of an unspoiled natural environment.
The Lower North Shore
Made up of a string of coastal communities accessible primarily by boat or plane, the Lower North Shore offers an authentic journey through a wild and maritime landscape. Its spectacular scenery, the warm hospitality of the Coasters, and their close connection to the sea create a truly unique destination waiting to be explored.
Expedition 51
Expédition 51 is a unique road trip connecting the Côte-Nord and Labrador along approximately 1,700 km of scenic roads, remote communities, northern landscapes and authentic local culture. On the Côte-Nord portion of the route, you’ll pass near Hydro-Québec’s massive hydroelectric dams, travel through the Manicouagan-Uapishka Biosphere Region, and have the opportunity to visit Fermont’s famous Wall.
Snowmobiling kilometres
The Côte-Nord offers an exceptional playground for snowmobile enthusiasts, with hundreds of kilometres of trails winding through boreal forests and northern landscapes along the St. Lawrence River. Thanks to abundant snowfall from December to April, the region attracts adventure seekers every winter in search of wide-open spaces and unforgettable experiences. The trail network connects several communities, including Baie-Comeau, Sept-Îles and Havre-Saint-Pierre, combining pristine wilderness with opportunities to discover local communities.
