Get your heart pumping with these amazing outdoor activities. See the island from a birds-eye view with local helicopter tours, explore the Bras d’Or Lake UNESCO biosphere with jet skis, and whale watching tours for humpback whales. 

1. Jet Ski with Jet Ski Baddeck

This is the ultimate summer activity to get your heart pumping! This was one of the most fun things I tried for the first time last summer and immediately looked up jet ski prices when I got home because it was that good! You can also take in views of the Alexander Graham Bell estate and the Kidston Island lighthouse while out on the Bras d’Or Lake.

2. Helicopter Tours

If you think Cape Breton Island is beautiful from the ground, wait until you see it from the air! And not only do you get incredible views, but just the experience of riding in a helicopter is awesome on its own! Breton Air and Celtic Air both offer helicopter tours at various spots around the island where you can see the island from a whole new perspective.

3. Hiking Tenerife Mountain

Tenerife Mountain is a rocky peak jutting out from the side of a mountain that offers a stunning view of all the little islands dotting Aspy Bay and Dingwall Beach in the distance. Scaling up the mountain and walking out onto the peak will be sure to get your heart pumping! It’s also a great spot to watch the sunrise over the ocean and turn the mountains golden yellow.

4. Surfing at Point Michaud

Have you ever wanted to learn how to surf? Did you know that you can actually learn to surf here in Cape Breton Island? You can take surf lessons at the Point Michaud beach and finally learn how to catch some waves. You may find it surprising to know that Cape Breton Island is a highly sought-after location for surfing, especially during the winter months!

5. Zodiac Whale Watching

Spend the afternoon searching for whiles while you sail around the rugged coastline of Cape Breton Island. This heart-pumping tour starts in the scenic fishing village of Chéticamp, at the base of the Cape Breton Highlands National Park. Throughout the tour keep your eyes peeled for Finback Whales, Pilot Whales, Mike Whales, Humpback Whales, and Atlantic White-Sided Dolphins. Trust me you won’t want to miss this.