Visiting Prince Edward Island – Best PEI Road Trip Plan 2025

Visiting Prince Edward Island was long on my travel bucket list; however, on my first East Coast trip, I allocated a mere 2 days in PEI. Little did I know those two days would leave me yearning for more. Thankfully, I was lucky enough to return last fall, and I was able to cover more highlights from this tiny red Island.

In this post, we’ll unravel the essence of my PEI road trip, highlighting what to see in PEI in just 2 days as well as a longer option from my follow-up Prince Edward Island road trip. From iconic lighthouses to hidden gems, this guide is designed to help you navigate the beauty of the Island.

After multiple visits, I’ve compiled a great list of things to see, do, eat, and drink on the Island. Whether you’re planning a quick getaway or a more extended visit, Prince Edward Island’s captivating charm awaits. Join me as I share insights into the unmissable attractions and unexpected delights that make PEI a must-visit destination.

Visiting Prince Edward Island – Size Matters

To say the province of PEI is small is an understatement. This Canadian Island straddling New Brunswick and Nova Scotia is just 5,600 square kilometers in the Gulf of St. Lawrence. In comparison, PEI can fit inside Ontario 190 times. The Territory I grew up in can hold 238 Prince Edward Islands. You can drive tip-to-tip in a day, and it has only two cities with a population of over 10,000.

Given its small size, I foolishly thought I could cover its highlights in a couple of days. Although this is possible, I forgot that Prince Edward Island is, after all, an Island. Life on an Island tends to run a little slower and, therefore, shouldn’t be rushed. 

Still, if you are looking for a PEI 2-day itinerary, we’ve got you covered. I have also updated this post to include a PEI 3 day itinerary as well as locations I recommend spending a little longer at along the way, should you have the time.

PEI 2 day Itinerary

Although I recommend a minimum visit of 3-5 days to Prince Edwards Island, you can see and do a ton with just a couple of full days. The following is my PEI 2 day itinerary, starting the trip from the ferry port in Wood Islands and leaving on the Confederation Bridge. To maximize time, this PEI 2 day itinerary includes two nights on the Island and seeing some sights on the way out on the third day.

What to See in PEI in 2 days

If you have just 2 days in PEI, here are the highlights I recommend on a PEI road trip with Charlottown as your base:

Day One – Getting on the Island

After the short Northumberland Ferries hop from Caribou, Nova Scotia, we hit the red soil running. Whirlwind stops at Rossignol Estate Winery and Cape Bear lighthouse, the first post to answer the distress call from the Titanic, followed by a brisk stroll along the Panmure Island causeway. There was little time to admire the white sands on one side and red on the other.

Along the panicked way, we passed cute blink-and-you-will-miss-them towns with lobster trap-lined wharves and immaculately manicured homes. Each of these places begged for further exploration, but on these 2 days in the PEI itinerary, there was just no time.

Sitting on the Point Prim Chowder House patio, listening to the waves slowly crash on the red sandstone shore, I tried to reflect on the blur that was my first day. That’s when I realized I was doing PEI wrong. Taking a satisfying sip of my Up Street Commons craft Pilsner out of a yellow solo cup, I concluded that PEI is not meant to be rushed, just like the sun melting into the Northumberland Strait.

Day Two – Charlottown and a PEI Day Trip

We awoke to find ourselves in a wet and socked-in Charlottetown. With a new Island-time mentality, we decided to take a lazy stroll through town before hitting the road. Let me tell you,  there is no better place to take a lazy stroll than Charlottetown, and I don’t mean this in a bad way. The city is incredibly sleepy and easy to explore on foot.

We made our way past the massive St. Dunstan’s Basilica, a National Historic Site of Canada, and colorful character homes that once housed prominent politicians, lawyers, and Canada’s founding fathers. At the Province House, you can read about the party at the Charlottetown conference. This series of meetings in 1864 united the Maritimes with the West. Over a week of grand balls and parties, the framework for the Canadian Confederation came to be.

The thought of Canada uniting over cocktails only strengthens my love for this place.

Not So Sleepy Charlottetown

Our Charlottetown stroll continued with coffee to go from the surprisingly hip Reciever Coffee Co, quite possibly the busiest spot on the Island. Warm Americano in hand, we walked down the pedestrian street of Victoria Row. Although deserted during my time visiting Prince Edward Island, I could easily imagine the place alive on warm summer nights with buskers and beverages.

But not today.

• Read what other travelers have to say about Reciever Coffee Co on TripAdvisor.

This quiet trend continues at the Charlottetown Beer Garden. Later that night, we tried to stop in for a giant pint only to find it closed. Nothing online or at the door indicated this.

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Although we chalked it up to visiting Prince Edward Island during the shoulder season, we did manage to find some life in Charlottetown. UpStreet Craft Brewing, makers of the very refreshing pilsner I was sampling during the previous day’s sunset at Point Prim, proved to be alive, with locals sampling a wide selection of craft beer and playing crokinole. The same goes for Hopyard, a fantastic mix of beer, cheap fusion eats, and serve-yourself vinyl records. So very cool.

• Read what other travelers have to say about Hopyard at TripAdvisor.

Then there was Hunter’s Ale House, a chain like a restaurant/bar without being a chain. The real draw here was the live music, something there is never a shortage of on the East Coast. As a bonus, it was open mic night, which saw me on stage for the first time in a long time. Thank you, Charlottetown, for that!

PEI Day Trip

The other great thing about Charlottetown is its mid-Island location, making it the perfect hub to explore from. We continued our lazy day by lazily driving up the Island, stopping at what was quirky or cool along the way. A warning: there’s plenty of this on PEI.

Jams, cheese, and ice cream

Although PEI is known for its lobsters and potatoes (it provides 25% of Canada’s spuds!), the local condiments and creameries caught my eye and my stomach. Here are a few of my favorite highlights of my short time visiting Prince Edward Island.

East Coast ice cream giant Cows Creamery calls Charlottetown home. Its headquarters offers factory tours, fresh ice cream made with milk from PEI cows, and Cow Chips– chocolate-covered potato chips. Don’t question it. Just put it in your mouth.

If you are looking for a little more than a treat, next door, you will find Lone Oak Brewing, which serves up craft beer and great food.

Don’t let the lineup of tour buses and blue-haired seniors at Prince Edward Island Preserves throw you; this place is legitimate. I was skeptical until stepping inside and finding seemingly endless jams, jellies, and dips to try. Thankfully, I had plenty of storage and a great trunk organizer in my vehicle as I left with an assortment of antipasto and tapenades.

Come prepared.

• Read what other travelers have to say about Prince Edward Island Preserves on TripAdvisor.

Is there anything better than a large wheel of cheese? Turns out, yes. Sampling it straight from the source. Glasgow Glen Farm is a great stop for its wide variety of Cheeselady Gouda, woodfire pizza, and gooey grilled cheese sandwiches.

Note: As of updating this post, Glasgow Glen Farm appears as Temporarily Closed on Google. Be sure to check ahead on your PEI road trip.

Charcuterie, East Coast Style

Although nowhere near hungry, lunchtime found us in the sleepy seaside town of North Rustico. Home to yet another historic lighthouse, lobster buoy souvenirs (don’t miss the cute PEI Wooden Lobster Buoy shop. It’s set up in a small garage!), and the sexiest charcuterie board I have ever seen.

Most patrons head to the Blue Mussel Café for its seafood chowder, seafood poutine, and blue mussels. Although we sampled all of that, it was the smoked charcuterie board that blew me away. We’re talking house-smoked mackerel, cold-smoked salmon, local cheeses, and the most vibrant jam to tie it all together. What is not to like in this sexy spread?

READ MORE: Where to find the best crab in Alaska

• Read what other travelers have to say on TripAdvisor

Visiting Prince Edward Island’s Green Gables

No visit to Prince Edward Island is complete without stopping in at Green Gables Heritage Place, former home to Canadian author Lucy Maud Montgomery’s family and inspiration for her series of books based on a redheaded, freckled orphan named Anne.

Canada loves them some Anna of Green Gables. With TV shows, movies, and play adaptations of the popular novel series, Anne has lived on for over a century in the hearts of Canadians. It turns out the world loves Anne, too. The size of the complex and the number of tourists visiting it is surprising. With over 50 million books sold worldwide and transcriptions in 36 languages, I guess this should not have been a shock.

Aside from artifacts and park guides dressed in turn-of-the-century clothing, highlights include the well-manicured grounds and trails. Don’t miss a stroll down Lover’s Lane, a favorite spot Lucy Maud Montgomery used for inspiration in her series.

Touring All Things Red – PEI National Park

After a rip along the beach in our rental car (because that’s what you do when visiting PEI), we continued up the Gulf Shore Parkway and shifted gears from fabulous food to Prince Edward Island’s unique coastal scenery. Along with various seabirds, we encountered PEI’s prettiest local, the red fox. It turns out they’re plentiful on the island and surprisingly playful. Swimming in backyard pools or jumping on trampolines are apparently common occurrences.

Although we weren’t lucky enough to witness this level of awesome, we did see these beautiful foxes trotting along the coastal bike path, stopping only to pose for pictures. Later that night, we would see another one cruising along a downtown Charlottetown sidewalk like it had every right to do just that.

Again, this Island is great.

Other highlights along the coastal drive include Cavendish Beach, the Coverhead lighthouse, and the unique red rock formations along the way.

Day 3 – On the Way Out

With so much left to see in and around the Island, our departure day also included a few favorite stops. Skmaqn–Port-la-Joye–Fort Amherst is worth a visit as it is the original Acadian settlement on the Island. After falling to British forces, it became Fort Amherst and was sadly the site of French deportation. Today it offers visitors a green and overgrown fort with beautiful views of Charlottetown in the distance.

Victoria By the Sea

Home to possibly the most Canadian-looking lighthouse in the country, this two-street town features a cute coffee shop, character homes, and a handmade chocolate shop. 

Confederation Bridge

One last lobster roll, and we were off, stopping at Confederation Bridge Park to say goodbye to Prince Edward Island.

Completed in 1997, this 13-kilometre-long bridge connects the Island to mainland New Brunswick. It also holds the unique title of being the longest bridge in the world crossing ice-covered water. What an incredibly Canadian and wonderful title to own.

3 Days in PEI

As you can tell, my first visit was crammed, and I wouldn’t recommend 2 days in PEI. There is just too much to see, do, and eat. If you have 3 days in PEI, great! On top of the highlights from the PEI 2 day itinerary above, you can take things a little slower or add on visits to the North and West sides of the Island. My personal highlights from my longer visit include:

Camping in Cavendish Park

While touring PEI in my EV, I took things a little slower and car-camped in Cavendish Park. This allowed me to bike the trails, check out the beaches, and watch fantastic sunsets.

Also, I got one of the best (and biggest) lobster rolls at Richard’s Fresh Seafood. I Highly recommend a stop here.

Greenwich Boardwalk

The next day I went to Greenwich, another part of the Prince Edward Island National Park. From the Discovery Centre, I biked to the incredible beach boardwalk of the same name. Interesting note: the soil in PEI is so fertile that some of the bike paths here are green!

The Greenwich Dunes trail boardwalk provides a comprehensive journey through one of PEI’s captivating landscapes. This pathway guides explorers through a diverse ecosystem encompassing coastal terrain, marshes, and forests, providing a firsthand look into the Island’s natural wonders.

The intricate balance of unique flora and fauna within this pristine environment left a lasting impression on me. While walking the trail, I absorbed information from informative panels, gaining insights into the region’s ecology and the importance of preserving this stunning natural habitat. Serving as a testament to the area’s ecological diversity, the Greenwich Dunes trail boardwalk offers an unforgettable exploration of PEI’s coastal beauty. Ensure it’s on your must-visit list!

North Cape

Located on the Island’s northwest tip, North Cape is known for its rugged coastline and panoramic views of the Gulf of St. Lawrence. The area features the iconic Wind Energy Institute of Canada, showcasing innovative wind turbine technology. Guests can visit the center to learn all about the important role wind plays on the Island and beyond. North Cape is also a great place to take a hike, with several trails to enjoy.

From the North Cape, I made my way south along the shoreline, taking in the red cliffs and iconic lighthouses along the way.

West Point Lighthouse Inn and Museum

Situated on the west coast of Prince Edward Island, the West Point Lighthouse Inn and Museum beckons travelers to its scenic location on the northwestern Cape. Nestled adjacent to West Point Beach and Cedar Dunes Provincial Park, the lighthouse boasts a stunning setting, making it a standout choice for those seeking a unique PEI hotel experience.

If you’re journeying from Charlottetown, the drive spans approximately 130 km, translating to a manageable 1 hour and 40 minutes. For those starting from Summerside, the distance shortens to just 75 km, an hour-long drive. If you happen to be traveling from the mainland, the lighthouse hotel is conveniently located 100 km from the Confederation Bridge, requiring approximately an hour to reach its picturesque destination.

The PEI Bottle House

The next morning, I continued my way toward the Confederation Bridge, stopping at the quirky PEI Bottle House along the way. This passion project turned tourist attraction is now one of the more unique things to do in PEI. You will find a house, chapel, and bar built out of tens of thousands of recycled bottles. The grounds and gardens are meticulously kept, making it a great spot for photos as well.

I recommend a quick stop to check out the buildings and gardens. If you want to stretch your legs, the Egmont Lighthouse is a 40-minute walk away.

READ MORE: Exploring the PEI Bottle House

Summerside

Before departing the Island, I made a quick stop at PEI’s second-largest city, Summerside. This sleepy city has several highlights, including Samuel’s Coffee House, Herman’s Ice Cream, and the PEI Fox Museum.

5 Days or More in PEI

On top of the highlights listed so far, if you have five days in PEI, I would recommend spending an extra night at the West Point Lighthouse Inn to relax and enjoy the nearby park.

Golfing on PEI

I would also recommend golfing on PEI, an Island renowned for its picturesque golf courses that cater to players of all skill levels.

Tee off amidst breathtaking landscapes and coastal views at renowned courses like Crowbush Cove and Brudenell River Golf Course. Crowbush Cove, consistently ranked among the top courses in Canada, offers a challenging yet rewarding experience with its stunning oceanfront setting. Meanwhile, Brudenell River Golf Course boasts a blend of wooded and open terrains, providing a diverse golfing adventure. Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or a novice looking to enjoy the scenic surroundings, PEI’s golf courses promise an unforgettable and enjoyable time on the green.

On my last PEI road trip, I visited the Mill River Golf Resort for a round, which was fantastic. The resort includes accommodations and a spa, so you can happily spend a couple of nights there.

If you have seven days or more on PEI, I would consider adding an excursion to the Quebec islands of Îles de la Madeleine, a picturesque archipelago nestled in the Gulf of Saint Lawrence.

To make this journey, head to Souris, a charming town on the eastern tip of PEI, where the ferry to Îles de la Madeleine operates. The ferry ride takes approximately five hours, allowing you to soak in the maritime scenery before arriving at the archipelago. Given this unique destination’s growing popularity, booking both accommodations and ferry reservations in advance is highly recommended. Planning ahead ensures a smooth and enjoyable experience on these enchanting islands, where vibrant culture, sandy beaches, and welcoming locals await.

Unique Things to do in PEI

If you are looking for something uniquely PEI, you are in luck. There are several quirky and unique things to do in PEI.

Dig for Clams

Regarding unique things to do in PEI, one can’t miss the captivating experience of clam digging on the Island’s pristine shores. PEI is renowned for its delicious seafood, and partaking in this hands-on activity is a genuine way to connect with the local culinary culture. Grab a shovel, head to the tidal flats during low tide, and join locals in the age-old tradition of harvesting fresh clams. It’s a unique and delicious adventure, providing a firsthand taste of the Island’s maritime heritage.

For an authentic clam-digging experience on PEI, head to the Island’s south side during low tide. Maximeville, Pinette, Victoria, and Tea Hill are notable spots for this activity. Keep in mind that there are regulations in place – a maximum of 100 clams per person, with a size restriction of no smaller than 2 inches. Familiarizing yourself with these guidelines ensures an enjoyable and sustainable clam-digging adventure.

Visit the Anne of Green Gables Museum

For a historical twist, visiting Prince Edward Island wouldn’t be complete without exploring the Anne of Green Gables Museum. This literary gem is situated in the actual house that inspired Lucy Maud Montgomery’s famous novel. The museum offers a glimpse into the life of the author and the world that inspired her timeless work. Immerse yourself in the charm of a bygone era as you stroll through the beautifully preserved home and gardens, gaining insights into the backdrop of one of Canada’s most beloved literary creations. According to historical records, Montgomery’s Anne of Green Gables has been translated into over 36 languages, making it a globally cherished piece of literature.

Check out The PEI Bottle House

PEI also boasts unique architectural wonders, such as the PEI Bottle House. Comprising over 25,000 recycled glass bottles, this structure is a testament to creative sustainability. Marvel at the ingenuity of the design while learning about the history of this eco-friendly endeavor.

Sleep in a Lighthouse!

For an extraordinary overnight experience, consider staying at the West Point Lighthouse Inn. Offering breathtaking views of the ocean, this historic lighthouse-turned-inn provides a cozy and unique accommodation option. Fall asleep to the soothing sound of waves and wake up to stunning coastal vistas – an unforgettable way to experience PEI.

READ MORE: That time I slept in a Lighthouse on Prince Edward Island

Drive Canada’s Longest Bridge

Connecting Prince Edward Island to New Brunswick, the Confederation Bridge is an engineering marvel and a must-see attraction. At over 8 miles long, it’s the longest bridge in the world that crosses ice-covered waters. Take a scenic drive or stop at Confederation Park to appreciate the grandeur of this iconic structure.

Check out Canada’s Smallest Library

Experience a literary treasure at Canada’s Smallest Library in Cardigan, PEI. Housed in a refurbished roadside farm silo, this tiny library holds a modest yet diverse collection of books. It’s a charming stop for book enthusiasts, offering a unique glimpse into the Island’s commitment to literacy in unexpected places.

Visit the Fox Museum

Discover a distinctive experience on your PEI road trip by exploring the PEI Fox Museum in Summerside. Uncover the intriguing tale of Islanders winning the global race to pioneer successful fox farming in captivity, triggering a brief but impactful gold rush that transformed lives from poverty to prosperity. Delve into the practicalities of the fox ranching industry, explore the legacy of the rare Silver Black Fox, and grasp the significance of Summerside as the international headquarters of this unique trade.

The Fox Museum provides a factual and engaging glimpse into PEI’s economic history, making it a noteworthy stop for those seeking unique things to do in PEI while exploring its past and the industries that defined its communities.

See a Giant Potato

Don’t miss the Canadian Potato Museum in O’Leary, a quirky yet informative exploration of PEI’s vital agricultural industry. Learn about the history and significance of the humble potato, from its introduction to the Island to the present day. The museum showcases the role of this staple crop in shaping the culture and economy of Prince Edward Island. If you are into big things, the museum is also home to the world’s largest potato sculpture!

Visiting Prince Edward Island – Where to Stay

No matter your budget or style, there are plenty of great accommodation options on PEI. Here are my personal recommendations from places where I have actually stayed.

Sydney Boutique Inn and Suites

My first time visiting Prince Edward Island was highlighted at night by the ridiculously posh Sydney Boutique Inn and Suites. Situated in a renovated Notre Dame Convent, this beautiful building is a PEI highlight of its own. The modern and recently renovated rooms made for an incredibly comfortable place to return to during my short stay, and the friendly service was tops. Highly recommend it as your home base in Charlottetown.

PEI Camping

Camping is also a popular option on the Island. On my return trip to PEI, I spent a couple of nights camping at Cavendish Park and loved it.

West Point Lighthouse Inn

Lastly, I highly recommend staying at the West Point Lighthouse Inn for a unique stay on the Island. This lighthouse-turned-hotel and museum offers visitors a truly unique way to experience Prince Edward Island. Book early as rooms in the actual tower itself are, understandably, very popular.

Tours of Prince Edward Island

If you want to see the best of the Island but prefer not to drive, I suggest taking a guided PEI road trip and a great walking tour in Charlottetown. In addition to having a hassle-free experience, you will have the added bonus of a knowledgeable local showing you around.

I can recommend the following tours as they cover many of the highlights listed in my PEI 2 day itinerary and the add-ons from my return visit.

• Charlottetown City Highlights Walking Tour
• Island Drive & Anne of Green Gables Tour
• Deluxe North Shore and City Tour
• Bridge, Lighthouses & Treats

Visiting Prince Edward Island Slowly

As I rode into the fog, watching this tiny green and red Island disappear in my rearview, I couldn’t help but think about my next visit. Even with my early realization that PEI is meant to be enjoyed slowly, my time visiting Prince Edward Island was crammed with unique towns and sights that deserve more attention. Yes, I ticked off visiting Prince Edward Island. However, I only scratched the very red surface.

Thankfully, I was able to return and enjoy the Island slowly, the way it is meant to be enjoyed. Although seeing PEI in just 2 days is possible, I recommend you plan for a few days. Enjoy the food, hospitality, and the red sandy beaches. Relax, you’re on island time.

If you enjoyed this itinerary, check out the other road trip reports from my coast-to-coast EV road trip, including a great trip along HWY 138 in Quebec with stops in Chicoutimi and Tadoussac, as well as covering pretty much every corner of Newfoundland, Saint Pierre, and New Brunswick.

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Although my short time visiting Prince Edward Island was made possible by Tourism Prince Edward Island,
the experience, opinions, and poor time management were my own.