Bonavista, Newfoundland Labrador, is a charming town located on the Bonavista Peninsula. With a population of 3,190 as of 2021, this coastal settlement stands out from many others in Newfoundland due to its unique location on an open plain, rather than a steep cove. This has allowed Bonavista to expand to its current area of 31.5 km2 (12.2 sq mi). The town is approximately 300 km by road from the provincial capital of St. John's.
The history of Bonavista, Newfoundland Labrador, dates back to the late 15th century. Italian explorer John Cabot, contracted by England's Henry VII, set sail from Bristol, England, in his ship the Matthew in 1497. Upon sighting land, Cabot reputedly exclaimed "O Buon Vista" ("Oh, Happy Sight!"), giving rise to the name of the town and nearby Cape Bonavista.
Despite the harbour's initial challenges, Bonavista grew into one of Newfoundland's most important towns due to its proximity to rich fishing and sealing grounds. The town's commercial significance is preserved at the Ryan Premises, a National Historic Site maintained by Parks Canada. Bonavista's status was further enhanced by the development of the Fishermen's Protective Union in the early 20th century and the creation of nearby Port Union.
In 1722, the first school in Newfoundland was built in Bonavista by Rev. Henry Jones. By the 20th century, the town's economy had shifted towards tourism. As of 2023, up to 80,000 tourists visited each summer, leading to a boom in vacation rentals.
According to the 2021 Census of Population conducted by Statistics Canada, Bonavista, Newfoundland Labrador, had a population of 3,190 living in 1,470 of its 1,732 total private dwellings. This represented a change of -7.5% from its 2016 population of 3,448. With a land area of 31.56 km2 (12.19 sq mi), the town had a population density of 101.1/km2 (261.8/sq mi) in 2021.
Bonavista, Newfoundland Labrador, experiences a subarctic climate (Dfc) due to the cold water temperatures surrounding the location. Although winters are relatively mild by Canadian standards, the town sees heavy snowfall and frequent cold days. Winter lasts from December through April. Bonavista is also one of the windiest places in Canada, with an average wind speed of 32.6 km/h (20.3 mph).
Bonavista, Newfoundland Labrador, is home to a variety of attractions that cater to history buffs and nature lovers alike. These include the Ryan Premises, the Matthew Replica, the Mockbeggar Plantation, the Dungeon, White Rock Murals, Cape Bonavista Light, Bonavista Archives, and Cabot Stadium. Visitors can also enjoy sightings of puffins, whales, and icebergs.
