Cape Spear: Where Canada Greets the Dawn
Experience the raw beauty and rich history of Cape Spear, the first place in North America to greet the sunrise.
Cape Spear, the easternmost point of Canada and North America (excluding Greenland), offers a dramatic landscape of rugged cliffs, crashing waves, and historical significance. Here, you can witness the first sunrise of the continent, explore Newfoundland's oldest surviving lighthouse, and discover remnants of WWII fortifications.
A brief summary to Easternmost Point of Canada
- St. John's, Shea Heights, Newfoundland and Labrador, CA
Local tips
- Arrive early to witness the first sunrise in North America. Check sunrise times in advance, as they vary throughout the year.
- Dress warmly, even on sunny days, as the coastal winds can be strong and chilly.
- Bring binoculars for whale and iceberg watching, especially during the spring and early summer.
- Explore the WWII bunkers and gun emplacements to learn about Cape Spear's role in the Battle of the Atlantic.
- Hike a portion of the East Coast Trail for stunning coastal views and wildlife spotting.
Getting There
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Driving
From downtown St. John's, follow Blackhead Road (Route 11) east for approximately 12 kilometers. The drive takes about 20 minutes, and parking is available at the Cape Spear National Historic Site. Be aware that the road can be winding and narrow in places. Parking is free. During peak season, arrive early, as parking can be limited.
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Taxi/Ride-sharing
Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available in St. John's. A one-way trip from downtown to Cape Spear typically costs between $30 and $40 CAD, depending on traffic and the provider. Confirm the fare with the driver before departing. Note that service may be limited during early morning hours.
Discover more about Easternmost Point of Canada
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Commissariat House, Provincial Historic Site
8.1 km
Explore 19th-century colonial life at Commissariat House Provincial Historic Site, a beautifully preserved Georgian landmark in St. John's, Newfoundland.
Fort Townshend National Historic Site of Canada
8.2 km
Explore Fort Townshend National Historic Site, a beautiful blend of history and stunning views in the heart of St. John's, Newfoundland.
Admiralty House Communications Museum
13.2 km
Discover naval history and maritime communications at this unique museum in Mount Pearl, Newfoundland.
Ark Of Avalon
59.7 km
Experience Newfoundland's charm at Ark of Avalon B&B: Coastal views, historic sites, and warm hospitality in the heart of Ferryland.
Unmissable attractions to see
Cape Spear Lighthouse National Historic Site
0.5 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty and rich maritime history at Cape Spear Lighthouse National Historic Site, the easternmost point of North America.
Cape Spear
1.2 km
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Signal Hill National Historic Site
6.9 km
Explore Signal Hill National Historic Site: A captivating blend of breathtaking views and rich history in St. John's, Newfoundland and Labrador.
Cabot Tower
6.9 km
Explore the breathtaking views and rich history at Cabot Tower, an iconic landmark in St. John's, Newfoundland and Labrador.
Fort Waldegrave
7.2 km
Explore Fort Waldegrave in St. John's, a stunning historical landmark offering panoramic views and a glimpse into Newfoundland's rich military past.
Johnson Geo Centre
7.5 km
Discover the geological marvels of Newfoundland at the Johnson Geo Centre, where science meets stunning landscapes in St. John's.
Johnson Geo Vista
7.5 km
Experience the breathtaking landscapes and geological wonders of Johnson Geo Vista, a top tourist attraction in St. John's, Newfoundland and Labrador.
Railway Coastal Museum
7.7 km
Discover the captivating history of Newfoundland's railways at the Railway Coastal Museum in St. John's, a treasure trove of artifacts and stories.
Iceberg Quest Ocean Tours
7.8 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of icebergs and marine wildlife with Iceberg Quest Ocean Tours in St. John's, Newfoundland.
Newman Wine Vaults
7.8 km
Explore the historic Newman Wine Vaults in St. John's, a fascinating glimpse into Newfoundland's wine trade heritage and architectural beauty.
Harbourside Park
7.8 km
Explore Harbourside Park in St. John's for stunning waterfront views, lush landscapes, and a serene escape in Newfoundland's vibrant capital.
Quidi Vidi Lake
8.1 km
Experience the tranquility of Quidi Vidi Lake, a picturesque natural gem in St. John's, Newfoundland and Labrador, perfect for relaxation and exploration.
The Rooms
8.3 km
Explore the fascinating history and vibrant culture of Newfoundland and Labrador at The Rooms, a premier museum and art gallery in St. John's.
Colonial Building
8.3 km
Explore the Colonial Building, St. John's historic landmark, and delve into Newfoundland's rich political heritage amidst stunning architecture.
Bannerman Park
8.3 km
Explore the beauty and serenity of Bannerman Park in St. John's, a perfect blend of nature and recreation for all travelers.
Essential places to dine
Mallard Cottage
7.7 km
Experience authentic Canadian cuisine at Mallard Cottage in Quidi Vidi - where tradition meets modern culinary art.
St. John's Fish Exchange Kitchen & Wet Bar
7.8 km
Discover fresh seafood and cozy ambiance at St. John's premier dining destination in Newfoundland.
Blue On Water
7.9 km
Experience culinary excellence at Blue On Water - where local flavors meet stunning waterfront views in St. John's.
The Gypsy Tea Room
7.9 km
Discover the vibrant culinary scene at The Gypsy Tea Room in St. John's - where delicious food meets enchanting ambiance.
Saltwater
7.9 km
Experience exquisite seafood dining at Saltwater in St. John's - where local flavors meet stunning waterfront views.
Red Oak
8.3 km
Discover authentic Canadian cuisine at Red Oak in St. John's, where local ingredients meet creative culinary artistry.
Chafe's Landing Restaurant
9.5 km
Discover fresh seafood delights at Chafe's Landing Restaurant in Petty Harbour – where local flavors meet stunning coastal views.
Arbour Restaurant & Lounge
28.8 km
Discover the flavors of Newfoundland at Arbour Restaurant & Lounge – where great food meets live music in beautiful Bay Bulls.
Fork Restaurant
35.4 km
Experience authentic Newfoundland cuisine at Fork Restaurant in Mobile – where local flavors meet exquisite dining.
Cliffs Edge Retreat
41.1 km
Discover unparalleled dining experiences at Cliffs Edge Retreat – where local flavors meet breathtaking ocean views in Newfoundland.
The Quay Restaurant
44.2 km
Discover delightful local cuisine at The Quay Restaurant in Brigus, where stunning waterfront views meet exceptional flavors.
Skipper Ben's
45.4 km
Discover Skipper Ben's in Cupids – where local flavors meet warm hospitality in a stunning coastal setting.
Riverside Restaurant and Lounge
53.9 km
Discover delightful American cuisine amidst stunning riverside views at Riverside Restaurant and Lounge in Cape Broyle.
Red Ochre Cafe
54.0 km
Experience authentic Newfoundland flavors at Red Ochre Cafe in beautiful Ochre Pit Cove – where delicious food meets stunning coastal views.
Squid Jigger on Caplin Bay
57.0 km
Experience authentic Newfoundland cuisine at Squid Jigger on Caplin Bay—where fresh seafood meets breathtaking views.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Travel Bug
7.8 km
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Newfoundland Weavery Ltd
7.8 km
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The Natural Boutique
7.8 km
Discover the charm of Newfoundland at The Natural Boutique, where local artistry meets eco-friendly products and unique gifts.
Relic Supply
7.8 km
Explore Relic Supply in St. John's for unique fashion finds, trendy accessories, and exceptional skate gear in a vibrant boutique setting.
Island Designs
7.9 km
Discover the charm of handcrafted gifts and local artistry at Island Designs in St. John's, a perfect stop for unique souvenirs.
Heritage Shop
7.9 km
Discover the essence of Newfoundland at Heritage Shop, where local artistry meets charming souvenirs in St. John's.
Downhome Shoppe & Gallery
7.9 km
Explore the charm of Newfoundland at Downhome Shoppe & Gallery, where unique souvenirs and local artistry come together in a delightful shopping experience.
The Tickle Trunk
7.9 km
Explore The Tickle Trunk in St. John's for unique souvenirs and scrapbooking supplies that embody the charm of Newfoundland.
Irene's
7.9 km
Explore a unique selection of locally crafted gifts and souvenirs at Irene's, the heart of Newfoundland's artisan culture in St. John's.
Hempware
7.9 km
Explore Hempware, a unique gift shop in St. John's offering locally inspired crafts, eco-friendly products, and authentic Newfoundland souvenirs.
Posie Row
7.9 km
Discover Posie Row, St. John's charming gift shop, offering unique local crafts and souvenirs that capture the spirit of Newfoundland.
The Rooms Gift Shop
8.3 km
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Whink
9.4 km
Explore Whink in St. John's for unique gifts, local jewelry, and treasures that celebrate Newfoundland's vibrant culture.
PSEUDIO
10.6 km
Explore the vibrant collection of PSEUDIO in St. John's, offering stylish clothing for men, women, and children in a trendy shopping environment.
Aerie
10.6 km
Discover trendy women's clothing and accessories at Aerie in St. John's, your go-to fashion stop for stylish swimwear, loungewear, and more.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Inne of Olde
7.7 km
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Velvet Club & Lounge
7.9 km
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Erins Pub
7.9 km
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papillon cocktail bar
7.9 km
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Bernard Stanley Gastropub
7.9 km
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Shamrock City Pub
7.9 km
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The Duke Of Duckworth
7.9 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife and local brews at The Duke Of Duckworth, the iconic bar in St. John's, Newfoundland and Labrador.
The Celtic Hearth
7.9 km
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YellowBelly Brewery
7.9 km
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The Black Sheep
7.9 km
Discover The Black Sheep, St. John's lively pub offering local flavors, hearty fare, and a vibrant atmosphere perfect for tourists.
The Martini Bar
7.9 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at The Martini Bar in St. John's, where expertly crafted cocktails and live music create the perfect atmosphere for relaxation.
Trapper John's
7.9 km
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Luckys Bar
7.9 km
Experience the lively nightlife at Luckys Bar in St. John's, where great drinks and a welcoming atmosphere await.
Christian's Pub
7.9 km
Discover St. John's spirited nightlife at Christian's Pub, a vibrant bar known for local brews, delicious food, and a welcoming atmosphere.
O’Reilly’s Irish Newfoundland Pub
7.9 km
Experience the heart of Irish culture at O'Reilly's Irish Newfoundland Pub, where great food, live music, and a lively atmosphere await.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Konfusion
7.9 km
Konfusion Nightclub in St. John's offers an electrifying nightlife experience with diverse music and a vibrant atmosphere for an unforgettable night out.
Oíche
7.9 km
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Laurier Lounge
8.4 km
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