If you’re thinking about travelling to Prince Edward Island (PEI), you’re in for a treat! This charming little province in Canada, nestled in the Gulf of Saint Lawrence, is often called the Garden of the Gulf. Despite being the smallest province by area and population, PEI packs a punch with its dense population, stunning landscapes, and rich history. Whether you’re wondering about things to do in PEI, what to see on Prince Edward Island, or simply what Prince Edward Island is known for, this guide has got you covered.
Table of Contents
- Why Visit Prince Edward Island?
- Top Cities in Prince Edward Island
- Must-See Attractions and Things to Do in PEI
- Local Cuisine: Seafood Galore
- Best Time to Visit Prince Edward Island
- Getting Around and Places to Stay
- FAQs About Traveling to Prince Edward Island
- Final Thoughts
Why Visit Prince Edward Island?
Prince Edward Island is famous for its rolling hills, charming rural towns, and some of the best seafood you’ll find anywhere in Canada. With 684 miles of coastline, it’s a beach lover’s paradise, boasting sandy shores and crystal-clear Atlantic waters. What’s more, PEI is rich in culture and history, making it a unique destination for travellers who want a mix of adventure, relaxation, and local flavour.
Top Cities in Prince Edward Island
When it comes to cities in Prince Edward Island, the two you should know are Charlottetown and Summerside.
Charlottetown
The capital city and the largest one in PEI is Charlottetown. It is historically important as the place of the 1864 conference that led to Canada’s creation. It is now a lively city where you will see many iconic buildings, visit beautiful little shops, and have meals in amazing restaurants. Victoria Row, an attractive pedestrian street full of life, is a dining and shopping destination that cannot be missed.
For those curious about tourist attractions in Charlottetown, PEI, the Confederation Centre of the Arts is a standout. This cultural hub features two theatres, a museum, and an art gallery showcasing top Canadian art, including photography, digital media, and traditional forms. Built in 1964 as a monument to Confederation, it’s a perfect place to soak up some culture.
Summerside
If you are looking for a more relaxed and family-friendly atmosphere,e Summerside, the second largest city is the island, is the right choice for you. The authentic environment has beautiful beachside scenery, boardwalks, and interesting local history. So, if you want a serene vacation full of interesting places to visit, Summerside is probably the best option for you.
Must-See Attractions and Things to Do in PEI
Explore the Points East Coastal Drive
Points East Coastal Drive is one of the greatest ways to visit the beautiful nature of PEI. This path, which runs along the island’s eastern section, is well-known for its breathtaking beaches, unique dune systems, and historical lighthouses. On this easy-to-navigate road, you will discover six lighthouses, all of them with unique stories to tell. The drive is full of scenic views that give you chances to take beautiful pictures and relax by the ocean.
Visit Prince Edward Island National Park
Prince Edward Island National Park is a highlight for nature lovers. Located on the island’s North Shore, the park was established in 1937 to protect diverse habitats like beaches, sand dunes, wetlands, and salt marshes. Covering 37 miles, this national park features some of the best beaches on Prince Edward Island, including white and red sand beaches that are perfect for swimming, hiking, or just relaxing.
Golfers will also find a gem here at Crowbush Cove Golf Club. Rated as one of Canada’s top value courses by Golf Digest, it offers gorgeous views and a fun challenge with holes nestled in sand dunes and surrounded by water.
Hit the Beaches
With 684 miles of coastline, PEI has plenty of beaches to explore. If you’re wondering about the best beach on Prince Edward Island, you can’t go wrong with Cavendish Beach or the red sands at Cedar Dunes. The red shorelines of PEI are especially magical at sunset when the crimson sands seem to glow and shimmer. It’s a natural spectacle that’s unique to the island.
Local Cuisine: Seafood Galore
An exceptional feature of the island is definitely the astonishing seafood which Prince Edward Island is known for. With its long coastline, it is the island that has to offer lobsters, mussels, oysters, and clams the most. The island is a must-visit if you are an enthusiast of seafood as you will be able to eat the freshest catches that the Atlantic has to offer. You can easily find many of the eateries that are situated in Charlottetown and other parts of the regional areas making these seafood dishes in yummy and artistic styles.
Best Time to Visit Prince Edward Island
Planning your trip? The best time to visit PEI is from June through September. During these months, you can enjoy warm weather, local festivals, beach time, and outdoor adventures. Summer brings the island to life with events and activities that showcase the unique culture and natural beauty of this stunning destination.
Getting Around and Places to Stay
The majority of tourist spots, hotels, and restaurants are available handily in Charlottetown making it possible to have a fully-fledged foot tour around the city. This being the case, your walkability in the area makes the visit even more charming and safe. If you are interested in making your own holiday more relaxed, you can opt for Summerside, which has its own facilities as well as a more laidback atmosphere. In addition to the very best PEI has to offer, wherever you decide to stay, you will be just a step away.
FAQs About Traveling to Prince Edward Island
What are the top things to do in PEI?
Head to the Confederation Centre of the Arts, venture to the Points East Coastal Drive, chill at Prince Edward Island National Park, and lay on the beaches like Cavendish and Cedar Dunes.
What cities should I visit in Prince Edward Island?
The two must-see destinations in the> are Charlottetown and Summerside. You can find both of them to have their special vibe, plus many interesting things to see and do.
When is the best time to travel to PEI?
This period, from June to September, is the most suitable for beach weather festivals and outdoor activities.
What is Prince Edward Island famous for?
You should learn about it. PEI is red sand beaches, amazing seafood, small towns with a lot of charm, and the story of Canada that is full of fun.
Are there good places to golf in PEI?
Absolutely! It is a great place for golf lovers to visit, Crowbush Cove Golf Club, which is the best one on the island and is quite an experience as you play through its incredible course with amazing views of nature.
Final Thoughts
Even though Prince Edward Island is a tiny place, it is full of charm, adventure, and natural beauty. PEI guarantees an unforgettable experience to its tourists, whether they are getting to know the historical streets of Charlottetown, discovering sandy beaches, or tasting fresh seafood. Therefore, it is recommended to take your bags and camera and be prepared to experience one of the charming little places in Canada.
Happy travels!
