Acadia vs. Fundy National Park
 

Hello All,

We are driving from Portland to PEI (stopping in Acadia, Shoondic, Campobello Island). We have limited time and we definitely want to squeeze in Hopewell Rocks before PEI. So here's my question: I can either (1) drive straight from Campobello Island to Moncton and see Hopewell the next day or (2) Drive from Campobello Island to Alma (then have a half day to explore Fundy National Park) then drive to Hopewell the next day. Is Fundy National Park worth stopping by even though it's just for a half day and if so, what hike is the most worthy. Many thanks!

I'd vote for option 2. I presume you'd take Hwy 114 from outside Sussex through to the Park. While it's a routine drive, the park is quite worthwhile. You'll get a good sense of the Fundy tides if you stay awhile near headquarters, where you can watch the water roll in or out along the shallow flats. If you want to hike, I'd recommend the coastal trail starting near the swimming pool. It has a few steep climbs and you probably won't have time to hike to the end and back, but push on to the first cove (forgotten the name, maybe Matthew's Head) at least and enjoy the views.
On your way to Hopewell Rocks, you might opt for Hwy 915 and visit Cape Enrage. It's out of the way and not visited as much as it should be, but the view is spectacular. There's a tearoom there and a chance to sit on the lawn out front and admire the view, sipping coffee and eating dessert.
Further on is Mary's point. In early August, tens of thousands of semi-palmated sandpipers gather to feed on the mud flats before the long flight to South America. It is a sight not to be believed, whether you're a bird enthusiast or not. If you're not travelling in August, it's probably not worth your while to stop. Shortly thereafter, you're at the Rocks.
Glad you're interested in the Bay of Fundy. It is an incredible place that never fails to astonish with its power and beauty.

As I recall the Bay of Fundy NP has a golf course.

Hopewell Rocks offers a good experience with the tides. Stay and see the water come in; nothing like it. If you arrive at low tide, know when the high tide cycle begins because if you are wandering along the ocean bottom remember that the water begins to rise to its peak of 30 - 35 feet above where you are standing. Also it does so in about 6 hours time.

If you have a long walk back to the stairs, you could be wading shin deep rather quickly.

I notice you are going to Schoodic Point, too. It is wonderful and you may see whales from the shore (one of the most southerly parts of the east coast where this is possible).

Just, please, do be careful! I was always on at my gang (mercifully, now, all grown) NOT to go too far out onto the rocks. They thought I was being way too protective until the year that a grown-up was swept in by a rogue wave. It does happen and the results are tragic as was the case this time.