Dildo Island
Island Island off Newfoundland with historic fishing heritage
Small island off Newfoundland’s eastern shore near the town of Dildo; visitors take boat trips, watch seabirds and explore coastal history and fishing-community heritage.
Dildo Island is a small island off the coast of the town of Dildo in Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada. It lies immediately offshore from the harbour and is uninhabited.
The island is most often viewed from the town’s waterfront or visited by people arriving by small boat or kayak for short landings and shoreline exploration. It is a local landmark used for coastal recreation and wildlife viewing rather than formal tourist facilities.
The island has been used historically in support of local inshore fishing activities and informal seasonal visits; there is no permanent settlement. Remains visible from shore reflect past small-scale human use rather than an inhabited site.
The island sits adjacent to the town of Dildo on the island of Newfoundland, in the coastal waters of Trinity Bay. The town’s harbour and shoreline provide the main viewing and launch points.
- Access: Reached only by private boat, kayak, or from the shoreline of the nearby town; there are no regular ferries.
How to Get to Dildo Island #
Dildo Island is reached only by boat from the town of Dildo on Newfoundland’s Bay de Verde Peninsula. Dildo village is about a 1.5-2 hour drive from St. John’s (roughly 95 km / 60 miles) via Route 10 and local roads. Local outfitters and community groups in Dildo can arrange short boat trips around the island; landing is highly weather-dependent.
Tips for Visiting Dildo Island #
- Arrange a local boat or join a community-run tour from the town of Dildo rather than attempting to land from a private kayak in rough weather.
- Bring binoculars for seabirds and seals - the island is small but wildlife is the main draw.
- Respect private property and local fisheries; there are seasonal lobster traps in the surrounding waters.
Best Time to Visit Dildo Island #
Best visited late spring through early autumn for reasonable sea conditions and wildlife viewing.