A Photographer & Explorer’s Guide to Eastern Newfoundland
Your Ultimate 3–7 Day Coastal & Wildlife Itinerary (Mid-May to Late October)
Behind the Scenes
A coastal road trip that began under the first sunrise in North America — and ended with puffins skimming the cliffs at sunset.
Read more if you are staying in St. John’.
Introduction
I created the Eastern Newfoundland photography guide because Newfoundland has a way of changing you. My first sunrise at Cape Spear felt like standing at the edge of the world. By midday, puffins in Elliston were zipping past the cliffs like tiny daredevils, and whales off Trinity turned the Atlantic into a moving, breathing backdrop. Eastern Newfoundland is raw, dramatic, and wildly photogenic — the kind of place that reminds you why you fell in love with photography in the first place.
I first visited St. John’s more than 15 years ago. It’s the destination that shaped my style as a photographer, and I’ve returned many times since. This guide brings together the places, the people, and the moments that make Eastern Newfoundland unforgettable — along with the best photo spots and insider tips to help you capture its magic.
Quick Essentials
Best Time to Visit: Mid-May to Late October
Photo Highlights: Icebergs, puffins, whales, dramatic cliffs, fishing villages, historic lighthouses
Seasons to Note:
– Icebergs: Late April–mid-June
– Whales: June–September
– Puffins: May–September
– Peak colours: August–October
DAY 1: St. John’s & Cape Spear — First Sunrise, City Colour & Coastal Light
Why Visit
St. John’s is North America’s oldest city — colourful, rugged, and dramatically positioned where the Atlantic meets steep cliffs. Cape Spear, minutes away, offers the first sunrise in North America, a must-shoot for landscape photographers.
Morning: Sunrise at Signal Hill
The perfect warm-up before Cape Spear.
Best Shot:
Panoramic views of the harbour as sunlight washes over the bright houses and winding streets below.
Brunch Stop: Mallard Cottage
A cozy, historic spot known for local dishes and warm East Coast hospitality.
(Re-opening Spring 2026)
Afternoon: Explore Quidi Vidi
A charming fishing village tucked into a rocky inlet — one of the most photogenic corners of Newfoundland.
Photo Tip:
Use a wide-angle lens to capture boats, colourful sheds, and reflections in the harbour.
Evening: Sunset at Cape Spear
Crashing waves, sea spray, dramatic cliffs, and a lighthouse standing against the wind.
Photographer’s Insight:
“This place glows at golden hour. Bring a tripod for long exposures — the ocean puts on a show.”
DAY 2: St. John’s → Witless Bay → Ferryland — Whales, Puffins & Picnic Cliffs
Morning: Witless Bay Ecological Reserve
One of Newfoundland’s most wildlife-rich areas, home to puffins, whales, and millions of seabirds. Book a tour with Gatherall Tours to view the puffins and whales.
Photo Tip:
Use 1/1000s or faster for birds in flight. Light changes quickly on the ocean.
Afternoon: Lighthouse Picnic, Ferryland
A uniquely Newfoundland experience — a Gourmet picnic overlooking the Atlantic. Watch for whales while enjoying lunch on the grass.
Evening: Ferryland Trails & Historic Settlement
Photograph rolling green hills, deep-blue ocean, and remnants of the 17th-century settlement.
Photographer’s Perspective:
“The contrast between grassy cliffs and blue water makes for beautifully cinematic compositions.”
Where to Stay This Night
Stay in St. John’s or move your base south to The Wilds Resort.
Indigenous Experiences in Eastern Newfoundland
A vital part of the destination — and an essential part of understanding the land, culture, and history.
Here is a curated list of Indigenous-led and Indigenous-centered experiences across the region:
1. Miawpukek Mi’kamawey Mawi’omi (Conne River Powwow)
Experience Mi’kmaq traditions through dance, ceremony, and community celebration.
2. Inuit Games & Cultural Gatherings
Participate in Inuit games, drumming, and throat singing at community events.
3. Under the Stump Wilderness Tours
Guided cultural tours through remote wilderness with storytelling, food traditions, and land-based teachings.
4. Eastern Edge Gallery (St. John’s)
A contemporary space showcasing Indigenous artists from across Newfoundland and Labrador.
5. NL Indigenous Tourism Association (NLITA)
Indigenous-owned accommodations, culinary experiences, cultural tours, and more.
6. Additional Cultural Experiences
Workshops, plant medicine walks, language classes, craft sessions, community feasts, storytelling with Elders, art exhibitions, film screenings, and cultural festivals.
These experiences deepen any visit to Eastern Newfoundland — offering perspective, connection, and a greater understanding of the land.
My Preferred & Unique Stays in Eastern Newfoundland
St. John’s
– *Alt Hotel St. John’s
– *Blue on Water
Avalon Peninsula
– The Doctor’s House Inn & Spa
– *Edge of the Avalon Inn (near Mistaken Point)
Trinity
– *Trinity Eco-Tours Lodge (my favourite stay — rustic, authentic, and adventure-focused)
– Artisan Inn
– Fisher’s Loft Inn (Port Rexton)
DAY 4+: Cape St. Mary’s Ecological Reserve — A Photographer’s Dream
Cape St. Mary’s is one of North America’s most dramatic bird cliffs and one of the best seabird photography locations anywhere.
Best Time for Photos:
8–11 AM or late afternoon for soft light.
Additional Spots to Add:
– Mistaken Point (UNESCO)
– Cape Race Lighthouse
– Avalon Wilderness Reserve
– Wildlife photography (moose, foxes, eagles)
Bonus Days — Must-See Add-Ons
Elliston Puffin Colony
Elliston is home to one of the closest and largest puffin colonies in Newfoundland, making it a dream location for photographers and wildlife lovers. On calm days, puffins often land right near the cliff’s edge, giving you rare, intimate moments you simply can’t find in most colonies. Stay patient, move slowly, and you may capture a close-up that feels more like a memory than a photograph.
Free or by donation.
Trinity & Area
Whale tours, coastal heritage, stellar eagles, sunset lighthouse shots.
Bonavista
Coastal trails, geology, puffins, root cellars, boutiques, cafes, sea stacks, and historic sites.
Recommended Photography Gear
– DSLR or mirrorless
– Wide-angle (16–35mm or 24–70mm)
– Telephoto (150–600mm)
– ND and CPL filters
– Tripod
– Drone (permits required)
– Weatherproof clothing
– Extra batteries + memory cards
Travel Tips
– Book your rental car 8-12 months ahead — summer sells out
– Stay flexible — weather changes fast
– Pack layers
– Always fuel up before returning your rental
– Bring rain gear — always
Cultural & Seasonal Highlights
– Newfoundland Folk Festival
– George Street Festival
– Film festivals
– Whale watching (June–Sept)
– Puffin nesting (May–Sept)
– Iceberg season (late April–June)
Why I Love Eastern Newfoundland
Eastern Newfoundland is a place that pulls you in with its wild coastlines, but it’s the people, the storytelling, and the quiet moments on the cliffs that stay with you. Each visit feels new — shaped by the light, the wind, the wildlife, and the rhythm of the Atlantic. Whether you’re chasing icebergs, photographing puffins, or sipping coffee in a tiny fishing village, this region always gives you something real, honest, and unforgettable.
Final Thoughts
Each visit to Newfoundland fills me with deep appreciation for its landscapes, wildlife, culture, and people. Whether you’re a photographer or a traveller seeking a meaningful escape. Eastern Newfoundland offers some of the most rewarding experiences in Canada. I can’t wait to return.
Frequently Asked Questions: Eastern Newfoundland
The ideal season runs from mid-May to late October, when puffins, whales, and seabirds return to the coast. Icebergs drift past the island from late April to mid-June, and the fall months bring dramatic colour, soft light, and fewer crowds. Photographers will find consistent, moody coastal light throughout the entire season.
A mix of wide-angle and telephoto lenses works best. A 16–35mm or 24–70mm captures landscapes and fishing villages, while a 150–600mm is ideal for puffins, whales, and seabirds. Bring a sturdy tripod, ND filters for long exposures, and weatherproof gear — conditions change fast along the Atlantic cliffs.
This guide is designed for all skill levels. Beginners will appreciate the easy access to wildlife and coastal viewpoints, while advanced photographers will find endless opportunities for long exposures, low-light work, and fast-action wildlife shots. Every location is accessible and rewarding, no matter your experience.
A minimum of three days covers the highlights around St. John’s, Cape Spear, and Witless Bay. For a deeper photography experience — including Trinity, Bonavista, and Cape St. Mary’s — plan five to seven days. Each location offers unique light, angles, and moods at sunrise, sunset, and along the coast.
Yes, as long as you stay behind posted safety lines, respect cliff edges, and avoid wet or unstable rocks. Coastal winds can be strong, especially at Cape Spear and Elliston, so keep straps secure and tripods weighted. Newfoundland’s landscapes are dramatic, but safety must always come before the shot.
Many locations — such as Cape Spear, Elliston Puffin Colony, and Quidi Vidi — are self-guided. For whale watching and puffins at sea, a certified local operator provides safe access and better photographic opportunities. Guided cultural experiences, including Indigenous-led tours, offer invaluable context and a deeper connection to the land.
About the Author
Written & photographed by Roland Bast, TMAC travel photographer and storyteller. Roland specializes in authentic Canadian and international experiences — capturing people, landscapes, and local culture across the country.
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