15 Unique Things to Do in PEI, Prince Edward Island

This officially completes the Atlantic Canada set, my final province of the four. Did I save the best to last? There’s one way to find out…

Prince Edward Island might be Canada’s smallest province, but it’s packed with plenty of amazing experiences that go beyond the usual tourist spots. After doing a road trip to Newfoundland, I was more than ready to visit PEI.

Whether you’re a foodie, a history lover willing to learn about this part of Canada, or just want to explore a more remote area, Prince Edward Island has something for you.

Let’s get started.

Unique Things to Do in PEI – Summary

First things first, let’s talk about the essentials you should know about Prince Edward Island, for instance, getting there, getting around, and the best time to visit.

How to Get to Prince Edward Island?

Getting to Prince Edward Island is pretty straightforward. You can fly directly into Charlottetown Airport (YYG) from several major Canadian cities.

If you’re into road trips, you can drive across the iconic Confederation Bridge from New Brunswick (I drove from Halifax Airport) or take a ferry from Nova Scotia.

Why not combine this trip with another province in Atlantic Canada? PEI is also accessible by bus, but having a car gives you more freedom.

How to Get Around Prince Edward Island?

Renting a car is your best bet for getting around Prince Edward Island. The island isn’t huge, but public transport is limited, so having your own wheels means you can hop around easily.

I rented a car at Halifax Airport and drove via the Confederation Bridge, which took about 3 and a half hours. On the way back we crossed to Nova Scotia by ferry.

What is the Best Time to Visit PEI?

In my opinion best time to visit Prince Edward Island is during the summer, from June to September. The weather’s warm, the beaches are inviting, and there’s a festival or event happening almost every weekend.

July and August are peak seasons, so expect more tourists, but that’s also when everything’s in full swing. If you’re into seafood, late August is perfect for lobster.

Alternatively, to avoid the crowds, Autumn is quieter but still gorgeous, with stunning foliage and milder weather.

These are great times to come, especially if you visit other parts of Canada such as New Brunswick Bay of Fundy and Banff National Park.

How Long to Stay in PEI?

You’ll want to stay from 3 to 5 days in PEI to make the most of it. That gives you enough time to explore the outdoors, discover Charlottetown, and sample local seafood without feeling rushed.

If you have more time available, consider extending your stay by a day or two to take it easy and enjoy a slower pace.

Where to Stay in Prince Edward Island?

Before starting with the ultimate list of things to do in PEI, let’s discuss some great places to stay where you’re certain to have a good night’s sleep.

The Holman Grand Hotel

The Holman Grand Hotel is a trendy, modern hotel in downtown Charlottetown. Perfect blend of luxury and location. Close to Confederation Centre of the Arts and Victoria Row. Rooms are stylish and comfortable with floor-to-ceiling windows and city or harbour views.

They offer one-bedroom suites as well as regular rooms with all the facilities you need from a kitchenette to a comfortable bed and a seating area, which is always welcome. I spent two nights here and loved every minute of it.

Mysa Nordic Spa & Resort

Mysa Nordic Spa & Resort is a little slice of heaven on Prince Edward Island, and it’s one of the most premium properties on the island. If you need to unwind and recharge, this is the place to be.

Located in St. Peters Bay this resort combines Scandinavian wellness with the island’s natural beauty.

Beautifully designed rooms with views, and if you have the means, make sure to book the Executive Suite with a gorgeous setting, a cosy seating area, and an on-site restaurant.

Nature Space Eco Resort

Nature Space Eco Resort is an eco-friendly accommodation that offers a one-of-a-kind sustainable stay on the island.

They’re famous for their beautiful Mongolian yurts, talk about a unique place to stay! You really feel like you’re in the heart of nature, and their attention to detail is fantastic.

Other than the huts, you’ll be able to join yoga classes, and go out kayaking! More on that to come.

Staying here was the highlight of my trip, and Heather and Jarrod are hosts that really go above and beyond to give you the best stay.

15 Best Things to Do in Prince Edward Island

Now that you know a little bit more about the island, let’s talk about the unique things to do in PEI, and that’s a fun mix of history, hiking, and relax, for a trip you’ll never forget.

Cavendish Beach

This stunning stretch of red sand and cliffs is perfect for sunbathing, swimming, or just strolling along the shore. The water is warm in the summer, and that’s the exact reason why you’ll love it.

Nearby, you’ll find the Cavendish Beach Campground if you’re up for a night under the stars.

Right next to the beach, don’t miss the dramatic dunes in the Prince Edward Island National Park section to take some photos.

If you’re into hiking, there are trails nearby, like the Homestead Trail, that offer beautiful views of the coastline, and that’s an incredible path that only takes about 1 hour to complete.

Anne of Green Gables Heritage Place

Walking into the Anne of Green Gables Heritage Place is like walking into the pages of Lucy Maud Montgomery’s books.

The Green Gables house is fully restored, with rooms decorated to match the descriptions from the books, and if you’ve read them, you’ll love the tour.

The site also includes exhibits on the author’s life and work, making it a treat for both fans of the books and the series on Netflix.

Drive round Prince Edward Island

Yes, just go for a drive. Start in Charlottetown and head out along the coastal roads. You’ll pass through picturesque fishing villages, rolling farmland, and miles of stunning coastline.

Make time for quick stops at beaches, lighthouses, and maybe even a roadside seafood shack for some fresh oysters or lobster rolls.

The North Cape Coastal Drive or Points East Coastal Drive offer some of the island’s best views.

Don’t rush. Take your time to explore hidden coves and local communities. Whether you’re after a laid-back drive or a day packed with sightseeing, this loop around Prince Edward Island is the way to go.

Go Hiking

If you haven’t noticed hiking is one of my favourite ways to explore Atlantic Canada. Here below are some trails worth doing:

Greenwich Dunes Trail: This 4.3 km trail is a must-see, and it will lead you through stunning sand dunes, boardwalks, and a floating bridge.

The highlight is the view from the observation platform, where you can see the unique parabolic dunes and St. Peters Bay. It’s an easy walk that will take you less than one hour to complete and you’ll have breathtaking scenery, perfect for a morning or afternoon out.

Homestead Trail: A 10-km loop that offers a mix of coastal and woodland views. The trail takes you along the shoreline, offering glimpses of Cavendish Beach before winding through a peaceful forest. It’s a great spot for birdwatching, and the mix of landscapes keeps it interesting.

Gulf Shore Way: Stretching 19 km, this trail is ideal for both walking and road biking. It follows the coastline and offers views of the Gulf of St. Lawrence.

You’ll pass through the iconic red cliffs and sandy beaches, with plenty of spots to stop and enjoy the view. What more could you ask for?

It’s definitely one of the activities you don’t want to miss, no matter your fitness level.

Covehead Harbour Lighthouse

Covehead Harbour Lighthouse is one of the island’s most iconic landmarks. This small, classic white-and-red lighthouse is perched on the edge of the dunes in Prince Edward Island National Park.

It’s one of the most beautiful spots for photos, with the sandy beach and ocean as the perfect backdrop. The lighthouse was built in 1967 and it was moved to its current location in 1975, which was a great decision.

While you can’t go inside, the surrounding area is great for a leisurely walk along the beach, especially at sunset when the colours are spectacular.

The lighthouse also marks the entrance to Covehead Bay, a great spot for kayaking or canoeing, which is a great activity if you’re up for an extra adventure!

After visiting the lighthouse, grab some seafood at Richard’s. Just allow some time, as on a nice day there’s a queues across the car park!

Visit a Distillery

Located just outside Charlottetown, Deep Roots Distillery is a family-owned distillery is known for its small-batch, handcrafted liquors made from local ingredients. They produce a variety of spirits, including apple brandy, vodka, and their famous maple liqueur, which is a real treat.

The distillery also makes an award-winning absinthe if you dare try it. When you visit, you can take a tour of the facility to see how everything is made, from the fermentation process to the final bottling.

And after the tour, you can visit the tasting room to sample their products, you might even leave with a bottle or two.

Needless to say, if you’re on a road trip, please take it easy and drink responsibly!

Play golf on Prince Edward Island

Prince Edward Island is one of the best spots in Canada for a round of golf. there are 30 golf courses on the island! Here’s a couple that stand out.

The Links at Crowbush Cove: One of Canada’s top-ranked courses, Crowbush Cove offers a challenging 18-hole course with stunning views of the coastline. The rolling greens and well-placed bunkers make it a must-play for serious golfers.

The course is located near Morell, and that’s a beautiful spot to spend the day.

Brudenell River Golf Course: This course is known for its beauty and playability, with wide fairways and well-maintained greens.

It’s a bit more forgiving than some of the island’s tougher courses, like Crowbush Cove, and that makes it great for golfers of all handicaps.

Located in the Brudenell River Provincial Park, it’s also home to a second course, Dundarave, if you’re up for two rounds.

Green Gables Golf Club: Located in the heart of Cavendish, this course offers a classic golfing experience. The course was designed by the famous architect Stanley Thompson with views of the ocean in the distance.

It’s a historic course with modern touches, perfect for a relaxing day of golf.

Seal and Wildlife Watching Tour

Heading out of Charlottetown, next on this list of unique things to do in Prince Edward Island is to take the boat tour and go seal spotting! While I did see some unique wildlife in Banff and Jasper, it was nice to see something different here.

Our tour with Peak Wharf Boat Tours takes you out on the water to explore the stunning bay and head to Governors Island, famous for it’s seal colony.

The tour stops to enjoy some time watching the seals, whilst the captain explains a little about the area. If you’re lucky you can also see dolphins and whales on this trip.

On the way back we get hands-on by pulling lobster traps and learning about the local fishing industry. It was nice to see they put back the lobsters this time.

Along the way, keep an eye out for seals, seabirds, and even the occasional whale. The tour guides are locals with deep knowledge of the island’s ecology, making the experience both fun and educational.

Greenwich Interpretation Centre

The Greenwich Interpretation Centre is a gateway to one of Prince Edward Island’s most unique and beautiful landscapes, and the museum has plenty of information about the island.

Located in the Greenwich section of the island, the centre provides an in-depth look at the area’s natural and cultural history.

Before you head out to explore the Greenwich Dunes Trail (mentioned earlier), the centre is a great place to start. Inside, you’ll find interactive exhibits that explain the dune system and the local Mi’kmaq heritage.

After soaking up the information, you’ll be ready to explore the trails with a deeper understanding of the landscape.

Mysa Nordic Spa

I love an adventure and road trip, but a nice spa session is also very inviting, and that’s where Mysa Nordic Spa came in.

The spa offers a luxurious escape with its Nordic-inspired thermal baths and wellness treatments, and it’s right in the countryside near the Greenwich Interpretation Centre.

The experience revolves around the concept of hot, cold, and relaxation. There are a series of hot saunas, cold plunges, and quiet and meditating zones.

Mysa also offers a range of massages and treatments, perfect for melting away any stress. The full-day thermal experience costs $65 during the week and $70 from Friday through Sunday.

Explore Charlottetown

Charlottetown is the perfect mix of history, culture, and coastal charm, and it’s a great place to base yourself for exploring PEI.

Start your visit with a walk down Victoria Row, a picturesque pedestrian street lined with colourful shops, cosy cafes, and often live music during the summer. There’s a laid-back setting, and it’s a great place to spend an evening people-watching.

Next, head to the Confederation Centre of the Arts, the cultural heart of the city. This venue hosts a range of events, from art exhibitions to live theatre, including the iconic Anne of Green Gables musical.

For one of your evening meals enjoy a mix of cuisine at the Founder’s Food Hall. You can buy fresh, local and organic food and groceries, along with sampling some local beer from one of the many breweries on the island.

Finally, make your way to Peake’s Wharf along the waterfront. This lively area is full of shops, restaurants, and this is where you join the boat tour we discussed above.

It’s a great place to relax, grab a lobster roll, and just enjoy the gorgeous setting that makes Charlottetown so special.

Stay at Nature Space Eco Resort

Nature Space Eco Resort is a one-of-a-kind sustainable travel experience on Prince Edward Island, and it’s well worth staying here for a night or more.

Nestled in a peaceful setting, this resort focuses on eco practices from solar energy to organic gardening. You can stay in their unique Mongolian huts, all designed to blend in with the surroundings and you’ll have an amazing stay.

Each unit is comfortable without sacrificing sustainability, with natural materials and energy-efficient appliances.

Apart from the actual huts, they offer activities to reconnect with nature, such as yoga and wellness sessions, all-inclusive retreats, and even a unique experience where you’ll kayak to an active oyster farm!

Panmure Island Provincial Park

This guide wouldn’t be complete without Panmure Island Provincial Park. You’ll find a beautiful white sandy beach, warm shallow waters, and the oldest wooden lighthouse on the island.

You can swim at St. Mary’s Bay, enjoy and photograph the extensive sand dunes, or paddle along the coastline. The park has well-maintained facilities, including a campground with sites for tents and RVs, and that’s a good option for an overnight stay.

For those interested in local culture, the park often hosts events to learn even more about the Mi’kmaq heritage.

Visit Island Hill Farm

Island Hill Farm is a fun and interactive farm on Prince Edward Island for families and you’ll love it if you’re an animal lover. The farm has a bunch of animals including goats, sheep, pigs, chickens and even alpacas.

You can get close to the animals and feed them, pet them, and learn about farm life as a whole. The staff are passionate and knowledgeable and do educational tours that show how much they care about them.

Beyond animal interactions, the farm has a cosy café where you can enjoy homemade treats and local products, all made with ingredients from the farm or nearby.

Visit a Brewery, Cidery or winery

Or all 3! On our last afternoon on Prince Edward Island we were heading south towards the ferry crossing and decided to visit one of each.

Copper Bottom Brewing, Montague.

Montague itself is worth a quick stop as you’re passing through, and I picked Copper bottom as I tried their beer at Founder’s Food hall in Charlottetown. There are plenty of great breweries in PEI so you’re spoiled for choice.

Double Hill Cidery

This award-winning cidery is known for growing 16 different varieties of cider apples! And their famous for their Nomad Cider. It’s also a beautiful spot to sip a cider, and they have a great food menu too.

Rossignol Estate Winery

If you are looking for a tour or tasting I recommend calling ahead. If not drop by for a small flight or their award-winning wines.

Best Places to Eat on Prince Edward Island

This guide wouldn’t be complete without talking about food! Here are my top recommendations

Home Plate Restaurant and Bakery

Head to Home Plate for some real fresh and home cooked food! And if nothing else, stop by to meet Caroline as she’s a real character. She bakes everything fresh each day, and cooks up one of the best fish and chips you’ll ever try.

Richard’s Fresh Seafood

Richard’s Fresh Seafood is a locals favourite at Covehead. Prepare for a bit of a wait as on a nice day there are queues across the car park. I love the small shack vibe and you won’t be disappointed by the fish!

Founders Food Hall

Based in Charlottetown, as mentioned earlier it’s famous for fresh and local produces. And at a reasonable price too.

And a couple of other spots to consider which I didn’t personally try; Holy Cow, The Seafood Shack and for ‘Canada’s best ice cream’ find a Cow’s ice cream shop.

And finally for a great local beer with delicious food options in Charlottetown there is Hunter’s Ale House, Charlottetown Beer Garden and Hopyard.

Conclusion

There you have it, 15 unique ways to enjoy the magic of Prince Edward Island! You’ll get to have an amazing time on the island no matter how long you stay. I genuinely enjoyed my time here and I’m very confident you will too!

If you have any tips for PEI, please drop them in the comments below.