With St. John’s as your basecamp, some of the most beautiful parts of the Avalon Peninsula are just a short drive away. Here are four fall day trips, with tips and stops to help you plan.
Distance: About 20 minutes to each. Time needed: Half a day
This is the easiest escape from the city, with two of the region’s most iconic coastal views close together.
Start at Cape Spear, the most easterly point in North America. Walk the paths around the historic lighthouse and take in the open Atlantic. Then head over to Petty Harbour, a working fishing village tucked between steep, rocky hills. Colourful stages line the water, boats bob at the wharf, and the whole place feels a world away from downtown.
Stops worth making:
Distance: About 312 km round trip. Time needed: A full day.
Head south on Route 10 along the Southern Shore and loop back on Route 90 (Salmonier Line) to the Trans-Canada Highway. It’s a long drive, but with harbour towns, church steeples, and ocean views around nearly every bend, it’s well worth your time.
Stops worth making:
Tip: Start early. Fall daylight is shorter, and you’ll want light for the southern stretch of the loop.
Distance: About 100 km. Time needed: A full day.
Take the Trans-Canada Highway west to Exit 28, then follow Route 80 north along Trinity Bay. The drive passes Dildo Pond and wraps along the coast into town.
In Dildo, grab a photo with the wooden statue of Captain Dildo, the town mascot, and spot the Hollywood-style sign in the hills above. Stroll the waterfront among the wharves and fishing stages, and stop for lunch with a view of the cove. Dildo Brewing Co. & Museum pairs local craft beer with seafood and a look at the town’s history.
Distance: About 80 km. Time needed: Half day to full day.
Take the Trans-Canada Highway west, then follow Route 70 toward Conception Bay. Brigus sits in a sheltered harbour lined with stone walls, heritage homes, and winding lanes. It’s one of the most picturesque towns on the Avalon.
Stops worth making:
Tips for the Road
By the time you head back, you’ll have a camera roll full of harbour views and a head full of stories. That’s the beauty of the St. John’s region, the city is your basecamp and the whole coast is waiting.
Please Note
Some business opening days and times may change seasonally. We always recommend making reservations and calling in advance to avoid disappointment.
