St. John's is Canada's most easterly city, situated right on the edge of the Atlantic Ocean. It's the ideal vacation destination for anyone seeking to escape the daily grind, experience some history, and take in Newfoundland's rugged natural beauty. Accommodations in the city range from modern apartments overlooking the water, to larger detached properties on the outskirts of town which are perfect for families or larger groups.
The Very Best Local Produce
Unsurprisingly, seafood features heavily in St. John's' many restaurants and bistros. One of the town's best fine dining options is Raymonds Restaurant on Water Street, where the chefs offer an ever-changing menu based on what's in season. For a real treat, opt for the seven-course tasting menu, with wines to pair with the food chosen by the expert in-house sommeliers.
Eating out in St. John's can be a more laid-back affair. There's few things better here than freshly cooked fish and chips, served takeout-style to enjoy in the fresh ocean air. If you're dining in your St. John's apartment or house, pick up supplies for a meal from Belbin's Grocery, or choose one of their homecooked meals that can be heated in the oven. Enjoy it with one of St. John's craft beers, such as Quidi Vidi, YellowBelly, or Landwash.
Fun For Kids of All Ages
One of the best places for kids around St. John's is The Rooms, a city centre venue that's part museum, part art gallery. The permanent collectiion explores the history of Newfoundland, whereas the temporary exhibition space has a regular rotation of exhibits on art and culture from around the globe. There's also an extensive program of educational and family-oriented events.
If you kids prefer more outdoor activities, Bannerman Park is the place to stretch their legs. During the summer months, there's a popular pool area, and there's plenty of green space for playing and running year-round. Harbourside Park is another beautiful option, with views of the water and of the many ships that go in and out of this port city.
Explore Canada's Coastal History
The history of Newfoundland is closely entwined with the sea. One of St. John's' most visited sites is Cape Spear Lighthouse National Historic SIte. The lighthouse marks North America's most easterly point, and is a popular spot to catch the sunrise. Explore the World War II gun placements and bunkers, and scan the horizon for the whales and dolphins that frequent local waters.
Some of St. John's most iconic features are its colourful houses, known locally as "jellybeans". Stroll the streets of the downtown area and admire the rainbow of homes that line the blocks. Take some shots for your social media feed, or snap up some of the local crafts featuring designs of the houses.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the typical availability of vacation rentals in St. John's?
April has the highest availability of House rental in St. John's, so you can expect a lot of vacation rentals available, even for last-minute bookings.
What are the most popular vacation home amenities in St. John's?
The most popular amenities for rentals in St. John's include vacation homes with Pool, Internet, or Pets allowed.
Are there pet-friendly vacation rentals in St. John's?
If you're travelling with a dog, over 27% of vacation rentals in St. John's are pet-friendly.
What's the best month to visit St. John's?
If you're looking for balmy weather, July and August are typically the hottest months in St. John's with temperatures around 20 °C. February and January in St. John's are the coldest, with -8 °C on average.