Exploring this iconic island off the coast of Newfoundland.
Seeing most of this remote island can be done in a couple of days—if you plan well. Here’s how to make the most of your time, from key sights to practical tips.
Located off the northern coast of Newfoundland, Fogo Island stands out as one of the province’s most distinctive destinations. The landscape shifts from rugged North Atlantic shorelines to stretches of white sand, while traditional fishing stages sit alongside striking modern architecture. That contrast is part of what makes the island worth the trip.
My wife and I have visited Fogo Island several times over the years. With each trip, we’ve found that you can cover the main highlights in two days—especially if you arrive early and stay organized. Taking the morning ferry helps maximize your time.
Your base will likely be either the Town of Fogo or Joe Batt’s Arm. Both offer good accommodation options and easy access to the rest of the island.
Below are the standout experiences to prioritize when spending two days on Fogo Island.
Artists Studios
If you’re visiting Fogo Island, the artist studios should be high on your list. These modern structures are scattered across the landscape and each offers a different perspective.
- Bridge Studio (Deep Bay): A short uphill walk leads to this rectangular structure overlooking a small pond.
- Tower Studio: The easiest to access, reached via a flat boardwalk.
- Long Studio: A narrow building extending into the landscape. It requires the longest walk, but it’s still manageable.
- Squish Studio: The most visually unusual. Its shape shifts depending on your angle, giving it its name.
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If you’re into architecture like we are, there are other structures worthy of mention. Topping this list would be the Fogo Island Inn, of course. Its domineering stance stands out in the barren landscape on which it was built. Additionally, the Clay Studio in the Town of Fogo, as well as a few private homes scattered around the island, are worthy of second glances.
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Hiking Trails
Fogo Island offers several short but rewarding hikes.
Lion’s Den Trail (4.2 km)
This is our favorite route and takes around 60–90 minutes, depending on pace. The trail follows the coastline past the remains of resettled communities, including Lock’s Cove and Eastern Tickle. Along the way, you’ll pass the Marconi Interpretation Station—one of the early wireless communication sites that received distress signals from the Titanic.
Fogo Head Trail
A steeper hike with plenty of stairs, but the payoff is a full 360-degree view over the Town of Fogo and surrounding coastline.
Turpin’s Trail (Tilting)
Turpin’s Hiking Trail is also one of our top choices. Located in Tilting, you’ll start this shoreline walk at Sandy Cove – a white sand beach that will look out of place on an island as rugged as Fogo. We’ve been here in October when it was warm and sunny, which created a feeling of being somewhere tropical.
Not at all what you’d expect given the surrounding landscape. On the opposite side of the cove from the Squish Studio, Turpin’s trail will give you a unique perspective on the community of Tilting and its beautiful architecture.
Hiking multiple trails in a day or two is a lot to ask for some, so my suggestion is to pick one per day and not feel so rushed.
Where to Eat
There aren’t many places to eat on Fogo, but the few they have more than make up for it.
- Bang Belly Bistro in the Town of Fogo is our favorite place to have a sit-down meal after a day of exploring.
- The Storehouse, located in Joe Batt’s Arm and owned and operated by the Shorefast Foundation, is another great option to grab a bite to eat.
- For a more casual experience, or if you want great coffee, there’s the Punch Buggy Pizza & Coffee Co. in the Town of Fogo.
- If preparing your food is the best option, Foodland will supply you with everything you’ll need to be self-sufficient.
- Other options for quick snacks include Tina’s Convenience and Growler’s Ice Cream Shop.
Exploring the Communities
Fogo Island communities, and the ones we like to spend time in are the Town of Fogo, Joe Batt’s Arm, and, of course, Tilting. Each one offers something unique, whether you want to do a little shopping, shoot photos of traditional fishing stages, or simply go back in time.
Driving from one to the other won’t take a long time, allowing you to easily visit each one in a couple of hours – perfect to sqeeze into your itinerary for two dayas on Fogo Island.
Practical Information for Visiting Fogo Island
How to get there: Drive to Farewell on Newfoundland’s northeast coast and take the ferry to Stag Harbour (45–60 minutes). In summer, aim to arrive at least 60–90 minutes early to avoid long queues.
Getting around: A car is essential. Distances between communities are short (typically 10–20 minutes), but there’s no reliable public transport.
Best time to visit: June to September offers the best conditions. Expect peak visitor numbers in July and August, with ferry wait times of up to 1–2 hours during busy periods. September is quieter with cooler weather.
How much time do you need? Two days is enough to cover the main highlights at a steady pace. Plan for:
- 2–4 hours exploring communities
- 1–2 hours per hike (4–5 km average distance)
- Half a day for artist studios and scenic stops
Costs
- Ferry: Free (as of recent travel norms, but check ahead)
- Food: Mid-range pricing, limited options
- Accommodation: Ranges from guesthouses to high-end stays like Fogo Island Inn
What to pack
- Windproof jacket (weather changes quickly)
- Comfortable hiking shoes
- Camera or phone with extra storage
- Snacks, especially if traveling between meal times
These recommendations are my stand-outs for spending two days on Fogo Island. There are other small communities worth visiting, as well as opportunities for chance encounters. Those can include a herd of caribou, multi-coloured foxes, and even celebrities visiting from afar.
As you should anywhere in Newfoundland and Labrador, bring a camera and take lots of photos.
Frequently Asked Questions About Fogo Island
How do you get to Fogo Island from Newfoundland?
You’ll need to drive to Farewell on Newfoundland’s northeast coast, then take the ferry to Stag Harbour. The crossing takes about 45–60 minutes. In peak season, it’s best to arrive early, as wait times can reach 1–2 hours.
Is two days enough time to visit Fogo Island?
Yes, two days is enough to see the main highlights if you plan efficiently. You can cover key communities, visit the artist studios, and complete one or two hikes. A third day allows for a slower pace and more flexibility.
When is the best time to visit Fogo Island?
Late spring to early fall (June to September) offers the most reliable weather and full access to attractions. July and August are the busiest months, while September tends to be quieter with cooler temperatures and fewer crowds.
Do you need a car on Fogo Island?
Yes, having a car is strongly recommended. Public transport is very limited, and distances between communities and attractions make it difficult to explore without your own vehicle.
Are the hiking trails on Fogo Island difficult?
Most trails are moderate and manageable for people with average fitness levels. For example, the Lion’s Den Trail is 4.2 km and takes around 60–90 minutes. Some routes, like Fogo Head Trail, include steep sections and stairs.
Can you visit Fogo Island year-round?
Yes, but winter travel can be more challenging due to weather conditions and reduced ferry reliability. Many seasonal businesses also close outside the summer months, so options for dining and activities are more limited.
