When I first started daydreaming of planning a trip to Newfoundland, it was after seeing photos of cute puffins and colorful lupins…I swore it had to be Iceland! But when I realized this dreamy destination was actually a little closer to home, I just knew I had to find a way to visit. And let me tell you—I’m so glad we made it happen. Newfoundland completely stole our hearts, and it was somehow even better than I imagined. I’m honestly shocked at how underrated this stunning place is. Think of New Zealand and Ireland having a baby, and you’ve got Newfoundland!!!
This blog post is just the thing to ensure planning a trip to Newfoundland is easy—from where to fly into, must-visit stops, hidden gems, and all the dreamy road trip spots you won’t want to miss. Let’s dive in!
Come along for a peek into our trip to Newfoundland! In this video, I’m giving you a glimpse of our favorite highlights of our time exploring this stunning destination while planning a trip to Newfoundland. From breathtaking views to unforgettable moments, get ready for a visual journey that will make you want to pack your bags!
@herjoliejourney Why Newfoundland Needs to Be on Your 2025 Bucket List 🇨🇦✨ Imagine a place where Ireland’s emerald cliffs meet New Zealand’s dramatic coastlines—welcome to Newfoundland! This stunning gem is overflowing with jaw-dropping landscapes, charming seaside villages, and rugged beauty at every turn. In the summer, fields burst into color with wild lupins, while adorable puffins waddle along the cliffs. 🐧 And the best part? It’s still underrated—meaning fewer crowds, more space to soak in those epic views, and a relaxed vibe that’s hard to find in more popular destinations. Oh, and did I mention it’s pretty affordable and surprisingly easy to get to? 🛫✨ Whether you’re hiking along coastal trails, spotting icebergs, or cozying up in a seaside cabin, Newfoundland feels like stepping into a postcard. 2025 is your year to visit before the secret’s out—trust me, this is a destination you’ll be dreaming about long after you’ve left. 🥰🌍 #newfoundlandandlabrador #canada🇨🇦 #beautifuldestinations #2025travel #2025 ♬ 2024 mashup - minlee 민리
When we started planning a trip to Newfoundland and shared our travel plans, we were surprised by how many people asked us, ‘Where even is Newfoundland?’ Somehow, this incredible destination still manages to fly under the tourist radar!
So, let’s clear it up: Newfoundland is an island on the easternmost edge of Canada, practically the first place the sun rises in North America. It’s rugged, beautiful, and full of charm, with endless coastal views and welcoming locals. Trust us—once you visit, you’ll wonder how it stayed such a hidden gem for so long!
When planning a trip to Newfoundland, the best way to start your adventure is by flying into St. John’s International Airport.
That’s exactly what we did, and it made the most sense for our road trip! St. John’s, the capital city, is the perfect starting point—it’s vibrant, colorful, and sets the tone for the rest of your Newfoundland journey. Plus, picking up our rental car right at the airport was super convenient and let us hit the road without any hassle. If you’re dreaming of a Newfoundland road trip, starting in St. John’s is definitely the way to go!
When it comes to planning a trip to Newfoundland, the best time to visit really depends on what you’re hoping to see!
We visited in late July/early August to catch some of the best sights—puffins, vibrant lupins, and even whales! It was the perfect time to enjoy the natural beauty and wildlife with limited crowds. If you’re hoping for a similar experience with lots of outdoor adventures and wildlife encounters, this time frame is ideal. Of course, Newfoundland’s charm lasts year-round, but this was the perfect window for our adventure!
When you’re planning a trip to Newfoundland, you might be wondering how many days you need to fully explore this beautiful province. From our own experience, we spent 7 days in Newfoundland, which gave us plenty of time to explore as much as we could.
The thing about Newfoundland is that it’s so much more spread out than you might expect—we definitely underestimated how long it would take to get from one spot to the next. We even had to remove a few stops from our itinerary because we kept spending more time than planned at every stop (it’s just that beautiful!). If you’re hoping to check off all the must-see spots on your Newfoundland road trip, 7 days is a great amount of time. It lets you enjoy the sights without feeling rushed, and trust me, you’ll want plenty of time to soak it all in!
When planning a trip to Newfoundland, having a solid route makes all the difference—and I’ve got you covered! Below, you’ll find a detailed itinerary outlining everywhere we went, plus some bonus spots and hidden gems. This is the exact route we took, but I’ll be honest—there are definitely things I’d do differently now that I know better. So, take it with a grain of salt, and be sure to read the details below to know exactly where to go, what to skip, and how to make your Newfoundland adventure as smooth as possible!
This Newfoundland itinerary kicks off and wraps up in St. John’s, and let me warn you—it’s not for the faint of heart! If you love fast-paced travel and want to make the most of limited time, this itinerary is perfect for you.
We started our journey in Phoenix and took the red eye to St. John’s with a stop in Calgary. Overall, it took us about 8 hours of flying but it went by pretty quickly. Once we landed, we made our way to the rental car desk to pick up our vehicle. We landed just after 6 am, and learned that the rental car companies don’t open until 8 am so we had some waiting to do before we could make our way to our first stop.
We knew we wanted to start our Newfoundland adventure at Cape Spear, hoping to catch the first sunrise in North America—how epic does that sound? Unfortunately, we missed it because we had to wait to pick up our rental car (travel hiccups, am I right?). But honestly, it didn’t even matter because the views were still so breathtaking.
Standing at the edge of the continent with the waves crashing below and the historic lighthouse in view felt pretty magical. Whether you make it for sunrise or visit later in the day, Cape Spear is one of those places that’s absolutely worth the stop when planning a trip to Newfoundland!
After visiting Cape Spear, we made a quick pit stop in Petty Harbour—and I’m so glad we did! This charming, colorful fishing village feels like it’s straight out of a postcard. With its brightly painted houses, boats bobbing in the harbor, and stunning coastal views, it’s the perfect spot to stretch your legs and soak in some small-town charm.
It had to be a quick stop for us, though, because we wanted to give ourselves enough time to explore our next stop on our Newfoundland road trip—the equally charming town of Quidi Vidi. Trust me, a short visit to Petty Harbour is all that’s needed!
Wow, wow, wow!!! Quidi Vidi may be small, but wow, it’s so cute! We were honestly not prepared for how charming this little village would be—and we were absolutely smitten! It’s the kind of place where you can’t help but stroll around and take it all in.
Even though it’s compact, there’s so much charm packed into every corner. Trust me, you’ll want to soak in every moment, and don’t worry—I’m sharing some of the best spots to check out in Quidi Vidi so you can make the most of your visit!
Start by simply exploring the heart of Quidi Vidi. The village is so quaint, with its colorful houses lining the streets along the shore. Make sure to leave plenty of space in your camera roll to capture photos of the iconic fishing stages and the stunning views of the harbour. It’s like stepping into a postcard!
It’s a relatively short but rewarding hike, especially if you want to see the area from a different perspective. At the top, you’ll be treated to sweeping views of the Atlantic Ocean, the city, and the rugged coastline. Perfect for photos, or just to soak in the scenery!
Quidi Vidi is home to some amazing local art! Be sure to check out the Quidi Vidi Village Plantation, a vibrant artist community located in a historic building by the harbour. You’ll find galleries, studios, and unique artisan shops showcasing everything from pottery to paintings to handcrafted jewelry. It’s a great place to pick up a unique souvenir and support local talent!
For a real treat, head to Mallard Cottage, one of the most charming restaurants in the area. This cozy spot serves up delicious traditional Newfoundland cuisine with a twist. From freshly caught seafood to hearty stews, you’ll feel like you’re getting a taste of local culture in every bite. The atmosphere is warm, inviting, and perfect for a leisurely meal after a day of exploring.
Take a walk along the shoreline or along the nearby East Coast Trail to enjoy the breathtaking natural beauty of Quidi Vidi. Stop at Cuckolds Cove to admire the rugged cliffs, crashing waves, and sweeping ocean views. Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife like seabirds, seals, and even the occasional iceberg floating by!
Don’t miss the Battery Village Lookout—it’s the perfect spot for a quick, breathtaking detour! Located just a short drive from Quidi Vidi and on your way into St. John’s, this lookout offers stunning views of the harbour, the colorful Battery neighbourhood, and the rugged coastline. It’s a fantastic place to snap some photos and take in the beauty of the area.
After taking in the views at Battery Village Lookout, make your way into St. John’s, Newfoundland’s vibrant capital city! We knew we couldn’t visit the island without exploring this colorful gem. The entire city is bursting with charm—bright, colorful buildings line the streets, and there’s so much to see and do! We didn’t have long to explore, though, as we had to head to Tors Cove before nightfall. But even with limited time, St. John’s left us in awe, and it’s definitely worth a visit when planning a trip to Newfoundland.
We couldn’t have picked a more magical spot to end our day than Tors Cove. Nestled right along the coastline, this little gem stole our hearts the moment we arrived. The views of the rugged shoreline and endless ocean are simply breathtaking—it felt like time slowed down just for us to soak it all in.
Honestly, we wish we could’ve extended our stay because Tors Cove has that special kind of charm that makes you want to linger a little longer. If you’re looking for a peaceful, scenic escape, this is the place to be!
We stayed at the most beautiful hotel in Tors Cove, perched right along the cliffs, and wow—the views were INCREDIBLE. From our balcony, we could actually see whales gliding through the water, and it all felt just so magical. I can confidently say this was one of our all time favorite stays!!
We spent our time lounging by a crackling wood-burning fireplace, sipping tea under a garden pergola next to a gentle waterfall, and soaking in those jaw-dropping ocean views through glass railings. The waves, the fire, and even a little background music from the speakers set the perfect vibe. Honestly, it felt like the world slowed down just for us—it’s one of those places you never want to leave.
If you’re planning a trip to Newfoundland, day two is one you’ll want to hit the ground running! After soaking up every last bit of Tors Cove magic, we said goodbye and made our way to Trinity, another charming coastal gem. The coastline here is puffin paradise, and let’s just say we weren’t disappointed by the cuteness overload. Day two is all about covering ground, spotting puffins, and soaking in those unforgettable views—so grab your hiking shoes and let the adventure continue!
This easy trail takes you through lush forest paths and opens up to jaw-dropping coastal views that honestly gave us major New Zealand vibes.
The star of the show? The suspension bridge itself! Stretching high above the ocean, it offers stunning views of the rugged cliffs and turquoise waves below. It’s the kind of spot where you’ll want to pause, snap about a hundred photos, and just soak in the magic. And here’s the best part—if you’re lucky (like we were!), you might spot some adorable puffins hanging out on the cliffs or swooping down toward the water. Seriously, it felt like something straight out of a nature documentary.
After our coastal adventures in Tors Cove, we made our way to Trinity, and let me tell you—it’s so worth the three-hour drive. This little seaside town might be small, but it’s absolutely packed with charm. Picture colorful shops, adorable homes, and so many blooming lupins lining the roads and hillsides. While Trinity may not take long to explore, every corner feels picture-perfect, and the slower pace is part of its magic.
The Elliston Puffin Viewing Site is known for offering the closest view of puffins from land in all of North America, and we couldn’t wait to see these adorable little birds up close!
I have to confess… I fully imagined puffins landing just feet away from us, striking perfect poses for our cameras. But in reality, most of them were hanging out on the cliffs across the water. Luckily, we packed a 200–600mm lens, which let us zoom in and get an amazing view of their little orange feet and flapping wings.
While we didn’t have any puffins land nearby (even though we were there close to sunset—prime puffin hour, apparently!), we’ve heard rumors that sunrise or sunset can sometimes bring them right onto the same cliff as visitors. So, if you’re an early riser (or a sunset chaser), you might just get lucky!
Even without puffins landing at our feet, it was still such a fun stop, and seeing them in their natural habitat was so worth it. Just be sure to bring a good zoom lens if you want to capture their cuteness up close!
Just a quick drive from the Elliston Puffin Viewing Site, you’ll find Dungeon Provincial Park, and let me tell you—it’s so worth the stop! This natural scenic attraction is home to a massive collapsed sea cave with a dramatic archway carved by the ocean waves. It’s one of those spots that’ll have you standing there, jaw-dropped, just taking it all in.
Oh, and here’s a wild fun fact (or maybe not-so-fun, depending on how you feel about jellyfish): when we peeked down into the water below, we saw hundreds of them. I’m talking a full-on jellyfish convention just floating around like they owned the place. It was honestly so shocking—I had no idea there were that many jellyfish in Newfoundland!
After soaking in the wild beauty of Dungeon Provincial Park, we made our way to Bonavista—the perfect spot to unwind and call it a night. Bonavista itself is such a lovely spot to end the day—calm, scenic, and full of small-town charm. Our Airbnb for the night was spacious and in a great location, which made exploring easy. While the ceilings were a bit low (tall friends, watch your heads!) and the place had a slightly older vibe, it was still comfortable and had everything we needed for a good night’s rest.
Okay, I’m letting you in on a little secret… our best puffin-spotting experience happened right here in Bonavista, and the Cape Bonavista Lighthouse was the ultimate spot for it! We arrived around 9 AM and strolled along the cliffs, scanning the rocks below for any feathery friends. And guess what? Spoiler alert: WE HIT THE JACKPOT! 🐧✨
We were lucky enough to be just feet away from these adorable little birds. But here’s the thing—puffins are not fans of people. If you try to get too close too quickly, they’ll take off! We moved slowly, stayed quiet, and kept a respectful distance so they felt comfortable hanging around.
Trust me, if you’re planning a trip to Newfoundland, make sure to carve out time for this stop. Seeing puffins this close in such a stunning setting? Absolutely magical.
On our way to Twillingate, we made a little detour to check out the Tickle Cove Sea Arch. This natural arch, carved by the Atlantic Ocean’s waves, sits against vibrant red sandstone cliffs and definitely has its own charm.
Now, full honesty—it was a bit underwhelming when we visited. I have a feeling it would be way more magical at sunrise or sunset when the light hits those red rocks just right. If I were to do it again, I’d plan it around golden hour. Otherwise, I’m not sure it’s worth going too far out of your way for.
That said, if you’re passing through and love unique rock formations, it’s still a quick and easy stop to stretch your legs and snap a photo.
While the journey isn’t super scenic the whole way, there are still a few pretty spots worth slowing down for. Now, full transparency—it’s more about the destination than the drive here.
But if you (or your travel buddy) are an aviation enthusiast like my husband, you’ll want to make a pit stop in Gander at the North Atlantic Aviation Museum. It’s a fun little detour packed with fascinating stories about Gander’s unexpected role in aviation history. Plus, it’s a great way to stretch your legs before continuing the drive.
Our Airbnb in Twillingate was pure magic. Perched right on a cliffside, surrounded by endless ocean views, it honestly felt like we’d been transported straight to the shores of Ireland. The soft sound of waves crashing below was the ultimate ASMR soundtrack—I could’ve listened to it forever. Every corner of this place felt like a postcard moment, and it definitely gave our Tors Cove Airbnb a run for its money.
We started our morning at the cutest little local tea room and bakery, and it was such a delightful way to kick off the day. The food was so good—fresh pastries and a cozy atmosphere. Just a quick tip: they only take cash, so make sure you’re prepared! After breakfast, we spent some time exploring the nearby shops, browsing local treasures, and soaking in the charm of Twillingate.
Whale watching is the must-do activity in Twillingate during the summer months, and for good reason—it’s prime whale migration season, which means tons of opportunities to spot these gentle giants! And let me tell you, we hit the jackpot on our tour—a humpback whale swam right underneath our boat! It was absolutely spectacular and a moment we’ll never forget.
If you’re looking for a scenic hike to complement your whale watching tour in Twillingate, this 3 mile trail is a must! The Spillers Cove hike via Twillingate’s French Beach offers stunning ocean views, cliffs, and unique rock formations that will leave you in awe. It’s the kind of trail where you’ll want to stop every few minutes to snap photos—it’s just that good! Whether you’re winding along the cliffs or enjoying the peaceful cove, this hike is the perfect way to soak in more of Twillingate’s natural beauty.
After our hike, we made a stop at Prime Berth Twillingate Fishery & Heritage Centre, and it was such a charming little museum! My favorite part had to be the real-life whale skeleton—it was honestly so cool to see up close. We also spent some time browsing through their lovely souvenir shop, which had some cute and unique finds. If you’re in planning a trip to Newfoundland and adding Twillingate to your itinerary, it’s worth a stop!
We ended our day at Long Point Lighthouse, and it was the perfect way to wrap up our time in Twillingate! This lighthouse is one of the most photographed landmarks on Newfoundland’s Northeast Coast, and I totally see why. Perched over 300 feet above sea level, it offers an absolutely stunning panoramic view of the Atlantic Ocean. We didn’t get lucky enough to spot any icebergs or whales, but the views alone were awesome!
Okay, here’s where our itinerary got ambitious. I couldn’t resist adding Gros Morne National Park when planning a trip to Newfoundland, but heads up—it’s a 4.5-hour drive each way, which leaves you with maybe 24 hours to explore before heading back. Don’t get me wrong, Gros Morne is beautiful, but I did find it a bit underwhelming after such a long drive.
We did the Western Brook Pond tour, and while the views gave major Milford Sound vibes (seriously stunning!), the pouring rain put a damper on the experience. If you ask my husband, he’d probably say the drive wasn’t worth it, but I still found it incredibly scenic and memorable.
ALTERNATIVE OPTION: If the long drive feels like too much, you might consider skipping this stop and spending more time exploring Fogo Island or heading back towards St. Johns and checking out some places en route. Don’t forget to snag my Newfoundland map for suggestions on hidden gems and super cool spots!!
We woke up and savored every last moment at our dreamy Airbnb in Twillingate (seriously, I could’ve stayed forever). But when planning a trip to Newfoundland, long drives are part of the adventure! With a 4.5-hour drive ahead and a 3 PM booking for the Western Brook Pond Tour in Gros Morne National Park, we had to hit the road on time. It was a long drive, but knowing we had a boat tour waiting for us at the end kept us motivated.
Western Brook Pond is absolutely breathtaking, and it gave me serious Milford Sound vibes from New Zealand! When you book the tour, you’ll park at the Western Brook Pond parking lot. From there, it’s about a 1.86-mile walk (roughly 45 minutes) to the dock. The trail is pretty easy, so it’s a comfortable walk. If you have mobility challenges, there’s a golf cart shuttle available to help you get to the dock.
Even though the rain started to pour on us during our walk and throughout the 2-hour boat tour, we still enjoyed the stunning views as much as possible. If you’re planning a Newfoundland itinerary for 7 days, this is an absolute must-do when visiting Gros Morne National Park!
After our tour, we made our way to Lobster Cove Head Lighthouse, and this might just be the most beautiful lighthouse we came across during our Newfoundland itinerary for 7 days! Perched on a rugged cliffside you can find some sweeping ocean views. Inside, there’s a charming little museum where you can learn about the area’s maritime history and the lighthouse’s role in guiding sailors safely home. It’s the perfect spot to wrap up your day with some stunning coastal scenery.
When it comes to finding a place to stay near Gros Morne National Park, there are definitely some great hotel options to choose from! While our own stay didn’t quite hit the mark (you win some, you lose some, right?), there are still plenty of cozy spots that will make the perfect home base for your adventures in the area.
Full transparency: this day of our itinerary was the most underwhelming. When planning a trip to Newfoundland, I’d recommend skipping Dildo, Brigus Tunnel, and Bay Roberts altogether. These stops just didn’t live up to the hype for us. But hey, not every travel day can be a winner, right? If I were planning this day again, I’d swap these stops for something more scenic, adventurous, or unique to make the most of your time in Newfoundland. Keep reading for my recommendations on how to make this day way better!
I’m so sad we didn’t get the chance to visit Cape St. Mary’s Ecological Reserve during our trip to Newfoundland. If I were planning a trip to Newfoundland I would definitely include this. Looking at photos, it almost reminds me of the Cliffs of Moher with its dramatic cliffs plunging into the ocean and breathtaking coastal views.
What makes this spot so special is its incredible seabird colony—one of the most accessible in North America. Thousands of birds nest on the towering sea stacks known as Bird Rock. The reserve also offers a unique chance to experience nature up close. The short walk to the viewing area takes you through rolling green meadows, where you can hear the waves crashing below and the calls of the birds echoing above.
If you’re planning a trip to Newfoundland, Cape St. Mary’s Ecological Reserve should absolutely be on your list—trust me, it’s one of those places that you’ll regret missing (I know I do!).
On our last day in Newfoundland, we decided to try one more time to see puffins by booking a puffin and whale watching tour to the Witless Bay Ecological Reserve. Since access to the reserve is restricted, guided boat tours are the only way to see it. While the scenery was beautiful, we were a bit disappointed—you don’t get close enough to the reserve for great puffin views. However, if spotting whales is on your list, this tour could still be worth it! Just know what to expect before you go.
If you’re not into jaw-dropping views that leave you speechless, then skip Cobbler’s Path Trail in Newfoundland, Canada. Seriously, don’t say I didn’t warn you!
Here’s the kicker: we almost skipped this gem ourselves! When we checked it out on AllTrails, the 7.4-mile length and “hard” rating had us second-guessing everything. But here’s the good news—it’s way more doable than it sounds. The viewpoint that makes this trail so iconic? It’s just over a mile from the parking lot! So, you get all the epic scenery without committing to a grueling hike. Cobbler’s Path ended up being one of the biggest surprises of our trip—and a must-add to any Newfoundland itinerary. Don’t miss it!
Signal Hill National Historic Site is easily one of the most popular and iconic spots to visit in St. John’s. With its sweeping views of the Atlantic Ocean and the city below, it’s no surprise this historic landmark is on nearly every Newfoundland travel itinerary. However, after a long road trip and knowing we had an early flight to catch the next morning, we made the tough call to skip it in favor of settling into our hotel for the night.
While I can’t speak from personal experience, Signal Hill is known for its history and incredible views, so if you have the time, it’s definitely worth a visit. Just be sure to save some energy, so you can really enjoy it!
No related posts.