Bell
Island
A 20-minute ferry ride from St. John’s leads to one of Newfoundland most surprising destinations an island where iron ore miners once descended deep underground, U-boats prowled the harbour in 1942, and dramatic sea cliffs still tower over the Atlantic.
Iron Ore Mine
Newfoundland Most Surprising
Day Trip
Just 20 minutes by ferry from Portugal Cove–St. Philips on the Avalon Peninsula, Bell Island is one of the most historically rich and scenically dramatic small islands in Atlantic Canada. At approximately 34 square kilometres, it manages to pack in an underground iron ore mine, dramatic sea cliffs, a lighthouse, a WWII memorial, sandy beaches, and some of the best fish and chips in Newfoundland all in a single day of exploration.
Bell Island was once a booming mining town from 1895 to 1966, thousands of men descended daily into the world’s largest submarine iron ore mines to extract ore shipped to steel mills across North America and Europe. The mines are now open to the public as one of Newfoundland most extraordinary heritage experiences.
In 1942, German U-boats attacked Bell Island twice the only attack on Canadian soil during World War II sinking four ore carriers in Conception Bay. The island’s Seaman’s Memorial at Lance Cove Beach honours those lost. Today, Bell Island is a proud community that wears its extraordinary history with dignity and welcomes visitors into it with genuine warmth.
The Icons of Bell Island
From underground mines to sea cliff walks these are the experiences every Bell Island visitor needs.
Go Underground into
Bell Island’s Iron Mine
The Bell Island #2 Mine Tour is one of the most extraordinary heritage experiences in Atlantic Canada. From the 1890s to 1966, Bell Island was the site of the world’s largest submarine iron ore mining operation a network of tunnels extending kilometres out under the floor of Conception Bay, employing at their peak over 2,500 men.
Today, guided tours descend into the original tunnels where original machinery, rail cars, tools, and infrastructure remain largely intact a powerful time capsule of early industrial Newfoundland. Knowledgeable guides bring the stories of Bell Island’s miners to life: their extraordinary skill, the dangers they faced daily, and the tight-knit community they built around the mines.
The museum above ground complements the underground experience with photographs, artifacts, and displays. Plan to arrive before noon to allow time for both the mine and the rest of the island. Wear a warm jacket and closed-toe shoes the mine stays around 8°C year-round.
Bell Island Lighthouse
& the Keeper’s Cafe
Perched on a rugged cliff above Conception Bay, the Bell Island Lighthouse has guided mariners through these waters for over a century. The panoramic views from the lighthouse grounds are among the best on the Avalon Peninsula on clear days you can see across the bay to the mainland, and in spring, icebergs drift past in the waters below.
The Keeper’s Cafe, housed in the beautifully preserved historic lightkeeper’s residence, is one of Bell Island’s most beloved spots. Local cuisine, fresh coffee, and views of the lighthouse and ocean from the deck make it a perfect lunch stop or afternoon retreat after hiking the coastal trail.
Adjacent to the lighthouse, a coastal walking trail traces the cliff edge around the island’s perimeter. In summer, whale watching from the clifftops is common humpbacks, minkes, and fin whales all feed in Conception Bay’s rich waters.
☕ The Keeper’s Cafe
Local cuisine, baked goods, and ocean views from the historic lightkeeper’s residence. One of Bell Island’s most charming stops perfect for lunch or an afternoon treat after exploring.
A Full Day of Bell Island Adventures
From underground tunnels to ocean cliffs you can easily fill a half day or a full day on this island.
A Beach with a Powerful
WWII Story
Lance Cove Beach is Bell Island’s most peaceful spot a quiet rocky cove with a gazebo, picnic benches, fishing boats, and clear views across Conception Bay. It’s ideal for beachcombing, feeding the ducks on the adjacent pond, and letting children explore the shoreline while the adults take in the view.
But Lance Cove is also where Bell Island’s most extraordinary wartime story comes to life. In September and November 1942, German U-boats entered Conception Bay and torpedoed four Allied ore carriers anchored at Bell Island the only enemy attack on Canadian soil during World War II. The Seaman’s Memorial at the cove honours the dozens of merchant sailors who lost their lives.
The memorial stands quietly beside the beach a simple but deeply moving tribute to men who died in waters you can see from where you stand, in a conflict that felt very far from Newfoundland until it wasn’t.
Seaman’s Memorial WWII Bell Island Attacks
In 1942, German U-boats attacked Bell Island twice the only enemy attack on Canadian soil in WWII. The Lance Cove memorial honours the merchant sailors lost in the attacks. Lance Cove Beach Road, Bell Island, NL.
Where to Eat on Bell Island
Small island, big flavours from iconic fish and chips to lighthouse cafe cuisine and legendary home-baked goods.
How to Get to Bell Island
The ferry crossing is an experience in itself the bow lifts like a shark’s jaw as vehicles drive aboard.
⏰ Check Ferry Times Before You Go
The ferry runs multiple times daily but schedules vary. Always check the current schedule at gov.nl.ca/ferryservices before leaving and check the return times too so you don’t get stranded overnight!
🎟️ Ferry Fares
Vehicle and passenger fares apply. Rates vary check the provincial government ferry website for current pricing. Vehicles are charged a flat rate; passengers pay per person. Debit and credit accepted.
🕐 Plan Your Time
Allow at minimum 4–5 hours on the island to do the mine tour, lighthouse, Lance Cove, and a meal. A full 6–7 hour day lets you explore at a relaxed pace and do the coastal trail properly.
🌦️ Good in Any Weather
The #2 Mine Tour is underground and excellent in rainy or foggy weather. The lighthouse, Lance Cove, and coastal trail are spectacular in dramatic weather too pack layers for the ferry crossing.
🧥 Bring a Jacket for the Mine
Underground mine temperatures stay around 8°C year-round. Even in July, you’ll want a warm layer for the tour. The guides will remind you at the entrance.
Insider Tips for Bell Island
Make the most of your day on this extraordinary island with these locally sourced tips.
Start with the Mine Tour
Do the #2 Mine Tour first while you’re fresh it’s the most immersive experience and needs your full attention. Save the lighthouse and beach for a leisurely afternoon.
Catch the First or Second Ferry
Catching the early morning ferry gives you the full day. The mine tour books up in summer arrive early or pre-book. The last ferry back to Portugal Cove leaves in the evening.
Eat at Dicks’ Fish N Chips
It’s right at the ferry terminal and it’s outstanding. Order the fish and chips. Don’t overthink it. Many people take the ferry specifically for this meal and it’s completely worth it.
Buy Baked Goods for the Ferry Home
Stop at Rolling Pin Bakery mid-day and stock up on jam jams, molasses cookies, and fresh bread to bring back on the ferry. You’ll be very popular with everyone in the car.
Walk the Coastal Trail at the Lighthouse
The trail beside the lighthouse along the cliff edge is best in the late afternoon light. Bring binoculars whales in summer, icebergs in May/June, seabirds year-round.
Visit in May/June for Icebergs
Conception Bay is in iceberg alley from May to June, dramatic icebergs can be visible from the lighthouse clifftops. Combined with the mine tour and the beach, this is Bell Island at its absolute best.
Common Questions About Bell Island
Everything you need before making the ferry crossing.
Get the Official Bell Island Travel Guide
Our expert digital guide covers everything you need for the perfect Bell Island day trip mine tour booking, ferry schedules, the best food stops, hiking trail details, and insider tips that help you make the most of every hour on the island. Instant PDF download.
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