Along Newfoundland’s rugged coastline, tiny fishing villages perch on rocky shores
just as they have for centuries, offering visitors a glimpse into a way of life shaped by
the sea.
These outports, as locals call them, combine stunning natural beauty with rich
maritime heritage and legendary hospitality. From hidden coves to dramatic
headlands, each settlement provides a perfect escape from modern life’s constant
rush.
Quidi Vidi, St. John’s
This village-within-a-city feels worlds away from St. John’s, with colorful fishing
stages reflected in a protected harbor known locally as ‘the Gut.’ The historic Quidi
Vidi Brewery occupies an old fish plant, serving up unique iceberg beer while fishing
boats unload their daily catch.
Local artists work in converted fishing sheds, creating pieces inspired by the dramatic coastal setting.
Twillingate
Known as the ‘Iceberg Capital of the World,’ this historic village offers front-row seats
to passing bergs and whales from its dramatic headlands. Traditional fishing stages
still dot the harbor where generations of fishermen have landed their catch, while the
local museum preserves outport culture.
The Auk Island Winery transforms local berries and iceberg water into unique wines.
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Change Islands
Time truly stands still in this pair of islands where Newfoundland ponies roam freely
and fishermen still hand-line for cod. The heritage district preserves perfectly
maintained fishing stages and saltbox houses that have been unchanged since the
19th century.
Local boat builders maintain traditional wooden vessel construction techniques that have been passed down through generations.
Trout River
Nestled within Gros Morne National Park, this village combines fishing heritage with
spectacular geological features. Local guides share stories of traditional fishing
methods while showing visitors the ancient tablelands looming above the harbor.
The beach music sessions feature traditional Newfoundland songs played by local
musicians.
Petty Harbour
Just minutes from St. John’s, this working fishing village maintains its traditional
character while embracing sustainable fishing practices. The Mini Aquarium lets
visitors handle local marine life while learning about ocean conservation from local
fishermen.
The harbor’s traditional wooden boats provide perfect photo opportunities against colorful fishing stages.
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Bonavista
Historic Ryan Premises tells the story of Newfoundland’s fishing industry in this town
where John Cabot first landed in 1497. The nearby puffin colony at Cape Bonavista
draws photographers while whales breach offshore during summer months.
Local restaurants serve traditional Newfoundland dishes with modern twists.
Trinity
Perfectly preserved historic buildings line the streets of this former mercantile center
where fishing heritage meets dramatic coastal scenery. The Rising Tide Theatre
performs stories of outport life while local guides lead historic walking tours.
Traditional saltbox houses offer cozy accommodations with harbor views.
Bay Bulls
This protected harbor serves as a gateway to the largest Atlantic puffin colony in
North America while maintaining its fishing village charm. Boat tours combine whale
watching with visits to abandoned outports and tales of local history.
The O’Brien’s whale and bird-watching operation continues family traditions that started
generations ago.
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Rose Blanche
A restored granite lighthouse watches over this remote village where traditional
fishing methods still prevail. Local families maintain vegetable gardens on rocky
slopes just as their ancestors did while sharing stories of outport life.
The coastal hiking trail offers spectacular views of hidden coves and dramatic cliffs.
Heart’s Content
The first transatlantic cable station marks this historic village where modern
communications met traditional fishing culture. Local museums preserve both
technological and fishing heritage while walking trails connect historic sites.
The harbor still supports small-scale fishing operations using traditional methods.
Salvage
Colorful fishing stages and wooden boats reflect in the protected harbor of this
photogenic outport on the Eastport Peninsula. Local fishermen maintain traditional
cod fishing methods while sharing stories of village history with visitors.
The surrounding hiking trails offer spectacular views of the rocky coastline.
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Fogo
This island community combines traditional fishing heritage with a world-class artist
residency program at the Fogo Island Inn. Local boat builders maintain traditional
wooden punt construction, while fishermen still use traditional methods.
The community maintains seven distinct villages, each with unique cultural traditions.
Greenspond
This island village preserves perfectly maintained saltbox houses and fishing stages
connected by winding lanes. Local families maintain traditional fishing methods while
sharing stories of life in this historic outport.
The surrounding waters offer excellent opportunities for whale and iceberg watching.
Brigus
Historic merchant homes and fishing stages line the protected harbor of this
picturesque village just an hour from St. John’s. The former home of Arctic explorer
Captain Bob Bartlett now serves as a museum sharing outport history.
Local berry- picking traditions continue with annual blueberry and bakeapple festivals.
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The Soul of Newfoundland
These outports preserve not just buildings and boats but the very essence of
Newfoundland culture through their living heritage and warm hospitality.
Each village offers unique insights into traditional fishing life while providing perfect
bases for coastal exploration and wildlife viewing. Whether seeking quiet reflection or
cultural connection, these communities offer authentic experiences that remind us
how life can be lived at a gentler pace.
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