Things to Do in PEI: A Practical Guide for First-Time Visitors

Start in Charlottetown

Charlottetown is the Island's capital and the easiest place to begin. The compact downtown, Victoria Row, Peake's Wharf and the waterfront boardwalk are all walkable, which makes the city ideal for a short visit.

Province House and the surrounding historic streets explain why the city calls itself the Birthplace of Confederation: the 1864 Charlottetown Conference led toward the creation of Canada.

Head to the north shore beaches

Prince Edward Island National Park stretches along the north shore with red sandstone cliffs, dunes and long sandy beaches near Cavendish, Brackley and Dalvay. Summer is the main beach season; services are reduced outside it.

Green Gables Heritage Place in Cavendish is the setting that inspired L. M. Montgomery's Anne of Green Gables and is one of the Island's best-known stops.

Eat like an Islander

Lobster, mussels, oysters and potatoes are Island staples. Community lobster suppers, seafood shacks and farm markets are part of the experience; many are seasonal, so check hours before you drive.

Find the rural hidden gems

Some of the most memorable visits happen in small communities: pottery studios, craft breweries, farms and galleries in western, central and eastern PEI. Browse the ExplorePEI directory to see contacts, opening hours and honest accessibility details in one place.