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Tourism PEI

Tourism PEI is focused on continuing to promote Prince Edward Island as one of the world’s best tourist destinations with a mandate to:

• promote continued growth in the tourism sector and ultimately “drive” tourism demand;
• work with other partners, including Destination Canada, the Atlantic Canadian Opportunities Agency (ACOA) and other Atlantic Provinces to market Prince Edward Island as a premier tourism destination;
• actively facilitate the development of festivals, events, and activities that serve to motivate travellers to visit PEI;
• manage provincial tourism infrastructure, such as golf courses, parks, visitor information centres, and the Confederation Trail; 
• conduct tourism-related research; and
• administer and enforce the provisions of the Tourism Industry Act and regulations, in particular, the licensing of tourism establishments.

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General inquiries.

Tourism PEI 3rd Floor Shaw North 105 Rochford Street PO Box 2000 Charlottetown, PE C1A 7N8

Industry Support Line: 1-866-213-7521

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[email protected]

© 2024 Government of Prince Edward Island

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15 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions on Prince Edward Island

Written by Chloë Ernst and Barbara Radcliffe Rogers Updated Jul 13, 2022

The rural charms of a rolling green patchwork of farms paired with a coastline of sandy beaches and wildly eroded cliffs studded with lighthouses is a hard combination for tourists to resist. Add attractions like the home and setting for one of the most beloved characters in children's literature, a seaside national park, and a bicycling trail from one tip of the island to the other and Prince Edward Island (PEI for short) has rewarding things to do for every type of tourist.

PEI is the smallest province in Canada and one of its loveliest. A Micmac First Nations legend tells how the god Glooscap painted all the world's beautiful places, and then dipped his brush in every color and created Abegweit, his favorite island. And thanks to its position in the Gulf of St. Lawrence, the island has pleasantly moderate temperatures.

Find the best places to visit and things to do with this list of the top tourist attractions on Prince Edward Island.

1. PEI National Park

2. charlottetown, 3. tour anne of green gables sights, 4. confederation centre of the arts, 5. visit lighthouses on points east coastal drive, 6. basin head provincial park, 7. go deep sea fishing, 8. confederation bridge, 9. north cape, 10. summerside, 11. st. dunstan's basilica cathedral, 12. ride or walk the confederation trail, 13. victoria-by-the-sea, 14. kayaking in the rivers and bays, 15. the bottle houses, map of tourist attractions on prince edward island.

Prince Edward Island National Park occupies much of the island's central, northern coastline. Three sections of the park offer beaches, wildlife watching, outdoor activities, historic buildings, and other attractions. Campgrounds and picnic areas cater to families and outdoor lovers.

In the park's central portion, Dalvay-by-the-Sea historic house was once a regal summer home and is now a hotel and restaurant near Brackley and Stanhope Beaches . At the eastern end of the park, beyond St. Peters Bay, the more isolated Greenwich area offers the solitude that the rest of the park lacks, with a dune-backed beach and boardwalk trails that are well suited to bird-watching for the park's 300-plus species.

The Gulf Shore Parkway follows the coast through the central section of the park, then continues on the other side of New London Bay from North Rustico to Cavendish as the Gulf Shore Parkway West. Hugging the shoreline for most of its length, the park includes two inland segments at Cavendish to accommodate Green Gables and Eagles Glenn golf courses, and the heritage site of Green Gables (see attraction 3, below).

Official site: http://www.pc.gc.ca/eng/pn-np/pe/pei-ipe/visit.aspx

Charlottetown has a Victorian-era charm and a surprising small-town feel. Heritage buildings, including the ornate St. Dunstan's Basilica and elegant Beaconsfield Historic House , line the city streets. The Confederation Centre of the Arts is the city's major cultural hub with an art gallery, museum, and theaters, where the Anne of Green Gables musical is performed each summer.

Across the street from the center sits Province House National Historic Site , which hosted the Charlottetown Conference in 1864 to discuss confederation. PEI didn't actually join the union until 1873.

A highlight for visitors is the pretty Victoria Row, a traffic-free street of well-kept Victorian buildings, south of the Confederation Centre of the Arts. Many of these former homes now house boutiques and restaurants. A lovely pathway fronts the harbor and leads out to Victoria Park, the location of historic fortifications at Prince Edward Battery .

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Charlottetown

As Juliet has done with Verona, the fictional Anne of Green Gables has so captured readers' and viewers' imaginations that she has imbued the setting for her story with a magic of its own. Anne's author, Lucy Maud Montgomery, lived in Cavendish , and it became the mythical Avonlea of Anne's girlhood in her 1908 book that begins the series.

The green-roofed farmhouse, Green Gables , and surrounding land belonged to Montgomery's uncle and she visited often as a child. It is now a National Historic Site . Also in Cavendish, you can tour the grounds of Montgomery's childhood home , where there is a collection of her works for sale.

With a somewhat theme park atmosphere, Avonlea Village is a cluster of eating places and shops in replica (and a few original) buildings based on the village described in the books. The gardens are quite beautiful. In New London , you can visit Lucy Maud Montgomery's birthplace and see her personal scrapbooks with some of her stories and poems.

There's an Anne of Green Gables Museum at the Campbell Homestead in Park Corner with a collection of Montgomery memorabilia and carriage rides around her model for the Lake of Shining Waters.

Opened in 1964 as a monument to Confederation, this cultural institution houses an art gallery, museum, and two theaters. The Confederation Centre of the Arts presents the Anne of Green Gables musical each summer, part of the annual Charlottetown Festival. It's just across the street from Province House National Historic Site , the famed setting for the 1864 Charlottetown Conference, where the idea of Canada was born.

In addition to their full schedule of theatrical and musical performances, in July and August the Confederation Players conduct Walking Tours. The players, costumed as the Fathers and Ladies of Confederation, stroll down Charlottetown's historic district as they put the leaders and times of the Confederation into cultural and historical perspective.

Address: 145 Richmond Street, Charlottetown

Official site: http://www.confederationcentre.com/en/

Points East Coastal Drive explores the eastern end of the island where beautiful beaches, rare dune systems, and lighthouses mark the coastline. Along the drive, which is well marked, are six lighthouses that are open to visitors in the summer, each with its own story to tell.

Wood Islands Lighthouse , located near the ferry terminal in Wood Islands Provincial Park , has exhibits about the area's seafaring history and serves as a lookout point. Point Prim Lighthouse is the island's oldest and Panmure Island Lighthouse is PEI's oldest wooden lighthouse.

Cape Bear Lighthouse is said to be the first Canadian land station to receive the distress signals from the Titanic. Souris Historic Lighthouse has an interpretative center with history of the light and port, as well as exhibits on the formation of sea glass. At the scenic drive's end, East Point Lighthouse has an elevated vantage over mixing tidal waters.

Other sightseeing attractions along the drive vary widely. Orwell Corner Historic Village recreates a late nineteenth century setting (including a historically furnished farm, shingle mill, church, store, and community hall). Elmira Railway Museum , once the end of the line for the island railway, displays photographs and artifacts from the rail-era. The museum also features a recreated stationmaster's office and ladies' waiting room.

Official site: http://pointseastcoastaldrive.com/

This beach and provincial park on Points East Coastal Drive is an action-packed spot. Visitors delight in scuffing their feet along the sands to try and create a distinct "singing" noise, and the squeaky beach is nicknamed Singing Sands . The squeak is caused by the high amount of silica and quartz in the fine sand.

Basin Head beach stretches for miles, and its warm summer waters are perfect for swimming. Beyond the most popular area, where there are showers and picnic shelters, is plenty of beach for walking and beachcombing in solitude.

In the summer, PEI Wildlife Federation offers interpretive Beyond the Beach experiences that allow you to explore the usually unseen part of Basin Head's Marine Protected Area and the sand dunes and aquatic life of the lagoon. Also in the provincial park, Basin Head Fisheries Museum presents exhibits about Prince Edward Island's inshore fishery.

Address: 336 Basin Head Road, Route 16, Basin Head

Official site: www.basinhead.com

In nearly every harbor on PEI, you'll see fishing boats, and at several of the north shore towns, you'll find boats that specialize in taking tourists for a morning of deep sea fishing. Several of these are in the area close to the national park, in North Rustico, Kensington, and Stanley Bridge, where the most common species caught is mackerel.

The town of North Lake, at the far eastern end of the island, is known as "The Tuna Capital of the World," and you can find several charter operators that will take you in search of these in the waters between PEI and Cape Breton Island. These can weigh as much as 1,200 pounds, so expect a real challenge in landing one of these giants.

At the northern end of the island, boats in Tignish are outfitted to fish for the tuna that is also found off the North Cape.

Fishing for mackerel is a great family activity, a skill that's easy to learn at any age, and charter captains supply all the bait and equipment. Children love catching fish, and when you return to shore, you'll be sent off with your day's catch, all filleted and ready to cook on your barbecue grill. Even children who think they don't like fish can't resist those they have landed themselves.

Completed in 1997, Confederation Bridge crosses the Northumberland Strait, for the first time connecting Prince Edward Island to mainland Canada and fulfilling the promise of a permanent link made when PEI joined Confederation in 1873. Prior to the bridge, the only crossing was by ferry here or at the eastern end of the island at Wood Islands.

The 12.9-kilometer bridge is the world's longest over freezing water and considered one of Canada's top engineering accomplishments of the 20th century. Crossing the curving bridge from New Brunswick is a thrilling experience, and the first town visitors reach in PEI is Borden-Carleton, from which you get the best view of the majestic bridge.

North Cape juts upward into the Gulf of St. Lawrence like a sharp-pointed arrow, with North Cape Lighthouse at its tip. This entire western end of the island, from Cedar Dunes Provincial Park in the south to North Cape, is less visited than the rest of PEI, which gives its small towns and countryside a quiet almost undiscovered feel.

Route 2 draws an arrow-straight line through its center, but the most scenic way to explore it is along the 350-kilometer North Cape Coastal Drive , a signposted route that follows the coast from one scenic outlook and tiny village to the next. The high red sandstone cliffs have eroded into ragged shapes in places, in others dropping to small sandy beaches. Along the way are plenty of places to eat seafood, or you can take to the water in a kayak or on a deep-sea fishing excursion.

Intense winds make the blustery North Cape an ideal setting for towering turbines, turning the abundant wind into energy at one of Canada's leading wind test institutes. North Cape Interpretive Centre has exhibits that explain the process. Nature trails and the North Cape Lighthouse are near the wind farm.

Address: 21817 Route 12, North Cape

Official site: http://northcapedrive.com/

Summerside is the second largest city on Prince Edward Island. The island's western hub has a number of historic buildings, a picturesque waterfront district, and a vibrant cultural scene. In the city, the College of Piping and Celtic Performing Arts of Canada presents summer outdoor concerts of Celtic music and dance, while Eptek Art & Culture Centre introduces local history and pieces from island artisans.

Delving into Prince Edward Island's past, the Acadian Museum reaches back to 1720 and the first European settlement on the island at Port La Joye. Another unique museum, the International Fox Museum and Hall of Fame , traces the history of trying to breed foxes in captivity. Its displays are housed in the Holman Homestead , the former residence of a mercantile magnate.

The soaring spires and ornate stonework of St. Dunstan's Basilica stand out from their surroundings not only for their height, but as an outstanding example of the High Victorian Gothic style more common in Quebec churches.

The contrasting brick and stone of the façade and the abundant pinnacles surrounding the spires were restored to their original appearance after a fire in 1913, only six years after its completion. The interior, however, was redesigned in a more English style than the original, which was more typical of French style.

Light colors on the walls, columns, and vaulting set off the ornate high altar and stained-glass windows. The basilica is a National Historic Site.

Address: 65 Great George Street, Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island

When the trains stopped running in Prince Edward Island, it opened up a new opportunity: for a 273-kilometer rolled stone dust trail that crossed the island from end to end. Side trails increase the network's total length to 435 kilometers.

The main trail runs from Tignish in the northwest to Elmira in the east. Smaller trails branch to Charlottetown, Wood Islands, Souris, Georgetown, Montague, Murray River, and the Confederation Bridge in Borden-Carleton.

The flat and well-maintained routes are open to walkers, runners, and cyclists. And as the trail was originally a rail bed, there are no steep hills and no more than a two percent grade. Bike rentals and shuttles are available. Bike excursions on the Confederation Trail are among the favorite things to do with families in PEI.

A tiny fishing village today, Victoria-by-the-Sea enchants with its waterfront fish shacks, colorful take-out stands, and small lighthouse. In the late 1800s, the scene was much busier, with three wharves supporting a steady stream of sailing ships, part of a thriving trade with Europe, the West Indies, and East Coast ports.

Steamboats brought tourists for seaside vacations. Today, a theater, chocolate shop, fishing wharf, glass and pottery studios, and Victoria Seaport Lighthouse Museum are favorite tourist attractions in the friendly community. The red sandstone cliffs along the Northumberland Strait coast are constantly eroding, which has resulted in expansive red-sand flats at low tide.

The coast of Prince Edward Island is cut by bays and tidal estuaries, and three major rivers converge at Charlottetown Harbour. Leaving right from the city, there are enough kayaking opportunities to fill several vacations. The Hillsborough River runs north for almost 50 miles into the countryside. The North River and the longer West River extend well inland, with coves and inlets to explore.

On the eastern side of the island, the Brudenell River is accessible from the Provincial Park, and the neighboring Montague River also leads into St. Mary's Bay , protected from the Atlantic by Panmure Island. The long Murray River flows for miles past islands and small inlets before arriving at the sand barrier across its mouth.

On the south coast, the Vernon River flows into Orwell Bay , and in the north, the huge Malpeque Bay — gentle, shallow waters teeming with wildlife -- is protected from the sea by a barrier island.

As you might expect in a land with so much protected water, it's easy to find an outfitter offering tours, lessons, and kayaks for rent.

More than 25,000 glass bottles form the walls and design features of the light-filled buildings known as The Bottle Houses. A quirky artist and builder, the late Édouard Arsenault used colored bottles to construct a six-gabled house, a hexagonal tavern, and a chapel furnished with pews and an altar.

All this is built from glass and cement. This ultimate recycling project began in 1980, with bottles Arsenault and his daughter Réjeanne collected from a local restaurant, community dance halls, friends, and neighbors.

Address: 6891 Route 11 Boîte 53, Cap-Egmont

Official site: http://www.bottlehouses.com

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

Where to Go in New Brunswick : After you've explored Prince Edward Island, cross the Confederation Bridge to see the tourist attractions in New Brunswick , and explore the dramatic coast of the Bay of Fundy .

Where to Go in Nova Scotia: Turn east from the Confederation Bridge to find more attractions in Nova Scotia , including its capital city of Halifax and the beautiful farmlands of the Annapolis Valley .

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Island Bliss Awaits: How To Plan An Unforgettable PEI Road Trip

Discover the charm of a PEI road trip with our comprehensive guide! Uncover hidden gems, scenic routes, and must-visit attractions for an unforgettable drive through Prince Edward Island.

Canada’s smallest province has it all – gorgeous beaches, blazing red cliffs, drifting sand dunes, postcard fishing villages, fresh-from-the-boat seafood, lighthouses galore, and Anne of Green Gables.

The history of Prince Edward Island is so rich that the capital, Charlottetown , became the Birthplace of the Canadian Confederation back in 1864.

For those planning a PEI road trip, one of the most incredible PEI fun facts is that all of this wonder comes in an incredibly compact size.

Because Prince Edward Island is only 280 kilometres long.

Its tiny size, beautiful landscapes, and quality roads make Prince Edward Island one of the best provinces in Canada for road trips. Heck, even winter in Prince Edward Island is magical.

There are some stunningly beautiful places to visit in PEI . But we found that the most enjoyable part of traveling here was simply wandering the country roads, where we experienced one wonderful scene after another.

Tourism PEI has mapped out suggested driving routes, such as the Central, North Cape, and Points East Coastal Drives, as a great framework for our PEI road trip. Use these as a starting point, but also be sure to follow your nose and explore off-the-beaten-path experiences in the province as well.

The Green Gables Shore

The north-central coastline stands out as classic PEI road trip scenery. The coast here is dominated by the rugged cliffs, sand dunes, and seemingly endless beaches of Prince Edward Island National Park .

Stretching over 40 kilometres along the north shore, the park has three sectors, each with its own unique appeal. The most popular is Cavendish, which has magnificent beaches and spectacular red sandstone cliffs.

What makes the Green Gables Shore so perfect for road-tripping in Prince Edward Island isn’t just the park, though.

Nearby towns like North Rustico and Stanley Bridge are hotspots for seafood eateries, while French River is the classic tiny, colorful maritime fishing village. Cavendish is also the home of Anne of Green Cables, where Green Gables Heritage Place provides the lowdown on how this classic children’s tale became an international phenomenon.

Written in 1908 by Lucy Maud Montgomery, Anne of Green Gables is a work of fiction that shot rural life on Prince Edward Island to world fame. What surprised us most about Anne’s story was how much of it was based on a real-life setting.

The story’s setting was a farmhouse owned by Montgomery’s cousins, which Parks Canada has restored to Victorian-era style.

And yes, it does have green gables.

Other places that feature prominently in the Anne of Green Gables story, such as Haunted Wood and Lovers’ Lane, are also real places that we can visit today on walks around them.

The Brackley-Dalvay sector is mostly about fine sandy beaches. Although it’s the closest part of the park to Charlottetown, you can usually find your perfect spot with practically no one else around.

One of the best-known landmarks in Prince Edward Island National Park is the Covehead Lighthouse. It stands tall among the sand dunes next to the beach.

The Greenwich sector of PEI National Park on the eastern part of the north coast is home to the island’s largest dunes. A beautiful and easy walking trail winds through woodlands, across a marshland boardwalk bordering the dunes, and onto a secluded sandy beach. Unlike other sectors of the park with campgrounds and services, Greenwich is day-use only and sees fewer visitors.

The Red Sands Shore

One of the best areas for a PEI road trip is through the Red Sands Shore along the central part of the south coast. This area is home to many of Prince Edward Island’s famed red-sand beaches. Some beaches here have an almost unreal reddish hue.

Among the most prominent landmarks along the Red Sands Shore are the Confederation Bridge connecting PEI with the mainland in New Brunswick and Wood Islands, where the ferry connects to Nova Scotia.

This south coast road trip route is also home to Charlottetown, Canada’s most easy-going provincial capital. The city has just 40,000 people spread around a picture-perfect historic harbour.

Small maritime fishing villages line the Red Sands Shore, with the most famous and picturesque being Victoria-by-the-Sea, which lies just a few kilometers east of the Confederation Bridge.

Historic buildings, such as the Orient Hotel, dominate the community. This historic hotel was built in 1900 and is now a bed & breakfast.

The Victoria Seaport Lighthouse, dating to 1879, houses the Victoria Seaport Museum, preserving the town’s seafaring history.

Seafood restaurants abound in Victoria. Arriving around lunchtime, we decided to stop at Richard’s Seafood , a take-out eatery with a large patio overlooking the waterfront. We picked it simply because it looked popular. It turned out to be a fantastic choice.

We ordered mussels, the island’s most famous seafood, and were served a huge pile of the delicacies for a bargain price. The quintessential Prince Edward Island road trip experience just doesn’t get any better – chowing down on PEI mussels in PEI while gazing over a postcard-perfect fishing harbour.

North Cape Coastal Drive

Starting at Summerside, the island’s second largest community after Charlottetown, the North Cape Coastal Drive runs 350 kilometres around the western and northernmost parts of Prince Edward Island.

Here, we travel through the Evangeline Region, the heart of Acadian culture on PEI. There’s an Acadian Museum in Miscouche and summer festivals celebrating Acadian food and culture. Our PEI road trip route takes us through the cultural home of many Acadian families – the imposing Notre Dame du Mont Carmel Church overlooking the sea.

At the southwestern tip of the North Cape, the road trip brings us to West Point Lighthouse, built in 1875 and the tallest on the island at 20.6 metres. The small inn attached to the lighthouse is said to be the first lighthouse inn in Canada.

The inn was by far our favourite place to stay on the island, with comfortable digs where we fell asleep to the rhythm of the waves. We particularly loved the balcony where we could gaze over the pristine beaches and coastline of this scenic section of Prince Edward Island.

By the way, the West Point Lighthouse place is said to be haunted , possibly by early lighthouse keepers, according to the stories that we were told. The lighthouse may even be among Canada’s Most Haunted Places .

If those ghostly apparitions don’t show up, you might keep an eye out for a Phantom Ship that many have reported seeing far to the west out to sea. The sightings are all remarkably similar – an old, fully-rigged sailing ship on fire.

The ghost ship is said to disappear as suddenly as it appears.

The main part of the lighthouse operates as a museum where we climb up five floors, each portraying an aspect of the lighthouse story – the keepers, their lives, and how lighthouses work. It has the largest collection of historic lighthouse equipment in Eastern Canada, so if you make it to only one lighthouse museum in PEI, this should be it.

Just up the coast from Westpointoint is Howard’s Cove, home to the smallest lighthouse on the island at only 5.8 metres in height. But what it lacks in size, it makes up for in its spectacular cliff-top location and immaculate condition in brilliant white and red. If ever a lighthouse could be called cute, this would be it.

One Potato, Two Potato…

Along this PEI road trip route, as well as practically everywhere on the island, potato crops blanket the countryside. This is because Canada’s smallest province grows a quarter of the country’s spuds.

Potatoes aren’t merely a source of food here but an essential part of the island’s identity. Famed Canadian musician Stompin’ Tom Connors even immortalized the PEI potato in the catchy tune “Bud the Spud.”

To learn more, be sure to stop at the Canadian Potato Museum in O’Leary, just a few minutes drive from Westpoint. We were greeted by the world’s largest potato sculpture in front, and inside is the world’s largest collection of potato farming equipment.

The exhibits at the museum feature everything you could ever want to know about potatoes, from their origins in the South American Andes to how PEI provides the ideal growing conditions and why the potato is the near-perfect food.

If you work up an appetite, the museum’s restaurant offers an array of dishes, all potato-based, of course. They prepare potatoes any way you can imagine, plus a few you never dreamed of.

Potato fudge, anyone?

If you still have the “Bud the Spud” tune stuck in your head, your next stop will help put everything in perspective.

Skinners Pond is Stompin’ Tom’s boyhood home just up the coastal drive. The Stompin’ Tom Centre tells the story of the singer’s early life in poverty, his rise to fame as a Canadian icon and winner of six consecutive Juno Awards.

Exhibits at the museum feature his gold records, well-used stompin’ boards, Tom’s old schoolhouse, and a restaurant with daily musical entertainment.

The tip of North Cape is where the waters of the Northumberland Strait collide with those of the Gulf of St. Lawrence. Windmill power generation is big in this windswept part of the island. To get a closer look you can visit the North Cape Wind Energy Interpretive Centre .

Hands-on displays at the interpretive center highlight the importance of wind energy, along with the colorful history and folklore of the North Cape and its many natural features.

The Road Less Travelled

While the mapped-out coastal routes are a great way to experience a Prince Edward Island road trip, don’t overlook the island’s interior roads and lesser travelled byways. In early summer, wild lupines and other wildflowers provide a riot of colour to the landscape.

By all means, see PEI’s star attractions, but what we found just as rewarding was heading down a country road simply to see what’s over the next hill or around the next corner. We were never disappointed.

How To Get To PEI

If you’re planning a PEI road trip, there are many options to make the most of your experience. You can either drive to the province or fly and rent a car while you’re already in Prince Edward Island. Here are a few tips to get to PEI from the mainland:

Options are to fly to Charlottetown or to drive to the island. Driving to PEI makes getting here half the fun.

The Confederation Bridge links Borden-Carleton, PEI, with New Brunswick. This 12.9-kilometre-long bridge is the longest in the world that crosses ice-covered water, so driving it is an experience in itself.

If the route along the Confederation Bridge from New Brunswick isn’t for you, Northumberland Ferries operates a car ferry service from Wood Islands, PEI, to Nova Scotia . The ferry to PEI takes about 75 minutes.

You can even enjoy the best of both worlds by traveling one way by ferry and the other by bridge, taking in both experiences. There is a toll for using the bridge leaving PEI and a cost to use the ferry when leaving PEI. There is no cost for either when travelling to PEI. Since the ferry costs more than the bridge toll, you can save a few bucks when you arrive by ferry and then leave via the Confederation Bridge.

Tips For Planning Your Road Trip in Prince Edward Island

Our biggest piece of advice to visitors to PEI is to give yourself more time than you think you might need. We have highlighted only some of the many delights that await on a PEI road trip.

Many first-timers get fooled by the size of the island and underestimate how long it takes to see even the main sights. While the island is small, and most distances between PEI attractions are short, many roads are winding and slow. The island pulls more than its weight when it comes to scenery, so it’s not a place to rush through.

Our travels were especially slow since we seemed to be stopping for yet another photo op around every beautiful corner.

Are You Ready To Plan Your PEI Road Trip?

The wonderfully unique culture and wold-class landscapes of Prince Edward Island make it one of the best road trip destinations in Canada Whether you’re driving to the province or renting a car in Charlottetown and hitting the road, these tips for planning a Prince Edward Island road trip should help you have the drive of a lifetime.

Do you have a favourite attraction or restaurant in Canada? Head over to the  We Explore Canada Facebook Community  and join the conversation! You’ll find a fantastic group of people in Canada who are passionate about travel and love to share their local secrets.

You May Also Like To Read:

Robin and Arlene  Karpan are award-winning writers, photographers, bloggers, and authors of several travel books, including Canadian Bestsellers. Their work has appeared in over 100 publications around the world. While their travels have taken them to all seven continents, they find that some of the most compelling destinations are close to home in Canada. They have a special interest in the natural world and outdoor photography. Robin and Arlene publish the travel blog Photo Journeys which looks at travel through a photographer’s lens, and is rated by Feedspot as among the Top 100 Travel Photography Sites.

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If you find yourself with a mile-long list of things you want to do and places you want to see during your vacation in Prince Edward Island, trust us, you’re not alone! Day after day, the Island unfolds before you revealing new experiences that are authentically PEI. Before you know it, time’s up and you’re already planning your next vacation!

With so many options for things to do and places to go, we called on PEI locals via Facebook and Instagram to tell us their absolute favourite can’t-miss stops on the Island. And boy did they deliver. Read on to discover their picks!

Beaches to Visit

If there’s one thing PEI is not short on, it’s gorgeous beaches everywhere you turn! There’s always a debate between locals on which is best: the North Shore or the South Shore? One thing is for sure, everyone has their favourite beach. We’ll let you decide as you travel tip to tip exploring these PEI favourites.

Greenwich is home to the largest sand dunes on the Island with boardwalks and trails that roll across the marshes and grass like something out of a storybook. The pristine sand seems to go on forever making it paradise for anyone who loves a long walk on the beach. Greenwich Beach is located along the  Points East Coastal Drive .

Thunder Cove:

Thunder Cove is one of those gems that locals try and keep for themselves. You’ll find it off-the-beaten-path in Darnley, just outside of Kensington.

North Rustico:

North Rustico is one of those off the beaten path beauties. It offers the soft red sand, bright red cliffs and dunes the Island is known for. Visit for a sunset walk and you just might find you have the place to yourself!

Brackley Beach:

Located just 20 minutes from Charlottetown in the PEI National Park, Brackley Beach is one of the largest and most popular beaches of the north shore. Just like Cavendish, Brackley is a wheelchair accessible beach and a special beach wheelchair with fat tires can be booked ahead through the visitor centre.

Cavendish Beach:

The star attraction! Cavendish Beach boasts miles of white-gold sand surrounded and protected by gorgeous sand dunes. It’s located right in the heart of Cavendish within the PEI National Park, which makes it convenient for a family trip to the ocean.

West Point:

West Point Beach is located in western PEI in the  Cedar Dunes Provincial Park . The beach boasts miles of deep red sandy beach and dunes that overlook the warm waters of the Northumberland Strait. The black and white striped West Point Lighthouse  is a perfect spot for photo ops.

Panmure Island

Much-loved by locals and visitors alike, Panmure Island is truly a beach-lover’s paradise. Located along a causeway, there’s water access on both sides of the highway. You’ll find the sheltered St. Mary’s Bay on one side and the ocean on the other.

Basin Head:

It seems that unanimously, locals have memories of taking the drive out and building sand castles for hours at Basin Head . And while Basin Head has one particular attribute that makes it unique in PEI, if you run your feet through its sand – it will sing! Really, we’re not kidding, you can read about the signing sands here .

Argyle Shore:

This beautiful and scenic beach is located just a 25 minute drive from the Confederation Bridge and a 30 minute drive outside of Charlottetown, making it the perfect pit stop on your travels.

Cousins Shore:

At Cousins Shore you’ll find a big beautiful beach not unlike Cavendish. Perfect for families, it’s located on the Island’s north shore.

Souris Beach Gateway Park:

Souris Beach is the perfect place for children. The beach is very shallow so it’s possible to walk quite far into the shallow water. Renown for its seaglass, you could spend hours searching the shores for these hidden gems. Don’t forget to grab a lobster roll at The Lobster Shack . Find Souris Beach along the Points East Coastal Drive .

Blooming Point:

White sand beaches await at Blooming Point. It’s perfect for families, picnics on the sand, or long walks on the shore. Blooming Point is located near Grand Tracadie along the Points East Coastal Drive .

Things to Sip & Savour

To say that PEI is a foodie’s heaven is an understatement. From something as small as locally roasted coffee and a pastry, to a full multiple course feast, Islanders know how to eat  well.  Our tip to you? Work your way through this list, and then keep on going!

Richard’s Seafood:

When asking Islanders where to find the best lobster roll on PEI, they answer with a unanimous ‘Richard’s!’ Nestled in the picturesque Covehead Wharf on the Island’s north shore, you’ll find fresh local seafood in abundance and a casual atmosphere where you can eat in or take out.

Gahan House Pub:

The Gahan House is located in the historic heart of  Downtown Charlottetown , and is one of the most authentic pubs around and a straight shooter for the best ingredients and local flavours. Try their signature Brown Bag Fish and Chips paired with one of their handcrafted ales.

No trip to PEI would be complete without a scoop (or three!) of  COWS ice-cream . There are locations in Charlottetown, Cavendish, and Borden so you can easily get your fix.

Receiver Coffee:

Receiver Coffee in Charlottetown boasts more than just good coffee. Head here any time of day and you’ll be surrounded by locals enjoying fresh and innovative meals.

Point Prim Chowder House:

Positioned directly beside PEI’s oldest and most historic lighthouse , you’ll find the  Point Prim Chowder House  serving up dish upon dish of authentic Maritime cuisine. As with many restaurants on this list, it’s best to call ahead and reserve a table in advance!

Views to Take In

The breathtaking views to be found around Prince Edward Island are seriously no joke. You’ll find salty ocean waves crashing against the striking red cliffs, or little inlets of fishing communities with boats coming and going between the multi-coloured docks, or the stillness of a river surrounded by beautiful trees turning vibrant shades with the change of season. We could go on and on, but instead, you should get going to check out these locals’ favourites.

North Cape:

Many locals declare North Cape to be one of the best look-offs on the Island. While enjoying a trip along the North Cape Coastal Drive   you’ll be rewarded with the towering red sandstone capes of the western-most tip of PEI.

Cape Tryon:

Cape Tryon is one of the most popular Instagram locations on PEI. Here you’ll find a staggeringly beautiful view of the bright red cliffs of the north shore.

French River:

Love nothing more than a quaint, seaside fishing village? Look no further than French River, PEI. The view overlooking the tiny fishing village of French River is a beloved place of inspiration for photographers, painters and dreamers alike. Learn more here .

Mooney’s Pond:

Mooney’s Pond boasts a trail system, a waterway for canoeing, and a beautiful PEI look-off all in one. It’s one of those lesser-known spots on PEI that is just as beautiful in the summer as it is in the winter.

Where to Walk & Hike

It should come as no surprise that some of the greatest adventures on PEI cannot be accessed by vehicle. And rightfully so! As you step out into the fresh air and go deeper inwards, there’s something special you’ll find about experiencing life on the Island surrounded by the sounds of rustling leaves on trees, babbling brooks, squirrels and rabbits rummaging for food, and the smell of the great outdoors. There are trails tip to tip (the Confederation Trail for starters!), but there are so many more to discover.

Robinson’s Island:

Easily one of the most recommended trail system by locals,  Robinson’s Island is a trail system located in the PEI National Park. Though it’s getting more popular, it still has the feel of a hidden gem. With look-out points all around the Island and a well-maintained trail, it’s the perfect place for biking, hiking, and young families.

Greenwich, PEI National Park:

A trip to Greenwich , will make you feel like you’re really getting away from it all. The spectacular parabolic dune system rises above white-sand beaches and acts as a stunning backdrop to an extensive trail system that includes a floating boardwalk. Walk or rent a bicycle and hit the trails to see the natural diversity of the area first-hand. Follow it up with a refreshing dip in the ocean!

Winter River Trail: 

Located a short 5km away from Charlottetown, the Winter River Trail is the perfect way to find a little nature outside of town. Enjoy the 4.3km loop with a leisurely walk along the river.

Bonshaw Hills Trail:

The Bonshaw Hills Trail is located in Bonshaw Hills Provincial Park. With trails spanning 25km, there’s no shortage of options for both beginners and those seeking a more challenging hike.

Things to Do

And now for the Holy Grail of PEI fun. With great suggestion after great suggestion, there’s no way we could have cut this list short. Each and every one of these local favourites are worth your time, and they’ll quickly become your favourites too, guaranteed!

Under the Spire Festival:

The Under the Spire Festival  is a summer long series of concerts in a magnificent heritage church. You’ll discover excellence in folk, jazz, blues, classical, Maritime, world and contemporary music by the finest artists from Prince Edward Island and across Canada.

Green Gables Heritage Place:

In love with all things  Anne of Green Gables ? Then a trip to the Green Gables Heritage Place should be at the very top of your PEI bucket list. Explore the iconic Green Gables House in Cavendish, where L.M. Montgomery took inspiration for her beloved novel.

Stompin’ Tom Centre:

The music of Stompin’ Tom Connors still vibrates across the country and tugs at the heartstrings. Map this musical man’s journey and pay tribute to his work with a trip to the recently built  Stompin’ Tom Centre  in Skinner’s Pond.

West Point, St. Peters Harbour, East Point, and Point Prim Lighthouses:

Of all the lighthouses that were recommended by locals (and there were many!), these were the most mentioned of the bunch. You might say PEI specializes in lighthouses, so these are just scratching the surface of the incredible ones on the Island. Check  here for information on even more.

Island Hill Farm:

Head to  Island Hill Farm ,  a commercial dairy farm which opened up its doors to the public. You’ll find a miniature donkey, alpacas, potbelly pigs, with a variety of hens, bunnies and kittens to handle and love.

The Haunted Mansion:

How gutsy are you? Test your willpower with a trip to the Haunted Mansion in Kensington. This elaborate Tudor-style mansion is surrounded by gardens, paths and water features, but don’t let the serene setting fool you – the mansion has long been known to be haunted!

Victoria by the Sea:

Take a step off the beaten path into the quaint seaside village of Victoria by the Sea.  You’ll find a picturesque fishing village on the southern shore which has been brought to life by the many artisans who call it home. Victoria by the Sea is the perfect place to go when you truly want to get away from it all.

Victoria Row:

Victoria Row is a pedestrian street in Charlottetown lined with patios and shops that are frequented by both visitors and locals alike, it’s perpetually abuzz with chatter and live jazz music.

Brackley Drive-In Theatre:

Head to the  Brackley Drive-In theatre  to experience a classic drive-in, lovingly restored to its original 1950’s condition. The experience of watching a movie here is truly like stepping back in time, except with all the latest Hollywood films!

Knox’s Dam:

Just off the beaten path in Victoria Cross is  Knox’s Dam .  Originally part of a gristmill, Knox’s Dam became the electrical power generating station that supplied the town of Montague in the early 19 th  century. Now the dam is a sweet stop along the 1.7km Keith Mill Nature Trail.

Tuna Fishing:

It’s been said that Prince Edward Island is one of the few places in the world where you can reliably find 500-plus pound bluefin. Head out on an excursion with Joey’s Deep Sea Fishing for the chance to catch and release a giant bluefish tuna.

Buffaloland Provincial Park:

Buffaloland Park is a unique (and perhaps unexpected!) stop along the Points East Coastal Drive in Montague. This park is ‘where the buffalo roam’ on PEI. Park the car against the wire fence and see if you can spot the buffalo enjoying the sun.

Golf at Green Gables Golf Course:

It’s no surprise that golf featured heavily in locals recommendations for visitors. With over 400 fairways on one Island, there are many courses to choose from. Head to Green Gables Golf Course in Cavendish for a picturesque and challenging 18 holes.

Paddle along Morrell River:

There’s no better way to explore Prince Edward Island’s coastal shores than by getting acquainted with our beautiful waterways. The Morrell River is a local favourite, it makes for a peaceful and scenic place to paddle. Find more recommended Island waterways to paddle  here .

Kings Castle Park:

Watch the eyes of your wee ones light up when you arrive to  King’s Castle Provincial Park . Apart from an extensive playground, canteen and river beach this park has a winding trail that meanders through a Storybook Woods where kids can enjoy whimsical statues from famous children stories. and the best part? It’s free!

For more incredible PEI experiences, check out Hidden Gems You Can’t Miss , Ultimate Lobster Supper Guide and Best Restaurants with a View .

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beach please: the story of PEI tourism the hidden island

Happy National Tourism Week! Host Camellia Nguyen, Communications Coordinator of the Museum & Heritage Foundation will take you on a journey to explore how tourism became PEI's leading industry. In addition to the history of tourism, this episode also covers discussions about the Island's food culture, the impact of climate change on tourism, emerging tourism sectors, and the love-hate relationship between Islanders and tourists. Features guest interviews: Dr. Edward MacDonald, Crystal MacGregor (Food Island PEI), Corryn Clements (TIAPEI), Dr. Matthew McRae, Monisha Rodricks

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Drawing more visitors to P.E.I. over the next 5 years? Tourism industry has a plan for that

As an island, 'you can never take your foot off the pedal when it comes to air access'.

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The tourism industry on Prince Edward Island has a new five-year strategy that includes developing more tourism initiatives involving the sports and leisure, culinary and wellness industries, as well as continuing to stretch the season well beyond the summer months.

The 28 points in the strategy include goals like lobbying for more air access to the Island, addressing "workforce challenges" as businesses compete for staff, drawing in more entrepreneurs and investors, and pushing for more "niche package experiences" during the fall, winter and spring seasons to draw visitors in non-traditional ways. 

Another important pillar of the strategy is making sure Indigenous tourism offerings are identified and promoted, said Corryn Clemence, the CEO of the Tourism Industry Association of P.E.I.

Events like the annual Mawi'omis presented by local First Nations are one example, she said.

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"We really want to put a focus on helping them and supporting [the] growth and development of that product because we know there's a big interest really across the world on experiencing and learning about Indigenous culture," she said. 

"We have a number of communities here on the Island, between Scotchfort/Abegweit and Lennox Island, and both are really working hard to develop and grow that."

Clemence said hopes are high for the province's recent deal with the National Hockey League, which includes declaring P.E.I. the league's official travel destination and promoting the Island at NHL arenas.

She said the province's meetings and conventions business should grow as a result of the deal, and marketers will use the hockey platform to promote sport-based tourism in the region, including golf.

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John Cudmore, who's the general manager of the Holman Grand Hotel as well as the president of the Hotel Association of P.E.I., said operators knew the Canada Games bump in the first quarter of 2023 was not going to be repeated this year, but the industry is still optimistic.

"Everyone's leaning into it, the whole tourism industry this year," he said. "There seems to be a good push towards special events and sports tours and golfing, that sort of thing."

He said the NHL deal will mean exposure in key Northestern U.S. markets and beyond.

The strategy also mentions the importance of people being able to travel to the Island by plane, not just in a vehicle or cruise ship. 

Clemence quotes the consultant who delivered the five-year strategy at an event on Friday as saying: "You're an island, and you can never take your foot off the pedal when it comes to air access."

Last year, the Charlottetown Airport welcomed a record number of passengers, and officials hope this year will top those records.

Doug Newson, the CEO of the Charlottetown Airport Authority, said adding seats will help accomplish that. 

"We did have one airline, Swoop, that has been merged into WestJet. WestJet is adding some flights to Toronto we didn't have last year to make up for that change in schedules. We've got Flair growing as well," he said.

"Overall we're expecting total seat capacity to be similar, maybe up slightly, compared to last year."

With files from Tony Davis

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