Labrador Coastal Drive

Labrador Coastal Drive is a scenic route along the eastern coast of Labrador, Canada, offering dramatic landscapes of rugged cliffs, pristine beaches, and quaint fishing villages. This drive is a journey through the heart of Labrador's natural beauty and cultural heritage, perfect for travelers seeking an off-the-beaten-path adventure.

Highlights & What to See

• Battle Harbour National Historic District – A restored 19th-century fishing village on an island, accessible by ferry, with historic buildings and a living museum that tells the story of Labrador's cod fishery.
• Red Bay National Historic Site – A UNESCO World Heritage site featuring the remains of a 16th-century Basque whaling station, with an interpretive centre and boat tours to the underwater archaeology sites.
• L'Anse Amour – A sandy beach with a historic lighthouse and the remains of a 7,500-year-old Maritime Archaic burial mound, the oldest known in North America.
• Pinware River Provincial Park – A park offering camping, hiking trails, and excellent salmon fishing along the Pinware River.
• Point Amour Lighthouse – The tallest lighthouse in Atlantic Canada (33 m), with a museum and panoramic views of the Strait of Belle Isle.
• Fishing villages and harbours – Quaint communities like Mary's Harbour, Port Hope Simpson, and Charlottetown, where you can experience local culture and fresh seafood.

Suggested Time to Spend

Plan at least 3 to 4 days to drive the full route from L'Anse-au-Clair to Cartwright, covering about 375 km. This allows time for side trips to Battle Harbour and Red Bay, plus stops at lighthouses, beaches, and hiking trails. The road is mostly gravel, so drive slowly and allow for wildlife sightings. Many travelers combine this drive with a visit to the Mealy Mountains National Park Reserve or extend north to the Torngat Mountains.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Mealy Mountains National Park Reserve – A vast wilderness area with hiking, canoeing, and opportunities to see caribou and black bears, located just west of the coastal drive.
• Torngat Mountains National Park – Canada's most remote national park, accessible by charter flight or boat, offering spectacular Arctic fjords and Inuit cultural experiences.
• Strait of Belle Isle – The narrow strait between Labrador and Newfoundland, known for whale watching, icebergs, and the historic ferry crossing to Newfoundland.
• L'Anse aux Meadows – A UNESCO World Heritage site in Newfoundland (across the strait) with the only authenticated Norse settlement in North America.

Please check official sources for current details.