Bonavista Travel Guide

Welcome to Bonavista, Atlantic Canada

Over five hundred years ago, Canada's colonial history began in Bonavista. In 1497, Giovanni Caboto (John Cabot) landed on North American soil for the first time at this less-than-ideal harbour. Still, it was a relief after the long Atlantic crossing and he yelled 'O Buono Vista!,' and so the town was named. Today, visitors can walk the decks of a caravel as Cabot might have done. The Matthew, a replica of his original ship, is moored in the harbour. Once found, Bonavista was soon settled. Vast fish stocks offshore were quickly exploited by Europeans, and they needed a place to rest, repair and relax. This legacy continued very nearly to the current day and can be re-visited at the Ryan Premises, a preserved fish processing plant. The Cape Bonavista Lighthouse, built in 1843, is also a relic from those days and is preserved on its lonely point.

Featured Activity