About Whale Watcher House

The Whale Watcher House is an oceanfront vacation rental overlooking the Witless Bay Ecological Reserve in Newfoundland. Situated on the ocean’s edge, this exceptional location offers guests a front-row seat to one of the most spectacular coastal landscapes along the Irish Loop. The panoramic views from our private decks are second to none on the Avalon Peninsula, making Whale Watcher House a peaceful and unforgettable coastal retreat.

The Puffin, the Loon, the Gannet, and the Eagle are each independent oceanfront apartments—or, in the Gannet’s case, a studio—each with its own private deck and uninterrupted ocean views. Every apartment is fully equipped with linens, towels, kitchenware, its own BBQ, and free Wi-Fi. The owner lives on the premises and is available if needed, while still respecting guests’ privacy.

Whale Watcher House provides convenient access to St. John’s, Newfoundland (approximately 45 km away), as well as many of the Irish Loop’s most popular destinations, including Mistaken Point, Ferryland, and Bay Bulls. The East Coast Trail is literally just outside our door, making this an ideal base for hiking and coastal exploration.

During whale watching season, whales can often be seen feeding directly below the decks. The area is also home to an extraordinary variety of seabirds, including murres, kittiwakes, gulls, and hundreds of thousands of puffins that nest on the islands of the Witless Bay Ecological Reserve just offshore. Bald eagles are frequent visitors as well, often spotted perched in nearby treetops. Many mornings, dawn reveals seabirds fishing in the waters below, offering guests an authentic and immersive Newfoundland coastal experience.

The Loon Apartment
The Loon Apartment
The Puffin Apartment
The Puffin Apartment
The Gannet Studio Apartment
The Gannet Studio Apartment
We love it here, you will too!

This oceanfront retreat in Witless Bay, Newfoundland offers comfortable accommodation for a wide range of guests:

  • Romantic Getaways: Whether it’s an anniversary, wedding night, or special celebration, enjoy a bottle of champagne in a romantic, ocean-edge setting just 40 minutes from St. John’s.

  • First-Time or Returning Travelers: Experience the true magic of Newfoundland with the “sleep on the ocean-edge” feeling. Enjoy easy access to whale watching, icebergs, birdwatching at the Witless Bay Ecological Reserve, and coastal hiking on the East Coast Trail.

  • Mistaken Point Visitors: Planning a trip to the UNESCO World Heritage Site at Mistaken Point? Whale Watcher House makes an ideal base for your day trips. Remember to book ahead if you want to visit the actual site.

  • Hikers: Start your day on the East Coast Trail, which begins right at your doorstep, for breathtaking oceanfront hikes.

  • Whale Watchers and Families: Watch whales from your deck or head down to the Bauline South’s harbour and let Great Island Boat Tours take you out on the water.  Or take a short drive to Bay Bulls, where several whale-watching tour operators, O’Briens and Gatheralls, are ready to take you on the adventure of your life!

  • Kayakers: Kayaking the Irish Loop in Newfoundland offer stunning coastal scenery, including whales, icebergs, and puffin spotting, particularly around the Witless Bay Ecological Reserve and Cape Broyle. Guided sea kayak tours are popular, with highlights including dramatic cliffs, sea caves, and historic coastal views.  Rent in Cape Broyle or bring your own and launch from nearby Bauline Harbour.

  • Convenient, Easy Access: Arrive on your own schedule with coded doors and clear check-in instructions provided once your booking is confirmed. Seamless and hassle-free for all guests.