Whale Watching in Newfoundland: Best Times, Places, and Tips
If watching whales breach and play in the ocean is on your bucket list, there’s no better place to do it than Newfoundland. With some of the best whale watching in the world, Newfoundland’s coastal cliffs and cold Atlantic waters welcome over 20 species of whales each year, including the world’s largest population of humpbacks. Pair this with puffins, icebergs, and rugged scenery, and you’ve got the makings of a magical maritime experience. This article covers everything you need to know for unforgettable whale watching in Newfoundland.
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I spent a whole summer exploring Newfoundland, and I was fortunate to see whales breaching in a few areas. This is my list of the best places for whale watching in Newfoundland, including everything you need to know to plan the ultimate whale-watching trip to Newfoundland.
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What Is the Best Month to See Whales in Newfoundland?
The peak season for whale watching in Newfoundland is late June through August, with July often considered the best month. During this time, humpback whales, minke whales, and fin whales migrate along the coast to feed on capelin, a small fish that spawns in massive numbers near shore.
That said, the exact timing can vary slightly year to year based on water temperatures and food availability. If whale watching is your top priority, aim to visit in early to mid-July for the highest chances of multiple sightings.
When Is the Best Time of Day to See Whales Close to Shore in Newfoundland?
While whale activity can occur at any time, the best time of day to see whales from shore is often early morning or late afternoon. During these times, the water is usually calmer and there’s less wind, making it easier to spot whale spouts, dorsal fins, and breaches.
Early morning also tends to be quieter, with fewer people around, especially at popular viewing spots like Cape Bonavista or Cape Spear. That said, always keep your eyes on the water when you’re near the coast; whales can appear at any time, and their feeding patterns may change throughout the day depending on tides and capelin movements.
Where Can I Watch Whales in Newfoundland?
Whales can be spotted along most of Newfoundland’s coast, but here are some of the top locations for consistent sightings:
1. Witless Bay
- Best for: Puffins and whales together
- Highlights: Humpbacks, minke whales, and puffins in the Witless Bay Ecological Reserve
- Tours available from: Bay Bulls, Petty Harbour, and St. John’s
2. Trinity
- Best for: Whale watching in a picturesque historic village
- Highlights: Scenic boat tours along sea cliffs, calm, sheltered waters ideal for spotting humpbacks
- Combine with: Hiking the best trails in Trinity
3. Bonavista
- Best for: Whale sightings from land
- Highlights: Elevated headlands and sea stacks—perfect for watching whales from shore, especially during capelin season
- Top viewing spots: Cape Bonavista, Dungeon Provincial Park, and the Bonavista Lighthouse area
4. Twillingate
- Best for: Whales and icebergs
- Highlights: Dramatic scenery, the iceberg season overlaps with the early whale season
- Tours available from: Twillingate Harbour
- Combine with: Hiking the Twillingate Island trails
5. St. Anthony (Northern Peninsula)
- Best for: Whale watching with fewer crowds
- Highlights: Excellent vantage points from land, especially during capelin season
- Combine with: A visit to L’Anse aux Meadows Viking site
6. Signal Hill
- Best for: Whale watching right in St. John’s
- Highlights: Historic hilltop with panoramic views of the Atlantic—great for spotting whales, ships, and seabirds from land
- Bonus: Close to downtown, so it’s easy to visit without a full day trip
- Combine with: A visit to St. John’s with these top things to do.
7. Cape Spear
- Best for: Dramatic, cliffside whale watching
- Highlights: Easternmost point in North America, with sweeping views ideal for spotting whales during their migration
- Tip: Visit early morning or late evening for peaceful viewing and beautiful light
Where Is the Best Place to See Whales and Icebergs in Newfoundland?
For a double thrill of icebergs and whales, head to Twillingate or the Northern Peninsula (especially around St. Anthony). The best time for both is late June to early July, when the tail end of iceberg season overlaps with the arrival of migrating whales.
- Twillingate: Known as the “Iceberg Capital of the World,” it also offers excellent whale watching from boat tours or scenic shorelines.
- St. Anthony: Quiet and rugged, this northern town offers a front-row seat to nature’s power, with iceberg alley just offshore.
When Can You See Whales and Puffins in Newfoundland?
To see both whales and puffins in one trip, plan to visit between mid-June and early August. Puffins return to Newfoundland’s islands and sea cliffs to nest between May and August, with peak activity in June and July.
Witless Bay Ecological Reserve, just south of St. John’s, is one of the best spots to see both species. Tour boats take visitors out to the reserve to witness thousands of puffins nesting on the islands—often while whales swim and breach nearby.
Tips for Planning Your Whale-Watching Adventure
Book Early in Peak Season
July is busy! Accommodations, boat tours, and car rentals book up fast. Reserve your spots well in advance.
Dress for the Weather
Even in summer, it’s chilly on the water. Dress in layers, bring a waterproof windbreaker, and don’t forget sunscreen and sunglasses.
Bring a Camera (and Binoculars)
Telephoto lenses help capture breaching whales. Binoculars are great for spotting puffins and whales from land.
Choose a Reputable Tour Operator
Licensed guides ensure safe and respectful wildlife encounters. Many companies in Newfoundland have been operating for decades.
Consider Shore-Based Viewing
Not a fan of boats? You can still have great whale sightings from coastal cliffs and headlands, especially during capelin roll season (mid-June and July).
Extend Your Stay
Many whale-watching locations are near incredible hiking trails, national historic sites, and charming fishing villages. Spend a few days exploring the region! Plan an amazing trip with this Guide to the ultimate Newfoundland road trip.
Useful Resources for Your Trip
- Newfoundland and Labrador Tourism: www.newfoundlandlabrador.com
- IcebergFinder.com: Track live iceberg locations in season
- Bird Studies Canada: For info on puffins and seabird colonies
Final Thoughts
Whale watching in Newfoundland is one of the most awe-inspiring experiences you can have in Canada. Whether you’re catching glimpses of humpbacks from a boat in Witless Bay, standing on a cliff at Cape Spear, or seeing whales glide past icebergs in Twillingate, the connection with nature is unforgettable.
If you’re dreaming of a wild summer adventure, let the whales of Newfoundland be your guide.
