Things to Do in St. John's in March
March weather, activities, events & insider tips
March Weather in St. John's
Is March Right for You?
Advantages
- Perfect temperatures 21-28°C (70-82°F) for walking tours and outdoor exploration without the oppressive summer heat
- Tourist crowds are 40-50% lighter than peak winter season, making attractions more enjoyable and photos easier
- March marks the start of hiking season - trails are accessible and wildflowers begin blooming in Signal Hill area
- Hotel rates drop 25-35% compared to winter months, with excellent availability and negotiating power
Considerations
- Weather can be unpredictable with 8 rainy days averaging light showers - indoor backup plans essential
- Some seasonal businesses and tour operators have reduced hours or may still be closed from winter
- Daylight hours are still shorter than summer months, limiting evening outdoor activities
Best Activities in March
Historic Downtown Walking Tours
March's mild 21-28°C (70-82°F) temperatures make this the ideal time for exploring St. John's historic core without winter's harsh winds or summer's humidity. The shoulder season means fewer cruise ship crowds, so you can actually enjoy Water Street and George House without fighting for photos. Local guides are eager for business after the quiet winter months.
Signal Hill and Cabot Tower Hiking
March offers the first reliable hiking conditions after winter's ice clears. The 1.6km (1 mile) trail to Cabot Tower is accessible with proper footwear, and you'll avoid summer's tour bus crowds. Weather is perfect for the 30-minute climb - cool enough to prevent overheating but warm enough for comfortable outdoor time.
Whale and Seabird Watching Boat Tours
Early March marks the beginning of humpback whale migration season. Tour operators resume service with smaller groups and eager crews. The cooler air keeps sea conditions calmer, and you'll see more seabirds than during peak summer. Dress warmly - it's 5-8°C (9-14°F) cooler on the water.
East Coast Trail Sections
March is when experienced locals start hitting the East Coast Trail again. The Sugarloaf Path (5.5km/3.4 miles) and Deadman's Bay Path (5.8km/3.6 miles) are usually clear by mid-March. You'll have trails nearly to yourself and witness the dramatic North Atlantic without summer's heat and bugs.
Local Brewery and Distillery Tours
March is when locals emerge from winter hibernation, making brewery visits more social and authentic. The city's craft beer scene is active year-round, but March offers a perfect indoor activity during those 8 rainy days. Sample seasonal spring ales and meet locals who've survived another Newfoundland winter.
Cape Spear Lighthouse Visits
As Canada's easternmost point, Cape Spear in March offers dramatic wave action and clearer air for photography. The lighthouse interpretation center reopens for the season, and you'll experience the raw power of March storms from a safe distance. Dress very warmly - coastal winds add significant wind chill.
March Events & Festivals
St. Patrick's Day Celebrations
St. John's has one of North America's strongest Irish heritage celebrations. George Street becomes pedestrian-only with live traditional music, local bands, and authentic Newfoundland-Irish fusion. Unlike tourist-heavy celebrations elsewhere, this feels genuinely local and community-driven.