Victoria by the Sea
Get Away From It All
Victoria by the Sea is a picturesque fishing village on the southern shore brought to life by the many artisans who call it home. This quaint seaside village is the place to go when you truly want to get away from it all.
Picture Postcard Village
Victoria by the Sea was founded in 1819 on the south shore of the Island, halfway between Charlottetown and Summerside, by immigrant lawyer James Bardin Palmer. The Palmer family quickly saw the benefits of Victoria’s warm waters and protected location and laid out the grid pattern village on their estate.
By the late 1800’s the settlement was prosperous, boasting three wharves and many thriving businesses. Victoria became an important seaport, the third largest on the Island, with a significant amount of trade with Europe, the West Indies and other East Coast ports.
A wide variety of produce, including potatoes and eggs, was shipped by schooner from Victoria until the early 1900’s. In the days of the steamboats Victoria was a regular stop for the Harlan, dropping off visitors from Charlottetown and places further afield, to spend a few days relaxing in the beautiful village by the sea.
With the expansion of the Trans-Canada highway in the 1950’s, Victoria by the Sea was bypassed and left to remain as the quaint seaside village it is today.
Many artisans find inspiration from this peaceful, picturesque haven and have stayed to call Victoria by the Sea home.
Things to Do in Victoria by the Sea
Victoria by the Sea has many things to see and do, and the protected warm waters make it the perfect place for coastal exploring. The best way to take in this charming village is by meandering your way along the historic tree-lined streets, where you’ll discover:
- Palmers Range Light: A trademark red and white lighthouse, which houses the Victoria Seaport Museum and the Keepers of the Light exhibit.
- Victoria Playhouse: PEI’s longest running little theatre is housed within the Victoria Community Hall. It dates back to 1915 and has been a gathering place for entertainment and fun ever since. Offering up a series of plays, comedies, and concerts, this is a great way to spend a night in rural PEI.
- By the Sea Kayaking: Rent a kayak or paddleboard and enjoy Victoria from the sea, or book an excursion with an experienced guide. All abilities are catered to.
- Clam Digging: You can do as the locals do and join in on a clam-digging excursion. By the Sea Kayaking offers a Clam Digging Kayak Tour for a true Island experience. A guide will lead you to the Tryon Shoal during low tide where you’ll dig for the tasty molluscs’ before enjoying clam chowder cooked right on the beach.
- Mike Stanley Pottery: Explore pottery inspired by the vibrant colours and gentle landscape of PEI with one of a kind red stoneware and porcelain pieces.
Places to Eat in Victoria by the Sea
Being this close to the ocean has its perks! Despite its size, Victoria by the Sea has many options for trying local flavours from the sea. We recommend:
- Landmark Oyster House: Using beautiful fresh ingredients the French- inspired East Coast menu will keep you coming back for more including PEI’s famous oysters.
- Lobster: If it is lobster fishing season watch the local fishermen land their catch on the wharf and perhaps buy some for supper!
- Lobster Barn Pub & Eatery: Enjoy simple yet delicious homemade pub lunches and dinners featuring the freshest in Island seafood.
- Casa Mia By the Sea: Head to the tip of Victoria’s wharf and you’ll find this modern restaurant offering specialty drinks, breakfast, a casual-gourmet lunch and dinner.
- Richard’s Fresh Seafood: Using fresh local ingredients, Richard’s often has a line-up waiting to pick-up their takeout orders including lobster rolls and fish and chips.