If spending time by the sea is your idea of a perfect vacation, then the maritime regions of Québec are the destination for you! In addition to spectacular landscapes, these regions offer visitors an ideal combination of water, fresh air and seafood, all of which are so good for you!

Benefits that have been enjoyed for a long time

The elites of the 19th-century got it right when they chose Kamouraska as one of their vacation destinations. Some even consider this village in Bas-Saint-Laurent Canada’s first resort destination. For over a century, vacationers have flocked to the sea in the Kamouraska area and elsewhere in the maritime regions of Québec to enjoy the invigorating influence of the St. Lawrence. Quebecers themselves are no exception: it’s estimated that 60% of the province’s inhabitants take advantage of this majestic waterway to enjoy sports fishing, swimming and a host of other water activities. Whether it’s a river, estuary or gulf, in the maritime regions of Québec, the immensity and benefits of the St. Lawrence are very real! So what are they, exactly?

A relaxing maritime atmosphere

First, let’s talk about the atmosphere. The sound of lapping waves has a very soothing effect that’s likely to bring about a pleasant meditative state in those who are receptive to such things. Fans of slow travel—a movement that encourages travellers to take in their surroundings at a relaxed pace—will undoubtedly agree: spending time with all your senses awakened watching the hypnotic dance of the waves crashing along the coast (which is sometimes dotted with lighthouses) is a great opportunity to soak up the essence of our regions. Each wave will remind you of the rich maritime history found here…

Fresh and salty sea air

And what about the fresh sea air? At sea level, the atmospheric pressure facilitates the absorption of negative ions, which has many health benefits. The higher the level of these ions, the more invigorating the air will feel. Breathing in the salty spray created by offshore winds allows your body to better absorb oxygen and can even lower your heart rate. This combination of good ions and fresh air can also lower stress and boost your mood, energy and even sleep quality. Imagine the benefits of a stay by the sea in Québec, all the more so if you choose to sleep by the water! Between the sound of the whales and the waves, you can expect to experience profound serenity and well-being in our regions!

Saltwater bathing

Thanks to the mineral salts and trace elements found in seawater, swimming is a real source of energy and vitality, while also helping the body function properly. Seawater has numerous benefits for the skin, improving hydration and promoting healing. The many beaches in Eastern Québec will give you lots of opportunities to experience the benefits of a saltwater bath! And there’s no need to be concerned about water temperatures in Québec: in the summer, the water can be very pleasant, especially in the Îles de la Madeleine where it can reach temperatures over 20°C (68°F) in the Islands’ bays and lagoons. Those who want to spend more time in (or on) the water can try some of various water activities on offer, including sea kayaking, stand-up paddle boarding (SUP), fishing, scuba diving, snorkelling and exploring the caves of the archipelago in a wetsuit.

Delicious bounty of the sea

As you may have guessed, the benefits of the sea extend to your plate! The maritime regions of Québec offer your taste buds lots of fresh fish and seafood to discover. This sea bounty is rich in protein, vitamins, minerals and iodine, a trace element that’s essential for human health. Lobster, the star of our regions, also happens to be one of the least fatty seafoods available!

Come and experience all these benefits for yourself during a stay in the maritime regions of Québec! And since the positive effects of the sea can be felt up to 50 km (30 mi.) inland, don’t limit yourself to the shores of Bas-Saint-Laurent, Gaspésie, Côte-Nord and the Îles de la Madeleine. As you’ll discover, our forests, mountains and plains offer lots of benefits of their own!