Your End-of-Summer Escape: 5 Things to Do in Tadoussac

September is here, but if you’re like us, you’re still looking for every possible excuse to stretch out summer a little longer! The good news: the sun is still shining, and it’s the perfect time for one last getaway to play tourist in our own province.

Our favourite destination this time of year? Tadoussac! This little village of just 800 residents has more charm than many big cities (in our humble opinion 😉). No wonder it’s ranked among the most beautiful villages in Québec and part of the world’s most beautiful bays! Visiting in the fall offers a more peaceful atmosphere, away from the summer crowds.

Here are 5 must-do activities to enjoy this magical place!

Race Down the Sand Dunes

Just east of Tadoussac lies an unexpected sight: vast golden dunes stretching for more than two kilometres!

Though they look like wind-sculpted desert dunes, these are actually ancient marine terraces formed some 10,000 years ago as glaciers retreated, leaving behind sandy deposits.

Fun fact: in the 1940s, locals decided to take advantage of the landscape, and sand skiing was born! Back then, visitors would flock here in summer to ski straight down the dunes. Unfortunately for thrill-seekers among us, the sport fizzled out in the 1980s.

To reach the dunes, spot Tadoussac’s church, then take Route des Pionniers right beside it. From there, it’s your choice: admire the view from the top, or dash down on foot. Yes, your shoes will probably be filled with sand, and the climb back up may be tougher than it looks… but trust us, it’s well worth it! 😉

Visit the Marine Mammal Interpretation Centre

After the dunes, time for a bit of learning! Head to the Marine Mammal Interpretation Centre, a Tadoussac staple that plunges you into the fascinating world of whales.

Highlights include standing next to a 13-meter sperm whale, marveling at the baleen plates of Piper the legendary right whale, touching a narwhal tusk (also known as the unicorn of the sea), and listening to haunting whale songs. The museum also houses the largest collection of whale skeletons in Canada—prepare for plenty of wide-eyed moments! 😲

Extend the visit with a stroll through the Jardin de la Grève, home to nearly 50,000 perennials adapted to the North Shore’s maritime climate. Also, don’t miss the five life-size beluga sculptures that look ready to slip back into the St. Lawrence. Definitely worth a stop!

Photo credit: Marine Mammal Interpretation Centre

Walk the Pointe-de-l’Islet Trail

Don’t leave Tadoussac without taking a stroll along the Pointe-de-l’Islet Trail—a 900-meter loop that’s as easy as it is beautiful, taking only 25 minutes to walk.

This rocky point juts into the St. Lawrence and makes the perfect picnic spot—with very special company. Yep, belugas and minke whales often come here for their own lunch breaks! Keep your eyes peeled: seals, whales, and seabirds are frequent visitors.

Interpretive panels along the path tell the story of the site and introduce you to its marine ecosystems. If you’re a romantic—or just love great light—wait for sunset: the view is pure magic. Don’t forget your camera!

Taste Tadoussac, Michelin Style

Want to add a gourmet touch to your getaway? Head straight to Chez Mathilde! Last spring, this local gem made history by becoming the very first Côte Nord restaurant featured in the prestigious Michelin Guide—and the honor is well deserved!

Opened in 2007, the restaurant charms guests with both its warm atmosphere and its creative cuisine. Québec and Côte Nord products shine in two signature tasting menus: La Grande Côte, a refined tribute to the region’s terroir, and Mon Saint-Laurent, a flavourful journey through the river’s riches.

Whether you’re a land or sea type of foodie, this culinary stop is a must when passing through Tadoussac!

Go Whale Watching

Let’s face it—Tadoussac is pretty much whale paradise! The Saguenay–St. Lawrence Marine Park, which includes the bay, is recognized as one of the best whale watching sites in the world. And the best way to see them? From the water, of course!

Take your pick: a comfortable boat cruise or a Zodiac ride for extra adventure and adrenaline. Either way, you’ll be joined by expert naturalist guides—true enthusiasts who know exactly where to look, and who’ll happily share the secrets of these marine giants.

Keep your eyes peeled: up to 13 different species frequent these waters! And here’s a bonus—whale watching isn’t limited to summer. They’re around from May through November, so your chances of spotting them are high.

Choose your whale-watching cruise