Hey Everyone!
Brian from Salty Reef here, just back from an incredible adventure in St. John’s, Newfoundland, Canada—a place that proudly calls itself “Ireland’s 33rd county” thanks to its rich culture, warm hospitality, and stunning coastal landscapes. I visited for my cousin’s wedding at the tail end of the season, and even though I missed some peak attractions, this rugged city left me craving a return trip.
From whale watching and puffin spotting to chasing icebergs and surviving the legendary Screech-In, St. John’s is a salty dream for ocean lovers. Let’s dive in!
Nestled on the eastern edge of North America, St. John’s is the capital of Newfoundland and Labrador, blending maritime charm, Irish heritage, and breathtaking scenery. Locals are famously friendly, and the streets are lined with jellybean-colored rowhouses, windswept cliffs, and pubs echoing with traditional tunes.
Best time to visit? May to August—you’ll hit prime season for whales, puffins, and icebergs.
🐳 Whale Watching: Chasing Ocean Giants
From June to August, the waters off St. John’s host humpbacks, minkes, and fin whales. I booked with Iceberg Quest Ocean Tours, and although I was too late in the season for sightings, the guides were phenomenal, sharing stories of whale migration and marine life.
Pro Tip: Morning tours = calmer seas + better light. Don’t forget binoculars and warm layers.
🐧 Puffin Spotting: The Charms of the Sea Clowns
The Witless Bay Ecological Reserve is home to 260,000+ breeding pairs of Atlantic puffins—North America’s largest colony. These colorful birds dive like torpedoes and waddle like comedians.
Best Time: July, during peak nesting season
Bring a zoom lens, sunscreen, and your best bird-watching patience!
🧊 Chasing Icebergs: Nature’s Sculptures
Nicknamed “Iceberg Alley,” the coast near St. John’s gets towering Arctic icebergs from April to June. Though I missed them, the stories from locals—about thundering iceberg calving and glowing blue arches—left me in awe.
Track them live at IcebergFinder.com, and consider tours with Iceberg Quest or try kayaking for an epic, close-up encounter.
Land-based views? Try Signal Hill or Cape Spear.
The old lighthouse @ Cape Spear
The New Lighthouse Cape Spear - The most Eastern Point of North America!
Signal Hill - On 12 December 1901, the first transatlantic wireless transmission was received there!
Christian’s Pub….best place to be screeched in.
🐟 Getting Screeched-In: Join the Newfoundland Club
Yes, you literally kiss a cod and down a shot of Screech rum. I did it at Christian’s Pub on George Street, and it was a blast! Expect laughter, local lingo, and a certificate making you an honorary Newfoundlander.
Also check out Trapper John’s or The Ship Inn for their own versions of the ceremony.
📍 More St. John’s Highlights
Signal Hill: Historic site with panoramic views & hiking trails
Jellybean Row: Snap pics of colorful downtown homes
Seafood Delights: Cod tongues, lobster boils, and more—try YellowBelly Brewery
George Street Vibes: Live music & pints at O’Reilly’s Irish Pub
Cape Spear: Easternmost point in North America
🧳 Planning Your Trip
When to go: May to August
How to get there: Direct flights to St. John’s International Airport
What to pack: Layers, waterproofs, sturdy walking shoes
Pro tip: Book tours and accommodations early—they fill up fast
🌊 Final Thoughts
Even though I missed the whales and icebergs, the puffins, Screech-In, and overall vibe of St. John’s have me hooked. I’m already planning a return in early summer to see the full show.
Have you been to St. John’s or anywhere in Newfoundland? Reply to this email and let me know what you loved—or if it’s now on your travel bucket list!
Until next time, stay salty 🌊
Cheers,
Brian from Salty Reef
