Living in St. Martins
Thinking about buying, selling, or moving to St. Martins? St. Martins is a small Bay of Fundy village about 30 minutes east of Saint John — known for sea caves, lighthouses, covered bridges, and a strong tourism economy. Real estate here is concentrated in coastal cottages, recreational properties, and a small year-round residential base.
About St. Martins
St. Martins is a small coastal village on the Bay of Fundy, about a 30-minute drive east of Saint John along Highway 111. The village has a year-round population of roughly 350 but swells significantly during the summer tourism season.
St. Martins is one of the most-visited coastal villages in southern New Brunswick. Its tourism economy is anchored by the famous St. Martins Sea Caves (visible at low tide), two operational covered bridges, working lighthouses, a small harbour, and Fundy Trail Parkway access for hiking and coastal touring.
For real estate buyers, St. Martins represents something distinctive — coastal Maritime living, often as a second home or recreational property rather than a primary residence.
Why buyers choose St. Martins
- Bay of Fundy coastal living — Direct access to one of the most dramatic coastlines in eastern Canada.
- Tourism economy — Established visitor draw with sea caves, covered bridges, and Fundy Trail access, supporting rental and short-term-stay potential.
- Recreational property options — Coastal cottages, water-view homes, and rural properties at price points typically below similar coastal markets in the US northeast.
- Small-village character — A close-knit year-round community with traditional Maritime culture.
- Outdoor recreation — Hiking, kayaking, beachcombing, photography, whale-watching — all anchored by the Fundy coast.
- Day trip distance from Saint John — 30-minute drive makes St. Martins viable as a vacation property for KV/Saint John buyers.
What you can expect in the St. Martins housing market
The St. Martins real estate market is small in absolute volume but distinct in character. Coastal cottages, water-view properties, and rural acreage make up most of the inventory. Pricing can range widely depending on water access, lot size, and condition — a fixer-upper inland is a different conversation from an oceanfront cottage with rental history.
Many buyers in St. Martins are second-home buyers, retirees, or those purchasing recreational/short-term-rental properties. Primary-residence buyers exist but are a smaller segment of the market. A local REALTOR® who understands the difference between recreational, rental-income, and primary residence properties is particularly valuable here.
Ellis Team REALTORS® serving St. Martins
Every member of The Ellis Team works across our full Greater Saint John service area, including St. Martins. To start a conversation about buying or selling — or to be matched with the right agent for your situation — contact Team Leader Erin Ellis directly at 506-645-1559 or erin@ellisrealty.ca.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is St. Martins, NB?
St. Martins is a coastal village on the Bay of Fundy, approximately 30 minutes east of Saint John along Highway 111, in southern New Brunswick.
What is St. Martins known for?
St. Martins is best known for the St. Martins Sea Caves (visible at low tide), its two operational covered bridges, working lighthouses, harbour, and access to the Fundy Trail Parkway — all of which anchor a significant tourism economy.
Is St. Martins a good place to buy a vacation property?
Yes — St. Martins has long been one of the most-considered coastal-cottage markets within easy reach of Saint John. Buyers should work with a REALTOR® who understands the distinct dynamics of recreational and short-term-rental coastal property.
Can you live in St. Martins year-round?
Yes — St. Martins has a small year-round residential population of approximately 350. Year-round living means accepting a more rural lifestyle, longer drives to services, and seasonal weather, but it’s well-established as a primary-residence option for those who want it.
How far is St. Martins from Saint John?
St. Martins is approximately a 30-minute drive from downtown Saint John.
Looking at homes for sale in St. Martins?
Browse current listings in St. Martins on our St. Martins real estate page, or get in touch with The Ellis Team to discuss what you’re looking for:
- Call or text: 506-645-1559
- Email: erin@ellisrealty.ca
- Office: 175 Hampton Rd Unit 113, Quispamsis, NB E2E 4Y7
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