Kingsport Beach on the Minas Basin

Just a few steps from the front door of our vacation rental house

A minute's walk from the house takes you to Kingsport Beach on the Minas Basin, a natural wonder. Here are the highest tides in the world. At low tide, you can walk for miles on the "ocean's bottom" along the edges of majestic red sandstone cliffs. Iconic Cape Blomidon dominates the view to the north. Erosion of wind and waves creates sculptural sandstone inspiration.

As the tide leisurely flows in (twice a day), you can stand and witness the water creeping its way inch-by footstep inch, closer to the shore. When the tide has come in over sun-warmed sand, the water is naturally warmed, making it lovely for swimming. These, a marvel for any child - or inner child.

The tide rises and falls 40 to 50 vertical feet every day and scientists have measured Nova Scotia bending under the wieght of the water entering and leaving the Minas Basin.

There is a wharf and a boat launch on the beach edge, as well as a summertime canteen where one can purchase ice cream and other goodies.

The basin is summer feeding ground for migratory shore birds and a nesting area for the "great American bald eagle".

Cape Blomidon in the distance