Welcome to Canada’s East Coast island paradise
YOUR Island Adventure awaits
Prince Edward Island is renowned for its vibrant local food scene, its exceptional array of local artists and artisans, its incredible hiking, mountain biking, and kayaking opportunities--and of course, its world famous beaches. The South Shore in particular offers the artsy, eclectic vibes of Victoria-by-the-Sea, scores of incredible antique shops, the extensive network of hiking trails at Bonshaw Hills and Brookvale provincial parks, and famous PEI foodie destinations like The Handpie Company and Island Chocolates. Check out our list of places to check out nearby.
The Island's South Shore region—or Red Sands Shore—is a bit of a hidden secret among visitors, the perfect hideaway for those who value privacy, the arts, nature, secluded beaches, and yet who still want to be close to the Island's main attractions. Victoria-by-the-Sea is perfectly located in the centre of the Island, less than 30 minutes from Charlottetown, Summerside, and Cavendish.
Victoria-by-the-Sea is known as one of the most picturesque and beloved villages on the Island. Still a working fishing village (you can see lobster and crab unloading on the wharf in season!), most recently it has been transformed into a hive of creative activity, with its quaint streets lined with cafes, restaurants, artisans, kayaking and cycling rentals—even a bookshop!
Transportation TO PEI
During the summer months, Charlottetown is conveniently served by direct daily flights from Toronto, Montreal, and Halifax. Both Air Canada and WestJet serve the Island. Flights to the Island can book up quickly and will be more expensive closer to summer. Further information can be found at flypei.com.
For those with more time, you may also wish to fly into Moncton (one hour away) or Halifax (three hours), rent a car, and spend some time exploring the Maritimes. Just remember there’s a toll fee to cross the Confederation Bridge from New Brunswick into PEI, or a toll ferry to travel from Nova Scotia to PEI.
If possible, we recommend that you rent a car for the duration of your stay on the Island to maximize your experience. PEI is a small island but rich in its diversity. We've purposefully structured this retreat during the week with the hope that you will be able to use one (or both) of the weekends that bookend our time together. Whether you continue your culinary adventure along PEI's Culinary Trail or in search of the island's best lobster roll; sipping raspberry cordial while watching Anne: The Musical (the longest running annual musical in the world); strolling the streets of Charlottetown with a Cows ice cream cone in hand; or taking an afternoon nap on the ocean sand dunes of Brackley Beach - there are infinite possibilities to customize your getaway. We are happy to provide recommendations and insider tips for your stay.
While renting a car during your stay will provide you with maximum flexibility to explore the Island (and will be necessary if you choose to stay anywhere outside Victoria), car rentals are not required. Victoria is a compact village with restaurants, shops, and lots to keep you busy for a week. Taxis from the Charlottetown Airport can be arranged at the airport for travel to Victoria and The Orient Hotel.
If you are looking to carpool from Charlottetown, we are happy to help connect folks. Please let us know if you will be driving and whether you are open to sharing the ride with another participant.
useful links
Toronto Star: 10 Things to Do in PEI
Other Island Treasures
Charlottetown: Canada's Birthplace, this vibrant, walkable city is bursting with incredible restaurants and shopping, historic buildings and cultural events. For you foodies, make sure you visit Victoria Row.
Green Gables: All things Anne! When the novel Anne of Green Gables was first published in 1908, most people could only dream of visiting its magical setting. As the book became popular around the world, it's likely that many readers had no idea where Prince Edward Island was. They may have even wondered, "Is it a real place?" Today, millions of the book's fans have made the trip to PEI and discovered the land that captivated Anne in Lucy Maud Montgomery's stories. And for those who just can't get enough of their favourite red-headed girl, or the woman who created her, there are Anne-related attractions all over the Island.
Prince Edward Island National Park (Greenwich Sand Dunes): Escape into a truly unique landscape. Experience a sense of awe and serenity as you take in the towering parabolic dune system and pristine white sand beaches at Greenwich.
The Evangeline Region: For a taste of one of the Island's founding cultures, drive a few minutes to the west where Prince Edward Island's vibrant Acadian culture thrives.
