Clam Harbour Beach

History

Clam Harbour Beach was absorbed by the provincial government in 1977. The Nova Scotia Lifeguard Service began supervision in 1978, and in 1979, a three-storey lifeguard tower was erected. In 1980, the Department of Lands and Forests (now the Department of Natural Resources) added an interpretive center, a 300-car parking lot and boardwalks. Due to declining populations, supervision of Clam Harbour was reduced to weekends only. However, it continues to draw large populations on the weekends, and is the site of the annual Sandcastle Competition held in late August.

Beach Safety

Clam Harbour Beach is generally very safe. It has a very gentle slope and has predictable surf on most days. The hazardous areas include a tidal channel on the right side of the beach that is fed by a large flood plain. The flood plain is filled at high tide. When the tide goes out, the floodplain empties through the channel, creating a moderate current that can be dangerous for small children and weak swimmers. Another less prominent hazard is the rocks to the left of the beach that become submerged at high tide. The supervised swimming area is marked by two red and yellow flags. This area is usually located in front of the lifeguard hut, but may change according to surf conditions and the position of the channel. Clam Harbour is supervised by two lifeguards on weekends only. Clam Harbour tends to experience a high number of foggy days, which affects air and water temperatures.