Most Instagrammable Places in PEI You’ll Want to Capture

Prince Edward Island is often called Canada’s most photogenic province—and it’s easy to see why. With dramatic rock formations, rolling red-sand beaches, and picture-perfect heritage homes, every corner looks like a postcard. It’s also the beloved home of *Anne of Green Gables*, adding storybook charm to every scene.

From peaceful coastal views to colourful streets in Charlottetown, there are countless Instagrammable places in PEI waiting to be discovered. Whether you're a casual phone snapper or a serious shutterbug, this island has something for your lens.

In this guide, we’ll uncover the top photo ops—including hidden gems and iconic backdrops—that go far beyond filters. Let’s explore the beauty of PEI, one photo at a time.

Picture-Perfect Lighthouses

Prince Edward Island is known for its scenic coastal views—and its lighthouses are some of the most photographed spots on the island. They’re beautiful landmarks that make your Instagram feed pop.

Covehead Harbour Lighthouse

This classic red-and-white lighthouse sits inside Prince Edward Island National Park. It’s surrounded by soft sand dunes and tall beach grasses. Visit during golden hour for the perfect warm light and shadows.

Point Prim Lighthouse

This is PEI’s oldest lighthouse and one of only two circular brick lighthouses in Canada. It offers sweeping ocean views and a quiet, rugged coastline. Sunset here is magical—especially with the waves crashing on the rocks below. Bring a picnic and your camera for a peaceful end to the day.

West Point Lighthouse

With its bold black-and-white stripes, West Point Lighthouse stands out on the beach. It’s located in Cedar Dunes Provincial Park on the island’s western shore. This lighthouse doubles as an inn—so you can stay overnight! Capture sunrise, sunset, and even stargazing shots without leaving your doorstep.

Cape Tryon & New London Lighthouses

These lighthouses offer some of the most dramatic coastal photo ops in PEI. Cape Tryon sits on towering red cliffs that glow at sunset. It’s remote and wild, so be cautious—especially near the cliff edges. New London Lighthouse is nearby and easier to access. You’ll find dune grass, beach views, and soft evening light—perfect for soft, moody portraits.

Red Cliffs, Rock Formations & Beaches

Prince Edward Island is full of coastal beauty. The island's iconic red cliffs are made of soft sedimentary rocks, which create their rich color and smooth weathered textures—perfect for close-up geology or landscape shots. The mix of red cliffs, unique rock formations, and soft sandy beaches makes it a dream for photographers.

Teacup Rock (Thunder Cove Beach)

Teacup Rock is PEI’s most famous rock formation. It looks like a delicate teacup balanced on a base of stone. You’ll find it at Thunder Cove Beach, tucked away on the North Shore. Go early in the morning—sunrise is the best time for soft light and calm water.

Darnley & Cape Tryon Cliffs

Darnley and Cape Tryon offer dramatic views of towering red cliffs. The cliffs rise above the sea with rolling fields behind them. Cape Tryon is especially popular at golden hour. The light here can create glowing tones in the cliffs and ocean.

Rustico & Brackley Beaches

These beaches give you the best of both red and white sand. Rustico Beach has deep red tones and nearby cliffs. Brackley Beach offers soft white sand and calm waves. Both are part of Prince Edward Island National Park. They’re perfect for wide scenic shots, shell photos, and barefoot beach walks.

Basin Head Provincial Park

Basin Head is home to the famous “Singing Sands” beach. The sand here squeaks under your feet thanks to its high silica content. You’ll find bright white sand, turquoise waters, and a wooden wharf.

National & Provincial Park Wonders

Prince Edward Island is home to some of the most beautiful parks in Canada. These natural spaces offer stunning views, peaceful walking trails, and perfect photo ops.

Greenwich Dunes & Boardwalk

Greenwich is part of Prince Edward Island National Park. It’s known for its unique floating boardwalk that leads through marshland. At the end, you’ll find a dune crossing with sweeping views of the beach and sea. The mix of sky, sand, water, and grass creates a surreal and peaceful scene.

Panmure Island Provincial Park

Panmure Island is connected to the mainland by a narrow causeway. You’ll see the ocean on one side and St. Mary’s Bay on the other. It’s a quiet beach spot perfect for scenic photos. Don’t miss the Panmure Head Lighthouse, one of the oldest on the island. Its red-and-white tower makes a great background for beach shots.

North Cape Coastal Drive

The North Cape Coastal Drive is a must for sunset lovers. You’ll pass by dramatic coastal cliffs, rolling fields, and wind turbines that stretch to the sky. At North Cape, watch the sun dip below the water where two seas meet. It’s a perfect backdrop for road trip photos and wide landscape shots.

The powerful North Cape wind is not only a renewable energy source but also shapes the rugged coastline, creating dynamic skies and ocean movement that bring drama to your landscape photos.

North Cape is also home to the longest natural rock reef in North America, stretching far into the sea and offering a truly unique view that few visitors expect.

Along the North Cape coastline, you might spot local harvesters collecting Irish Moss—a centuries-old tradition that adds cultural depth to your scenic shots.

Black Marsh Nature Trail

If you're near the North Cape, don’t miss the Black Marsh Nature Trail—this coastal path offers dramatic views of the ocean, wind turbines, and wildlife, making it a hidden gem for nature photography.

Argyle Shore Provincial Park

This small park sits on the south shore of PEI. It’s best known for its iconic red cliffs and flat shoreline. During low tide, tide pools form between the rocks—great for close-up shots. The beach has a quiet, rugged charm and is often less crowded. It’s a peaceful place to snap sunset photos or simply enjoy the view.

Charlottetown’s Most Instagrammable Corners

Charlottetown, the capital of Prince Edward Island, is full of colour, charm, and history. Its streets are lined with unique photo spots that blend old-world beauty with modern flair. Whether you’re into architecture, art, or urban vibes, these corners are made for the 'gram.

Victoria Row & Great George Street

Victoria Row is a cobblestone street filled with patios, flowers, and live music in summer. You’ll find colourful storefronts, string lights, and people relaxing outside. Great George Street leads you from the waterfront to Province House. It’s lined with historic buildings and horse-drawn carriages—like stepping back in time.

St. Dunstan’s Basilica

This stunning 19th-century Gothic Revival cathedral is one of the most iconic buildings in Charlottetown. Its Gothic-style architecture includes tall spires and stained glass windows. The outside is majestic, and the inside is peaceful and detailed.

Peake’s Quay & Confederation Landing

Head to the waterfront for breezy seaside vibes. You’ll find sailboats, wooden docks, and cruise ships in the background. The COWS ice cream statue is a fan-favourite for fun photos. At Confederation Landing, capture sunset shots with water and boats behind you.

“Before I Die” Wall & Progressive Pride Crosswalks

At the corner of Queen and Richmond, you’ll find the famous chalkboard wall. Write your dream and take a thoughtful photo with it. Just steps away, the Pride crosswalks add bright colours to your city shots.

The Bookman & Queen Street Murals

The Bookman is a cozy bookstore perfect for book lovers. Its quirky signs and stacked books make it feel magical. Along Queen Street, you’ll also find bright murals and creative signage. This area is ideal for street photography and artsy close-ups.

Quirky & Whimsical Spots

Prince Edward Island isn’t just beautiful—it’s also full of fun and unexpected photo moments. From cuddly animals to colourful art, these spots will add playfulness and charm to your Instagram feed.

Green Gable Alpacas & Beach Goats

These fluffy animals are always ready for their close-up. At Green Gable Alpacas, you can walk, feed, and snap selfies with the alpacas. The Beach Goats take things up a notch—you’ll find them doing yoga or paddle boarding by the sea. These adorable creatures are perfect for bright, happy photos that make people smile.

Bottle Houses in Cap-Egmont

This magical spot features houses built entirely from glass bottles. The sunlight shining through creates rainbow reflections and glowing walls. Each building feels like a fairy tale and is perfect for dreamy, creative shots.

The Knot Beach Bar (Summerside)

This hidden gem sits right on the water in Summerside. Its sandbox patio is filled with lounge chairs, string lights, and fun summer vibes. Rent a paddle board or sip a drink as the sun sets behind you. It’s a relaxing place with that perfect “beach day” aesthetic.

Scenic Trails, Drives, and Hidden Nature

Prince Edward Island is full of peaceful paths and open roads that lead to beautiful views. Whether you're walking, biking, or driving, these routes offer endless photo ops with nature, water, and wide open skies.

Confederation Trail

The Confederation Trail is a former railway turned into a long walking and biking path. It stretches across the island and takes you through small villages and green farmlands. You’ll pass quiet rivers, wooden bridges, and red dirt roads.

The Island Walk

This 700 km trail loops around the entire island. It includes beaches, forests, backroads, and fishing communities. Some of the best sections for photos are between Cavendish, North Cape, and Panmure. You’ll see red cliffs, peaceful shores, and wide coastal views.

Lupin Fields (June–July)

In early summer, lupins bloom along country roads and open fields. These tall, colourful wildflowers create stunning backdrops in purple, pink, and white. You’ll find them almost everywhere, especially in rural areas.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the most beautiful part of Prince Edward Island?

While beauty is everywhere in PEI, many consider Prince Edward Island National Park along the North Shore—with its red cliffs, sand dunes, and ocean views—to be the most stunning. Greenwich Dunes, Cavendish Beach, and the North Cape Coastal Drive offer some of the most breathtaking backdrops.

What is the most visited place in PEI?

Green Gables Heritage Place in Cavendish is likely the most visited. Fans of Anne of Green Gables come from around the world to step into the story’s real-world setting.

When is the best time to visit for photos?

Late spring to early fall offers ideal lighting, flowers, and beach access. Visit in June for vibrant lupin fields. September is perfect for golden hour photos and fewer crowds.

Are drones allowed in PEI’s parks?

No, Prince Edward Island National Park is a no-drone zone unless you have a special permit. Be sure to check current drone rules before flying anywhere.

Can I visit these places in one trip?

Yes! PEI is small and easy to drive. You can visit 4–5 scenic spots in one day. But for better light and less stress, plan your trip over a few days.

Final Thoughts

The best shots aren’t always the most perfect. They’re the ones that tell a story, spark a memory, or make someone smile. So pack your camera, follow your curiosity, and let Prince Edward Island fill your frame—and your heart.