Visitors are welcome from June to October, with day visits only, and no specific hours are listed. The island is closed to visitors outside these months.[/s]
Admission is free for youth 17 and under. Adult and senior fees apply, but specific rates are not listed; contact Parks Canada for details. Family/group rates cover up to seven people in a single vehicle.
By Air: Chartered flights depart Halifax private airstrip; subject to weather delays. By Boat: Rare, rough-sea crossings not recommended for tourists. Guided Tours: Specialist operators provide flight-and-boat combo tours with expert guides.
There are no parking options at Sable Island National Park Reserve. No infrastructure for parking exists, and vehicles are not permitted on the island except under strict regulations for authorized uses.
Accessibility & permits
Emergency
- Cell service availability:None
Located 300 km off the coast of Nova Scotia, Sable Island National Park Reserve is a remote and captivating destination known for its wild horses, shifting sand dunes, and untouched beauty. Famous as the “Graveyard of the Atlantic,” the island is home to hundreds of shipwrecks, which speak to its storied maritime past. Guided tours offer the chance to encounter the island’s iconic wild horses and observe seals basking along the shoreline. The island’s sparse vegetation supports a unique ecosystem, with sightings of Ipswich sparrows and grey seals being highlights for nature enthusiasts. Accessible only by chartered flights or boat tours, accommodations are not available on the island itself, but nearby Halifax offers plenty of lodging options for a comfortable stay.
- Area (km²)
- 20.92
- Annual visitors
- 806
- Established year
- 2013
Top 3 Facts about Sable Island National Park Reserve
This island, formed from a terminal moraine at the end of the last Ice Age, is slowly moving due to wave erosion on its western shore and new sand addition on its eastern shore, changing shape under the influence of strong winds and violent ocean storms, with a maximum elevation of about 30 meters.
Sable Island has earned the nickname “Graveyard of the Atlantic” due to the hundreds of shipwrecks scattered along its shores.
Despite its small size, Sable Island is an important stopover for migratory birds, with over 350 species recorded.
Family programs
- Junior Ranger
- Ranger-led Tours
- Self-guided Tours
- Workshops & Hands-on Activities
- Scavenger Hunts
- Virtual Junior Activities
Travel Tips
Plan Ahead
Secure Parks Canada permits and charter bookings well in advance; plan for no on-island services.
Pack Appropriately
Pack layers, rain gear, sturdy footwear for sand and dunes, sun protection, insect repellent, water, and snacks.
Respect Wildlife
Observe wildlife from a distance, never feed animals, and adhere to all park regulations.
Stay Informed
Check the Parks Canada website for alerts, permit requirements, weather updates, and tour operator notices.
Seasons
April – June: wildflowers bloom, migratory birds return, and foals are born—prime for wildlife photography.
June – August: warmer temperatures, long daylight hours, beach hiking, birdwatching, and guided nature walks.
September – November: cooler weather, deserted beaches, fall foliage, bird migrations, and storm watching.
December – March: harsh conditions with snow and wind; solitude, ice formations, and seal sightings; access often restricted.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what Sable Island National Park Reserve has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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To visit Sable Island, you should stay in Halifax, the capital city of Nova Scotia, as it offers a wide range of accommodations and is the main departure point for chartered flights to the island. Dartmouth, just across the harbor from Halifax, is another option for lodging.
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The best hiking trail for kids is the Barrington Bay Trail, which offers a diverse and educational hike through windswept beaches, freshwater ponds, and historical sites, with opportunities to see grey seals and seabirds. This trail is relatively accessible and provides a blend of adventure and learning. However, note that there are no marked walking paths on the island, so adult supervision is necessary.
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Pets are not allowed. Visitors must leave their dogs and other pets behind. This rule applies to all types of pets.
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You cannot park an RV, camper, motorhome, or any other type of camper van or trailer at Sable Island. Camping is not permitted, and overnight accommodations are extremely limited and usually only available for staff or special circumstances.
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Hike through the expansive sand dunes, including a climb to the top of Bald Dune for a 360-degree view of the Atlantic. Observe the world’s largest grey seal colony and spot wild horses that inhabit the island. Explore the island’s history and unique bird species, and take part in a guided tour led by experienced guides who provide photography insights.