Investing in Our People: Where to Shop Locally This Holiday Season

With the countdown to Christmas fast approaching, it’s time to get out the wishlist and collect all of those last-minute presents we need for our friends and family. Luckily for you, there is a world of shopping options available in the province that are all locally owned and operated, so you can surprise your people while supporting your home. With an array of local industry professionals specializing in many different things, we’ll take a look at some of the key places in the province to find the perfect gift.

Downtown St. John’s

The hub of local shopping in the province can be found in the heart of the capital city. The streets of downtown St. John’s are lined with local business servicing every industry imaginable. Regardless of the interests of the people on your wishlist, you are sure to find a special something for that special someone when you shop locally in downtown St. John’s. Take a look at the list below to discover the store you’re looking for!

  • O’Brien’s Music Inc.
  • Fred’s Records
  • Posie Rowe
  • Heritage Shop Duckworth Street & Waterstreet
  • Newfoundland Chocolate Company
  • Whink
  • Relic Supply
  • Irene’s
  • Twisted Sisters Boutique
  • Next Clothing Company
  • Benjamin’s Menswear
  • Johnny Ruth
  • Model Citizens

There are several great photographers selling prints of their work. Two of our favourites are Leonna Rockwood and Michael Winsor. Michael owns and runs Newfoundland Photo Tours. He has a great new book of his work that is a great addition to any coffee table or any gathering place. Follow their Facebook and Instagram pages for their excellent work.

And more…

Trinity Bay

Of course we have to mention the very town we call home, as the stores are as wonderful as the people who run them. Trinity Bay takes pride in showcasing fantastic shops selling quality gifts for the holiday season. Take a walk through the town and stop into:

  • Mirabella by Elizabeth Burry Studios
  • Aunt Sarah’s Chocolate Shop
  • Washed Ahsore Antiques & Coffee Bar
  • Creative Gifts
  • 2 Whales Coffee Shop
  • Port Rexton Brewery

Each of these shops are locally owned and operated, and are sure to provide the perfect present to gift on Christmas morning.

West Coast

The Avalon Peninsula isn’t the only place to find great local shopping here in Newfoundland, the west coast of the island has some fantastic options as well. Take a look at this list of great shops around the western region and plan your visit!

  • King’s Point Pottery – King’s Point
  • The Glass Station – Rocky Harbour
  • Gros Morne Craft’s – Rocky Harbour
  • Molly Made Fibre Art Studio – Bonne Bay
  • Meyer’s Minerals – Pasadena

Honourable Mentions

Of course we can’t forget all of the other superb local businesses scattered throughout our beautiful island. Below is a list of a few honourable mentions we wanted to make sure to name so that you can take advantage of all they have to offer this holiday season.

  • Busy Hands Arts and Crafts – Carbonear
  • Ted Stuckless Fine Arts and Driftwood Gallery – Twillingate
  • East Coast Glow – Bonavista
  • Herring Cove Art Gallery – Joe Batt’s Arm
  • Fishing Point Emporium – St. Anthony
  • The Treasure Trove – Dildo

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Whether you’d like to get up close and personal with ocean wildlife, the world’s biggest icebergs, and seabirds, get in touch to see all Trinity Eco-Tours has to offer.

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Testimonials

Our eco-friendly whale watching/iceberg tours by Zodiac and Kayak, and our ATV tours are the best in Newfoundland!  We offer beautiful  accommodations and an on-site restaurant. It's an experience of a lifetime! 

This is hands down the best whale watching experience I have ever been on. In addition to seeing whales and puffins, Skipper Bob was exceptional. Great guide, full of stories and information and history of the region and an eagle-eye for whales! Thanks for an exceptional experience!

- Maureen R. -

Highly recommend the lodge and tours! We spent 3 nights at Trinity Eco Lodge. Warmly welcomed each morning by Shannon who helped us arrange some tours as well as gave us pointers on places of interest in the surrounding area. Shannon even told us we could warm up some of her homemade beef stew for dinner as we would be coming back late from our ATV trip!

- Ele L. -

We had a wonderful experience doing the whale watching tour! We were thrilled to see two different kinds of whales and a very rare bird - the stellar sea eagle, as well as stunning coastal views. Skipper Steve + Bob were very friendly and knowledgeable. Would absolutely recommend this tour!

- Jessica L. -

We had an excellent tour with Trinity Eco-Tours. We got to see whales, a variety of seabirds including the beautiful Atlantic puffins! But the highlight for me was finally being able to see the gorgeous Steller's sea eagle. She's currently the rarest bird in all of North America, and certainly amazing to see! Definitely worth a trip out with Trinity Eco-tours. The boat was comfortable, and the staff are all incredible! You will not be disappointed.

- Alicia B. -

I did a 3-hour boat tour and it was incredible! They are a great team and you'll be in good hands if you book a tour with them. Detailed information was provided prior to boarding and engagement with the travellers was regular. Although we didn't see any whales (it was off-season), we did see puffins and eagles. Of course, the scenic beauty was breathtaking - you are out in the ocean where you experience the beauty and the force of nature.

- Preeti. -

We had a great time on our sea kayaking tour. Darrell was a fun, informative and educational guide who made us feel super comfortable paddling on the ocean. We came in September at the end of the season so didn’t see any whales or puffins, but Darrell still did a great job telling us facts about local history and the environment and taking photos for us. The hot coffee and muffins at the end were a nice treat too. We’d love to come again when the icebergs and whales are in town!

- Liam B. -