Our Climate

The Avalon Peninsula has a moderate four-season climate, shaped by its place on the edge of the North Atlantic. Just offshore, the cold Labrador Current meets the warm waters of the Gulf Stream on the Grand Banks, creating weather that can shift quickly and dramatically. Expect cool, refreshing summers, crisp autumns, snowy winters and bright, changeable spring days. Here, the weather is part of the experience—and locals have a saying for it: if you don’t like the weather, wait a minute.

TIME OF YEAR CONDITIONS DAY LOW DAY HIGH NIGHT LOW NIGHT HIGH
April & May First of spring flowers peek through. April showers bring May flowers, and fog. 0° C 15° C -5° C 0° C
June Pleasant and sunny with cool northeast winds. Iceberg season. Early whales. 10° C 20° C 0° C 10° C
July & August Beautiful summer days and nights without excessive humidity. Whale season. 20° C 30° C 15° C 20° C
September & October Warm with some cool days and moderate to cool evenings. Berry season. 10° C 20° C 0° C 5° C
November & December Cool temperatures with possibility of occasional snow that does not remain. -2° C 10° C -8° C 0° C
January, February & March Generally cold with regular snowfall. Spring follows Sheilagh’s Brush, the last major snowfall in March. -10° C -5° C -20° C -5° C

Local weather trends and forecasts can be found at The Weather Network or the Canada Weather Office.

Colourful wool knit caps stacked on a shelf in St. JOhn's, Newfoundland & Labrador Colourful wool knit socks in themes of Puffins and whales, stacked on a shelf in St. JOhn's, Newfoundland & Labrador

Dressing for Our Weather

As the saying goes: there’s no such thing as bad weather—just the wrong clothing.

On the Avalon Peninsula—and across the North Atlantic to Saint-Pierre et Miquelon—the weather can change quickly. Fog can roll in, rain can pass and sunshine can appear within minutes. The key to enjoying it all? Dress in layers and be prepared for whatever the day brings.

Sun & Warm Hats

A hat and sunscreen are worth packing, even on cooler or overcast days. Bring a warm hat, too—especially if you’ll be on the water, where temperatures can drop quickly when the fog rolls in.

Walking Shoes or Boots

Bring comfortable footwear for exploring. From coastal trails and rugged headlands to colourful neighbourhoods, historic sites and fishing communities, there’s plenty to discover on foot. Waterproof walking shoes or boots are a good choice.

Rain & Windproof Shell

Wind, rain, fog and sea spray are all part of life on the North Atlantic. A lightweight, breathable rain and windproof shell is one of the most useful things you can pack—and easy to tuck into a daypack when the sun comes out.

Warm Layers

Layers are your best friend here. Temperatures can shift throughout the day, so dress in a way that lets you add or remove layers as conditions change. A warm fleece or sweater under a weatherproof shell will keep you comfortable from morning to evening.

Warm Socks

A good pair of warm, moisture-wicking socks can make all the difference on a cool or wet day. Wool is a great choice—and if you forget yours, look for locally made wool socks and other handmade goods while you’re here.

Small Daypack

A small daypack is ideal for carrying the essentials as you explore. Pack your layers, water, sunscreen and camera, with room for anything you pick up along the way. Binoculars are handy, too—you never know what you might spot along the coast.