The Central Coastal Drive is the quintessential Island experience. From the red sandstone cliffs on the south shore to the magical land of Anne on the north shore, this coastal drive encompasses all of the features that make Prince Edward Island Canada’s favourite vacation destination. Not only is the region bordered by PEI’s two major hubs, it’s also home to quaint villages, stunning beaches, world-class golf courses, local flavours, unique adventures, artisans and handmade crafts, and unrelenting beauty.

Lover of all things Anne? This region is the place to be! Get yourself a raspberry cordial and embark on the L.M. Montgomery Literary Tour featuring 16 of the most important and meaningful places that inspired the author’s writing. Adventure seekers can get out on the water on a unique kayaking tour or take to the skies at an exhilarating high ropes course. Kids will marvel and thrill at all the unique attractions, rollercoasters, and waterslides in Cavendish, a magical toy store in New Glasgow, the cutest goat farm in Hampshire, and a movie under the stars in Brackley. Golfers won’t be able to get enough of the region’s stunning fairways and challenging greens. Foodies rejoice! Central Coastal Drive is home to some of the best culinary experiences on the Island, featuring traditional lobster dinners, charming little chocolate shops, and the chance to take to the high seas and haul up your own seafood catch.

Explore Central PEI’s rugged coastline, which includes some of the most popular photo op spots on the Island such as Mackenzie’s Brook in Cavendish or Teacup Rock in Thunder Cove. Spend an idyllic summer afternoon lounging on the sand and swimming in the warmest waters north of the Carolinas at one of the famous beaches located within the national park system. Go lighthouse chasing all around the coast and take in their scenic backdrops.

Take to the hills through the heart of the Island and discover must-see gems, epic views, and some of the Island’s most beautiful trail systems, especially in the fall when the leaves are at their peak! Stop in for a drink and a tour at a cidery and wander down the purple rows at a lavender farm and pick your own bundle. Hit the Strathgartney and Bonshaw Provincial Parks for a picturesque hike or bike ride along the Bonshaw River. A main trail runs through the entirety of both parks with shorter loops in between ranging in difficulty.

When it comes to resting your head, you won’t have any trouble finding the perfect home base for your Island adventures. Connect with nature and pitch a tent or park your RV at a campground or set up camp in a Scandinavian-inspired, off-grid, micro-cabin in the woods. Book a stay at a charming B&B and look forward to scrumptious breakfasts and insider tips from your hosts or relax in a secluded cottage by the sea. Enjoy all the luxuries, comforts, and amenities of a country inn or hotel.

And from the seaside town of Victoria-by-the-Sea to the town of Kensington that dwells right in the heart of the Island, the region is home to many quaint villages and bustling towns worth exploring, each brimming with its own history, art, culture, attractions, and must-try food spots!

No matter how you like to travel and who you’re travelling with, you’ll find no shortage of fun and exciting activities and memories waiting to be made along the Central Coastal Drive. Let your PEI-loving heart soar!