Explore Bonavista and Elliston on Newfoundland and Labrador’s spectacular Bonavista Peninsula, where rugged Atlantic coastline, fishing heritage, historic landmarks, geological wonders and Atlantic Puffins come together.

Our journey through Bonavista began with the town itself, from Memorial United Church and Old Days Pond to the waterfront and lobster traps that reflect the community’s enduring connection to the sea. We also discovered the story of Giovanni Caboto, better known as John Cabot, whose 1497 transatlantic voyage has become an important part of Cape Bonavista’s history.

From town, we followed the Cape Shore Trail along the rocky coastline toward Cape Bonavista Lighthouse. Built in 1843, the historic lighthouse is one of Newfoundland’s most recognizable landmarks and offers a glimpse into the maritime history of the region. Along the way, the trail provided spectacular views of blue Atlantic waters, exposed headlands and the rugged landscape of the Bonavista Peninsula.

Nearby Dungeon Provincial Park revealed how dramatically the North Atlantic has shaped this coast. Its sea caves, arches and collapsed cavern are reminders that Newfoundland’s landscape is continually being transformed by waves, storms and erosion.

We then travelled to Elliston, famous for its traditional root cellars and exceptional puffin viewing. More than 130 root cellars have been documented in the community, offering a fascinating glimpse into how generations of Newfoundland families stored food and adapted to a challenging climate.

Elliston’s Puffin Viewing Site provided one of the highlights of our trip. We watched Atlantic Puffins flying, nesting and gathering around their coastal breeding grounds, remarkably close to shore.

Together, these photos capture what makes Bonavista and Elliston so special: a place where geology, wildlife, maritime history and local traditions are inseparably connected. From lighthouses and fishing boats to puffins, root cellars and the open Atlantic, this is Newfoundland at its most memorable.