Looking for a simple, beautiful, and accessible getaway with the kids? I’ve got the perfect itinerary for you—one we tested as a family—ideal for disconnecting, breathing in the salty air, and creating real, beautiful memories along the river. Three easy-going days filled with just the right amount of discoveries, playtime, and sweet moments together.

We kicked off our stay on the right foot with a stop at Pub Ras L’Bock, a cozy microbrewery where you can sip on a local beer while the kids enjoy a delicious pogo and I went for the salmon tartare. The terrace overlooks the river… it’s one of those moments where you finally breathe deeply and let go.

📍 250, rue Saint-Jean-Baptiste, L’Islet, QC G0R 2C0
🌐 raslbock.com

After the meal, we headed to Camping de la Demi-Lieue, honestly one of the nicest campgrounds we’ve visited. There’s everything you need to keep the kids entertained for hours: indoor inflatable games, a giant trampoline, mini-golf, outdoor play modules, and let’s not forget the absolutely stunning view of the river. In the evening, we walked down to the little private beach for an impromptu seashell hunt while the sun was setting. Pure magic. Whether you're in a van, a tent, or a trailer, the sound of the waves will rock you to sleep until morning

.
📍 380, boulevard Nilus-Leclerc, Saint-Jean-Port-Joli, QC G0R 3G0
🌐 campingdemilieue.com

The next day, we took our time and enjoyed the campground a little longer. The pool was fresh but perfect, and the kids didn’t want to leave the play areas. Honestly, we could have spent the whole week there without any problem!

For lunch, we grabbed some pitas and homemade lemonade at Restaurant La Libellule in Saint-Jean-Port-Joli. Super chill, unpretentious, and really good. The place was packed, which says it all! Right after, we found a quiet spot at the Parc des Trois-Bérets for a little picnic. Between the giant sculptures and the river view, the kids were running around while we enjoyed our lemonade in peace.

📍 La Libellule: 6, rue Verreault, Saint-Jean-Port-Joli, QC G0R 3G0
🌐 restaurantlalibellule.com
📍 Parc des Trois-Bérets: 15, avenue de Gaspé Est, Saint-Jean-Port-Joli, QC G0R 3G0
🌐 saintjeanportjoli.com

In the afternoon, we visited the Musée maritime du Québec. You can hop on real ships and discover Quebec’s maritime history through super well-designed exhibits. We especially loved the guided tour of the Bras-d’Or—my 5-year-old son was totally into it!

📍 55, chemin des Pionniers Est, L’Islet, QC G0R 2C0
🌐 mmq.qc.ca

For dinner, we stopped at the Casse-Croûte Rétro in L’Islet: retro vibe, red booths, and a simple, satisfying menu that made everyone happy.

📍 34, route du Quai, L'Islet, QC G0R 2C0

We spent the night at Camping du Rocher Panet. A campsite with a direct view of the river, play modules, a pool… The sunset during our campfire was one of those moments you don’t forget.

📍 31, route Panet, L'Islet-sur-Mer, QC G0R 2C0
🌐 campingdurocherpanet.com

The third day, we headed to Grosse-Île with Croisières AML. It’s an excursion we recommend 1000%. You hop on a boat to reach this island full of history. The Parks Canada guides are so passionate, and the kids absolutely loved it!
📍 Departure: 100, rue de la Marina, Berthier-sur-Mer, QC G0R 1E0
🌐 croisieresaml.com

Quick tip: think about reserving lunch boxes so you don’t have to stress about food while you’re there.

Back on dry land, we spent the night at Motel La Plage in Berthier-sur-Mer. Nothing fancy, but clean, comfortable, and the view… wow. The kids had a blast playing on the little beach, tossing pebbles into the water.
📍 868, boulevard Blais Est, Berthier-sur-Mer, QC G0R 1E0
🌐 motellaplage.com

We had dinner just next door at the Casse-Croûte du Capitaine. A terrace right on the water—perfect way to wrap up the trip.
📍 874, boulevard Blais Est, Berthier-sur-Mer, QC G0R 1E0

This corner of Chaudière-Appalaches is truly a hidden gem for families. The roads are beautiful, the activities are varied, and you really take the time to slow down and enjoy life. No matter how you travel, add this loop to your next road trip—you’ll come back with a full heart and pockets full of forgotten seashells.