Bordered by 1250 km (775 mi.) of coastline, Côte-Nord is a true paradise for sea lovers. Whether you want to go swimming, go for a stroll or simply enjoy the tranquility and fresh sea air, the region is full of beautiful beaches just waiting to be explored. Here are seven you won’t want to miss!

1. Tadoussac Beach

Famous for its whale-watching cruises and picture-perfect scenery, Tadoussac offers a spectacular setting from the moment you arrive in Côte-Nord. The beach and the boardwalk that runs alongside it will provide you with breathtaking views of one of the most beautiful bays in the world. Go for a walk all the way to Pointe de l’Islet and you may even spot a few marine mammals!

2. Pointe-des-Fortin Beach

This beach is located at the mouth of the Portneuf River in Portneuf-sur-Mer. Be sure to walk to the nearby lookout, where you can soak up the beauty of this area and observe the Portneuf sandbar, a natural site that changes with the tides.

3. Pointe-aux-Outardes Beach

This beach is one of nine ecosystems found in Parc Nature de Pointe-aux-Outardes, near Baie-Comeau. Full of beach treasures, it’s the perfect place to end your exploration of the nature park’s trails. Among the seashells that have washed up along the shore, you may spot pieces of pottery, which originated from the old houses on the point and various ships that were wrecked in this area.

4. Pointe-aux-Anglais Beach

This beach seems endless for good reason: it’s the longest beach in Côte-Nord, stretching along the water for 11 km (7 mi.)! Accessible directly from Route 138 about half an hour before you reach the centre of Port-Cartier, this spot offers beach and sea as far as the eye can see. Soak up this scenery of sand and water as you bask in the tranquility of this area.

5. Grande Basque Island beaches

The Sept-Îles area offers a multitude of beaches to choose from. For an unusual adventure, set off to explore Grande Basque Island, in the Sept Îles Archipelago, which offers trails and quiet coves that are little corners of paradise. It’s a sure bet that you’ll imagine yourself as a modern-day Robinson Crusoe!

6. Aguanish Beach

One of the region’s hidden gems, this magnificent and peaceful sandy beach stretches out between the Aguanish River and the sea. It’s an ideal place to go for a swim or stroll!

7. Natashquan Beach

Natashquan offers a 7-km (4.5-mi.) beach that provides a breathtaking backdrop for contemplation. You can walk along the beach to the Les Galets heritage site, one of the area’s most famous attractions, where you can soak up the spirit and history of this enchanting place.

The Côte-Nord region boasts numerous beaches that are hidden gems. It’s up to you to find your own sandy spot along the sea as you enjoy a road trip along Route 138. Happy trails!