Tidepooling

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Common periwinkle snails move around in a tide pool

Photo by Ashley L. Conti, Friends of Acadia, NPS

 

Exploring Acadia's Tidepools

A variety of marine animals and colorful algae species become exposed on the rocky shores of Acadia at low tide. They live on the costal rocks and in tidepools, which are depressions in the rocks that trap seawater.

Exploring these protected resources of Acadia provides an opportunity to peek through a window to the sea. To ensure the health of our resources and the safety of visitors, please show respect and follow the guidelines laid out below to minimize impact. We need your help to keep our coastal wildlife protected.

 

Split view of the intertidal zone on the Schoodic Peninsula

NPS Photo/Crystal Lewis

Know When to Go

The opportunity to tidepool occurs between the window of time 1.5 hours before to 1.5 hours after low tide. It is best to start tidepooling before low tide and to leave as the tide is rising.

Before you head out to the intertidal zone on your own, check the tide chart for your location:

• Bar Island

• Wonderland or Ship Harbor

• Schoodic Peninsula

 

 

Protect the Marine Life

Remember these marine animals are not indestructible. Our careless handling and footsteps can do damage that the changing tides cannot. Keep in mind these tips for your safety and for the protection of marine life.

Home Sweet Home

• Be respectful of this park resource.
• Before exploring, wash sunscreen, hand sanitizer, and bug spray off to minimize exposure of harmful chemicals to marine life.
• Do not wade into the tidepools.
• Be mindful of where you place your feet. We are guests in these animals’ homes. Use a light step!
• Leave the park as you found it – collection is prohibited.
• Never use force to remove anything. Replace animals where you find them.

Tidepooling Safety

Low and Slow

• Step carefully and slowly. Wear closed-toed sturdy outdoor shoes.
• Black rocks and seaweed are especially slippery, and shells are hard and jagged.
• Use caution as rocks can be wet, loose, and/or sharp.

Eyes on the Sea

• Keep a safe distance from the sea, and watch those waves. They’re still coming in.
• Follow surf advisories.
• The average summer ocean temperature is 55°-60° F (12.8°-15.6° C).

Keep Kids Close

• Small children should stay within arm’s reach of adults.

“Sea” a Whole New World

• Get down low, look closely and carefully, and have patience. These fascinating and hidden creatures can take time to find!