Prince Edward Island is the smallest province in Canada, located in the Gulf of St. Lawrence and renowned for its lush landscapes, picturesque coastlines, and vibrant cultural heritage. Often referred to as the “Garden of the Gulf,” the island is characterized by its fertile agricultural lands, rolling hills, and sandy beaches, which offer ample opportunities for outdoor recreation, including hiking, cycling, and water sports.
One of the island’s most famous attractions is the Green Gables Heritage Place, located in Cavendish, which inspired the beloved novel “Anne of Green Gables” by Lucy Maud Montgomery. Visitors can explore the historic house, grounds, and interactive exhibits that bring the story to life. The island is also home to several charming towns and villages, such as Charlottetown, the provincial capital, which features historic architecture, lively arts and entertainment, and a range of dining and shopping options.
With its natural beauty, rich cultural history, and friendly locals, Prince Edward Island offers a unique and memorable experience for visitors seeking a tranquil and picturesque getaway in the heart of the Maritimes.
Official tourism website: https://www.tourismpei.com
Top 10 Places to Visit on Prince Edward Island
Prince Edward Island National Park
Prince Edward Island National Park stretches along the island’s north shore, protecting beaches, dunes and coastal ecosystems. The park includes walking trails, wildlife habitats and historical sites. It is known for its red cliffs, sand dunes and maritime scenery. Facilities include campgrounds and visitor centres. The park provides access to several key locations, including Cavendish and Greenwich.
Charlottetown
Charlottetown is the capital of Prince Edward Island and is known as the birthplace of Canadian Confederation. The city features a compact historic centre with government buildings, churches and waterfront areas along the harbour. Key sites include Province House and Confederation Centre of the Arts. Charlottetown combines administrative functions with tourism, offering restaurants, shops and access to surrounding coastal landscapes and smaller communities.
Official tourism website: https://www.discovercharlottetown.com
Green Gables Heritage Place
Green Gables Heritage Place is located in Cavendish and is associated with the novel Anne of Green Gables by Lucy Maud Montgomery. The site includes a preserved farmhouse, walking trails and surrounding landscapes that inspired the book. Exhibits provide information about the author and the cultural significance of the story. The location combines literary heritage with access to nearby coastal scenery within the national park.
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Cavendish Beach
Cavendish Beach is located within Prince Edward Island National Park and is known for its red sandstone cliffs, sandy shoreline and open coastal views. The beach is accessible via boardwalks and includes facilities such as parking and visitor services. Swimming is possible in suitable conditions, although water temperatures can be low. The area is one of the most visited coastal sections on the island.
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Confederation Trail
The Confederation Trail is a network of walking and cycling paths that follows the route of a former railway line across Prince Edward Island. The trail runs through rural landscapes, small communities and farmland. Its relatively flat terrain makes it accessible for a range of users. The trail provides a structured way to explore the island beyond coastal areas.
Official website: https://www.tourismpei.com/
Victoria (Victoria-by-the-Sea)
Victoria-by-the-Sea is a small coastal village on the south shore of Prince Edward Island. It features historic buildings, a working harbour and a compact layout with shops and galleries. The village is known for its quiet atmosphere and cultural events, including theatre performances. It provides a contrast to larger towns, with a focus on local crafts and coastal scenery.
Basin Head Provincial Park
Basin Head Provincial Park is located on the eastern side of Prince Edward Island and is known for its sandy beach and clear water. The beach is sometimes referred to as the “singing sands” due to the sound produced by the fine sand when walked upon. The park includes a fisheries museum and basic visitor facilities, with swimming possible in suitable conditions.
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Wood Islands
Wood Islands is a coastal area on the south-eastern side of Prince Edward Island and serves as a ferry connection point to Nova Scotia. The area includes a lighthouse, harbour and small community. It provides access to coastal scenery and is often used as an entry or exit point for visitors travelling to or from the island.
North Cape
North Cape is located at the western tip of Prince Edward Island, where the Northumberland Strait meets the Gulf of St Lawrence. The area is known for its coastal views, wind turbines and fishing activity. It includes walking paths and a visitor centre with information on local industry and marine life. The location offers a more remote coastal environment.
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Greenwich
Greenwich is part of Prince Edward Island National Park and is located on the eastern side of the island. The area is known for its large sand dunes, wetlands and coastal landscapes. A floating boardwalk leads across the dunes to the beach, providing access while protecting the environment. Greenwich offers a quieter setting compared to more visited sections of the park.
Confederation Bridge
The Confederation Bridge is a fixed crossing linking Prince Edward Island to the mainland of New Brunswick. Opened in 1997, it extends for approximately 13 kilometres across the Northumberland Strait. The bridge is used by vehicles and is an important transport link for the island. Its construction significantly reduced travel time compared to ferry services and represents a major engineering project.
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