Port Au Choix

Perched on the remote northwestern coast of Newfoundland, Port Au Choix is a windswept peninsula where ancient history and wild Atlantic beauty collide. This small fishing village is a gateway to some of North America’s most significant archaeological sites, offering a profound glimpse into the lives of Indigenous peoples who thrived here for millennia. With its dramatic limestone barrens, seabird colonies, and poignant cultural heritage, Port Au Choix is an essential stop for travellers seeking authentic, off-the-beaten-path experiences.

Highlights & What to See

• Port au Choix National Historic Site – Explore the reconstructed Dorset Palaeo-Eskimo longhouse and burial ground, where 4,000-year-old artifacts reveal a sophisticated Arctic-adapted culture. The visitor centre’s exhibits are world-class.
• Phillip’s Garden – A lush archaeological site where Dorset people once harvested seals; walk the interpretive trail amid wildflowers and stunning coastal views.
• Point Riche Lighthouse – A photogenic 19th-century lighthouse perched on limestone cliffs, perfect for whale-watching (humpbacks and minkes in summer) and spotting icebergs.
• Barren Landscape & Birdlife – The stark limestone barrens are home to rare Arctic-alpine plants and seabirds like puffins and razorbills – bring binoculars.
• Gros Morne National Park – A 1.5-hour drive south, this UNESCO World Heritage site offers fjords, hiking, and the famous Tablelands.

Suggested Time to Spend

Dedicate at least half a day to explore the national historic site and Point Riche. If you want to hike the barrens or take a boat tour (for icebergs or whales), allow a full day. Most travellers combine Port Au Choix with a 2–3 day loop through Gros Morne National Park, making this an ideal 1–2-night stop on a Newfoundland road trip.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Gros Morne National Park – Unmissable fjords, the Tablelands, and the scenic Western Brook Pond boat tour.
• L’Anse aux Meadows – The only authenticated Viking settlement in North America, about 3 hours north.
• St. Anthony – Gateway to iceberg-viewing and the Grenfell Historic Properties.
• Twillingate – Known as the “Iceberg Capital of the World,” with charming fishing villages and boat tours.
• Bonne Bay – A scenic inlet with kayaking, hiking, and the town of Woody Point.

Please check official sources for current details.