Twillingate

Written by Alexander Kopp, Hannah McKinsey, Jake Evans
30/07/2025
Long Point Lighthouse in Newfoundland under a clear blue sky during summer.
Hyukman Kwon, Pexels

Twillingate, Canada, offers a blend of natural rugged beauty and authentic local experiences, inviting visitors to explore its coastal landscapes and rich heritage. It is particularly renowned for opportunities to view icebergs and whales, alongside extensive hiking trails.

Opportunities to socialise include experiencing live music and local festivals like the Fish Fun and Folk Festival, as well as attending dinner theatre performances. There are also local pubs, such as Stage Head Pub and Split Rock Brewing Company, and an artisan market, providing venues for community engagement and enjoyment.

Top 7 Things to do in Twillingate

Visitors can engage in ocean-based wildlife and iceberg excursions, explore a network of coastal hiking trails, delve into local history through museums, and discover unique artisan crafts.

1. Iceberg and Whale Watching Boat Tour

Embark on a boat tour to witness 12,000-year-old icebergs drifting through 'Iceberg Alley' (typically May to July), and observe majestic humpback, minke, orcas, and other marine life such as seals and seabirds (June to September). Tours often feature traditional Newfoundland music and 'Screech-ins' for a cultural immersion. Vessels typically offer open decks for viewing, heated cabins, and washroom facilities. It is advisable to book in advance, especially during peak season, and dress appropriately for varying weather conditions.

Cost: Adult tours generally range from $75.00 to $130.00 CAD, with discounts for students, youth, and seniors. Infants under 2 often travel free. Private charters and group rates are also available.

Transport: Boat tours typically depart from central locations in Twillingate, which may be within walking distance depending on accommodation. Otherwise, taxi services are available; local taxi rates start around $1.30 CAD per kilometer.

2. Hiking the Rockcut Trails and Top of Twillingate Trail

Explore Twillingate's rugged coastline through a network of well-maintained hiking trails, offering various lengths and difficulties from easy to moderate/difficult. Popular routes include the Rockcut Trails system, which features coastal rock formations and sea stacks at French Head, Spiller's Cove, and Codjacks Cove, and the Top of Twillingate Trail, providing panoramic views from an observation tower. Keep an eye out for seabirds, wild berries, whales, and icebergs. Proper footwear, water, sun protection, and a camera are recommended.

Cost: Hiking is generally free, but some trails may have parking or facility fees (not specified in recent reviews).

Transport: Many trailheads are accessible by passenger vehicle, with parking available. For those without a car, taxis would be the primary option to reach trail starting points that are not within central Twillingate.

3. Visit Long Point Lighthouse

Discover the historic Long Point Lighthouse, an active Canadian lighthouse completed in 1876 and later encased in reinforced concrete. Situated over 300 feet above sea level, it offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and is an excellent vantage point for spotting icebergs, whales, seals, and seabirds. The site is a popular eco-tourism destination with viewing platforms. Be aware that the fog horn may sound in foggy conditions.

Cost: Access to the lighthouse area is typically free, but there may be associated costs for parking or entry to specific exhibits if available (not specified in recent reviews for the lighthouse itself).

Transport: The lighthouse is located outside Crow Head on North Twillingate Island, accessible by car. Taxi services can provide transport to this location.

4. Explore Local Museums

Immerse yourself in Twillingate's rich heritage by visiting its various museums. The Prime Berth Fishing Museum provides a unique glimpse into Newfoundland's fishing culture with guided boat tours, a reconstructed sei whale skeleton, and maritime artifacts. The Twillingate Museum, located in a former Anglican Church Rectory, depicts life at the turn of the century and features exhibits on local history, including the famous opera singer Georgina Stirling and the Beothuk nation. The Wooden Boat Museum preserves the area's boat-building history. These museums offer insight into the town's past and its ocean-based culture.

Cost: Admission fees vary per museum. For example, the Twillingate Museum is $5 CAD for adults (children 12 and under are free), and the Wooden Boat Museum is $7.50 CAD per person. The Prime Berth Fishing Museum has a reported $5 entry fee.

Transport: Museums are generally located within the main communities of Twillingate and Durrell. Some may be walkable, while others might require a short drive or taxi ride.

5. Discover Artisan Shops and Galleries

Wander through Twillingate's artisan shops and galleries to find unique, handcrafted gifts and souvenirs. The Iceberg Craft Shop, set on the waterfront in a 200-year-old building, offers custom garments, Newfoundland paintings, carvings, pottery, and local preserves. The Artisan Market features works from over 100 artisans from across the province, including quilts, art, books, and jewelry. Galleries like The White's Emporium showcase local artwork and prints. These locations provide opportunities to engage with local artists and support traditional crafts.

Cost: Browsing is free; costs vary based on purchases.

Transport: Many shops are located along Main Street in Twillingate, making them accessible by walking. Other galleries or craft shops might require a short drive or taxi, depending on their location within the spread-out communities.

6. Sea Kayaking Tours

Experience Twillingate's coastline from a unique perspective by joining a sea kayaking tour. This activity allows for a closer exploration of the rugged shores, hidden coves, and potentially a serene encounter with icebergs (in season) or marine wildlife like whales. Tours are guided and offer a more active way to appreciate the stunning ocean scenery.

Cost: Costs for guided sea kayaking tours were not specified in recent reviews, but typically range from $90-$150 CAD per person for a guided tour.

Transport: Kayak tour operators typically have a central meeting point or provide directions to their launch sites, which may require a short drive or taxi depending on your accommodation.

7. Wine Tasting at Auk Island Winery

Visit Auk Island Winery for a unique tasting experience. This local winery specializes in fruit wines made from berries native to Newfoundland, offering a distinct flavor profile compared to traditional grape wines. It's an opportunity to sample local products and learn about the region's culinary creativity.

Cost: A wine tasting experience is approximately $10 CAD for five wines, with additional options for premium tastings.

Transport: Auk Island Winery is located in Twillingate, accessible by car or taxi.

Check out our other pages on Twillingate

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