Newfoundland is not the kind of place you visit with a mapped out plan of your day to day adventures. This is a province that moves at its own speed, and seems to draw you into its carefree spell, making it nearly impossible to follow a schedule. You may plan to go to a museum one day and end up touring the area by sea kayak. There is such a wide range of activities to participate in, and places to go to, you just never know where the next hour or day is going to take you. So for a stress-free vacation in Newfoundland, you may want to leave your watch at home. 

Weather in Newfoundland 

You should pack an assortment of clothing when traveling to Canada's most eastern province. The climate is directly influenced by the sea; hence, the province finds itself divided into six different types of climate, including humid continental, sub-arctic and polar tundra, depending on the specific region you are visiting and the time of year. 

Average summer temperatures range from 49 degrees Fahrenheit, all the way up to 75 degrees Fahrenheit, while the winter's average temperature can be anywhere from a brisk 10 degrees Fahrenheit to a cool 30 degrees Fahrenheit. 

Thanks to the sea, Newfoundland is a little warmer than you would expect in the winter, and pleasantly cooler in the summer. The Maritime climate allows for a diverse weather pattern, so you could be bundled up in your favorite hooded sweatshirt one day and in shorts and sandals the next. Maritimers like to say: “If you don’t like the weather, just wait a minute!” 

St. John's 

St. John's is the capital of Newfoundland, and truly the only highly populated city in the province. It boasts a vibrant and long history as being North America's oldest English founded city. St. John's downtown area is a major tourist destination, Water Street being the main attraction and known for its exciting nightlife. The surrounding area offers numerous shops, excellent restaurants, and interesting, historic museums. For a change of pace, beautiful Pippy Park, located in St. John's and recognized as Canada's largest urban park, is definitely worth a visit. 

Depending on the time of year you choose for your vacation in Newfoundland, you may be able to participate in one of the province’s many festivals. Actually, there is always something going on in St. John's, and the locals are more than happy to invite tourists to join in the fun and festivities. 

Art and crafts are a big part of what makes a vacation in Newfoundland so special. Artists are abundant in Newfoundland, every one of them inspired by the culture and panoramic views of the province. You will find a multitude of art galleries and craft shops carrying unique items to take home. 

Reasons to Go 

The never-ending coastline offers one spectacular view after another, with coves, inlets and bays that house historic fishing villages and quaint little towns.

• Whale Watching – You have never seen anything like the exciting appearance of a humpback, weighing as much as your house, playing in the water right before your very eyes. Every summer, people come from around the world to capture this sight and experience the thrill of the moment.
• Trails – Some of the most favorite trails of enthusiastic hikers are found here. Wander through nature and discover fauna and flora existing nowhere else on the planet.
• Kayaking and Canoeing – With over 29,000 kilometers of breathtaking coastline, this is the ideal place for water sports. Get close to towering icebergs or journey into one of the many mysterious ocean caves; there are tours available to satisfy everyone's adventure level.

Favorite Attractions

• Bell Island Community Museum – Visit Newfoundland's histrionic underground mine and learn how the miners worked in the early 1900s.
• Alexander Murray Hiking Trail – Travel to an elevation of 1,100 ft to see stunning views of Green Bay, spectacular waterfalls and a breathtaking 600 ft gorge.
• Cape Bonavista Lighthouse – This lighthouse, built in 1843, is one of Canada's most photographed sites. It is also a perfect location for photographing icebergs, whales and puffins.
• Golden Sands Amusement Park – Water slides, mini golf, freshwater swimming, boat rentals, games, and train rides provide an action-packed day to visitors of all ages.
• Jiggs' Fun Farm – Offer your family a genuine country experience with pony and wagon rides, animal feeding, pond fishing, picnics and pedal boats – you can even stay overnight.
• Splash 'n' Putt Resort – Whether you are young or old, you will enjoy this exciting place and its giant water slide, go-carts, bumper cars, and miniature golf.

Some people refer to Newfoundland as the “Edge of the Earth”, while others think of it as being a “Unique Little Planet”. Your vacation in Newfoundland is bound to be memorable - the beauty of the land and the people will stay with you long after you leave.

Read more information about cities to visit in Canada.