Ship Cove and Cape Onion are located on the Northern tip of the Northern Peninsula, first occupied by the French; however, they only used the area for summer fishing purposes. The first recorded settlement of Cape Onion was a family of Manuels in 1857.

Eventually many people settled in Cape Onion and Ship Cove, coming from communities such as Griquet, Quirpon, L'anse aux Meadows, etc. The main reason for this resettlement was fishing and marriage. The first school and United Church were built in the early 1900's. The first local shop was built around 1910, and was owned and operated by the Decker Family.

The population of Ship Cove in the early 1900's was approximately 200 people. Two Pentecostal churches were built in 1960 and 1977. Today, the main source of income is the fishery; however, many people travel outside of town for work. There are a few services remaining and include a hair salon and a bed and breakfast.

There are breathtaking walking trails that surround the area, a mini village and the popular album rock, which links the community to the French. An exhibit, depicting Ship Cove's heritage, is displayed within the community, a work in progress, by photographer Miot.

Cape Onion is on the western side of the bay where the Vikings landed in L'Anse aux Meadows. A scenic drive along Cape Norman takes you the breathtaking views of the Cape. The Tickle Inn at Cape Onion is nestled in fields of wildflowers with narrow islets, known as "tickles". The Inn itself is the oldest house in Northern Newfoundland and is owned by David and Barbara Adams, who run it. The Inn was originally David's Grandfather's house.