Eastern
Newfoundland
Where John Cabot first landed in 1497. Where puffins nest close enough to almost touch. Where a ferry from Fortune takes you to France. Two extraordinary peninsulas, one unforgettable region.
America & Europe
Two Peninsulas,
One Extraordinary
Eastern Region
Eastern Newfoundland contains two distinct peninsulas, each with its own powerful character. The Bonavista Peninsula is where North America’s top-rated coastal trail clings to clifftops above Trinity Bay, where puffins nest on free-access headlands in Elliston, and where John Cabot’s 1497 landfall is commemorated at Cape Bonavista Lighthouse. It rewards slow travel with history alive in every lane and the Atlantic putting on a different show every day.
The Burin Peninsula, extending south from the Trans-Canada to Point May, is eastern Newfoundland other great reward — and one of the province’s most underrated destinations. From Fortune, a short ferry ride takes you to St. Pierre & Miquelon, France’s last North American territory, where euros, baguettes, and a completely different world await just 25 km offshore. Fortune Head holds one of the world’s most significant fossil sites — a UNESCO Ecological Reserve marking the Precambrian–Cambrian boundary 565 million years ago. Grand Bank’s magnificent Provincial Seamen’s Museum, St. Lawrence’s mining heritage, and the untouched coastal scenery complete a peninsula that deserves far more attention than it gets.
Skerwink Trail —
The East Coast’s
Greatest Hike
The Skerwink Trail doesn’t ease you in. From the trailhead at Rocky Hill Road in Port Rexton, it plunges through boreal forest before emerging onto clifftop terrain that drops straight to the sea — and the views hit you like a wall. This is why it earned a place among the Top 35 Trails in North America and Europe.
The 5.3 km loop passes along dramatic headlands above Trinity Bay, revealing sea stacks carved by the Atlantic — columns of rock rising from churning water below. In iceberg season (May–June), bergs can be visible from the cliffs. From late spring through summer, bald eagles circle the headlands and whale spouts appear on the bay’s surface during morning hours.
The trail is free to access and takes approximately 2–3 hours at a comfortable sightseeing pace. Moderately challenging with some steep and rocky sections — sturdy footwear is essential. Port Rexton Brewing Co., at the trailhead turnoff, is the perfect post-hike reward with panoramic Trinity Bay views from its patio.
Inside the Skerwink Trail & Bonavista Coast
Eight photographs from the Skerwink Trail loop and Cape Bonavista Lighthouse — sea stacks, clifftops, forest paths, Trinity Bay panoramas, and the historic lighthouse.
Cape Bonavista Lighthouse —
Where North America
Begins
In 1497, Italian explorer John Cabot reportedly cried “O buona vista!” — “Oh, happy sight!” — as he spotted the cape that would bear the name Bonavista. That moment is one of the founding acts of European North American exploration, and the Cape Bonavista Lighthouse now marks the spot from its clifftop perch above the Atlantic.
Built in 1843, the lighthouse is one of the oldest in Newfoundland and operated as a National Historic Site. Its distinctive red and white striped tower is one of the most photographed landmarks on the island. From the headland, views extend over the open Atlantic — on clear days, icebergs drift past in spring, whales feed in summer, and puffins circle the sea stacks offshore.
The lighthouse museum explains the Bonavista Peninsula’s extraordinary history — from Beothuk people to Basque fishermen, English settlement, and the 20th-century saltfish trade. Combined with the nearby Ryan Premises National Historic Site, Cape Bonavista offers one of the richest half-days of heritage in the province.
Elliston —
Where You Meet
a Puffin Face-to-Face
Elliston holds one of the most remarkable wildlife encounters in Atlantic Canada — and it’s completely free. At the Elliston Puffin Viewing Site, the coastal cliffs where Atlantic puffins nest during breeding season are accessible by a short walk from the road. The birds are so accustomed to visitors that you can watch them from close range as they shuffle between burrows, call to their mates, and bring sand eels home to their chicks.
With over 500,000 Atlantic puffins in Newfoundland and the puffin as the provincial bird, Elliston offers one of the finest land-based puffin viewing sites anywhere. Unlike offshore island colonies requiring boat tours, the Elliston colony is directly accessible from the headland path — no boats, no fees, no booking required.
Elliston is also the Root Cellar Capital of the World — dozens of historic underground stone cellars dot the hillsides, used for generations to preserve vegetables through Newfoundland winters. A self-guided root cellar walk combined with the puffin colony makes for a memorable half-day visit.
The Best of Eastern Newfoundland
From a preserved outport where theatre happens in the streets to a geological sea arch framing passing icebergs — eastern Newfoundland is full of extraordinary places.
Trinity is one of Newfoundland most perfectly preserved outport communities — a town of colourful stages, historic buildings, and narrow lanes unchanged in character for centuries. Every summer, the Rising Tide Theatre puts on outdoor performances in the streets themselves, bringing 17th-century history to life in the most immersive possible way.
One of eastern Newfoundland most spectacular geological features — the Dungeon is a collapsed sea cave forming a dramatic double-arch opening directly to the ocean. In spring, icebergs drift past the arch’s frame. The walk from the parking area is short and the view is extraordinary. Located just 10 minutes from Cape Bonavista Lighthouse.
Bonavista is one of the most historically and scenically compelling towns in Newfoundland — the probable landing site of John Cabot in 1497, home of the Ryan Premises National Historic Site, excellent iceberg viewing in spring, and the internationally acclaimed Bonavista Biennale arts festival in summer years.
Activities in Eastern Newfoundland
From hiking North America’s top-rated trail to watching icebergs pass a lighthouse built in 1843 — eastern Newfoundland delivers unforgettable experiences.
The 5.3 km Skerwink Trail loop in Port Rexton is the finest coastal hike in eastern Newfoundland — ranked Top 35 in North America and Europe. Dramatic sea stacks, cliff-edge trails over Trinity Bay, and whale and iceberg spotting in season. Trailhead on Rocky Hill Road, Port Rexton.
Year-Round · Free · 2–3 hrsThe Elliston Puffin Viewing Site offers one of the most accessible puffin colony encounters in North America — free, land-based, and remarkably up-close. Visit from late May through August with peak viewing in June and July. Combine with the Elliston root cellar self-guided tour for a full morning.
May–Aug · FreeVisit the 1843 lighthouse where John Cabot’s landfall is commemorated, with panoramic views over the open Atlantic. Museum open June–October with guided tours. The headland is accessible year-round — whale, iceberg, and puffin watching from the cliff edge in season.
Jun–Oct Museum · Year-Round GroundsA collapsed sea cave forming a dramatic double sea arch at Dungeon Provincial Park, just 10 minutes from Bonavista. The short walk to the lookout reveals one of the most dramatic coastal geological features in the province — extraordinary when icebergs drift through the arch’s frame in May and June.
Year-Round · FreeThe Bonavista Peninsula is one of the finest iceberg watching destinations in the province. Prime spots include Cape Bonavista Lighthouse, Spillars Cove, the Skerwink Trail clifftops, and Dungeon Provincial Park. May and early June are peak iceberg season. Icebergs combined with puffins make late May–June extraordinary.
May–Jun PeakWhale watching along the Bonavista Peninsula is excellent from late June through August. Humpback, minke, and fin whales feed in the waters off Trinity Bay and the Bonavista coastline. The Skerwink Trail and Trinity harbour offer outstanding land-based whale watching without a boat.
Jun–Sep · Land + BoatRising Tide Theatre’s summer season is one of the most singular cultural experiences in Newfoundland — outdoor performances in the actual streets, wharves, and waterfront of historic Trinity, with costumed actors bringing the 17th century to life around you. Running most summers June–September.
Jun–Sep · AnnualAn internationally acclaimed contemporary art festival filling Bonavista’s historic buildings, fish plants, and outdoor spaces with major artworks by Canadian and international artists. Held in alternate summers, the Biennale has transformed Bonavista into one of Atlantic Canada’s most exciting cultural destinations.
Summer · Alternate YearsPort Rexton Brewing Co. sits at the Skerwink Trail turnoff and serves as the perfect pre- or post-hike stop. One of Newfoundland finest craft breweries — with seasonal releases inspired by the natural environment — the brewery’s patio overlooks Trinity Bay. Open most of the year with food service in peak season.
Year-Round · Trinity BayThe Burin Peninsula —
Eastern Newfoundland
Hidden Gem
Rugged south coast scenery, a ferry to France, one of the world’s most significant fossil sites, and some of the most authentic fishing communities on the island. The Burin Peninsula rewards those who make the detour.
Two Peninsulas’ Width Away
from France
The Burin Peninsula extends southward from the Trans-Canada Highway all the way to Point May — a long, narrow finger of land reaching into the North Atlantic. It is one of the most scenically wild and historically rich parts of eastern Newfoundland, and one of the most overlooked by first-time visitors who make the mistake of passing through without stopping.
From the town of Fortune at the peninsula’s southern tip, a seasonal ferry operated by Saint-Pierre et Miquelon Coastal Links takes passengers the 25 km across to St. Pierre & Miquelon — France’s last North American territory. Stepping off the boat into St. Pierre is a genuine culture shock: euros instead of dollars, baguettes instead of toutons, French signage, and a pace of life that feels entirely European despite sitting just off the Newfoundland coast. It is one of the most extraordinary day trips available from any point on The Rock.
Back on the peninsula, Fortune Head Ecological Reserve protects one of the world’s most significant geological sites — a UNESCO World Heritage location marking the Precambrian–Cambrian boundary from 565 million years ago. The fossil record preserved in the cliffs here helped scientists establish the formal boundary between Earth’s geological eras. The Fortune Head Geology Centre interprets this extraordinary site with exhibits on rocks, fossils, minerals, and the 1929 tsunami that devastated the south coast communities.
Take the seasonal ferry from Fortune for a day trip to France’s last North American territory. Euros, French cuisine, cobblestone streets, and a completely different world — just 25 km from Newfoundland. Passports recommended; government-issued photo ID accepted for Canadians.
A UNESCO World Heritage Site protecting the Precambrian–Cambrian boundary — one of the world’s most scientifically significant fossil sites. The Fortune Head Geology Centre provides extraordinary context for this 565-million-year-old record in the cliffs above the sea.
One of the most remarkable museum buildings in the province, housed in the distinctive Grand Bank waterfront. Inside, centuries of the peninsula’s seafaring and fishing heritage come alive through artifacts, tools, and cultural exhibits that connect the Burin to the sea.
A beautiful coastal walk leading out to the Grand Bank lighthouse overlooking the Atlantic — with views of the coastline that on clear days stretch to the horizon. The Grand Bank Theatre Festival and Heritage Society bring the community’s culture alive each summer.
St. Lawrence was the site of Canada’s worst industrial disaster — fluorspar mining that claimed 65 lives from radiation exposure. The museum and Chambers Cove memorials tell the story of the workers and community with moving depth. The 1929 tsunami memorial is also located nearby.
Golden Sands Resort in Burin offers one of the finest beach experiences on the south coast — golden sandy shores and crystal-clear freshwater for swimming, kayaking, and fishing. Sandy Cove Beach in Lord’s Cove, Shoal Cove Beach, and the dramatic coastline around Chambers Cove provide more wild south coast scenery.
Eastern Newfoundland
Festival Calendar
The eastern region has one of the richest festival calendars in the province — from world-class contemporary art to the campfire and cod of Roots, Rants and Roars.
Outdoor theatrical performances in the streets of historic Trinity — one of the most unique cultural experiences in Atlantic Canada. Costumed actors bring Trinity’s 17th–18th century history to life around visitors in real time. Runs most years June through September.
An internationally celebrated contemporary arts festival transforming Bonavista’s historic spaces — fish plants, wharves, saltbox houses — into gallery spaces for major Canadian and international artists. The Biennale has redefined Bonavista as one of Atlantic Canada’s most exciting cultural destinations.
Held in Elliston every September, Roots Rants and Roars is a beloved food and music festival celebrating local producers, chefs, and musicians — with bonfires on the headlands, fresh seafood, and the last of summer’s warmth. One of the finest ways to end a Newfoundland visit as the season turns.
5 Days on the Bonavista Peninsula
A perfect long weekend — Skerwink Trail, Cape Bonavista, Elliston puffins, Trinity theatre, and Dungeon Provincial Park.
Arrival · Trinity
Drive from St. John’s (3.5 hrs) or fly into Gander. Arrive in Trinity — walk the waterfront and historic lanes. Evening Rising Tide Theatre if in season. Dinner at a Trinity area restaurant.
Skerwink Trail · Port Rexton
Morning: Skerwink Trail loop (5.3 km, 2–3 hrs). Post-hike: Port Rexton Brewing Co. patio. Afternoon: explore Port Rexton and Trinity village. Check for whale activity in the bay.
Cape Bonavista · Dungeon
Drive to Bonavista town. Morning: Cape Bonavista Lighthouse and museum. Late morning: Dungeon Provincial Park sea arch. Afternoon: Ryan Premises National Historic Site. Explore Bonavista’s waterfront.
Elliston Puffins · Root Cellars
Morning: Elliston Puffin Viewing Site (early morning best for puffin activity). Walk the root cellar trail and Sealer’s Memorial. Afternoon: kayaking or whale watching boat tour from Trinity or Bonavista harbour.
Departure · Discovery Trail
Take the Discovery Trail (Route 230/235/233) back toward the Trans-Canada — passing coastal communities, Spillars Cove for sea stack views, and Clarenville for fuel and the Trans-Canada connection.
How to Reach Eastern Newfoundland
The Bonavista Peninsula is a 3.5–4 hour drive from St. John’s — or fly into Gander and approach from the north.
🕐 Arrive at Elliston Early for Puffins
Puffins are most active early morning and late afternoon when feeding and shuttling fish to chicks. Arrive by 8–9am in June and July for the best close-up viewing before midday crowds. The site is free and open access year-round.
🅿 Skerwink Trail Parking
The Skerwink Trail parking area on Rocky Hill Road in Port Rexton fills up quickly in July and August by mid-morning. Aim to arrive by 8–9am on summer weekends. Weekday mornings are much quieter.
🧊 Time Icebergs for Late May–June
Cape Bonavista Lighthouse, Dungeon Provincial Park, and Spillars Cove all offer excellent iceberg sightings. Late May through mid-June is peak iceberg season — combined with early puffin season this is the finest possible window for a first-time visit.
🍺 Port Rexton Brewery is a Must
Port Rexton Brewing Co. is right at the Skerwink Trail turnoff — one of Newfoundland best craft breweries with seasonal releases and a patio overlooking Trinity Bay. Open most of the year; peak season food service June–September.
Tips for Eastern Newfoundland
Get the most from the Bonavista Peninsula with these locally sourced recommendations.
Plan for 3–4 Nights Minimum
The Bonavista Peninsula reveals itself slowly. Give yourself at least 3 full nights — ideally 4 — to do the Skerwink Trail, Cape Bonavista, Elliston, Dungeon, and Trinity without rushing. Most visitors leave wishing they had booked another night.
Stay in Trinity or Port Rexton
Trinity and Port Rexton are the finest base — central location, excellent B&Bs and vacation rentals, walking access to the Skerwink trailhead, and Trinity harbour for evening walks. Book well in advance for July and August.
The Dungeon is Ten Minutes from the Lighthouse
Most visitors drive to Cape Bonavista Lighthouse and miss the Dungeon — a collapsed sea cave with a double sea arch that ranks among eastern Newfoundland most dramatic coastal features. It’s just 10 minutes by car from the lighthouse. Don’t skip it.
Late May–June is the Magic Window
The last week of May and first two weeks of June offer the best combination: icebergs at peak, puffins newly arrived and active, whale season beginning, trails in excellent condition, and July crowds still a few weeks away.
Roots, Rants & Roars in September
If you can visit in September, the Roots, Rants and Roars festival in Elliston is one of the finest ways to experience Newfoundland culture — outdoor food stations on the headlands, local music, fire pits, and fresh seafood. The fall light on the Bonavista Peninsula in September is extraordinary.
Walk Trinity at Dusk
The light on Trinity’s colourful fishing stages, reflected in the harbour at dusk, is one of the most beautiful scenes in Newfoundland. Plan an evening walk through the village after dinner — the Lester Garland Premises and the waterfront stages are magical in low light.
The Burin Peninsula Needs Two Days
Most visitors treat the Burin Peninsula as a day trip. Give it two days: one for the St. Pierre & Miquelon ferry day trip (the most unique experience on the peninsula), and one for Fortune Head, Grand Bank’s Provincial Seamen’s Museum, the Grand Bank Lighthouse Walk, and St. Lawrence. Add a third if the summer theatre is on.
Book the St. Pierre Ferry Early
The Fortune–St. Pierre ferry runs seasonally (typically June–October) and fills up, particularly on summer weekends. Book online at spmcl.com well before your visit. Bring photo ID — Canadian citizens don’t need a passport, but one is recommended. Note: the currency in St. Pierre is the Euro, so bring some cash or use a card with no foreign transaction fees.
Get Our Eastern Newfoundland Guides
We have dedicated PDF guides for both peninsulas — the Bonavista Peninsula Guide and the Burin Peninsula Guide — each covering every trail, attraction, restaurant, accommodation, and seasonal tip. Instant download. Works offline.
Common Questions About
Eastern Newfoundland
Eastern Newfoundland Guides
Hike the Cliffs.
Meet a Puffin.
Two extraordinary peninsulas. North America’s top coastal trail, Canada’s most accessible puffin colony, a 500-year-old lighthouse, and a ferry to France all in one region. Plan your eastern Newfoundland adventure now.