Newfoundland in December
Not the best time
Full winter arrives with challenging weather and limited tourist services. Most visitors are here for family or specific winter activities. The island feels remote and wild - which can be appealing or intimidating.
Weather
December brings full winter conditions with snow, ice, and bitter coastal winds. Temperatures drop well below freezing and stay there. Blizzards and ice storms are common, especially along the coast.
2°C high-5°C low10 rain days
Crowds & Cost
low crowds
~$88/day average
Events & Festivals
- •Christmas celebrations
- •New Year's preparations
- •Mummering traditions begin
December Tips
- •Book accommodations well ahead - many close for winter
- •Winter driving skills essential
- •Experience traditional Christmas customs if visiting family
All Months
June through September is prime time, but each month serves up something different. June brings the first icebergs and wildflowers exploding across the landscape. The weather's unpredictable – pack for all four seasons in one day. July and August offer the warmest temperatures (15-20°C), peak whale watching, and festival season in St. John's. But also crowds and higher prices. September might be the sweet spot: fewer tourists, spectacular fall colors, whales still around, and you might catch the Northern Lights. The shoulder seasons have their charms too. May offers cheaper accommodations and the first puffins arriving at Witless Bay, though many tourist services aren't fully operational. October through April? Brutal weather but incredible Northern Lights, and you'll have the place mostly to yourself. Just know that many coastal accommodations close, and you're gambling with flight cancellations.
Newfoundland Scores
Solo
7/10
Couples
7/10
Families
6/10
Adventure
8/10
Budget
6/10
Luxury
4/10
BUILD YOUR NEWFOUNDLAND PLAN
Insider picks, smart timing, and a plan ready when you are.