When thinking of traveling in Canada- take your eye off the major cities and gaze east to the Maritimes. Prince Edward Island (PEI) offers an incredible summer experience with multiple festivals, stunning beaches, and diverse attractions. An island not to be overlooked when thinking, “where to go next?”
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Music
For the music fan, the island brings in major global talent each summer for the following multi-day events with these two festivals:
Cavendish Beach Music Festival (July 10-12, 2025)
– Headliners: Shania Twain, Lainey Wilson, and Tyler Hubbard
– Location: Cavendish
Sommo Festival (September 13-14, 2025)
– Features music, food, and drink celebrations
– Summer 2025 has Alanis Morissette & Hozier as headliners & Past Performers include Noah Kahan, Greta Van Fleet, and The Beaches
– Culinary stage with renowned chefs like Laurent Degenais and Mary Berg
Outside of these 60,000+ events, you can find local music all over the island and if you want a truly authentic music experience find yourself at a kitchen party!
Stay
If you want a quieter trip and lean more into retreats and relaxation, consider staying at the following:
Tucked in the banks of St. Peters Bay, the island’s only Nordic Spa Hotel, sits on 18 acres in one of the most coveted spots on the island. Designed for those looking to slow down and enjoy nature on holiday.
Black Bush Resort offers hotel accommodations, cottage and beach villas on a newly renovated property 15 minutes from Charlottetown. With onsite restaurants and a dunes and beach view, this resort offers yoga classes and more to stay fit during your vacation.
A Noted Canadian Historical Landmark, The house at Dalvey By The Sea was built in 1895 by Alexander MacDonald, a wealthy businessman and one-time president of Standard Oil Company with John D. Rockefeller. He named the house “Dalvay By The Sea” after his boyhood home in Scotland. This resort offers hotel rooms and cottages just steps to the beach and a perfect getaway for couples, families and group trips.
Beaches
PEI has some of the most beautiful red sand beaches in the world with miles to explore along with supervised swimming areas with scenic views across the Atlantic.
Basin Head Beach
A nine-mile white sand beach with some of the warmest water in the province.
Brackley Beach
Just 15 minutes from Charlottetown offers a public beach where you can sprawl out your chairs and coolers for a fun day by the water.
Thunder Cove
A hidden gem off the beaten path in a small town called Darnley, Thunder Cove shows off a different type of PEI beach with sandstone cliffs and geological wonders.
Food
Come hungry to Inn At Bay Fortune for The Fireworks Feast. The evening program is complete with a farm tour, cocktail and oyster hour all before sitting down to an exceptional feast of the island’s offerings from land and sea.
A classic steakhouse for those looking to take a break from seafood- located on the heart of downtown Charlottetown.
Situated in North Rustico this seaside cafe is packed from opening to close each day in the summer- for good reason. Their chowder, lobster rolls and fish sandwiches are a favourite for locals and tourists alike.
With multiple locations on the island, with the favourite being Covehead Warf, Richard’s fish and chips and just better. The batter recipe and dipping sauce are like none other and their lobster rolls never disappoint. Be prepared to line up- but it’s worth the wait.
Rick’s Fish & Chips in Saint Peters Bay offers a delightful seafood dining experience with a rich local history. Offering classic fish and chips with homemade touches the menu features diverse options like Cajun mussels, seafood chowder, and Portuguese-inspired items.
To do
Golf
With the perfect landscape for golf courses from coast to coast to coast, PEI’s best places to play are: 1. Crowbush 2. Dundarave 3. Eagles Glenn
Visit Anne Of Green Gables Home
This attraction is not only a museum on the historical significance Lucy Maid Mongomery’s Anne of Green Gables had on Canadian culture but at Green Gables Heritage Place, one of Canada’s most beloved works of literature comes to life. Walk the grounds, tour Green Gables house and visitor centre, or stroll one of our lovely trails.
Sandspit
PEI’s classic amusement park with more than 15 carnival favorites for all ages. Shining Waters Family Fun Park is a water park located in Cavendish, PEI. Explore 36 acres of family fun including over 40 wet and dry attractions. For a start, try the Surf’s Up surf coaster, or the Buccaneer Bay Bullet rollercoaster!
Charlottetown Farmers Market
Shop like a local and fill your Airbnb or Delvay cottage with local produce and meat from the Farmer’s Market, open twice a week, a fun way to engage with locals and get your groceries for your stay!
Whether you’re a music lover, beach enthusiast, or cultural explorer, Prince Edward Island promises an unforgettable summer experience.
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