November brings a different pace to Newfoundland and Labrador. The summer crowds have departed, coastal villages are quieter, and visitors can spend a weekend exploring scenic trails, historic communities and rugged shorelines before winter arrives.
There is also plenty happening indoors. Christmas markets begin appearing across the province, local theatres host musicians and entertainers, and communities start decorating for the holidays.
From the sea stacks of Trinity Bight to the lighthouse at Twillingate, these five destinations offer a mix of outdoor activities, local food and seasonal events. Each includes suggested stops and approximate driving distances to help plan a worthwhile weekend.
November weather can change quickly. Check trail conditions, attraction hours and event schedules before travelling, especially in smaller communities where many businesses operate seasonally.
1. Hike the Skerwink Trail and Explore the Historic Villages of Trinity Bight
Destination: Port Rexton, Trinity East and Trinity
Best weekend: November 6 to 8, 2026
From St. John’s: Approximately 250 to 270 km, about 3 to 3.5 hours by car.
The Bonavista Peninsula is usually associated with summer road trips, but early November offers an opportunity to explore its rugged coastline without the busy-season crowds.
Start with the Skerwink Trail in Trinity East. This 5.3-kilometre loop winds through wooded areas before opening onto rocky headlands overlooking Trinity Bay.
The main attractions are the towering sea stacks, steep cliffs and views towards Port Rexton and Trinity. Allow approximately two hours for the full hike under good conditions, and longer if stopping frequently for photographs.
Explore Trinity and Gun Hill Trail
After the Skerwink Trail, drive approximately 7 to 10 km to Trinity, a historic coastal community known for its traditional buildings, sheltered harbour and walking routes.
For another scenic outing, explore Gun Hill Trail. The hill offers elevated views of Trinity Harbour, Fort Point Lighthouse and the surrounding communities.
If you do not want to complete another hike can instead wander through Trinity’s historic streets and waterfront. Many museums and heritage attractions are seasonal, but the community remains worth visiting for its architecture and coastal setting.
Another possibility is Champney’s West, approximately 5 to 10 km from Port Rexton, where the Fox Island Trail provides another coastal hiking option. This is best reserved for a separate outing rather than combined with two longer hikes on the same day.
Connect Your Visit with Ales for Trails
Saturday, November 7 adds a special reason to visit.
Ales for Trails begins at 10 a.m. at Port Rexton Brewing and features an organized 8-kilometre trail run supporting Hike Discovery.
Registration includes refreshments from the brewery, snacks, entertainment and prizes. Late registration is listed at $56.31, including mandatory charges, with registration scheduled to close November 4.
If you are not participating in the run, you can enjoy an independent hike when conditions permit and visit the brewery afterwards. The Port Rexton Brewing Company is only a short drive from the Skerwink Trail area.
Where to Eat and Stay
Port Rexton Brewing is a good choice for an evening gathering. The Town of Port Rexton lists Friday and Saturday winter taproom hours as 4 p.m. to 10 p.m.
For accommodation, Sherwood Suites & Motel offers self-contained units on Rocky Hill Road.
For more options, see the Town of Port Rexton visitor website.
Suggested Weekend
- Friday: Arrive in Port Rexton,and visit the brewery (6 Ship’s Cv Rd, Port Rexton) if open.
- Saturday: Participate in Ales for Trails or hike the Skerwink Trail independently, followed by an evening in Port Rexton.
- Sunday: Drive approximately 7 to 10 km to Trinity, explore the waterfront and consider Gun Hill Trail if conditions permit.
2. Visit Twillingate’s Long Point Lighthouse and Explore Its Coastal Villages
Destination: Twillingate and Crow Head
Best weekend: November 27 to 29, 2026
From St. John’s: Approximately 440 to 460 km, about 5 to 6 hours by car.
From Gander: Approximately 110 to 120 km.
Twillingate is best known for icebergs, whales and summer boat tours, but its dramatic shoreline and traditional fishing communities remain interesting long after the sightseeing season ends.
Begin with a drive to Crow Head, home to Long Point Lighthouse.
Located approximately 7 to 10 km from central Twillingate, Long Point Lighthouse stands more than 300 feet above sea level.
The clifftop viewpoints overlook the Atlantic Ocean, with sweeping views of the rugged northern coastline. The lighthouse and surrounding scenery make this one of the most memorable stops in the Twillingate area.
The lighthouse heritage museum and tower tours operate seasonally, so plan for outdoor sightseeing rather than an indoor museum visit.
Explore Crow Head and Twillingate’s Walking Routes
The Crow Head area offers several coastal viewpoints and walking opportunities, including access to routes in the Rockcut Twillingate Trails network.
Rather than attempting a long exposed hike in uncertain November weather, consider a shorter walk around Crow Head and spend time exploring the harbours and fishing communities nearby.
Return to Twillingate to explore the waterfront, Northside and the streets around the harbour. Much of the area’s appeal lies in its coastal scenery and traditional homes, which you can enjoy without visiting seasonal attractions.
Visit the Merry Market at the Masonic Lodge
Saturday, November 28 is an especially good date to visit.
The Merry Market at the Masonic Lodge takes place at 11 Main Street in Twillingate from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Admission is free, and visitors can browse locally handcrafted gifts and other seasonal products.
The Masonic Lodge is in central Twillingate, approximately 7 to 10 km from Long Point Lighthouse. It is easy to combine the market with an afternoon coastal drive.
If you are planning an earlier trip, you can also attend Twillingate’s Christmas Craft Fair on November 7, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., with admission listed at $2.
Where to Eat and Stay
Anchor Inn Hotel & Annex is a convenient accommodation option near the waterfront.
For dining, Georgie’s Restaurant and North 99 Pub are among the local options. Check the Visit Twillingate autumn dining guide before planning meals, since several restaurants reduce their hours or close after summer.
Suggested Weekend
- Friday: Arrive in Twillingate and enjoy a quiet evening around the harbour.
- Saturday: Visit the Merry Market between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. Drive approximately 7 to 10 km to Crow Head and Long Point Lighthouse for coastal sightseeing.
- Sunday: Explore the waterfront and nearby communities, choosing a short walking route if the weather permits.
3. Walk the Trails of Signal Hill and Explore St. John’s Historic Neighbourhoods
Destination: St. John’s, Quidi Vidi and Torbay
Best weekend: November 6 to 8, 2026
Driving distances: Signal Hill to downtown St. John’s, approximately 3 to 5 km; downtown to Torbay, approximately 15 to 20 km.
St. John’s is one of the easiest places in Newfoundland and Labrador to plan a November weekend. Outdoor attractions are close to restaurants, museums, cultural venues and hotels, giving visitors plenty of alternatives when the weather changes.
Begin at Signal Hill National Historic Site, where the grounds remain accessible throughout the year.
The site overlooks St. John’s Harbour, the Narrows and the Atlantic Ocean. Its walking routes range from short paths to challenging coastal trails.
For an easier outing, consider the Burma Road Trail, a 2.4-kilometre route following a relatively gentle grade towards Cuckold’s Cove.
The 1.3-kilometre Ladies’ Lookout Trail offers another option, although its steeper and uneven sections require more care.
The North Head Trail is significantly more demanding and is not a good choice during high winds, icy conditions or heavy rain.
Explore Quidi Vidi and Downtown St. John’s
From Signal Hill, Quidi Vidi Village is approximately 3 to 5 km away by road.
The sheltered fishing harbour, traditional buildings and coastal scenery make it a worthwhile stop for a short walk or photography outing.
Downtown St. John’s is another short drive away. Explore Water Street, the colourful residential streets and the harbour area, then plan an indoor stop at The Rooms, the provincial museum, art gallery and archives.
Visit the Craft Council’s Christmas Craft Fair
The Craft Council of Newfoundland and Labrador’s Annual Christmas Craft Fair runs November 5 to 8 at Jack Byrne Arena in Torbay.
More than 100 craftspeople are expected to participate, offering ceramics, jewellery, woodwork, textiles, glass and other handmade products.
The fair is open Friday and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Jack Byrne Arena is approximately 15 to 20 km from downtown St. John’s, making the fair an easy addition to a sightseeing weekend.
Another seasonal option is the Winter Wonderland Market at the Holiday Inn St. John’s Conference Centre on November 7 and 8.
Where to Eat and Stay
Terre Restaurant is a downtown dining option within the Alt Hotel.
For accommodation, Alt Hotel St. John’s offers a central waterfront location with easy access to downtown restaurants and attractions.
Suggested Weekend
- Friday: Arrive in St. John’s and explore the downtown waterfront.
- Saturday: Visit Signal Hill, drive approximately 3 to 5 km to Quidi Vidi, and continue to the Craft Council fair in Torbay, roughly 15 to 20 km from downtown.
- Sunday: Visit The Rooms or browse another Christmas market before heading home.
4. Explore the Exploits River and Nature Trails in Grand Falls-Windsor
Destination: Grand Falls-Windsor
Best weekend: November 20 to 22, 2026
From St. John’s: Approximately 420 to 440 km, about 4.5 to 5.5 hours by car.
From Gander: Approximately 95 to 110 km.
Grand Falls-Windsor offers a quieter kind of November getaway, with riverside scenery, wooded walking trails and local cultural events.
Start at Gorge Park along the Exploits River.
The park features a boardwalk, riverside viewpoints, walking areas and places to sit overlooking the water. The Exploits River is central to the town’s history, and a walk here offers a good introduction to the landscape.
For a longer outing, consider Corduroy Brook Nature Trail, where interconnected routes pass through wooded areas, wetlands and ponds.
The trail network has multiple loops, allowing visitors to choose a shorter or longer walk depending on the weather and available daylight.
For a more adventurous outing, try Exploits Extreme Ziplines, which operates year-round and offers six zipline runs soaring 40 to 70 feet above the ground, with views of the Exploits River and surrounding canyon. The 1.5 to 2-hour experience costs $109 per adult and $99 per child, with advance booking recommended and tours subject to weather conditions.
Explore Church Road Park
Church Road Park is another option for visitors looking for a shorter walk.
The park includes a paved walking loop, a duck pond, a gazebo and green space.
Gorge Park, Corduroy Brook and Church Road Park are all within the Grand Falls-Windsor urban area. Driving between these attractions generally involves only a few kilometres, although the exact distance depends on the trail entrance chosen.
For visitors staying at Mount Peyton Hotel, the property lists Corduroy Brook Trail approximately six minutes away by car and Gorge Park approximately five minutes away.
These parks provide accessible local sightseeing options, but visitors should confirm November conditions before setting out.
Enjoy Buddy Wasisname and the Other Fellers
The weekend of November 20 to 22 is especially worthwhile for Newfoundland music fans.
Buddy Wasisname and the Other Fellers perform at the Gordon Pinsent Centre for the Arts on November 21 and 22.
Both performances begin at 8 p.m.
The group is known for combining traditional Newfoundland music, comedy and storytelling.
Tickets are listed at $50 for general admission and $45 for students and seniors, including HST and service charges.
With an evening performance scheduled, visitors can spend Saturday enjoying the town’s outdoor attractions before heading to the theatre.
Where to Eat and Stay
Mount Peyton Hotel & Conference Centre offers accommodation in Grand Falls-Windsor.
The hotel also houses Clem’s Dining Room and the Crown and Moose Pub, providing convenient meal options without needing to travel across town.
Suggested Weekend
- Saturday morning: Arrive in Grand Falls-Windsor and explore Gorge Park.
- Saturday afternoon: Visit Corduroy Brook Nature Trail or Church Road Park, depending on weather and trail conditions.
- Saturday evening: Enjoy dinner before attending the Buddy Wasisname concert at 8 p.m.
- Sunday: Visit another local park or enjoy breakfast before departing.
5. Explore the Shoreline Heritage Trail and Christmas Lights in Bay Roberts
Destination: Bay Roberts and surrounding Conception Bay communities
Best weekend: November 27 to 29, 2026
From St. John’s: Approximately 85 to 95 km, about 1 to 1.5 hours by car.
The Conception Bay coastline offers plenty for hikers and coastal sightseers, especially around Bay Roberts.
Begin with the Shoreline Heritage Walking Trail, one of the community’s best-known outdoor attractions.
The eight-kilometre route follows the historic shoreline, passing rocky coves, beaches, cliffs and remains of earlier settlements.
Along the way, you can find old stone walls, house foundations and other traces of the fishing families who once lived along this coast.
One of the most striking sections is near Mad Rock, where the exposed shoreline and rock formations create dramatic coastal views.
The Town of Bay Roberts maintains the heritage trail area.
Allow several hours if planning to explore a substantial portion of the trail. In November, shorter out-and-back walks may be preferable to completing the entire route.
Explore Goose Pond and Nearby Coastal Communities
For a shorter outing, consider Goose Pond Eco Trail, a 1.6-kilometre walking route through the pond and surrounding landscape.
The Shoreline Heritage Trail and Goose Pond area are both within Bay Roberts, with only a short drive needed between local access points.
Visitors with additional time can explore Upper Island Cove, approximately 15 to 20 km from central Bay Roberts.
This coastal community has its own walking routes and viewpoints overlooking Conception Bay.
These short drives allow visitors to combine several landscapes without spending most of the weekend travelling between attractions.
Visit the Bay Roberts Festival of Lights
Beginning November 25, the Bay Roberts Festival of Lights brings Christmas celebrations to the town.
The festival continues through January 6, 2027, and includes seasonal light displays and community programming.
You can explore the Christmas lights after spending the daytime hiking or sightseeing along the coast. Check the official Festival of Lights schedule before planning around specific performances, workshops or other activities.
Where to Eat and Stay
For a local stop, consider Baccalieu Trail Brewing Company. Confirm November hours and food options before visiting.
The Silverwood Inn and Bayview Inn are accommodation options in Bay Roberts. Both should be contacted directly to confirm November room availability and rates.
Visitors staying in St. John’s can also enjoy this getaway as a day trip, particularly if they plan an afternoon coastal walk followed by an evening visit to the Festival of Lights.
Suggested Weekend
- Friday: Arrive in Bay Roberts and explore the Festival of Lights after dark.
- Saturday: Spend the morning exploring the Shoreline Heritage Trail and Mad Rock, followed by lunch in town.
- Saturday afternoon: Visit Goose Pond or drive approximately 15 to 20 km to Upper Island Cove.
- Sunday: Enjoy breakfast and a final coastal stop before returning home.
Planning Your November Getaway
November travel in Newfoundland and Labrador requires more flexibility than a summer trip. Coastal weather can change quickly, and some seasonal attractions, restaurants and accommodations close or reduce their operating hours.
Before leaving, check the latest forecast and road conditions, confirm accommodation and restaurant hours, and verify that any planned trails remain accessible.
For a weekend built around coastal hiking, Port Rexton and Trinity Bight provide a strong combination of trails and nearby communities. Twillingate is particularly suited to scenic drives and shorter coastal walks, while Bay Roberts is a practical choice for visitors looking to combine trails with Christmas lights.
St. John’s has the widest selection of indoor alternatives if the weather turns poor, and Grand Falls-Windsor offers a chance to enjoy riverside scenery with an evening performance.
These destinations offer different ways to explore Newfoundland and Labrador in November, with seasonal events providing another reason to choose a particular weekend.