Cape Spear

The most easterly point of North America, featuring dramatic cliffs, a historic lighthouse, and sweeping ocean vistas. It's an essential day trip from St. John's offering hiking trails and stunning photography opportunities.

Things to do

• Visit the Cape Spear Lighthouse — Explore the restored 1836 lighthouse and keeper's house, the oldest existing lighthouse in Newfoundland, offering insight into maritime heritage and coastal defense history.
• Hike the Cliff Edge Trail — Walk the scenic 2 km trail along dramatic 160-meter cliffs with panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and opportunities to spot icebergs and whales seasonally.
• Photograph the Easternmost Point — Capture images at North America's most easterly point marked by a cairn, offering stunning backdrops of rugged coastline and crashing waves.
• Search for Icebergs and Whales — Visit during spring and early summer (April-June) to witness icebergs drifting down the coast and spot humpback and minke whales in the waters below.
• Explore the WWII Gun Emplacement — Tour the restored coastal defense artillery installation from World War II, which protected St. John's Harbor from potential enemy attack.
• Walk the Lower Coastal Path — Take the easier lower trail through rocky terrain and tidal pools, offering close-up views of seabirds, vegetation, and Atlantic Ocean wildlife.

Food to try

• Fish and Chips — Fresh Atlantic cod battered and deep-fried, a local staple available at nearby St. John's establishments and ideal fuel for a day of coastal exploration.
• Toutons — A traditional Newfoundland fried bread dough served with molasses or jam, representing authentic local comfort food found throughout the region.
• Seal Meat Pies — A controversial but culturally significant traditional dish reflecting Newfoundland's hunting heritage, available at specialty restaurants in St. John's.
• Cod Tongue — A delicacy in Newfoundland cuisine featuring the tender meat from inside a codfish's head, typically pan-fried and served as an appetizer or snack.
• Brewis — A traditional breakfast dish of hardtack or bread soaked in water and mixed with butter and salt cod, representing genuine Newfoundland coastal cooking.

Local customs & good to know

• Dress in Layers Year-Round — Cape Spear's exposed coastal location experiences sudden weather changes and strong winds; bring waterproof outer layers even on clear days.
• Respect Wildlife Boundaries — Stay behind designated barriers and maintain distance from cliff edges; the terrain is unstable and the ocean conditions are dangerous and unpredictable.
• Embrace Newfoundland Dialect — Locals use distinctive terms like 'by' as an exclamation and 'stunner' for something impressive; engaging with local speech enriches the cultural experience.
• Plan for Fog and Limited Visibility — Cape Spear is frequently shrouded in fog; check weather forecasts and be flexible with timing to ensure you experience the dramatic views the site offers.