Some of the best places to take in the St. Lawrence River in Charlevoix are right here in Petite-Rivière-Saint-François.
More than a vast body of water, the St. Lawrence River brings together untamed wilderness and the region’s charming coastal villages. Its majestic waters are home to a rich marine ecosystem and offer countless opportunities to explore Charlevoix and admire its iconic landscapes. Here, time seems to take on a different rhythm. Just be mindful of the tides.
A sea of activities in Charlevoix
A beach near the wharf for relaxing by the river in summer, a snack bar to satisfy your cravings, a playground for children, and a fountain to cool off, life in Charlevoix is anything but ordinary. Dive into an experience where land and sea converge, creating unforgettable moments.
A paradise for kayaking enthusiasts in Charlevoix
A prime destination for kayaking and kiteboarding, the beach at Petite-Rivière-Saint-François provides direct access to the river, offering spectacular views of wildlife, vegetation, and geological formations. The St. Lawrence shoreline in Charlevoix is well known for sea kayaking in a wide range of conditions, from calm waters to more challenging currents, making it suitable for paddlers of all skill levels. Let your passion lead the way!
Credit : Véronimot
For the love of fishing in Charlevoix
With its cold, saltwater estuary, the St. Lawrence offers excellent fishing opportunities in Charlevoix, where species such as eel, sea trout, flounder, thorny skate, smelt, and striped bass can be caught. For freshwater fishing, the Rivière du Gouffre, originating at an elevation of 823 metres at Lac des Cœurs in Grands-Jardins National Park, features over 100 salmon pools in the spring, around sixty of which are developed for recreational fishing.
Birdwatching: a unique experience in Charlevoix
Thanks to its prime riverside location, Petite-Rivière-Saint-François is home to salt marsh habitats that support an impressive diversity of bird species. Visitors can observe waterfowl such as ducks, geese, grebes, and gulls, as well as shorebirds like sandpipers and plovers. The surrounding forests are also ideal for spotting woodpeckers, birds of prey, including a few pairs of bald eagles, grouse, and a variety of small songbirds. Don’t forget your binoculars!
Where the Mountains Meet the River
Aquaventure Charlevoix offers stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) experiences launching from the Petite-Rivière-Saint-François wharf, including introductory sessions, guided tours, sunrise paddles, and supervised equipment rentals on the St. Lawrence River. Designed to be both accessible and professionally guided, these experiences provide a unique way to discover the river in a safe and supportive environment.
Step into the world of
Petite-Rivière-Saint-François
@tourismepetiteriviere