Twillingate Travel Guide: Things to Do, Best Time to Visit & Itinerary
Experience the rugged beauty of Newfoundland's outports where massive icebergs drift past historic lighthouses and colourful fishing stages. This coastal gem offers world-class hiking, fresh seafood, and the warmest hospitality in the North Atlantic.
Twillingate is not just a destination; it is an immersion into the soul of Newfoundland. Perched on the jagged edge of the Atlantic in Notre Dame Bay, this historic fishing community offers a landscape so dramatic it feels plucked from a storybook. Here, the air tastes of salt, the wind carries the scent of spruce, and the horizon is often broken by the glittering white spires of 10,000-year-old icebergs drifting south from Greenland.
Beyond the visuals, it is the rhythm of life here that captivates visitors. Connected to the main island by a causeway, Twillingate retains the authentic charm of an outport community. Colourful wooden saltbox houses cling to the rocks, and fishing stages dot the shoreline, standing on stilts above the cold ocean. Whether you are watching humpback whales breach just offshore or sharing a laugh with locals at a kitchen party, Twillingate promises an adventure that is both wild and warmly welcoming.
Seasonal Weather Guide
Plan your perfect getaway with our detailed seasonal forecast.
The Iceberg Capital and Beyond
Twillingate is famously known as the “Iceberg Capital of the World,” and for good reason. Sitting squarely in Iceberg Alley, the town sees these frozen giants drift past in late spring and early summer, often getting trapped in the coves and tickles nearby. This natural phenomenon shapes the local culture, influencing everything from the art in the galleries to the “iceberg beer” brewed locally. But the town is more than just ice; it is a repository of fishing history.
Culturally, the town is a vibrant hub of Newfoundland heritage. The decline of the cod fishery transformed the economy, but the spirit of the sea remains. You will find it in the preserved fishing stages of Prime Berth, the stories told at the dinner theatre, and the music that spills out of the pubs every night. It is a place where the past isn’t just remembered; it is lived daily through song, story, and the resilient spirit of the people who call this rocky outcrop home.
Things to Do
Unforgettable experiences await you.
Iceberg Quest Ocean Tours
Embark on a boat tour to get up close to 10,000-year-old icebergs and spot humpback whales breaching in the Atlantic.
Long Point Lighthouse
Visit one of the most photographed landmarks in Newfoundland, perched 300 feet above the sea, offering panoramic views of the ocean and ice.
Auk Island Winery
Taste unique wines made from local Newfoundland berries and iceberg water, housed in a former schoolhouse with a fun gift shop.
Spiller's Cove Hike
Trek through rugged coastal terrain to see dramatic sea stacks and rock formations on one of the area's most spectacular trails.
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The Icons You’ll Want to See
Long Point Lighthouse - Standing over 300 feet above sea level, this 1876 lighthouse offers the best land-based whale and iceberg watching in the region. There is a small exhibit inside, and the surrounding cliff trails are free to explore. (Distance: 5 km from centre, Price: $10 CAD for tower entry).
Prime Berth Fishing Heritage Centre - An absolute must for understanding the local way of life. This private museum features restored fishing stages, whale skeletons, and hands-on exhibits about the cod fishery, created by a local fisherman. (Distance: 1 km from causeway, Price: $12 CAD).
Auk Island Winery - Located in a historic school, this winery produces wine using local berries and water harvested from icebergs. Tours and tastings are available daily during the season. (Distance: 3 km from centre, Price: Free entry, Tastings approx. $15 CAD).
Split Rock Brewing Co. - A community hub serving craft ales brewed on-site. It’s a great place to relax after a hike, offering a menu of elevated pub food and a welcoming atmosphere. (Distance: Downtown Twillingate, Price: Pints approx. $9 CAD).
Essential Guide
Everything you need to know.
Must-Visit Spots
Local Cuisine
Where to Stay
Travel Tips
Insider Tips
Planning Your Visit
Getting to Twillingate requires a drive, but the scenery makes it worthwhile. It is approximately a 1.5-hour drive (115 km) north of Gander International Airport or a 4.5-hour drive (440 km) from St. John’s. The route takes you through the scenic “Road to the Isles.” Be aware that moose are active along these highways, especially at dawn and dusk, so drive with caution.
When packing, remember that the North Atlantic weather is changeable. Even in July, you might experience four seasons in a single day. Bring waterproof hiking boots, a good windbreaker, and warm layers. If you plan to take a boat tour (highly recommended), bring a toque (beanie) and gloves, as the temperature drops significantly on the water near the ice.
When to Visit
Choose the perfect time for your adventure.
Peak Season: Summer (July - August)
Pros
- Warmest weather for hiking
- Whale watching is at its peak
- Full range of tourist amenities open
- Lively festivals and dinner theatres
Cons
- Highest accommodation prices
- Crowds at major viewpoints
- Car rentals must be booked months in advance
- Icebergs may be melted or gone by August
Shoulder Season: Late Spring (May - June) & Early Fall (September)
Pros
- Prime iceberg viewing (Spring)
- Excellent berry picking (Fall)
- Lower accommodation rates
- More authentic, quiet local feel
Cons
- Weather is unpredictable and chilly
- Some seasonal restaurants may be closed
- Fewer whales in early spring
- Muddy trails during spring thaw
Off-Peak: Winter (November - April)
Pros
- Stunning stark winter photography
- Zero crowds
- Lowest prices
- Opportunity to see sea ice
Cons
- Many businesses and hotels close for the season
- Travel can be disrupted by snowstorms
- Very short daylight hours
- Limited outdoor activities
Twillingate is a place that stays with you long after you leave. Whether you come for the icebergs in the spring, the whales and festivals in the summer, or the berries and solitude of the fall, the rugged beauty and genuine hospitality of this outport will make you feel right at home.
Sample Itineraries
The Classic Iceberg Weekend
A perfect blend of iconic sightseeing, boat tours, and local entertainment designed for first-time visitors.
Day 1: Arrival and The Icons
- Morning: Start your day at the Long Point Lighthouse (entry $10 CAD), arriving by 10:00 AM to beat the buses and walk the cliffside trails for panoramic Atlantic views. Grab a coffee and a fresh berry scone at the Crow’s Nest Cafe nearby to fuel your morning exploration.
- Afternoon: Drive 5 km into town for a lunch of fish and chips at Annie’s Harbour Restaurant (approx. $45 CAD for two) before visiting the Prime Berth Fishing Heritage Centre to learn about the cod fishery. Spend an hour walking the heritage grounds and seeing the massive whale skeletons on display.
- Evening: Check into the Anchor Inn Hotel and head downstairs to the Captain’s Pub for a casual dinner and live local music (budget $60 CAD). If the sky is clear, drive back to Sleepy Cove to watch the sunset over the sea stacks.
Day 2: Whales, Wine, and Theatre
- Morning: Board a 9:30 AM boat tour with Iceberg Quest (approx. $85 CAD per person) to hunt for icebergs and humpback whales in Notre Dame Bay. Dress warmly as the temperature on the water is significantly colder than on land, even in summer.
- Afternoon: Warm up with a visit to Auk Island Winery for a tasting of their famous iceberg-infused berry wines ($15 CAD tasting fee). Afterward, grab a light lunch at their on-site deli and browse the connected gift shop for local crafts and souvenirs.
- Evening: Enjoy a memorable night at the Twillingate Dinner Theatre (approx. $75 CAD per person, requires booking weeks in advance). You will be served a traditional lobster or cod dinner while enjoying songs and skits about Newfoundland culture.
Rugged Coast & Trails Explorer
An active itinerary focused on hiking the dramatic coastline and discovering hidden geological gems.
Day 1: The High Points
- Morning: Begin with the ‘Top of Twillingate’ hiking trail, a moderate 3 km loop that offers the highest elevation point on the islands. Pack water and a camera, as the 360-degree views of the archipelago are unmatched.
- Afternoon: Refuel with a hearty lunch at R&J Restaurant ($40 CAD for two) before heading to the French Beach trail. Spend the afternoon beachcombing for sea glass and hiking the coastal path toward Spiller’s Cove to see the dramatic sea stacks.
- Evening: Relax your muscles with a flight of craft beer and a burger at Split Rock Brewing Co. ($55 CAD for two). The atmosphere is vibrant and offers a great chance to chat with locals about the next day’s weather conditions.
Day 2: Hidden Coves and History
- Morning: Drive to the quiet community of Merritt’s Harbour and hike the unplanned paths around the shoreline, looking for bald eagles. Stop at a local grocery store to pick up supplies for a picnic lunch ($25 CAD).
- Afternoon: Visit the Durrell Museum ($5 CAD entry) to see polar bear exhibits and local artifacts, then hike the intricate trails around the museum leading up the cliffs. Enjoy your picnic overlooking the ocean near the stark white museum building.
- Evening: Drive to Sansome’s Lobster Pool in Hillgrade (20 km away) for a rustic, authentic lobster dinner ($100+ CAD depending on market price). The dining room sits directly over the water, offering a truly maritime experience.
Day 3: Farewell to the Isles
- Morning: Take a final, gentle walk along the Shoal Tickle scenic path to watch the fishing boats heading out. Visit the Twillingate Rockcut trails for a unique geological perspective of the area.
- Afternoon: Stop for a light lunch and coffee at the cosy Orange Store before beginning your drive back toward the Trans-Canada Highway. Allow time to stop at the roadside lookouts near the causeway for final photos of Notre Dame Bay.
- Evening: Arrive at your next destination or Gander International Airport, concluding your rugged island adventure.
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