Welcome to Bonavista

Where John Cabot first set foot in North America in 1497.
Attractions
The Lighthouse
Waterfront
Plan & Book

When Italian explorer Giovanni Caboto (or John Cabot as he is locally known) first set eyes on North America in 1497, his first words were “O buono vista!” When translated into English, this phrase means “Oh happy sight!”, which is certainly fitting for what would become the town of Bonavista, the historic site of Cabot's landing.

Explore our Attractions

Small huddles of houses, new and old, sit alongside rocky shores, pebble beaches, and picturesque fishing boats. Dense forest becomes amazing shoreline, frequently visited by whales, seabirds, and icebergs.

At the Dungeon, the cliffs drop away into a mammoth sinkhole with two seaward channels, the result of years of ocean erosion. In fact, throughout the peninsula the ancient past is recorded in the land and seascapes. Download the Bonavista! Geological Tour app (iPhone and Android) for a driving tour that highlights the geology of the region.

At the harbour, step inside a full-scale replica of Matthew, Cabot’s ship, and imagine how the explorer felt on his epic voyage to North America.

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Experience the Lighthouse

Catch a glimpse of 10,000-year-old icebergs from the top of the Cape Bonavista Lighthouse Provincial Historic Site, and gaze over the horizon where lightkeepers have stood watch since the 1840s. If you look close enough, you might catch a glimpse of a puffin nesting ground just behind the lighthouse or a humpback whale. Now, if that doesn’t brighten up your day, nothing will.

Explore Waterfront

On the waterfront, the Ryan Premises National Historic Site and the Bonavista Museum bring to life the salt fish trade – the cornerstone of Newfoundland and Labrador's economy for centuries. The nearby Mockbeggar Plantation Provincial Historic Site tells a story of the battle for Confederation.

Getting to Bonavista

Bonavista is located on the island of Newfoundland on the Discovery Trail, Route 230, just 3 hours from both the Argentia ferry and the town of Gander, and 3½ hours from the capital city of St. John's.

More on Getting to Newfoundland & Labrador

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Videos far, far off the beaten path

The View From Here

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Notable Natural Landscapes

Newfoundland is not only scenically stunning, but it’s also a place full of natural wonders. Here within, some notable natural landscapes you can explore when visiting our beautiful province:

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Picture Yourself Here #ExploreNL

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See What Other Travellers Have to Say

Visit the Story Exchange

Read Julie's Story

Start planning your Bonavista adventure

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Welcome travellers, the wait is finally over! All travellers must review Travel Info and submit a Travel Form prior to arrival in Newfoundland and Labrador. Travel Forms for entry into Newfoundland and Labrador can be submitted anytime within 30 days prior to arrival date. All travellers must follow COVID-19 travel guidelines.

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