Ah, summer on Prince Edward Island. The very words conjure up images of warm sand between your toes, the gentle rhythm of waves lapping the shore, and the scent of salty air. Whether you’re a seasoned Island visitor or a first-timer with wanderlust in your heart, there’s a PEI adventure for every kind of traveler. Plan out your PEI Summer bucket list with our collection of Things To Do in PEI This Summer.

FIRST TIMERS

Sample the of the very best of PEI during your first trip!

1. GO TO THE BEACH

Obviously. The Island has so many beautiful and diverse beaches to fall in love with. Dip your toes in the warm sand, go for a swim in the Atlantic ocean, or stroll along a boardwalk, whatever your beach vibe, there’s a beach here for you. Check out this list of Must-See PEI Beaches and find your favourite.

2. FEAST ON A TRADITIONAL LOBSTER SUPPER

Is a trip to PEI ever really complete without enjoying PEI’s most iconic dish? Grab a bib and head to one of the Island’s best lobster suppers. Enjoy a traditional lobster supper with buttery homemade rolls and seconds on appetizers, salads, and dessert at New Glasgow Lobster Suppers, fill your plate at the 60 ft salad bar at Fisherman’s Wharf in North Rustico, or enjoy your meal while looking over the Charlottetown Harbour at Lobster on the Wharf.

3. DISCOVER THE WORLD OF ANNE

If you’re visiting PEI for the first time because you love Anne of Green Gables, you’re sure in for a treat. Visit the Green Gables Heritage Place, watch the stories come to life on stage by seeing Anne of Green Gables- The Musical, or Anne & Gilbert The Musical, or visit the village of Avonlea in Cavendish. Check out All Things Anne for the ultimate Anne Lover’s list.

4. EXPLORE CHARLOTTETOWN

Prince Edward Island’s capital is full of history and charm. Take a day to bop around Charlottetown and explore. Stroll down historic Victoria Row & Sydney Street, shop at the local boutiques, take in the sights of the Province House, tour the inside of St. Dunstan’s Basilica, grab a bite to eat, watch the sunset over the Charlottetown Harbour… there is so much to do and see in this little city!

5. GO ON A DEEP SEA EXPEDITION

Experience the Island’s livelihood first hand by setting sail on a Deep Sea Fishing trip. From hauling lobster traps to catching 500 pound bluefin tuna, and even eating your catch on board, this is one Island experience you won’t want to miss. Sail out of beautiful North Rustico with Joey’s Deep Sea Fishing, catch giant bluefin Tuna off of North Lake with Ernie’s Charter Fishing, or step aboard the Morning Mist X with Campbell’s Deep Sea Fishing in Covehead Harbour.

WEEKEND VISITS

We know you’re going to the beach, but what else can you do on PEI when you’re visiting for the weekend? We’ve got you.

1. VISIT PEI’S LIGHTHOUSES

With the most lighthouses per capita in North America, PEI is a lighthouse lover’s dream. Map out a road trip to see as many as you can, or just a few! Some are open to the public so you can explore and climb to the top. Take a peek at our list of PEI’s Must See Lighthouses to start!

2. HEAD ON A KAYAKING ADVENTURE

Explore hidden coves and see the Island from a different perspective with a kayaking tour. Take a tour or go on a solo adventure with By the Sea Kayaking. Plan a kayaking retreat with a stay at Nature Space Resort.

3. SOAK UP THE SUN ON A PATIO

Head to one of PEI’s patios to enjoy a delicious meal or drinks al fresco. Merchantman’s Next Door Patio is a sweet garden patio with it’s own outdoor bar, or try Vicinato’s rooftop patio on Victoria Row. Enjoy live music on Lone Oak’s large Beer Garden patio in Cavendish. For a dinner with a great view, visit Point Prim Chowder House.

4. BROWSE A FARMER’S MARKET

The best place to go to find fresh seasonal produce, meats, cheeses, and artisanal goods from Island farmers and makers. This summer hit up the Charlottetown Farmer’s Market on Wednesdays and Saturdays, or the Summerside Farmer’s Market on Saturday’s.

5. SEE A LIVE PERFORMANCE

Whether you want to see something on a large stage, or maybe enjoy a more intimate experience, enjoying a live performance is the perfect way to spend a night out on the Island. The hit musical Jersey Boys’s is playing at the Confederation Centre of the Arts from June 25th to September 21st. Catch an electric show from the Ross Family Ceilidh at the Florence Simmons Performance Hall select days June through September, or check out the amazing line up of original shows at the College of Piping all summer long.

FAMILY VACAY

Spending some quality time as a family is important! If you want to keep the littles entertainment and the teens unplugged here are some things to do:

1. HAVE A SPLASH

Race down twisting water slides, explore enchanted forests, conquer daring roller coasters, and enjoy rides for little ones – there’s something for every adventurer, big or small at Shining Waters in Cavendish.

2. GET SPOOKED

Kensington’s Haunted Mansion offers spooky fun for all ages! Walk through the grand estate to find thrills await you. Craving more thrills? Check out the Route 6 Motel at the Cavendish Beach Adventure Zone.

3. MAKE SOME FURRY FRIENDS

For a unique and totally adorable experience, take the whole family to make some fuzzy friends. Visit Griswold’s Gang at Green Gable Alpacas on a guided tour of the working farm,  meet the animals at Island Hill Farm, or hang out with the Beach Goats along the North Cape Coastal Drive.

4. WATCH A MOVIE UNDER THE STARS

Movie night looks a little different here! Pack up the car and head to the Brackley Drive-In for a memorable double feature. Get cozy in the car, or set up a few lawn chairs outside and enjoy the show.

5. RIDE THE DAY AWAY

There is nothing quite like spending a summer day at Sandspit Amusement Park! For 40 years Sandspit has been a source of thrill and excitement for families of all kinds. Ride the Cyclone, peep the sunset from the top of the Ferris Wheel, bump and splash in the Blaster Boats, or slow down on the Carousel. There’s something for everyone at Sandspit! And after you’re finished, you can head over to the Cavendish Boardwalk for a delicious scoop of COWs Ice Cream.

THE GREAT OUTDOORS

Obviously, best way to experience the Island’s beauty is by spending some time outside!

1. HIT THE TRAILS

Walking through the Islands trails is a great way to experience the Island’s natural beauty. Take a leisurly stroll at Mooney’s Pond in Morell, or Victoria Park in Charlottetown, walk beneath towering wind turbines along the Black Marsh Nature Trail in North Cape, or experience the floating boardwalk at Greenwich, Prince Edward Island National Park.

2. SPEND SOME TIME ON THE FAIRWAYS

The Island boasts several beautiful world-class golf courses. Challenge yourself at Mill River, play a round at Green Gables Golf Club, or enjoy the scenic views at Eagles Glenn or Crowbush Cove.

3. GO CAMPING

Pack your tents and get ready for unforgettable adventure. Marco Polo offers a comfortable camping experience with activities for the whole family. If you’d like a more rustic experience, check out the campgrounds of the Prince Edward Island National Parks!

4. …OR GLAMPING

If sleeping on the ground is really not for you, or you’d just prefer a touch of luxury, glamping might be for you! Wild Pines Cabins offers stripped down cabins tucked away in the woods, you can stay in a private eco-dome inspired by nature at Maytree Eco-Retreat, or try a Mongolian Yurt with your own private hot tub at Nature Space Resort.

5. TRY STARGAZING

Get away from the bright lights of the city, and take in the bright lights of the night sky. PEI’s rural areas a low light pollution making them the perfect spot for a late night star gazing adventure. Try visiting any PEI National Park, or some more secluded beaches like Basin Head, Blooming Point, or the Eastern-most and Northern-most points of the Island for the least light pollution!

UNIQUE EXPERIENCES

Take home some one-of-a-kind memories from this special little Island.

1. EXPLORE PEI’S DIVERSE CULTURES

PEI is home to a diverse blanket of cultures and histories. Learn from the Mi’kmaq People by immersing yourself in their rich history and culture with a visit to Lennox Island. Discover vibrant Acadian Traditions by visiting the Acadian Musical Village in Abram-Village.

2. GET FESTIVE AT A FESTIVAL

It’s not an Island summer without a festival or two (or twenty!!). With music festivals, food festivals, cultural festivals and more, you’ll be able to squeeze a whole lot of fun into your short visit. Check out this Go-To Event Guide for a PEI Summer to explore our fave PEI festivals.

3. SINK INTO COZY

Take some time to rest during your time on PEI with a visit to Mysa Nordic Spa, the first and only of it’s kind on the Island. Alternate through cycles of hot, cold, and relaxation with their Thermal Experience for the ultimate state of relaxation.

4. DIG FOR YOUR DINNER

Head out to shore during low tide to dig for clams! You can do it on your own during clam season, but if you’d like someone to show you the ropes and the best spots to find these little treasures, you can head out on a tour! At By-the-Sea Kayaking’s Clam Digging adventure, you’ll learn how to find and dig for clams like a true-blue Islander. Hop aboard a lobster boat with Tranqulity Cove Adventures and dig for clams on a deserted Island.

5. TAKE A CULINARY TOUR

PEI has a thriving food scene, and a culinary tour is a great way to sample local specialties and learn about the Island’s food culture. Explore some of the most Can’t Miss Dining Experiences here, or if you’re feeling especially hoppy, take yourself on a self-guided beer tour with PEI’s Craft Beer Guide.

For more Island summer inspo, check out 13 Things to Do with Your Kids, 46 Travel Tips from PEI Locals, or Top 10 Reasons to Golf in PEI.