Things To Do in Newfoundland and Labrador
Newfoundland and Labrador offers visitors an extraordinary range of activities and experiences spanning outdoor adventures, wildlife encounters, cultural discoveries, and culinary delights. Whether you seek adrenaline-pumping activities or peaceful nature observation, this diverse province delivers memorable experiences found nowhere else on Earth. From watching massive icebergs drift past ancient coastlines to hiking through UNESCO World Heritage landscapes, every day brings new discoveries.
Whale Watching
Newfoundland and Labrador's waters attract over 20 whale species, making it one of the world's premier whale watching destinations. Humpback whales are most commonly observed, often feeding close to shore and performing spectacular breaches. Minke whales, fin whales, pilot whales, and occasionally blue whales (the largest animals ever to exist on Earth) also frequent these nutrient-rich waters.
Boat tours operate from numerous communities including St. John's, Bay Bulls, Twillingate, Trinity, and others during summer months. Two to three-hour tours typically include multiple whale sightings along with seabirds, possibly icebergs, and dramatic coastal scenery. Some operators use smaller boats for more intimate experiences, while others run larger vessels with indoor seating and amenities.
Land-based whale watching provides free alternatives at locations like Cape Spear, Signal Hill, and various coastal viewpoints. Patient observers with binoculars often spot whales from shore, particularly during peak season in June and July when whales feed extensively on capelin near the coast.
Iceberg Viewing
Witnessing massive icebergs represents one of Newfoundland's most iconic experiences. These enormous ice formations calve from Greenland's glaciers and drift south on ocean currents, passing the Newfoundland coast from April through early July. Some bergs tower ten stories above the water with intricate shapes sculpted by wind and waves. The visible portion represents only 10-15% of the total mass, with the majority submerged.
Prime iceberg viewing locations include Twillingate ("Iceberg Capital of the World"), St. Anthony, Bonavista, and communities along the eastern coast. The Iceberg Finder website and app track reported sightings in real-time. Boat tours allow closer approaches to these frozen giants, offering unique perspectives and photo opportunities. Some tours even collect small ice fragments for visitors to taste 10,000-year-old glacial ice.
Hiking Adventures
Newfoundland and Labrador's hiking trails showcase the province's diverse landscapes from coastal cliffs to mountain peaks. The East Coast Trail system encompasses 336 kilometers of coastal wilderness paths near St. John's, ranging from easy two-hour walks to challenging multi-day treks. Trails pass through coastal communities, cross headlands with ocean views, and traverse forests and barrens.
Gros Morne National Park offers over 20 maintained trails including the challenging Gros Morne Mountain summit hike (16 km round trip) and the spectacular Skerwink Trail near Trinity (5.3 km loop) consistently ranks among Canada's best day hikes. These trails provide intimate encounters with the province's natural beauty, wildlife, and geological wonders.
Guided hiking experiences with knowledgeable local guides enhance understanding of flora, fauna, geology, and human history. Some operators offer multi-day hiking tours with accommodation and meal support, allowing hikers to explore remote areas without carrying full backpacking gear.
Sea Kayaking
Sea kayaking provides intimate access to Newfoundland's intricate coastline including hidden coves, sea caves, coastal wildlife, and geological features impossible to reach otherwise. Guided tours cater to all skill levels from beginners on protected waters to experienced paddlers tackling open ocean conditions. Half-day, full-day, and multi-day expeditions explore different coastal areas.
Popular kayaking destinations include Trinity Bay, Gros Morne's coastal areas, Notre Dame Bay, and numerous other locations. Paddlers commonly encounter seabirds, seals, possibly whales, and dramatic rock formations. Skilled guides ensure safety while sharing knowledge about the coastal environment, history, and wildlife.
Seabird and Puffin Viewing
Newfoundland hosts North America's largest Atlantic puffin colonies along with millions of other seabirds. The Witless Bay Ecological Reserve, accessible by boat from Bay Bulls, protects enormous breeding colonies of puffins, murres, kittiwakes, and other species. These colorful, charismatic birds nest on coastal cliffs and islands from May through August.
Puffin and seabird tours combine wildlife viewing with spectacular coastal scenery and often whale sightings. Witnessing thousands of puffins taking flight or returning to nesting burrows with fish creates unforgettable wildlife experiences. Other excellent seabird viewing locations include Cape St. Mary's Ecological Reserve, where gannets nest on a dramatic sea stack accessible by short walk.
Historic Site Exploration
Newfoundland and Labrador's historic sites document human presence spanning thousands of years. L'Anse aux Meadows National Historic Site preserves the only confirmed Norse settlement in North America, with reconstructed Viking buildings and archaeological exhibits. Signal Hill in St. John's marks the site of Marconi's first transatlantic wireless signal and features military fortifications from multiple eras.
The Colony of Avalon in Ferryland reveals a 17th-century English settlement through ongoing archaeological excavations. Battle Harbour in Labrador preserves a 19th-century fishing station. Red Bay documents 16th-century Basque whaling operations. These sites bring history to life through artifacts, reconstructions, and interpretation programs.
Cultural Experiences
Newfoundland culture emphasizes music, storytelling, hospitality, and distinctive traditions. Traditional music sessions occur regularly in pubs, community halls, and private homes, featuring fiddles, accordions, and vocals. Kitchen parties welcome visitors to experience spontaneous music and socializing in informal settings.
Theater productions including the popular musical "Come From Away" celebrate Newfoundland stories and hospitality. Summer festivals throughout the province showcase music, food, heritage, and arts. The Gros Morne Theatre Festival, Writers at Woody Point, and numerous community celebrations offer cultural immersion.
According to Heritage Newfoundland and Labrador, the province's unique dialect, expressions, and storytelling traditions reflect centuries of relative isolation and diverse settlement patterns. Engaging with locals provides insights into this distinctive culture and its continuing evolution.
Fishing Experiences
Recreational fishing attracts anglers to Newfoundland and Labrador's pristine rivers, lakes, and coastal waters. Atlantic salmon rivers draw fly fishers from around the world, while countless lakes harbor trout populations. Deep sea fishing charters pursue species including cod, halibut, and tuna. Fishing licenses are required, and regulations protect sensitive populations.
Guided fishing experiences with local outfitters provide equipment, expertise, and access to productive waters. Remote fly-in fishing lodges in Labrador offer wilderness experiences and exceptional fishing in rarely visited areas. Some operations include accommodation, meals, and full guiding services.
Winter Activities
Winter transforms Newfoundland and Labrador into a snowy wonderland offering unique seasonal experiences. Snowmobiling across vast wilderness areas, particularly in Labrador, attracts riders seeking backcountry adventures. Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing trails provide peaceful winter forest experiences. Marble Mountain near Corner Brook offers downhill skiing and snowboarding.
Northern lights viewing peaks during winter months, especially in Labrador where aurora borealis frequently illuminates the night sky. Ice fishing, dog sledding, and winter camping appeal to adventurous visitors willing to embrace the cold. Winter also brings the annual George Street Festival in St. John's, celebrating Newfoundland culture during the coldest months.