Middle Cove Beach
A stunning natural gem on Newfoundland's coast, famous for its dramatic cliffs, powerful waves, and the unique capelin roll.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Capelin roll spectacle
Middle Cove Beach
Best Time
Capelin roll spectacle
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A stunning natural gem on Newfoundland's coast, famous for its dramatic cliffs, powerful waves, and the unique capelin roll.
"This stunning beach offers soft sand, rocky shores, and breathtaking Atlantic views."
🎯 Witness the Capelin Roll
Arrive early for the capelin roll; it's a short-lived, magical event!
👟 Sturdy Shoes for Trails
Coastal paths have roots and can be uneven. Wear good shoes, especially near cliffs.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Capelin Roll
Middle Cove Beach
Witness thousands of capelin fish surge ashore in a vibrant, natural spectacle. A true Newfoundland summer tradition!
Dramatic Coastal Cliffs
Cliffs overlooking Middle Cove Beach
Soaring cliffs offer breathtaking panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and the rugged coastline.
Winter Waves
Middle Cove Beach
Experience the raw power of the Atlantic as wild winter waves crash against the shore.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for the Capelin Roll
Embrace the Chill & Coastal Trails
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Witness the Capelin Roll
Arrive early for the capelin roll; it's a short-lived, magical event!
👟 Sturdy Shoes for Trails
Coastal paths have roots and can be uneven. Wear good shoes, especially near cliffs.
🥶 Cold Water Warning
The Atlantic is chilly! Be prepared for cold water if you plan to swim.
🚗 Ample Parking Available
Plenty of parking, though it can fill up during peak times.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Witness the Capelin Roll
Arrive early for the capelin roll; it's a short-lived, magical event!
👟 Sturdy Shoes for Trails
Coastal paths have roots and can be uneven. Wear good shoes, especially near cliffs.
🥶 Cold Water Warning
The Atlantic is chilly! Be prepared for cold water if you plan to swim.
🚗 Ample Parking Available
Plenty of parking, though it can fill up during peak times.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Beach
Bring your furry friends along for a beach day!
📸 Drone Photography Gem
Stunning aerial views, perfect for drone enthusiasts. 
⚠️ Stormy Seas Caution
Be cautious during storms; waves can be treacherous.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Middle Cove Beach is widely praised for its stunning natural beauty, dramatic coastal scenery, and the unique capelin roll phenomenon. Visitors appreciate the ample parking, dog-friendly atmosphere, and family-friendly shallow waters. Some find the coastal trails challenging due to uneven terrain and the water is consistently described as very cold.
"You can't go wrong with a trip to this beach. Beautiful experience. Pretty decent parking. gorgeous view. Great place for whale watching and occasional ice berg. Lots of cool rocks!"
Amaryllis Candy
"Came here 4 days in a row in August, 2025. I was visiting during a heat wave and this was a 5 mins drive from where my husband was working.
It’s a dog friendly beach, lots of family, great spot to spend the day or even just to quickly cool off.
I should mention that I did see what I believe was a lion’s mane jellyfish near the shore —
So keep your eyes out. This didn’t stop me, nor the local from going in.
Lots of the locals were also great at finding starfish, showing the kids, then releasing them back in the ocean.
Cold water, but crystal clear!
There’s lots of parking, which becomes limited at peak hours on peak days — but I always found a spot."
Kim Creton MUA
"Beautiful beach, with parking close by and a porta potty. 5 stars.
Trail:
Stairs at the start and then pretty much a level walk.
Many paths to the cliff's edge
Roots on path for almost the entire path meaning you have to look down at all times. Tripping hazard especially when the path is along the cliff edge. Not suitable for young children.
Beautiful views.
3 stars"
lili miller
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Middle Cove Beach is conveniently located just a 10-minute drive from downtown St. John's, Newfoundland. You can easily reach it by car, and there's ample parking available, though it can get busy during peak hours.
While specific public transport routes might vary, driving is the most common and recommended way to access Middle Cove Beach due to its proximity to St. John's and the availability of parking.
Renting a car is ideal for exploring the St. John's area and reaching Middle Cove Beach. This gives you the flexibility to visit at your own pace and explore nearby attractions.
Middle Cove Beach is situated just outside St. John's. Follow local signage from the city, and you'll find it easily accessible.
Yes, Middle Cove Beach is accessible year-round. While the water is cold, winter offers dramatic scenery with wild waves.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Middle Cove Beach is free to enter. There are no admission fees, making it an accessible destination for everyone.
Middle Cove Beach is open 24/7, as it's a natural public space. However, the best times to visit for specific phenomena like the capelin roll or for enjoying the atmosphere are during daylight hours.
There's no need to book tickets in advance as Middle Cove Beach is a public beach with free access.
While generally open, visitors are advised to exercise caution, especially during storms or high tides. Be mindful of the cold water and uneven terrain on nearby trails.
Yes, a porta potty is available at Middle Cove Beach, adding to the convenience for visitors.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The capelin roll is a natural phenomenon where thousands of capelin fish come ashore. It typically happens for a few days in early summer and is a must-see event.
Yes, Middle Cove Beach is very family-friendly. Kids can play in the shallow waves, and locals often find starfish to show children.
You can swim at Middle Cove Beach, but be prepared for very cold Atlantic water, even in summer. Locals and visitors do swim, but it's bracing!
Besides the capelin during their roll, you might spot jellyfish (like the lion's mane) and starfish. It's also a good spot for whale watching and seeing occasional icebergs.
Absolutely! The dramatic cliffs, crashing waves, and the unique capelin roll make it a photographer's dream. Drone photography is also very popular here. +2
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no restaurants or cafes directly on Middle Cove Beach. It's recommended to bring your own picnic or dine in nearby St. John's.
Locals are known to have bonfires at dusk, especially in the summer. It's a great way to enjoy the evening atmosphere.
Bring your favorite picnic items, snacks, and drinks. It's a perfect spot for a relaxed meal with ocean views.
While not directly on the beach, you can find various dining options in St. John's, which is a short drive away.
It's best to stock up on food and drinks before heading to Middle Cove Beach, as amenities are limited directly at the site.
📸 📸 Photography
Golden hour (early morning and late afternoon) offers beautiful light for capturing the coastal scenery. The dramatic waves during storms also make for striking photos.
Yes, Middle Cove Beach is a fantastic spot for drone photography, offering stunning aerial perspectives of the cliffs, ocean, and coastline.
Popular subjects include the capelin roll, dramatic waves, coastal cliffs, and the general scenic beauty of the Atlantic coast.
Generally, there are no specific photography restrictions, but always be mindful of safety, especially near cliff edges and during rough weather.
A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes, while a telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife. A drone is highly recommended for unique aerial shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the main beach area is accessible, some of the coastal trails might be challenging for very young children due to roots and uneven paths. Stick to the main beach area for easier exploration with toddlers and preschoolers. The opportunity to see the capelin roll in summer is also a memorable experience for kids.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+2For those with a drone, the aerial views are spectacular, offering unique perspectives of the beach and its surroundings. Be sure to capture the power of the ocean, especially during winter storms, and the vibrant energy of the capelin season.
+2🚶♀️ Hikers and Nature Lovers
Be prepared for the trails' conditions: they can be uneven and have roots, so sturdy footwear is essential. While the paths offer incredible vistas, they require attention to avoid tripping hazards, especially near cliff edges.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Magical Capelin Roll
+1Timing is crucial for the capelin roll, as it's a fleeting event. It's advisable to check local news or tourism updates for the most accurate predictions. While the sight of the capelin is the main draw, the beach itself is beautiful year-round, offering dramatic coastal scenery and powerful waves, especially during stormier seasons.
+1Even outside of capelin season, Middle Cove Beach offers a captivating experience. The rugged coastline and the vast Atlantic Ocean provide a stunning backdrop for photography, beachcombing, and simply enjoying the fresh sea air.
+1Coastal Trails and Safety
Many of these paths are characterized by uneven ground and roots, especially those along the cliff edges. This can pose a tripping hazard, making them less suitable for very young children or those with mobility issues. Always look down while walking and wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes for safety.
During stormy weather, the ocean can become particularly powerful, with large waves crashing ashore. While visually dramatic, these conditions can make the beach and surrounding cliffs dangerous. Exercise extreme caution and heed any warnings from local authorities or signs posted at the beach.
Photography Opportunities
+2For those with a drone, Middle Cove Beach is a dream location. Aerial perspectives reveal the intricate patterns of the coastline, the vastness of the ocean, and the unique topography of the area. Many creators have captured breathtaking drone footage here, showcasing the beach's beauty from above.
+2Beyond landscapes, the capelin roll is a unique and highly sought-after photographic event. Capturing the sheer volume of fish and the energy of the event requires quick reflexes and a good eye. Even without the capelin, the beach itself, with its rocks, sand, and the powerful ocean, provides ample opportunities for compelling shots.
+1
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit