Conception Bay South, Newfoundland Labrador, is a charming town nestled on the Avalon Peninsula, forming part of the southern shore of Conception Bay. Known locally as CBS, this town is approximately 20 kilometres southwest of the provincial capital, St. John's. As the second-largest settlement in the province, Conception Bay South is a bustling part of the St. John's metropolitan area, the 20th largest in Canada.
Conception Bay South was established in 1973, born from the amalgamation of eight communities: Topsail, Chamberlains, Manuels, Long Pond, Foxtrap, Kelligrews, Upper Gullies, and Seal Cove. In 1985, Lawrence Pond also joined the town. The early settlers, primarily English with some Irish, were drawn to the area's fertile land, abundant firewood, and temperate climate.
By the 1830s, the town had established good communication with St. John's, which was further strengthened in the 1880s with the arrival of the railway. The residents of Conception Bay South cultivated crops and raised cattle for the St. John's market, while St. John's residents established summer homes in Conception Bay South.
According to the 2021 Census of Population conducted by Statistics Canada, Conception Bay South had a population of 27,168, a 3.7% increase from its 2016 population of 26,199. The town spans a land area of 59.72 km2, resulting in a population density of 454.9/km2 in 2021. The demographic makeup in 2016 was 92.3% White, 6.6% Aboriginal, and 1.1% other visible minorities.
The Kelligrews Soiree, a family-friendly event featuring the world-famous Kelligrews Soiree folk festival and garden party, marks the beginning of the town's tourist season in early July. The Admirals' Coast scenic route, which follows Route 60 along the western and southern shore of Conception Bay, offers breathtaking views over the bay.
Conception Bay South is home to a unique geological attraction: the trilobite fossil beds along the Manuels River Linear Park. These fossils, similar to those found in southern Spain, Portugal, and northern Africa, played a crucial role in establishing the theory of plate tectonics.
The town also boasts a marina at Foxtrap, the site of a famous 19th-century "battle," and the Royal Newfoundland Yacht Club at Long Pond. Topsail Beach, a popular seaside attraction, marks the northern beginning of the East Coast Trail.
Conception Bay South is conveniently located approximately 30 km from St. John's International Airport, which provides service to Canada, the United States, the Caribbean, and Europe. The town's harbour, located in the Long Pond area, hosts many cruise ships during the summer months.
Parsons & Sons provides charter busing and school runs for the public throughout the town and beyond. Taxi services are available from Conception Bay South, St. John's, Mount Pearl, and Paradise. The town also features two marinas, one in Foxtrap and one in Long Pond.
