Things to Do in
Trinity
Newfoundland
One-lane streets. Colourful clapboard houses. A world-ranked coastal trail. Theatre under the open sky. Trinity is a hidden gem on the Bonavista Peninsula that transports visitors back in time — and leaves an indelible mark on everyone who finds it.
of the East Bonavista Peninsula
Eastern Newfoundland
A Historical Gem
That Transports You
Back in Time
Trinity is a picturesque destination that captures the essence of Newfoundland history and charm. The one-lane streets wind through the community with colourful traditional houses, creating an atmosphere that transports you back in time. Located on the Bonavista Peninsula, the picturesque town of Trinity is a well-preserved gem with narrow streets, colourful clapboard houses, and charming fishing stages that create an idyllic atmosphere reminiscent of old-world Europe.
Trinity is known for its historical significance, scenic beauty, and cultural offerings. The town is famous for its well-preserved buildings and role in Newfoundland fishing history. Trinity’s history dates back centuries when Portuguese explorers first visited. By the 18th century, it had become an important fishing and trading centre. Trinity is also renowned for the Rising Tide Theatre, which offers performances that depict the region’s history and culture.
For nature enthusiasts, Trinity offers the world-renowned Skerwink Trail — a moderate hiking trail offering breathtaking coastal views, rugged cliffs, and opportunities to spot icebergs, whales, and seabirds. Whether you’re exploring the past, indulging in nature, or immersing yourself in the arts, Trinity offers authentic Newfoundland charm you will remember.
8 Best Things to Do
in Trinity, Newfoundland
From a world-ranked coastal hike to dinner theatre under the open sky — here are the eight experiences that make Trinity unforgettable, all sourced from our published guides.
The Skerwink Trail was ranked in the top 35 trails in North America and Europe — and for good reason. This 5.3-kilometre loop trail winds its way through diverse landscapes, showcasing the rugged beauty of the Newfoundland coastline. The trail passes through wooded paths and opens to stunning sea views and cliffs. Sea stacks and eagles can be spotted along the trail.
The trail’s most captivating feature is its breathtaking coastal views. As you hike along the cliffside, you’ll be treated to panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean, rugged cliffs, and sea stacks. The smell of saltwater and the sighting of icebergs or whales will create an immersive experience that’s hard to forget. Keep your eyes peeled across the ocean — you might spot bald eagles soaring overhead or seals basking on the rocks below. During iceberg season, you may spot giant icebergs that drift slowly along the coastline.
Rising Tide Theatre is renowned for its world-class performances. This innovative theatre company is known for engaging shows — from historic reenactments to laughter on stage, each performance becomes a memorable experience. Catch a play at Rising Tide Theatre and immerse yourself in the Trinity cultural scene. Check the theatre’s schedule to ensure you catch a show during your visit. Whether a dramatic play or a lively musical performance, the Rising Tide Theatre adds an artistic and entertaining dimension to your Trinity experience.
Trinity Bay is known for extraordinary close-range humpback whale encounters in the shallow waters near the historic town. The best time to see whales in Newfoundland is from mid-June to mid-August, when several species including humpbacks can be seen migrating through. Boat tours from Trinity offer some of the best whale-watching opportunities in the province. Sea of Whales Adventures offers icebergs and whale watching, while Trinity Eco-Tours provides Zodiac boat rides, whale watching, and sea kayaking.
Trinity Historical Society sites give you a deep dive into the town’s heritage. Discover historical stories and Trinity’s strong ties with the sea. Immerse yourself in the past at the Trinity Historical Society sites. The town’s traditional architecture refers to its seafaring past, giving you a glimpse into life during Newfoundland’s fishing heyday. Visit the Trinity Interpretation Centre, the Trinity Visitor Centre, and the Green Family Forge — each offering a different window into this extraordinary place.
Trinity Eco-Tours provides whale watching, sea kayaking, and ATV tours. The Harbour Kayak Tour takes you around Trinity Harbour where you will enjoy the local scenery, waterfalls, arches, and caves. For a more adventurous experience, you can get towed out to a distant point for chances to interact with whales and other marine life. Speed along in an inflatable Zodiac Boat while exploring the icebergs, whales, and wildlife on the coast of Trinity Bay. This is the most immersive way to experience Trinity’s extraordinary coastal landscape.
A hike to Fort Point is one of the eight must-do things in Trinity. This coastal headland trail offers sweeping views over the harbour and Trinity Bay — an ideal spot for whale watching during the summer months. Fort Point holds historical significance as a fortification point that protected Trinity’s harbour in earlier centuries. The hike is relatively short but rewarding, delivering some of the finest free views in Trinity with the added context of the town’s military and maritime history.
Skerwink Trail —
A Natural Wonder
Port Rexton, a picturesque coastal town on the eastern shores of Newfoundland, is home to one of the area’s best-kept secrets: the Skerwink Trail. This scenic wonder is a nature lover’s paradise and a hiker’s dream. The Skerwink Trail was ranked in the top 35 trails in North America and Europe — its unique features include rocky terrain, coastal vistas, and abundant wildlife that make it a must-visit destination for hikers, nature enthusiasts, and photographers.
The trail passes through diverse landscapes — wooded paths and lush scenic forests — before opening to stunning sea views and cliffs. During iceberg season, you may spot giant icebergs drifting slowly along the coastline. Depending on the season, you might also spot humpback whales, minke whales, and even orcas. Bring your binoculars and keep a keen eye on the horizon. Bald eagles soar overhead and seals bask on rocks below.
Trinity’s Historic Sites
& Heritage Walk
Immerse yourself in the past at the Trinity Historical Society Sites — a deep dive into the town’s heritage. Discover historical stories and Trinity’s strong ties with the sea. The town’s traditional architecture refers to its seafaring past, giving you a glimpse into life during Newfoundland’s fishing heyday. Heritage Walking Tours led by knowledgeable guides bring the history to life through captivating stories about this remarkable outport community.
Trinity’s history dates back centuries when Portuguese explorers first visited. By the 18th century, it had become an important fishing and trading centre. Today, the town’s well-preserved buildings, narrow one-lane streets, and colourful clapboard houses tell that story quietly and compellingly. The driving time from St. John’s to Trinity is about 2 hours and 55 minutes — making it an excellent day trip or multi-night base.
Trinity Tour Operators
Trinity Bay offers some of the finest whale watching opportunities in Newfoundland. Two established local operators offer a range of experiences from Zodiac whale chases to peaceful harbour kayaking.
Trinity Eco-Tours provides Whale Watching Tours, Sea Kayaking Tours, and ATV Tours. You can speed along in an Inflatable Zodiac Boat while exploring the icebergs, whales, and wildlife on the coast of Trinity Bay. The Harbour Kayak Tour takes you around Trinity Harbour where you will enjoy local scenery, waterfalls, arches, and caves. For more experienced or adventurous kayakers, you can get towed out to a distant point for chances to interact with whales and other marine life. Trinity Eco-Tours and Lodge also offers accommodation.
Book Trinity Eco-Tours ›Sea of Whales Adventures offers iceberg and whale watching tours from Trinity Bay. Trinity Bay is celebrated for extraordinary close-range humpback whale encounters in the shallow coastal waters. The area’s productive waters attract humpbacks, minkes, and fin whales in concentrated numbers throughout the summer season. This is one of the most intimate and breathtaking whale watching experiences in all of Newfoundland — the shallow waters of Trinity Bay regularly bring whales close to shore in ways few other places can match.
Rising Tide Theatre —
World-Class Performances
in a Historic Setting
Immerse yourself in the Trinity cultural scene by attending a Rising Tide Theatre performance. This innovative theatre company is renowned for engaging shows. From historic reenactments to laughter on stage, each performance becomes a memorable experience. The 30-day itinerary describes it as “known for its world-class performances” — a theatre company that uses Trinity itself as its stage, performing in and around the historic buildings and wharves of the town.
Check the theatre’s schedule to ensure you catch a show during your visit. Whether a dramatic play or a lively musical performance, the Rising Tide Theatre adds an artistic and entertaining dimension to your Trinity experience. The combination of extraordinary setting, rich history, and talented cast creates something you simply cannot find anywhere else in Atlantic Canada.
Dining in Trinity —
Fresh Seafood & Local Flavour
Fresh seafood is a highlight, with dishes like cod, mussels, and crab often stealing the spotlight. Many restaurants offer waterfront dining, allowing you to savour your meal while soaking in the picturesque views.
A waterfront dining destination combining fresh local seafood with art gallery exhibits. An exceptional spot for a memorable meal overlooking Trinity Harbour — combining two of Trinity’s greatest strengths, food and culture, in one location.
One of Trinity’s most celebrated dining destinations. Located in a historic building on High Street, Twine Loft serves local cuisine with a focus on fresh Atlantic seafood. A beloved institution for both visitors and returning guests to Trinity.
A charming cafe on West Street offering a relaxed setting for coffee, light meals, and homemade baked goods. A perfect stop during a heritage walking tour of Trinity’s historic streets — the kind of place that feels entirely of its town.
A popular eat-in restaurant in Trinity offering quick, hearty local meals. Perfect for refuelling after the Skerwink Trail or before an afternoon exploring the historic society sites and Fort Point. Fresh and straightforward Newfoundland cooking.
Located in Trinity East, the Brightside Bistro provides a friendly neighbourhood dining experience close to the Skerwink Trail trailhead in Port Rexton. An excellent pre- or post-hike stop for a meal with local flavour and Bonavista Peninsula hospitality.
No visit to Trinity is complete without a stop at Sweet Rock Ice Cream on High Street. The perfect treat after a hike or a whale watching tour — enjoying an ice cream cone while watching the boats in Trinity Harbour is a quintessential Trinity moment.
Accommodation in Trinity
Newfoundland
Trinity offers a range of accommodations, from cozy beds and breakfasts to charming inns. Many options provide a glimpse into the town’s history and hospitality, enhancing your overall experience.
A historic property in Trinity offering charming accommodation steeped in the town’s maritime heritage and hospitality.
One of Trinity’s most beloved accommodations — a collection of beautifully restored historic properties including Cove Cottage and Campbell House.
A beautiful heritage property offering warm Newfoundland hospitality in an elegant historic setting in the heart of Trinity.
Stay with the tour operators themselves — accommodation on-site with Trinity Eco-Tours, combining whale watching, kayaking, and a comfortable lodge experience.
A welcoming bed and breakfast offering comfortable rooms and the warm hospitality that Trinity is famous for — an excellent base for exploring the peninsula.
Self-contained cabins offering privacy and space for families or couples wanting a home-away-from-home experience in the Trinity area. Ideal for multi-night stays.
A well-regarded accommodation in Trinity offering comfortable suites and easy access to all the historic sites, restaurants, and theatre performances the town offers.
A cozy bed and breakfast providing the genuine Newfoundland B&B experience in Trinity — hearty breakfast, warm hosts, and local knowledge you can’t find in a hotel.
Trinity accommodation fills quickly in July and August, especially around Rising Tide Theatre performances. Book months in advance for summer travel on the Bonavista Peninsula.
Insider Tips for
Visiting Trinity
Best Time to Visit
The ideal time to visit Trinity is from June to August and the fall months. This period offers pleasant weather, allowing you to explore outdoor attractions comfortably. The vibrant colours of the landscape, combined with various festivals and events, create a lively atmosphere during summer. Fall brings magnificent colours to the Bonavista Peninsula.
Hike the Skerwink Early
The Skerwink Trail is best hiked in the morning before crowds arrive. In peak season, parking on Rocky Hill Road fills up fast. Arrive early — the morning light on the sea stacks and icebergs (in season) is extraordinary. The trail is open year-round and is best in summer and early fall.
Book Rising Tide Theatre Ahead
Plan your visit around events like the Trinity Pageant and the Rising Tide Theatre Festival to witness live performances that bring the past to life. Check the theatre’s schedule online and book your tickets before arriving in Trinity. Summer shows sell out.
Getting There from St. John’s
You can reach Trinity by flying to St. John’s International Airport, followed by a scenic drive along the Trans-Canada Highway and Route 230. The driving time from St. John’s to Trinity is about 2 hours and 55 minutes. The drive itself is a scenic adventure passing through picturesque landscapes.
Whale Watching Season
The best time to see whales in Newfoundland is from mid-June to mid-August. During this period, several species of whales including humpbacks can be seen migrating through Trinity Bay’s waters. Trinity Bay is famous for close-range humpback encounters in the shallow coastal waters — book a tour with Trinity Eco-Tours or Sea of Whales Adventures.
Photography Capital of the Peninsula
Trinity is a photographer’s paradise — from the colourful heritage houses on narrow lanes to the sea stacks on the Skerwink Trail and the coastal light over the harbour. The heritage architecture is stunning in morning light. Bring your best camera and lots of storage — you will need it.
Things to Do in Trinity
— Common Questions
More Trinity & Bonavista Peninsula Guides
Trinity, Newfoundland?
Trinity, Newfoundland, is a destination that seamlessly weaves together its historical roots, natural beauty, and cultural vibrancy. It promises a journey that leaves an indelible mark on your heart.