As one of the most cultural and scenic areas in Atlantic Canada, there is plenty to explore in Eastern PEI. Although the drive itself is magnificent, without a compact to-do list you’ll miss a lot of the local treasures that line the Eastern coast. On this bucket-list you’ll discover the ‘Down East’ essentials, from gourmet dining and local entertainment to the best beaches and most gorgeous vistas on the Island. Exploring Eastern PEI is sure to leave you feeling like a local, or like you never want to leave!

Greenwich in Prince Edward Island National Park (Photo by Stephen DesRoches)

Dine in Celebrity Style

First item on any bucket list… enjoying a mouthwatering meal handcrafted by a celebrity chef! At Fireworks Chef Michael Smith has combined a dedication to farming, a respect for the mysterious and magical potential of cooking exclusively with fire, and a love of sharing the food experience amongst friends for a culinary experience you won’t soon forget.

Photo by Alex Bruce ©Tourism PEI

Take a Sip at Local Distilleries

Have a sip from the Island! The Prince Edward Distillery in Souris crafts Canada’s only vodka distilled from potatoes and PEI’s first wild blueberry vodka. If you’re searching for something a little stronger, the Myriad View Distillery in Rollo Bay are the producers of PEI’s first legal moonshine!

Prince Edward Distillery

Explore the Island’s Natural Beauty

Things to explore in Greenwich in Prince Edward Island National Park could create a bucket list in itself. The spectacular parabolic dune system rises above white-sand beaches and acts as a stunning backdrop to an extensive trail system that includes a floating boardwalk. Rent a bicycle and hit the trails to see the natural diversity of the area first-hand.

Greenwich in PEI National Park ©Tourism PEI Photo by Carrie Gregory

Hit the Links at Crowbush Cove 

A bucket list essential… golfing on one of our many award-winning courses! Overlooking the north shore dunes, Crowbush challenges you to take the test to conquer one of North America’s very best. Pristine fairways, water holes with a wisp of wind, pot bunkers and challenging greens all come together to provide you with an experience not to be forgotten.

Golf by the Gulf

Go for a Dip at Canada’s Top Beach 

No PEI bucket list is complete without a beach day! Basin Head Beach was named the top beach in Canada by Vacay.ca. Run your feet through the sand on this beach and it will sing. Really, we’re not kidding read about the singing sands… you have to hear it to believe it! .

Basin Head. Photo by Jenna Rachelle

Discover Local Treasures

Shopping local is a huge part of Island culture. Along the Points East Coastal Drive you‘ll stumble upon troves of hand crafted treasures, like at Magik Dragon PEI where you’ll discover unique gifts from near and far. At Belfast Mini Mills Ltd watch alpaca wool being spun on site or try your hand at creating by taking a weaving, felting or knitting class!

Belfast Mini Mills

Spend a Night at the Boutique Inn at Bay Fortune

A bucket-list must… kicking back and relaxing with some Island-style luxury! Chef Michael Smith and his wife Chastity Smith are proud to welcome you to their end of the island. The unique and elegant Inn at Bay Fortune is nestled on 46 acres of land overlooking the Fortune River as it flows into Bay Fortune and the Northumberland Strait beyond. 

Taste the Island’s Best Chowder 

Located next to PEI’s oldest and most historic lighthouse, Point Prim Chowder House provides an ocean-front experience you won’t soon forget. Make sure to try the famous steamer pot or any one of their delicious seafood chowders!

Photo by Al Douglas at Point Prim Chowderhouse

Point Prim Chowder House

Be Entertained by Sensational Local Musicians 

Purchased by current owners Meghann & Pat in 2011, the Trailside Music Cafe & Inn is an intimate gathering place where musicians feel at home and where the audience is often left awestruck. With different entertainers almost every night of the week, make sure to reserve your seat in advance.

Trailside Cafe PEI

Trailside Cafe PEI

Experience the Island from the Sea

A PEI bucket list shouldn’t stop where the land ends! Make sure to explore the ocean surrounding Eastern PEI too. Spend an evening dining along the Montague River with a PEI sunset as your backdrop aboard the Montague River Run Dining Cruise. If you’re looking for a more adventurous excursion, hop aboard Ernie’s Charter Fishing to chase 1000 lb bluefin tuna or book an expedition with Tranquility Cove Adventures where you’ll harvest bar clams on a deserted Island and enjoy your local harvest on a beach cookout.

©Tourism PEI : Stephen Harris

River Run Dining Cruise in Montague

For more things to discover on Prince Edward Island, check out Unique PEI Experiences, 13 Things to Do with Your Kids, and What the Locals Say You Can’t Miss.