Nestled along the picturesque Gold Coast, Charis Seafood in Labrador is more than just a top-tier seafood market—it's home to one of the most delightful and unique wildlife experiences in the area: pelican feeding. This daily event draws both locals and tourists alike, creating a charming blend of nature and coastal culture.
Here’s why you should add this experience to your Gold Coast itinerary.
The Perfect Location: A Seafood Haven by the Broadwater
Charis Seafood is located at the northern end of the Gold Coast, offering sweeping views of the Broadwater. Renowned for its fresh seafood offerings, it’s a bustling spot where you can grab everything from prawns and oysters to fish and chips. However, it's not just the food that draws the crowds—Charis is famous for its daily pelican feeding, which has become an iconic local event.
Daily Pelican Feeding: A Spectacle of Nature
Every afternoon around 1:30 pm, the waters near Charis Seafood come alive as pelicans descend for their daily feed. These majestic birds, with their striking long beaks and large wingspans, gather in anticipation of their meal. The feeding is carried out by staff from Charis, who toss fresh fish into the air, delighting both the pelicans and onlookers.
This feeding has been a tradition for years, and it offers visitors a chance to see pelicans up close. Their graceful flight and quirky behavior on the ground make for excellent photo opportunities. Families, especially those with young children, find this event a fun and educational way to interact with local wildlife in a safe, controlled environment.
What Makes Pelicans So Special?
Pelicans are fascinating birds, known for their large beaks and throat pouches used to scoop up fish. They are incredibly social creatures and often travel in flocks. Watching them soar gracefully in the sky before diving down to catch their prey is a sight to behold. At Charis, you get to see these magnificent birds in action without having to venture into the wild.
Though they appear calm and collected, once the feeding begins, you’ll witness their quick reflexes and precision as they compete for their meal. It’s a fantastic way to learn about their natural behavior while enjoying the beautiful coastal setting.
A Family-Friendly Experience
Pelican feeding at Charis Seafood is not just for wildlife enthusiasts—it’s perfect for families and anyone looking for an authentic local experience. The casual and welcoming atmosphere at Charis means you can enjoy a meal from the market while watching the pelicans. There’s plenty of open space by the waterfront, making it ideal for kids to run around while waiting for the feeding to start.
Tips for Visiting
Arrive early: Pelican feeding starts at 1:30 pm, but it’s best to get there a bit earlier to secure a good spot for viewing.
Bring your camera: The pelicans are captivating, and you’ll want to capture their flight and feeding frenzy.
Enjoy the seafood: Charis Seafood is renowned for its quality, so don’t miss the chance to indulge in some fresh fish, prawns, or a classic fish and chips meal.
Respect the wildlife: While the pelicans are used to the crowds, it’s important to keep a respectful distance and not interfere with the feeding process.
A Memorable Coastal Experience
Charis Seafood’s pelican feeding is a quintessential Gold Coast experience that offers a blend of nature, wildlife, and delicious seafood. Whether you're a local or a tourist, this daily ritual is a wonderful way to appreciate the beauty of the region’s coastal wildlife. Plus, it’s an experience that can be enjoyed by all ages—whether you're there for the birds or the fresh seafood.
Next time you’re in Labrador, be sure to stop by Charis Seafood, enjoy a fantastic meal, and watch the pelicans take center stage in this fun and family-friendly event
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