Newfoundland’s Cape Spear

Newfoundland’s Cape Spear is a unique and historical sight. If your Newfoundland trip includes time in St. John’s, I suggest including this stop on your itinerary.

Getting To Cape Spear

Cape Spear is located about 10 miles (16 km) southeast of downtown St. John’s. If you have a rental car, it is an easy drive down Blackhead Road. Otherwise, you can go on an organized St. John’s tour since Cape Spear is a popular stop.

Awesomeness at Cape Spear

There are several things that make Newfoundland’s Cape Spear an awesome place to visit. Here are a few:

Unique Geographic Location. It’s not everyday that one has the opportunity to stand on the easternmost point of North America. Yet, here at Newfoundland’s Cape Spear, there is nothing but the North Atlantic between you and Ireland. So, if you’re super energetic, arrive early enough and you can be among the first to see the sun rise North America.

The Cape Spear Lighthouse. Actually, there are 2 lighthouses at Cape Spear. The original Cape Spear Lighthouse was built in 1836, and it is Newfoundland’s longest surviving lighthouse. The Cantwell family lived in and operated this lighthouse for 150 years! In 1955, a new Cape Spear Lighthouse was built which is still in use to today.

Fort Cape Spear. Because of Cape Spear’s strategic location near the mouth of St. John’s Harbour, this area was fortified during WW2 to provide defense for the harbour. It’s fun to walk around and see the HUGE canons and historic bunkers. Take a minute to imagine soldiers keeping watch for German U-boats!

Whales. If your timing is right, you might see a whale. Every summer thousands of whales pass by the coasts of Newfoundland. Signs at Cape Spear describe types of whales that frequent the coast of Newfoundland.

Planning Your Visit to Cape Spear

There are a lot of neat things to see at Cape Spear, so I’d recommend that you plan to spend at least a half hour. (Although, an hour would be better.)

There are great paved pathways for exploring along with several overlooks.

There is also a small gift shop and a neat model showing the changes to the original lighthouse over the years.

For me, Cape Spear was a highlight of my visit to St. John’s. I think you’ll find that a stop at Newfoundland’s Cape Spear is well worth your time and effort!

Want more information on Newfoundland? Check out 6 Must-See Sights in St John’s, Newfoundland and 7 Reasons to Add Newfoundland to Your Bucket List.