Welcome to Eastern Newfoundland, a dream destination for photographers and adventure seekers! My recent journey to this breathtaking region exceeded all expectations, thanks to the incredible locals who made every moment unforgettable. Their warmth and hospitality keep me coming back year after year.
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Newfoundland and Labrador, home to just over 520,000 residents, is a province unlike any other. While Labrador remains on my bucket list, Eastern Newfoundland holds a special place in my heart. This 6-day itinerary takes you through some of its most stunning landscapes, from vibrant St. John’s to the rugged cliffs of Cape St. Mary’s and the charming villages of Trinity and Elliston.
Day 1: St. John’s & Quidi Vidi Village
Start your journey in St. John’s, one of the oldest cities in North America. The colourful Jelly Bean Row houses ideally introduce Newfoundland’s unique charm.
A must-visit spot is Quidi Vidi Village, my top photography location in St. John’s. This picturesque fishing village offers stunning coastal views, historic charm, and easy access to fantastic hikes.
Why Visit Quidi Vidi?
- Charming Fishing Village – Explore this historic community’s colourful homes and maritime heritage.
- Quidi Vidi Brewery – Sample locally brewed craft beers, including the famous Iceberg Beer.
- Hiking to Signal Hill – Take in breathtaking views on the scenic trails connecting Quidi Vidi to Signal Hill.
Eat and stay: During the day, have a delicious meal at VU Restaurant and Bar. Enjoy a comfortable stay at DoubleTree by Hilton St. John’s.
Day 2 – Morning: Cape Spear
Start your day at Cape Spear, the easternmost point of North America. This stunning location, managed by Parks Canada, is perfect for catching the sunrise, spotting whales, and exploring the historic lighthouse.
Cape Spear is another incredible spot to view whales from the shore. You can sit back and watch the show almost daily. The whales move closer when the capelin rolls in, creating an unforgettable experience. Whales gather and fish collectively in other areas, putting on a spectacular show.
Even if you’re not here for whale watching, the panoramic views of Signal Hill are impressive. The unique coastal landscape also makes this a must-visit destination.
Day 2 – Gatherall’s Tour Afternoon & Evening
Next, head to Bay Bulls for an unforgettable Gatherall’s Puffin and Whale Watching Tour. This tour offers incredible wildlife encounters, from breaching humpbacks to thousands of adorable puffins. The friendly crew keeps the journey lively with traditional Newfoundland music and stories, creating a truly immersive experience.
Overnight: The Wilds Resort
This stunning golf retreat offers spacious accommodations and breathtaking scenery. Enjoy a full-service restaurant and bar, an outdoor pool, and miles of walking trails for a relaxing evening.
The cabins also feature large rooms, perfect for accommodating groups and ensuring a cozy yet spacious stay.
If you stay in a cabin, it has a full kitchenette. There is also a BBQ on the patio. Additionally, you’ll find comfortable seating for unwinding under the stars.
Day 3 – Avalon Peninsula & Cape St. Vincent Beach
Spend the day exploring the Avalon Peninsula, where rugged cliffs meet the wild Atlantic. This region is a paradise for birdwatching, whale spotting, and taking in diverse landscapes that make every moment unforgettable.
We spent the day scanning the waters for breaching whales. During the clear breaks in the afternoon fog, we saw a playful seal playing peek-a-boo in the waves. It was a delightful sight.
I don’t know about you, but sitting on a quiet beach for hours is incredibly soothing. Listening to the rhythmic crash of the waves against the shore enhances this tranquillity.
4- Cape St. Mary’s Ecological Reserve
Despite the frequent fog, I look forward to returning to Cape St. Mary’s Ecological Reserve. Navigating through these misty conditions adds an extra layer of excitement. Photographers have an exciting opportunity to capture the dramatic landscapes and seabird colonies.
For birdwatching enthusiasts, this reserve is an absolute must-see. It’s home to one of the most accessible seabird colonies in North America. The reserve offers incredible views of thousands of nesting gannets, murres, and kittiwakes perched on the towering cliffs. Even with the ever-changing fog, the experience is nothing short of breathtaking.
We stayed two nights at The Wilds Resort, a stunning golf retreat in nature during our visit. Golf enthusiasts will love the expansive course. They will enjoy the spacious accommodations. The retreat has patios with BBQs, which make it the perfect place to unwind after a day of exploration.
5- Elliston Puffin Colony
We travelled to Elliston next. It is famously known as the Root Cellar Capital of the World. It is also home to one of the most accessible puffin colonies in North America. Watching these adorable seabirds up close was a magical experience. They soared through the salty air and returned to their nests with food.
Spending hours admiring these fascinating creatures, surrounded by the fresh Atlantic breeze, made for another unforgettable day on the coast.
Oh, and about dinner? We skipped it—but you’ll have to keep reading to find out why!
Day 6 – Trinity with Trinity Eco Tours
Trinity, NL, is a three-hour drive from St. John’s, and I find myself returning year after year. It has easy access to the eastern shores. It is close to stunning locations like Port Rexton, Elliston, and Bonavista. This makes it an essential stop on any Eastern Newfoundland adventure.
But the real reason I come back? Captain Bob and his incredible team at Trinity Eco Tours. Their exceptional service and deep knowledge of the waters make every trip unforgettable.
This visit was even more special. We teamed up with a German photography crew to chase our dream sight: a breaching whale at sunset. Sunset tours are rare, so we skipped dinner without hesitation when the opportunity came. After all, a breaching whale beats a burger any day!
Trinity is home to Trinity Eco Tours, run by Skipper Bob. I first met Bob five years ago, and over time, he’s become more than just a guide—he’s a friend. I stay at his inn and go whale watching with him every year.
During this trip, I finally saw my first and last breaching whale of the season. The moment was so breathtaking that I froze—too captivated to even lift my camera.
My favourite spot at the inn? The top-floor room has breathtaking views of the bay, the ocean, and a distant lighthouse. There’s nothing quite like waking up to the scent of salty air. Freshly brewed coffee adds to the experience while gazing out at the Atlantic.
📸 Calling all photographers! In recent years, Trinity has become a hotspot for sightings of the Steller’s Sea Eagle—an incredibly rare and majestic bird. If you’re eager to see one, Bob is the guide you need!
Day 7: Final Explorations & Departure
Soak in the final moments of Newfoundland’s rugged beauty on your last day. Take a leisurely morning walk along the coastline or visit local artisan shops for unique souvenirs.
If time permits, consider visiting Dungeon Provincial Park, a spectacular natural sea cave formation near Bonavista.
As you return to St. John’s for departure, consider the incredible landscapes, warm hospitality, and unforgettable experiences that make Eastern Newfoundland unique.
Final Thoughts
Each visit to Newfoundland fills me with joy and deep appreciation for its welcoming people and breathtaking landscapes. Whether you’re a photographer, a wildlife enthusiast, or just someone looking to immerse yourself in nature. Eastern Newfoundland offers a unique adventure for everyone.
You don’t need an itinerary packed with tours. Sometimes, just soaking in the rugged beauty is enough. Listening to the crashing waves and breathing in the fresh ocean air can make your trip unforgettable.
A Few Travel Tips:
Book your rental car several months in advance—availability can be limited, especially in peak season.
Hotels can be scarce in smaller towns. Consider B&Bs, Airbnbs, or vacation rentals for a cozy and local experience.
Pack for two seasons—summer days can be warm, but fall-like temperatures (and ocean breezes!) can surprise you.
Until next time, Newfoundland—I can’t wait to return!
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