Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Red Bay National Historic Site adventure.
Explore the rich history of Red Bay National Historic Site.
During the mid-16th century, large numbers of right and bowhead whales drew whalers from the Basque region of Spain and France to the Strait of Belle Isle, where they established a major whaling port at Red Bay. For some 70 years, Basque whalers made the dangerous, month-long journey across the Atlantic to hunt whales and produce the oil that lit the lamps of Europe. See original Basque artifacts, remains, and restored chalupa at this national historic site and World Heritage Site.
The ideal time to visit Red Bay National Historic Site is between June 1 and October 4, when the site welcomes visitors from 9am to 5pm daily. The summer months offer the best weather for exploring, while the shoulder seasons provide a quieter experience. Winter visits are not recommended due to harsh conditions and site closure.