Best locations to Elope in Newfoundland
Planning a Newfoundland Elopement
Newfoundland, Canada is known for its colourful homes, rocky shores, and friendly residents. The stunning views alongside the unique landscape make for an incredible place to get married. Whether you want a small intimate wedding at Cape Spear or a hiking elopement in Gros Morne I have come up with a list of my favorite places for you to elope in this beautiful province.
Below, I’ve outlined everything you need to know about where to get married in Newfoundland, how to get here and what each season is like. If you have any other questions, please reach out to me! I’d love to help you plan your dream wedding in one of the most beautiful places on earth.
Why you should elope in Newfoundland
You should elope in Newfoundland if you are a lover of adventure and breathtaking views. If your idea of a good weekend is hiking to an incredible location, then this province if for you. We are so fortunate here to have so many hiking trails and some beautiful locations to explore.
A wedding on the island isn’t for the faint of heart – you’ll be looking at unpredictable weather, and more cold days than heat waves. But, if none of that deters you, the reward is some of the most incredible scenery on earth! Summers in Newfoundland are more likely to have pleasant weather. If you’re imagining a winter wonderland celebration, you’re more likely to find a spot to yourself. Basically, it’s a gorgeous place to get married year-round, but that depends on what kind of environment appeals to you.
Getting to Newfoundland
Depending on the part of the island you intend to visit, you will want to fly to the closest airport to your destination. Likely, you’ll fly into one of the following airports in Newfoundland.
St. John’s International Airport (YYT)
Gander International Airport (YQX)
Deer Lake Regional Airport (YDF)
Stephenville International Airport (YJT)
Driving to the island? You’ll want to book a ferry ride to either Port Aux Basques or Argentia depending on the area of your wedding. Port Aux Basques is perfect for anything along the west coast - it is also a beautiful road trip if you are wanting to drive across the island. If you are planning on visiting St. John’s, or central then Argentia is the best option for you. Note: * If you get sea sick easily then I recommend Port Aux Basques as it is a shorter boat ride. Also a good idea to book a cabin in advance.*
No matter how you get to Newfoundland, the best way to see all of the views the province has to offer is by renting a vehicle and exploring on foot. There are so many small towns and places that you would never know existed unless you spent some time exploring this magical island!
Planning for the weather
No matter what time of year you decide to get married here in Newfoundland, the weather is something to consider. We aren’t known for having the most beautiful weather in the world, in fact in can be quite the opposite. Each season is known for certain types of weather and conditions. Generally we get out best weather during the summer months. If you are wanting a sunny day to elope then plan for July through August. That’s also usually when a lot of the wildflowers are in bloom. If you don’t mind a bit of rain, drizzle and fog then spring and Fall are perfect as well. Generally late May, early June is when the colours start to change from brown to green. If you are wanting to see the fall colours then plan for late september through October.
Epic Ceremony locations
Whether you’re looking to have an intimate elopement or include your favorite people in the world on your wedding day—there are numerous breathtaking locations in Newfoundland and Labrador to pick from. This is a list of my favorite places, but there are so many incredible spots on the island you could pick.
Gros Morne National Park
Located on the west coast of the island of Newfoundland, Gros Morne is A UNESCO World Heritage Site covering 1,805 square kilometres. It is an one of my favorite places on the island and has so many incredible spots to choose from for your adventure. Some of my favorite memories from there are hiking to Western Brook Pond and the Tablelands and watching the sun rise from Woody Point (Probably the most magical sunrise I have ever seen!)
How to get there: Fly into Deer Lake airport. Catch the ferry to Port Aux Basques and drive 3 hours. Or drive in from St John’s which taxes about 7-8 hours.
This location is perfect for your elopement if:
You are a fan of the mountains and incredible views
You are up for hiking and an epic adventure
Francois
While I still haven’t been here, Francois is one spot that has been on my bucket list both to visit and photograph a wedding. It is located on the southern coast of Newfoundland on François Bay at the end of a small fjord. According to google, there is a general store, a post office and a small museum. And along with all that is some incredible hiking trails and views. Every photo i’ve seen of this spot has taken my breath away.
How to get there: Drive to Hermitage and take the ferry. Note: you will have to leave your vehicle in Hermitage.
This location is perfect for your elopement if:
You are up for a road trip and boat ride
You want to have a ceremony in a fjord (and don’t mind hiking on your wedding day!)
Trinity
Trinity is a picturesque town located about three hours from St. John’s. It sits alongside the atlantic ocean and features some colourful salt box houses. It is beyond adorable and has some epic views close by including the Skirwink Trail. Close by to Trinity is Port Rexton where you can relax and have a drink while taking in the incredible views.
The location is perfect for you if:
You love the charm of small town Newfoundland.
You want to adventure outside of the avalon without having to go to far.
Fogo Island
While technically it’s an island off the coast of Newfoundland, Fogo is an incredible spot for a wedding or elopement in Newfoundland. Whether you choose to have your ceremony at the Fogo Island Inn, a random cliff or in the quaint spot of Tilting the island is such a unique and special place to visit. Some of the highlights from visiting there include hiking to brimstone head, having a beer at beaches and watching the sunset from Joe Batts Arm.
How to get here: From St. John’s, drive a little over four and a half hours to Farewell and catch the ferry there. I recommend getting there an hour or two early, especially during the busy season.
The location is perfect for you if:
You are looking for a unique location
You are a fan of hiking and rugged coastlines
Burin Peninsula
The Burin Peninsula is a peninsula located on the south coast of the island. It is full of incredible views and rolling hills. Whether you choose St. Lawrence, Burin or Grand Bank there are so many beautiful small towns that would make the perfect backdrop for your day.
The location is perfect for you if:
Like beaches, rolling hills and breathtaking views
Are wanting a location off the beaten path
St. John’s
Lastly is the capital city. And of course it makes sense that St. John’s is on the list! It’s where I photograph most of the elopements and weddings on the island and is home to some incredible views. From downtown amongst the old buildings and row houses to Cape Spear, no matter what your vision, there’s a spot for it. Have a drink on george street or go for a hike and boil up in the woods with your dogs - St. John’s has the city feel while having access to the rugged landscape Newfoundland is known for.
The location is perfect for you if:
Looking for somewhere with amenities, variety of restaurants and locations
Are wanting to stick around the St. John’s area
