Elliston Puffin Viewing Site Elliston Newfoundland
Witness charming puffins up close against dramatic coastal backdrops. Explore historic root cellars and enjoy breathtaking ocean views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Puffins return from sea
Elliston Puffin Viewing Site Elliston Newfoundland
Best Time
Puffins return from sea
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Witness charming puffins up close against dramatic coastal backdrops. Explore historic root cellars and enjoy breathtaking ocean views.
"This is a must stop! Gorgeous views of the coastline. We saw so many puffins up close. "
🎯 Avoid Hot Afternoons
Puffin activity is lowest on hot, sunny afternoons. Opt for cooler times for a better show. :sunwithface:
🤫 Sit Quietly for Close Views
Keep still and quiet; puffins may approach you out of curiosity. Respect their space. :speaking_head:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Close-Up Puffin Encounters
End of the peninsula
Witness puffins up close on the cliff edges. A truly unique experience for birdwatchers and families alike.
Stunning Coastal Views
Lookout points
Breathtaking views of the rugged coastline and dramatic cliffs. Keep an eye out for whales and foxes too!
Historic Root Cellars
Near the parking lot
Explore the unique and charming root cellars, a testament to local history and ingenuity.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for Puffin Sightings
Respect the Puffins and Their Habitat
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Avoid Hot Afternoons
Puffin activity is lowest on hot, sunny afternoons. Opt for cooler times for a better show. :sunwithface:
🤫 Sit Quietly for Close Views
Keep still and quiet; puffins may approach you out of curiosity. Respect their space. :speaking_head:
💰 Donations Welcome
Entry is free, but donations are accepted and appreciated for site maintenance. :moneywithwings:
📸 Bring Your Camera
Capture incredible close-up shots of puffins and the stunning scenery. :camerawithflash:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Avoid Hot Afternoons
Puffin activity is lowest on hot, sunny afternoons. Opt for cooler times for a better show. :sunwithface:
🤫 Sit Quietly for Close Views
Keep still and quiet; puffins may approach you out of curiosity. Respect their space. :speaking_head:
💰 Donations Welcome
Entry is free, but donations are accepted and appreciated for site maintenance. :moneywithwings:
📸 Bring Your Camera
Capture incredible close-up shots of puffins and the stunning scenery. :camerawithflash:
🦊 Look for Local Wildlife
You might spot foxes along the road or even whales from the lookout points. :fox:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Elliston Puffin Viewing Site, calling it a 'must-stop' for its incredible close-up puffin encounters and stunning coastal scenery. The free access and unique root cellars add to its charm, though some note that puffin activity can vary depending on the time of day and weather.
"We looked forward to this visit and we were not disappointed. Signs advise you not to approach the puffins, but many of them walked up to within a meter of us! It was such a pleasure to see these birds in their natural habitat. This was a wonderful experience and we couldn't have asked for a better day to see the little creatures!"
Dan Theriault
"This is a must stop! Gorgeous views of the coastline. We saw so many puffins up close. It was fun seeing the root cellars. Continue past the parking lot for a very cute gift shop with family made puffin souvenirs! We also saw a fox along the road, and multiple whales from the lookout"
Hannah
"Amazing location to spot the puffins and gulls living their best life. Not accessible for those having mobility issues. There is a narrow passage between the cliffs that could make some people nervous but the payback is well worth it.
You can spot them with the naked eye but would definitely advise to bring the best photo equipment you have tovget great pictures."
Jean-Marc Provencher
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Elliston Puffin Viewing Site is located in Elliston, Newfoundland, a short drive from Bonavista. Follow signs for the puffin viewing area. Parking is conveniently located near the entrance.
Yes, there is a convenient parking area located very close to the entrance of the puffin viewing site.
The site involves a short trail to the end of a peninsula. While generally accessible, visitors should be aware of the terrain.
Elliston is a short drive from Bonavista. Following local signage will guide you directly to the puffin viewing area.
Public transport options are limited in this region. Renting a car is generally the most convenient way to reach Elliston and explore the Bonavista Peninsula.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to the Elliston Puffin Viewing Site is free. However, donations are accepted and greatly appreciated to help maintain the site.
The viewing site is open during daylight hours, allowing visitors to experience the puffins throughout the day. Peak activity times are recommended.
There is no admission fee. The site operates on donations, so any contribution you can make is welcome.
While there are no formal tours, you can visit independently. Local advice suggests specific times for optimal viewing.
Approaching puffins is strictly prohibited and punishable. Visitors are advised to maintain a respectful distance and sit quietly.
📸 📸 Photography
Use a telephoto lens to get close-up shots without disturbing the birds. A fast shutter speed is crucial to capture their quick movements.
With patience and by following the advice to sit quietly, you can get excellent close-up photos. The puffins are often quite visible from the viewing areas.
Early morning or late evening light can be beautiful for photography, and these times also coincide with higher puffin activity.
There are no specific mentions of drone usage, but it's generally advisable to avoid them in wildlife viewing areas to prevent disturbing the animals.
You can expect to get clear, close-up shots of puffins on the cliffs, as well as wider scenic shots of the coastline.
🎫 🐦 Puffin Viewing Tips
The absolute worst time is a hot, sunny afternoon. Locals suggest early mornings or around 8 PM when birds return from sea for peak activity.
While puffins are visible in various conditions, avoiding hot, sunny afternoons is key. Overcast or cooler days might offer more consistent activity.
You can get quite close by sitting still and quietly at the designated viewing areas. Do not approach them directly, as it is punishable.
Many visitors spend close to two hours, and some even longer, captivated by the puffins and the scenery.
Puffin activity can be variable. Sometimes they are out hunting at sea, so early morning or late evening visits are often recommended for better sightings.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting during the recommended times for puffin activity to maximize engagement. The open space allows for some freedom, but always supervise children closely, especially near the cliff edges. The nearby gift shop with handmade souvenirs can also be a delightful stop for families looking for a unique memento.
📸 Photographers
Pay attention to the light; the golden hours before sunset and after sunrise can provide beautiful, soft lighting. Be mindful of the puffins' behavior and try to anticipate their movements for action shots. The site's natural beauty also lends itself to landscape photography, so don't forget to capture the sweeping ocean views and the unique root cellars.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Understanding Puffin Behavior and Viewing
Visitors are encouraged to be patient and quiet observers. The site's design allows for close viewing without disturbing the birds. Sitting still and refraining from sudden movements can encourage the puffins to come closer, offering incredible photographic opportunities and a chance to witness their unique personalities. Remember, approaching the puffins is strictly forbidden and harmful to their well-being. The site relies on donations, so contributing helps preserve this special place for future visitors and the puffins themselves.
Beyond the puffins, the surrounding landscape is equally captivating. The dramatic coastal cliffs provide a stunning backdrop, and the area is known for its historic root cellars, a unique feature of Newfoundland's rural heritage. Keep an eye out for other wildlife; sightings of foxes and even whales have been reported from the lookout points, adding to the overall natural spectacle of the Bonavista Peninsula.
The Charm of Elliston's Root Cellars
Walking through Elliston, you'll notice these distinctive, often charming, structures dotting the landscape. Many have been preserved and maintained, offering a glimpse into the resourceful ingenuity of past generations. They are a tangible link to the island's agricultural history and a testament to how communities adapted to their environment.
While the puffins draw many visitors, taking time to appreciate the root cellars adds another layer to the Elliston experience. They are a quiet reminder of a simpler time and a unique aspect of local culture that complements the natural beauty of the area.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit