Discover Bonavista: Coastal Trails and Fishing History

Bonavista brings together the rugged coastline of the peninsula, paths along the inner harbour and quiet, forested landscapes. Historic sites also tell stories of fishing on Canada’s East Coast and life in one of Newfoundland’s oldest and largest coastal fishing communities. Whether you prefer spending your days outdoors or are interested in local history, Bonavista offers a range of ways to shape your trip.

Paths by the Water and Through the Woods

In the heart of Bonavista, the Old Days Pond Boardwalk loops around Old Days Pond. At 1 km long, it is a short, clearly defined waterside route. The Harbour Front Boardwalk offers a different view of the shoreline: it follows the inner harbour and starts either at Ryan’s Premises or at the Matthew Legacy Site.

Known locally as “The Track,” this multi-use trail runs alongside a stream that flows into Beaver Pond. Walkers, hikers and cyclists use it, as do the occasional ATVs and vehicles. If you use the trail, you’ll be sharing it with a variety of users.

The Beaver Pond Boardwalk winds through a quiet, forested landscape. Visitors with a four-legged companion can also use this trail. So you can choose between a forest setting and paths around Old Days Pond and the inner harbour, without needing to combine them into a single route.

Coastal Scenery and Wildlife Watching

At the tip of the Bonavista Peninsula, the Cape Shore Trail offers views of the rugged coastal landscape. Along the way, you may be able to spot whales, foxes, puffins and other wildlife. Part of the Hike Discovery network, the Hike Discovery - Cape Shore Trail is an easy-to-moderate, 7 km out-and-back coastal trail in Bonavista. Its length and stated difficulty provide a practical guide when planning your hiking days.

Whales, icebergs and puffins can also be spotted at Cape Bonavista. Several trails in Bonavista’s Hike Discovery Trail Network also offer opportunities to see whales, birds and icebergs. Alongside walking coastal trails, wildlife watching is another experience to consider when planning your trip.

Fishing History and Historic Sites

Ryan Premises National Historic Site explores five centuries of fishing on Canada’s East Coast and the legacy of the Ryan family. The site includes five buildings with a variety of self-guided exhibits. Visitors can also learn about the traditional stages of preparing salt cod. The history is brought to life through the fishing industry and the Ryan family, as well as the individual buildings and the working processes on display.

The Bonavista Museum offers another cultural perspective. Its extensive collection of local artifacts presents traditional life in one of Newfoundland’s oldest and largest coastal fishing communities. If you’re interested in everyday history, it offers a distinct way to learn about life in the community alongside the fishing history at Ryan Premises.

The light at Cape Bonavista was built in 1843. Visitors can climb the stone tower and see the catoptric light, powered by seal oil, that was used in the 19th century. This historic beacon connects a coastal location with a specific insight into earlier lighting technology.

Choosing a Vacation Rental for Your Trip

When choosing a vacation rental in Bonavista, a useful starting point is the kind of experiences that interest you most. Consider whether you want to focus your trip on walks by the water and through the woods, coastal trails and wildlife watching, or fishing history and historic exhibits.

More destinations: Trinity, Knights Cove, Port Rexton, Greenspond, Clarenville, Sandringham, Elliston.

Back to the main travel overview: Division No. 7.