Welcome to the Avalon Region

The Avalon Peninsula is not only scenically stunning, it's also a place full of natural wonders: icebergs drifting along the coasts, whales frolicking, migratory seabirds nesting on cliffs, and caribou roaming. As the first region of the province to be settled, the Avalon is full of the legends, lore, and history of the early adventurers who first laid claim to the New World. Home to the urban bustle of St. John's, a vibrant culinary scene, and charming outports surrounded by beauty and steeped in history – the Avalon has something to offer every traveller.

The Avalon bears a fitting name, reminiscent of the legend and romanticism of its misty, Arthurian island counterpart. It is also home to the East Coast Trail, with more than 500 kilometres of scenic hikes, perfect for exploring our stunning coastline. This is a place full of beauty, culture, and the rugged drama of a seafaring peninsula that has weathered trials, triumphs, and everything in between.

Known as the Seabird Capital of North America, you’ll have plenty of chances to get up close and personal with over 35 million seabirds. Witness more than 500,000 Atlantic puffins at the Witless Bay Ecological Reserve, the largest breeding colony of Atlantic puffin in North America. Or, stand a mere 20 metres from birds nesting atop a sea stack at the Cape St. Mary's Ecological Reserve, one of the most accessible seabird nesting sites in the world.

Thousands of whales – humpbacks, orcas, minke, and more – return here on their annual migration. There are plenty of opportunities for whale watching on the Avalon, and dozens of operators to help guide you. Watch from shore as they play among the waves, or take a boat tour to see these gentle giants leap into the air. Paddle out in a sea kayak to see them up close, or go diving and immerse yourself in their world. Tours regularly head out from St. John's harbour, or you can make your way to Witless Bay, Cape Spear, St. Vincent's Beach, or any of the popular whale-watching sites.

There are places on this Earth that continue to live on inside of you long after you’ve returned home. There’s a child-like grin that radiates from every conceivable corner of this place: from the music we dance to and the food we eat, to the houses we live in and the people who live there.