Witless Bay
Ecological Reserve
The best wildlife show on the planet North America’s largest Atlantic puffin colony, millions of seabirds, and humpback whales, all within an hour of St. John’s.
in North America
Where Puffins, Whales & Icebergs Meet
Witless Bay Ecological Reserve is one of the most extraordinary wildlife destinations in North America, located just 30 minutes south of St. John’s along the scenic Southern Shore Highway. Every summer, the reserve bursts to life with an astonishing concentration of wildlife that few places on earth can match.
The reserve is centered around four offshore islands Gull, Green, Great, and Pee Pee islands that collectively host the largest Atlantic puffin colony in North America, with over half a million birds returning each year to nest and raise their young. Alongside the puffins, millions of common murres, black-legged kittiwakes, razorbills, and Leach’s storm-petrels fill the skies.
Add humpback whales feeding just offshore, icebergs drifting past in spring, and some of the most dramatic coastal scenery in Newfoundland, and you have a wildlife experience that regularly leaves visitors speechless. Access is by boat tour only which makes it all the more special.
What You’ll See in the Reserve
A remarkable concentration of marine life all accessible from a comfortable boat tour departing Bay Bulls.
How to Visit the Reserve
The islands are an ecological reserve you can only view them from the water. Two outstanding tour operators depart from Bay Bulls, just minutes from Witless Bay.
More Things To Do Near Witless Bay
The reserve sits along the stunning Irish Loop one of Newfoundland’s best scenic drives, with plenty to explore before and after your boat tour.
When to Visit Witless Bay
The reserve is a summer destination each month from May to September offers something different and spectacular.
Puffins arrive and icebergs are at their peak. One of the most dramatic times you might see icebergs AND puffins on the same tour.
- Iceberg season peak
- Puffins arriving
- Fewer crowds
The colony is at full capacity, whales are feeding in abundance, and the long daylight hours mean more time on the water. Book your tour well in advance.
- Best whale activity
- Full puffin colony
- All tours operating
Puffins are still very active and whale watching remains excellent. Warm afternoons and the most comfortable weather of the season.
- Warm comfortable days
- Puffins still nesting
- Great photography light
Puffins begin departing by mid-September. Fewer tourists, lower prices, and the Irish Loop turns beautiful autumn colours. Tours run until mid-October.
- Fall foliage on Irish Loop
- Fewer crowds
- Last chance for puffins
How to Reach Witless Bay
One of Newfoundland’s most accessible wildlife destinations just 30 minutes from St. John’s by car.
📅 Book Your Boat Tour First
O’Brien’s and Gatherall’s both sell out weeks ahead in June and July. Book online as soon as your dates are confirmed especially if you’re visiting on a weekend.
🚗 Rent a Car for the Irish Loop
A rental car lets you combine your Witless Bay boat tour with a full Irish Loop scenic drive Ferryland, Tors Cove, Cape Race and more. Book well in advance during peak season.
🧥 Layer Up on the Boat
Even on warm summer days, it can be cold and windy on the water. Bring a windproof jacket, warm layers, and non-slip shoes. Sunscreen is also essential the reflection off the water is intense.
📸 Bring Your Best Camera
A telephoto lens (200mm+) works best for puffins and whales. A wide-angle captures the colony and scenery. Waterproof case recommended you may get splashed.
👨👩👧 Perfectly Family-Friendly
Both tour operators welcome all ages. Children are absolutely transfixed by puffins and whale watching. Highly recommended as a family experience it’s one of those days kids remember forever.
Tips for the Best Experience
Make the most of every minute on and around the reserve with these locally tested tips.
Go on a Morning Tour
Puffins are most active in the morning as they return from overnight feeding. The light is also softer and more beautiful for photography than midday.
Visit in Late May for Icebergs
The combination of icebergs AND puffins on a single tour is a uniquely Newfoundland experience. Late May is the sweet spot before icebergs melt away.
Make a Full Irish Loop Day
Don’t drive back after the tour. Continue south on Route 10 past Ferryland, Cape Race, and along the coast one of the best half-day scenic drives in eastern Canada.
Watch for Capelin on Shore
In late June and July, capelin “roll” onto Newfoundland beaches to spawn. Watching this at sunset near Bay Bulls with humpbacks feeding just offshore is unforgettable.
Bring Seasickness Medication
The North Atlantic can get choppy. If you’re prone to motion sickness, take medication before boarding. Staying at the back of the boat also helps.
Stay Overnight in Bay Bulls
Bread & Cheese Country Inn in Bay Bulls and Whale House Guest House in Witless Bay are charming local stays. Being there at dawn when the bay is glass-calm is magical.
Witless Bay Travel Guides
Go deeper with our locally written guides covering wildlife, tours, and trip planning.
Ready to Meet the
Puffins?
Plan your Witless Bay trip with our itinerary planner, or find a stay near Bay Bulls right now.