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Pleasant Bay

Story by: Team Destination Cape Breton

Welcome to Pleasant Bay, a small fishing village nestled along the rugged shores of the Cabot Trail. Steeped in history and surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty, this charming community offers visitors a glimpse into the authentic maritime way of life. As you explore Pleasant Bay, you’ll be captivated by its rich heritage, ideal location and warm hospitality.

Natural history…Naturally!

Natural history buffs will delight in learning about the fascinating past of this coastal gem.  While this area was originally settled by the Mi’kmaq, Scottish immigrants arrived in the 1800s, Pleasant Bay has a long-standing tradition of fishing and maritime commerce. Stroll through the village and you’ll find quaint cottages, a Buddhist monastery and even a whale interpretive centre

Pleasant Bay 1

A Whale of a Time

Let’s not forget about one of Pleasant Bay’s most enchanting attractions – whale watching! Venture out onto the pristine waters of the Gulf of St. Lawrence on the Atlantic Ocean and prepare to be amazed as you encounter these majestic creatures in their natural habitat. From humpback whales to minke whales and everything in between, the waters around Pleasant Bay are teeming with marine life waiting to be discovered. So pack your camera and binoculars, and get ready for an unforgettable wildlife adventure.

Pleasant Bay

Gateway to Outdoor Adventure

Situated along the world-famous Cabot Trail and nestled between the borders of the stunning Cape Breton Highlands National Park, this area boasts so many opportunities for hiking, wildlife viewing, and scenic drives. Lace up your hiking boots and tackle one of the many trails. We love trails like MacIntosh Brook, the Lone Sheiling and Fishing Cove. All these great hikes are found on the Cabot Trail’s winding roads.

MacIntosh Brook Trail 2
Pleasant Bay 2
Team Destination Cape Breton 3

Team Destination Cape Breton

Our team at Destination Cape Breton is always exploring our beautiful Island. We love discovering our hidden gems, working with partners, and putting our Island on the pedestal it deserves!