Top Destinations
Cape St. Mary's Ecological Reserve
Cape St. Mary's Ecological Reserve is a wonderland for birdwatchers and explorers alike. Thousands of gulls, razorbills, common murres, black-legged kittiwakes, northern gannets, and double-crested and great cormorants nest here. Where 20,000 scoters, oldsquaw, harlequin, dovekies, thick-billed murres, and kittiwakes winter. This captivating area is one of seven seabird ecological reserves protected by provincial legislation. Its natural beauty makes it perfect for nature walks and family adventures.
Cape St. Mary's is the most accessible seabird rookery in North America. Bird Rock is the third largest nesting site and southernmost colony of northern gannets in North America. Cape St. Mary's is also the southernmost breeding area for thick-billed murres in the world and the southernmost major breeding site for common murres in the northwest Atlantic Ocean. This site is overflowing with perching, diving, and scrambling birds from edge to edge – melding together into an awesome moving, breathing spectacle of colour and sound.
Explore the edge of rugged cliffs and spend hours watching the daily lives of some of the world's most interesting seabirds. The stunning, majestic scenery of the Cape is perfect for a relaxing walk or a challenging hike. Mosses, lichens, low-growing shrubs, and alpine wildflowers blanket the plateau and nearby Golden Bay is seasonally rich with wild bakeapple berry pickings. Snap photos of eiders, eagles, osprey, cormorant, and guillemot against a brilliant glowing horizon.
In the interpretation centre, take a moment to understand the lives of seabirds in the wild and watch them soar from a giant viewing window. Friendly and hospitable staff can guide you through the reserve and answer any questions you may have. The reserve can be visited year round, and the interpretation centre is open from May to October. During the summer, visit our annual concert series that includes traditional music, dancing, food, drink and fun!
Getting Here:
Cape St. Mary's is located on the Cape Shore Drive off Route 100 approximately 2 hours from St. John's.
Location data provided by the operator. Please confirm location
before departure. Also see offshore area disclaimer.
The offshore lines appearing in the map above which purport to delimit the offshore area of the Province of Newfoundland and Labrador have no legal effect. Apart from the boundaries established pursuant to the Canada-Newfoundland and Labrador Atlantic Accord Implementation Act, which include the line established pursuant to the 2002 award of the arbitration tribunal concerning the delimitation of portions of the offshore areas between Newfoundland and Labrador and Nova Scotia, there are no agreed boundaries between the offshore areas of Newfoundland and Labrador and the Government of Canada, the Provinces of Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island or Quebec or the Nunavut Territory, and no such boundaries have been established under statute, regulation or agreement. The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador has made these facts known to Google.
Directions
Driving distances and calculations derived using Google Maps. Actual driving times may vary. GPS coordinates have been provided by tourism operators. Please confirm location with operator before departure.
Helpful Links
Government of Newfoundland – Cape St. Mary's Ecological Reserve
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St. Bride'sClean comfortable rooms. Near Cape St. Mary's Seabird Sanctuary, one hour from Argentia ferry. Breakfast included with price.+1 (709) 337 2860
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St. Bride'sThe closest accommodations to Cape St. Mary's Ecological Reserve and set overlooking the ocean.
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PlacentiaNewly renovated two-story hotel with elevator service. Located at the entrance to Placentia, only 4 1/2kms from Marine Atlantic Ferry.
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HolyroodQuiet ocean view property in a tranquil country setting and nestled in the heart of all attractions and touring routes on the Avalon. Three times Beautification Award winner!
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St. Bride'sGuest confort & satisfaction at affordable prices close to the Cape St. Mary's Ecological Reserve.
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FreshwaterPreviously a Convent, comfortable rooms/private bath, continental breakfast (Fees Apply), internet/wireless
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BranchWelcome to the edge of St. Mary's Bay....sea sounds, sunrise, twilight...
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DildoBuilt in 1885 and carefully restored 5 star accommodations on the oceanfront in Dildo.
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PlacentiaLL & D Guest Rooms, Ferndale, Placentia Bay, 709 227 2660 - 709 229-5139+1 (709) 227 2660
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PlacentiaEnjoy the view of the sunset over beautiful Placentia Bay - a spectacular site! Restaurants nearby.Toll Free: +1 (877) 224 8439
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PlacentiaWaterfront 1893 Heritage Inn. Pastry Chef Host. Gourmet Breakfasts. 6 Elegant Rooms.
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St. Vincent'sWhale Song B & B located on Route 90 on the Irish Loop.+1 (709) 525 3985
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Cape St. Mary's Ecological ReserveThe most accessible seabird colony in North America. The vantage point overlooks a magnificent sea stack and offers an opportunity to photograph the seabirds, including the second largest nesting colony of gannets in Newfoundland, and the third largest in North America. Interpretation Centre, guided & interpretive hikes.
What’s the best thing about waking up to the first sunrise in North America? See for yourself.
