Welcome to Eastern Newfoundland, a dream destination for photographers and adventurers alike. My recent journey through this breathtaking region exceeded all expectations, thanks to the incredible locals who made every visit unforgettable with their warmth and hospitality.
Home to just over half a million residents, Newfoundland and Labrador is a province unlike any other. While Labrador remains on my bucket list, Eastern Newfoundland holds a special place in my heart. This six-day itinerary takes you from colourful St. John’s to the dramatic cliffs of Cape St. Mary’s, and through the charming fishing villages of Trinity and Elliston — each stop revealing its own story through light, landscape, and local life.
Day 1: St. John’s & Quidi Vidi Village
📍 Quidi Vidi Village, St. John’s, NL
Begin in St. John’s, one of North America’s oldest cities, where the iconic Jelly Bean Row houses create a kaleidoscope of colour and history.
A short drive leads to Quidi Vidi Village, a postcard-perfect fishing cove and my favourite photography spot in the city. Wander along the docks, meet the friendly locals, and feel time slow to the rhythm of the tide.
Why Visit Quidi Vidi:
- Historic charm: Stroll among saltbox homes and fishing stages.
- Quidi Vidi Brewery: Sample Iceberg Beer and local craft favourites.
- Hike to Signal Hill: The trail offers panoramic views of the harbour and ocean.
Eat & Stay:
Lunch at VU Restaurant & Bar, then unwind at DoubleTree by Hilton St. John’s, known for its comfort and harbour views.
Day 2 – Morning: Cape Spear
📍 Cape Spear National Historic Site, St. John’s, NL
Wake early for sunrise at Cape Spear, the easternmost point in North America. Managed by Parks Canada, this site combines history and natural wonder — the lighthouse standing watch over the Atlantic.
This is one of the best land-based whale-watching spots in Newfoundland. During capelin season, whales move in close to feed, often breaching within sight of shore. Even without the whales, the views of Signal Hill and the endless coastline are unforgettable.
Afternoon & Evening: Gatherall’s Puffin and Whale Watching Tour
📍 Bay Bulls, NL
Head to Bay Bulls for an afternoon aboard Gatherall’s Whale and Puffin Tour — a lively mix of ocean spray, seabirds, and storytelling. The crew’s Newfoundland humour and traditional music set the perfect tone as humpbacks breach and puffins dart across the waves.
Overnight: The Wilds Resort
Nestled in nature, this resort offers cozy cabins with BBQs, patios, and walking trails — ideal for unwinding under the stars after a full day of exploration.
Day 3 – Avalon Peninsula & Cape St. Vincent Beach
📍 Avalon Peninsula, NL
The Avalon Peninsula’s rugged beauty defines the spirit of Newfoundland — steep cliffs, fog rolling over the ocean, and beaches that feel untouched by time.
We spent the afternoon watching whales breach through the mist and seals playing offshore. Sitting quietly on a windswept beach, with nothing but the sound of waves, is one of Newfoundland’s purest pleasures.
4- Cape St. Mary’s Ecological Reserve
📍 St. Bride’s, NL
Fog or sunshine, Cape St. Mary’s is an essential stop. Known for its dramatic cliffs and seabird colonies, it’s one of the most accessible birdwatching sites in North America. Thousands of gannets, murres, and kittiwakes nest here each year, creating an awe-inspiring sight (and sound!).
We based ourselves again at The Wilds Resort, where the golf course meets wilderness — a serene spot to recharge before another day of coastal adventure.
5- Elliston Puffin Colony
📍 Elliston, NL
Nicknamed the Root Cellar Capital of the World, Elliston is also one of the best places in North America to see puffins up close. Watching them soar through the Atlantic air and return to their cliffside nests is pure magic.
Hours passed unnoticed as we photographed puffins diving, feeding, and resting — a reminder that sometimes the best meals are the ones you skip for the perfect shot.
Day 6 – Trinity with Trinity Eco Tours
📍 Trinity, NL
Trinity has become my Newfoundland home away from home. This charming harbour town offers easy access to Port Rexton, Bonavista, and Elliston, but the real gem is Trinity Eco-Tours with Captain Bob.
Bob and his team blend marine expertise with Newfoundland storytelling, making each whale-watching tour a one-of-a-kind experience. This time, I joined a German photography crew for a sunset outing — and finally witnessed my dream moment: a breaching whale at golden hour. I didn’t even lift my camera. I just watched in awe.
Stay at Trinity Eco-Tours Lodge, where rooms overlook the bay and the lighthouse glows in the distance. If you’re lucky, you might even spot the rare Steller’s Sea Eagle.
Day 7: Final Explorations & Farewell
On your final morning, stroll through town or visit Dungeon Provincial Park near Bonavista — a spectacular sea cave carved by centuries of waves. As you drive back to St. John’s, reflect on the hospitality, landscapes, and stories that make Eastern Newfoundland unforgettable.
Why I Love Eastern Newfoundland
Newfoundland’s magic lies in its people as much as its landscapes. The waves, cliffs, and birds create endless scenes to photograph, but it’s the locals who bring the province to life. Their humour, kindness, and sense of place make every visit feel like coming home. Each trip reminds me that Newfoundland isn’t just a destination — it’s a feeling.
Frequently Asked Questions about Eastern Newfoundland
Late June to early September offers the best mix of whale sightings, puffins, and iceberg views.
At least five to six days to fully enjoy St. John’s, Trinity, and Cape St. Mary’s.
A rental car is essential — book months in advance during peak season.
Yes! Many tours, beaches, and museums welcome all ages.
Cape Spear at sunrise, puffins in Elliston, and the cliffs of Cape St. Mary’s.
About the Author
Written and photographed by Roland Bast, a Canadian travel photographer and visual storyteller based in Ottawa.
A proud member of TMAC (Travel Media Association of Canada), Roland specializes in capturing authentic moments that reveal the beauty, emotion, and culture of Canada’s destinations.
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