Road Trip Routes Through Prince Edward Island: My Cross Canada Adventure
- Lyn (aka Jazz)
- Sep 29
- 9 min read
My summer cross Canada road trip has taken me across Canada's vast and varied landscape, and in this eighth instalment, I’m thrilled to be back in the Maritimes, exploring the country's smallest province, Prince Edward Island (PEI). It's a place defined by its rolling hills, rich red soil, and stunning coastline. The economy is traditionally based on agriculture, fisheries, and, of course, tourism.
In Prince Edward Island, summers are warm and humid, making for perfect beach weather, and the surrounding ocean waters become surprisingly warm for swimming. Fall brings crisp, clear days and a spectacular display of autumn colours, especially as the leaves turn in the island's many wooded areas. The winters are cold and snowy, providing a quiet, picturesque escape. And spring, while often wet, is when the island slowly awakens, with flowers blooming and the landscape turning a vibrant green. Many tourist activities do not run year-round, so it's best to check if you plan on travelling outside the peak summer season.
Table of Contents
The Rich History of Prince Edward Island
The story of Prince Edward Island begins long before European contact, with the Mi'kmaq people who called the island Epekwitk, meaning "cradled on the waves." The Mi'kmaq have lived here for thousands of years, nurturing a deep spiritual and cultural connection to the land and its resources.
European presence on the island began with the French, who established a colony they called ÃŽle Saint-Jean. The land was part of the French colony of Acadia, and many Acadians settled here, creating a vibrant community. However, this period was marked by conflict with the British. During the tumultuous years of the French and Indian War, the British gained control of the island and, tragically, began the deportation of the Acadians. Many were forced from their homes, and while some managed to escape or return later, this event remains a painful part of the island's history.
Following the British takeover, the island was renamed Prince Edward Island. The new British authorities divided the land into lots and distributed it to absentee landlords, an issue that would dominate the island's politics for over a century. Despite this struggle, PEI would play a pivotal role in Canada's history. In 1864, Charlottetown hosted the Charlottetown Conference, the first meeting of the Fathers of Confederation. While the island initially decided not to join the new Dominion of Canada, it eventually became a province in 1873, earning the title "Birthplace of Confederation."
Tips for a PEI Road Trip
Road Trip Essentials: Before you hit the road, remember some of the tips from my Road Trip Preparations and Solo Female Road Trip Tips articles.
Embrace the Pace: PEI may be the smallest Canadian province, but there is much to explore, and it's all about slowing down. Don’t rush.
Book Accommodations:Â Especially in the summer, accommodations book up fast. I travel in my campervan and had no trouble finding places to boondock; however, popular campgrounds were fully booked on weekends.
Feasting on the Island: The island's culinary scene is a highlight. Refer back to my guide to Eating Your Way Around Canada's Eastern Provinces for some ideas on what to try.
Confederation Bridge and Ferries:Â Entry to the island is free via the Confederation Bridge from New Brunswick, but there is a toll for leaving the island. Be aware of the ferry schedule from Wood Islands to Pictou, Nova Scotia, if that is your plan.
Cross Canada Road Trip: Prince Edward Island Routes
As a solo traveller, I love the freedom of choosing my own path. PEI offers two main ways to explore, and I'll cover both so you can choose the journey that suits you best. The first (blue) is a quick and efficient route, hitting the major cities of Summerside and Charlottetown. The second (green) is a winding, scenic adventure featuring lighthouses, Anne of Green Gables sites, beaches, and small fishing communities.
Route 1: The Quickest Way - Following the Trans-Canada Highway
This route is perfect if you are short on time, offering a quick pass through the heart of the island with key stops. The main drive time is approximately 1.5 hours, but I highly recommend spending at least two full days in Charlottetown to truly experience all it has to offer.
Borden-Carleton
After crossing the Confederation Bridge, stop at the Gateway Village Visitor Information Centre to grab a map and plan your next moves. The view from the Confederation Bridge itself is a fantastic photo op and a moment to truly appreciate the engineering marvel that connects the island to the mainland.
Summerside
Summerside is a vibrant city with a beautiful waterfront, shops, and restaurants. After Charlottetown, Summerside is the island's second-largest city and a great place to stop and stretch your legs. I love strolling along the boardwalk that winds along the harbourfront, taking in the view of the fishing boats and sailboats. Don't miss Spinnaker's Landing, a collection of unique shops and eateries built right on the water. It's the perfect spot to find a handcrafted souvenir or a sweet treat.
The city's history is steeped in its maritime heritage. You can explore this at the Harbourfront Theatre, which hosts a variety of live performances throughout the year, or by wandering through the historic streets of the city centre.
As with any stop on a road trip, Summerside is a great place to refuel—both your car and yourself. The city boasts a fantastic selection of local cafés, pubs, and restaurants that serve fresh seafood and other regional specialties. If you visit on a weekend, be sure to check out the Summerside Farmers' Market for local produce and artisanal goods.
Charlottetown
The capital city and the birthplace of Confederation and a must-stop on any trip to Prince Edward Island. Charlottetown is a city that feels both historic and vibrantly modern. Its downtown core is a treasure trove of Victorian-era homes, tree-lined streets, and beautiful architecture. My favourite part is wandering through the historic sites, especially Province House, where the Charlottetown Conference took place in 1864. You can feel the weight of history in this charming, walkable city.
Beyond the history, there's so much to do. I spent a whole afternoon just exploring Victoria Park, a massive green space with walking trails, playgrounds, and an expansive boardwalk along the waterfront. The city also has a thriving arts and culture scene, with numerous galleries, artisan shops, live music venues, and performances at the Confederation Centre of the Arts.
No trip to Charlottetown is complete without indulging in the food. The city is a hub for culinary experiences, offering a range of options from fine dining to casual pubs. I made sure to seek out some of the local seafood spots to get my fill of fresh oysters and lobster rolls.
Wood Islands
Wood Islands is the terminus for the ferry to Nova Scotia. On my most recent trip, the last two ferries were cancelled due to mechanical issues, but staff directed me to the truckers parking lot where I was able to park in my campervan overnight and get a shower in the morning. Instead of being disappointed, I enjoyed my night overlooking the bay and viewing the sunset. In the morning, I was delighted at the misty scene from my back window. For an idea of how to travel through this region, check out my Maritimes Road Trip Itinerary.
Route 2: The Scenic Coastal Route
This is the route for those who want to truly get lost in the magic of PEI. This meandering journey explores the island's many hidden gems, from windswept beaches to charming fishing villages and historic lighthouses. This route will take at least a day, if not two, to fully enjoy. For those following this route, I suggest using Summerside as a home base for a couple of days to explore the western side of the island before rejoining the Trans-Canada to visit Charlottetown before heading towards the ferry to Nova Scotia.
Begin in Borden-Carleton, as you leave the Confederation Bridge, then follow the Trans-Canada for a short while before branching off to explore the coast. When visiting lighthouses, be aware that the last 1-2 kilometres of all roads (invariably named "Lighthouse Road" are usually very pitted dirt roads. Make sure your vehicle can handle those and drive slowly to avoid the worst bumps and deep pot holes.
Cedar Dunes Provincial Park & West Point Beach
Cedar Dunes is a beautiful park with a historic lighthouse. Take some time to climb the West Point Lighthouse for panoramic views of the Northumberland Strait and the unique, red sand dunes. The beach is a stunning stretch of shoreline, perfect for a long walk.
Howard’s Cove Lighthouse & Tignish
As you continue your journey, you'll reach the picturesque Howard’s Cove Lighthouse. This area provides a great introduction to the Acadian fishing communities, which are a rich part of PEI's culture. Further north, the town of Tignish offers an even deeper look into Acadian life and heritage.
The Stompin' Tom Centre, celebrating the life and music of the legendary Canadian musician Stompin' Tom Connors, is a must-see for any country music lover.
The Laughing Lighthouse & The Bottle Houses and Gardens
The Laughing Lighthouse has a fascinating history and is a great spot for photos. From there, take a short detour to the whimsical and enchanting Bottle Houses and Gardens. I've covered this unique spot in my article The Bottle Houses of PEI, and I can tell you it's even more delightful in person!
New London & New London Lighthouse
As you travel east, you'll enter the scenic New London area, known for its rolling farmland and beautiful coastal vistas. The iconic red and white striped New London Lighthouse sits high on a bluff, offering breathtaking views of the coastline.
Cavendish
The heart of the Anne of Green Gables country. The main attraction here is the Green Gables Heritage Place, the inspiration for Lucy Maud Montgomery's classic novels. I have a whole article dedicated to this area (Anne of Green Gables Day Trip), as it truly feels like stepping into the pages of the book. Beyond the literary sites, Cavendish also boasts some of PEI's most famous beaches, including the stunning Cavendish Beach.
Prince Edward Island National Park
Prince Edward National Park features stunning beaches, red cliffs, and hiking trails. The park stretches along the coast, offering endless opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, and simply enjoying the natural beauty of the island. The contrast of the red sandstone cliffs against the deep blue of the ocean is absolutely captivating.
North Rustico & Brackley Beach
North Rustico is a picturesque fishing village worth exploring, boasting a vibrant harbour and a friendly atmosphere. Just a short drive away is Brackley Beach, another iconic stretch of sand within the National Park. It's an ideal spot for a classic PEI beach day, with warm water and gentle waves.
Souris Historic Lighthouse & East Point Lighthouse
As you reach the eastern end of the island, you can visit the Souris Historic Lighthouse before heading to East Point Lighthouse. The feeling of reaching the easternmost point of the island is exhilarating, with dramatic scenery and the chance to see a wind farm in the distance.
Wood Islands
The scenic route ends here, at the ferry terminal to Nova Scotia. It's a fitting end to the journey, offering one last scenic view before you continue your travels.
Final Thoughts
Whichever route you choose, PEI is a province that will capture your heart. Whether you are driving from coast to coast like me, starting in B.C. (Road Trip Through BC), or just exploring the island, the gentle pace and stunning scenery will leave a lasting impression. From the prairies of Saskatchewan and Manitoba to the bustling cities of Ontario and Quebec, this trip has shown me the incredible diversity of our country. My previous post on New Brunswick sets the stage for the Maritimes, and I look forward to continuing the journey into Nova Scotia.
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