Coastal Drives

North Cape Coastal Drive: A Scenic Adventure on PEI

If you’re looking for a true PEI adventure, North Cape Coastal Drive is where it’s at. This scenic route weaves through rich cultural heritage, breathtaking landscapes, and endless outdoor adventures. From the traditions of the Mi’kmaq and Acadian people to the towering red cliffs and charming lighthouses, this western corner of the Island offers an authentic PEI experience. With autumn right around the corner, now is the perfect time to discover what this beautiful region has to offer.

Cultural Experiences

This vibrant rural region is rooted in a rich history of the Mi’kmaq people, Acadian and Celtic settlers, and a legacy of fishing and farming. Deep dive into Mi’kmaq culture with a visit to Lennox Island, where you can explore the cultural centre, participate in traditional activities like quillwork or cooking bannock in the sand, and discover handmade crafts to take home. At the Acadian Museum, stroll through engaging exhibits that paint a colorful picture of Acadian history and the vibrant French culture of this region. Take a romp over to the Canadian Potato Museum in O’Leary, where PEI’s agricultural heritage is celebrated with interactive displays and a tasty restaurant featuring potato dishes (like the PEI-created fries with the works!). In Summerside, explore a variety of museums, from the historic Wyatt House to the unique PEI Fox Museum, each offering a glimpse into the region’s rich past.

Scenic Stops

Western PEI is a treasure trove of natural coastal beauty, where the landscape is defined by towering red sandstone cliffs and iconic lighthouses that guide the way along the rugged shores. At North Cape, the Island’s northernmost point, you can journey down the Black Marsh Nature Trail for breathtaking views of the red cliffs against the shimmering blue ocean. Venture onto the beach to see these towering cliffs up close, and at low tide, stroll along the longest natural rock reef in North America. At Kildare Capes, you’ll be greeted by more stunning sandstone cliffs and rock formations carved by time and nature—though be cautious, as the delicate sandstone can collapse without warning.

While on your scenic adventure, take time to visit the many lighthouses dotting the coastline, such as West Point Lighthouse and North Cape Lighthouse, each offering its own story and panoramic views of the surrounding seascape. These scenic stops provide the perfect backdrop for experiencing the wild, untamed beauty of PEI’s western shores.

Local Flavours

After exploring the stunning landscapes of Western PEI, indulge in the local flavors at some of the area’s best dining spots. Whether you’re looking for a hearty meal, fresh seafood, or a cozy café, Western PEI has something for every palate. For a superb burger and fries, head to Backwoods Burger in Tyne Valley. Pair your meal with a refreshing craft beer at Moth Lane Brewing, where the pub menu and waterfront views create the perfect setting.

Seafood lovers should make their way to Valley Pearl Oysters to enjoy some of the freshest oysters on the Island, harvested right from local waters. If you’re in the mood for something lighter, Tyne Valley Teas offers a delightful afternoon tea experience with freshly baked goods.

For a more traditional sit-down meal, Callaghan’s Restaurant provides a warm and welcoming atmosphere, serving up local favorites. And if you find yourself in Summerside, FiveEleven West is a must-visit for modern Canadian dishes with a creative twist. Finally, stop by Samuel’s Coffee House for a relaxing coffee break or a light meal, featuring expertly brewed coffee and homemade treats.

 

Outdoor Adventures

Western PEI offers a wealth of outdoor activities for every interest. Start with a visit to Green Gable Alpacas for a tour to meet Griswold’s gang and pick up cozy alpaca wool products. In the fall, apple picking at Arlington Orchard provides a delightful way to gather fresh apples while enjoying the picturesque countryside. Anglers will appreciate a guided fishing tour with Richard’s Bait and Tackle in Alberton, perfect for both novices and experienced fishermen. After a day of exploration, Mill River Resort is the ideal place to unwind. Enjoy biking and hiking trails, disc golf, tennis, pickleball, and volleyball, or play a round of golf on the scenic 18-hole course. To fully immerse yourself in the resort’s amenities and serene surroundings, consider booking a room for the night.

So much awaits you along the North Cape Coastal Drive—come explore and see for yourself why this is the essence of true PEI. For even more ‘Up West’ vacation inspiration, take a closer look at all that North Cape Coastal Drive has to offer.

Best Restaurants With a View in PEI

Where the View is as Good as the Food There’s no denying that Prince Edward Island is the holy grail of incredible food and breathtaking…

MORE
West Point Lighthouse, PEI

PEI’s Must See Lighthouses

The lighthouses of Prince Edward Island are some of the Island’s most beloved landmarks. Along our 1,100km of coastline, dozens of them can be found dotting the bright red…

MORE

Epic Winter Fun in Western PEI

There is truly nothing that can compare with a magical winter in PEI and discovering just how great it is one adventure at a time!…

MORE

8 Instagram-Worthy Spots in Western PEI

Whether you’re a seasoned photographer, or just love to capture memories with your phone, there is absolutely no denying that the North Cape Coastal Drive…

MORE

Daydreams of a PEI Summer

As the snow falls, the cold air blows, and we all stay bundled up in our homes to stay warm, there’s no denying the fact…

MORE

A Points East Paradise

Exploring the Island in the summer is a treat, and exploring the Points East Coastal Drive is totally delicious! The rolling hills of green, distant…

MORE

A Road Trip to Adventure in Western PEI

Welcome to the North Cape Coastal Drive where you will find beauty around every turn! There are colourful sail boats coming in and out of…

MORE

8 Reasons to Escape East this Fall

While known for its 50 phenomenal beaches, including the Basin Head Beach with its “singing sands” and Greenwich Beach with its towering dunes, the Points…

MORE

Tiny Island, Big Adventure

A summer spent on Prince Edward Island is filled with all sorts of fun, from chasing sunsets to savouring flavours, Island tunes sung by the…

MORE

A Snowy Escape to Eastern PEI

With fifty (yes, fifty!) utterly phenomenal beaches, fresh local seafood, and fields of rolling green, Eastern PEI is an undeniably idyllic paradise. But once the…

MORE

Exploring the Heart of PEI

As we look back on summer and move ahead towards fall,  we can all agree that there’s no place on earth we would rather be…

MORE

An Eastern PEI Adventure

Points East Coastal Drive’s winding roads are breathtaking, their shops are small and unique, and the local food, straight from the ocean or farmers’ fields,…

MORE

Your Very Own Island of Adventure

What an opportunity we have on our hands right now to get out of the house, enjoy the sunshine, and explore our own back yard!…

MORE

Where All Roads Lead to Paradise

Though the world has become complicated these past few weeks, and our ability to travel in the near future seems a little uncertain, we can…

MORE

The Unexpected Beauty of a PEI November

Traditionally November is a time for slowing down, the days become shorter while the nights grow longer and the beautiful colours of October are all but gone. But even…

MORE

15 Photos from a Brilliant Island Autumn

What could be better than fall in Prince Edward Island? The Island breeze now carries the scent of wood stoves, tilled soil, and smell of…

MORE

22 Magic Moments from a PEI Summer

The total magic of a PEI summertime is never lost on those of us who get to spend it on PEI. Rolling hills are alive…

MORE

Why a PEI Summer Will Make You Swoon

There’s nothing like summertime, but there’s something especially magical about a summer on Prince Edward Island. Between the cliffs of red and the fields of green,…

MORE

Proof That PEI Winters are Amazing

Oh PEI, just when we think we couldn’t love you more, you show us the beauty of a new season! Winter here is full of…

MORE

An Islander’s Guide to Eastern PEI

While growing up in western PEI, traveling ‘down east’ was always a fun adventure, but one that typically only happened if family was visiting. These…

MORE
Cape Tryon Lighthouse, PEI

Hidden Gems You Can’t Miss

There is no better way to experience the heart of a place than to uncover the hidden gems that lie off the beaten path. From small…

MORE