Non Touristy Things To Do In Prince Edward Island

Prince Edward Island (PEI) is a captivating island paradise, drawing visitors with its charm, natural beauty, and of course, its literary connection to Anne of Green Gables. While the Green Gables Heritage Place and Cavendish Hills are must-visits, there's a whole other side of PEI waiting to be explored by those who dare to venture off the beaten path.

Seaside Secrets and PEI Beauty

Victoria-by-the-Sea

This picturesque seaside village, a short drive from Charlottetown, exudes tranquility. Wander along the harbor, breathe in the salty air, and soak up the serenity. Art enthusiasts won't want to miss the plethora of art galleries showcasing local talent, making Victoria-by-the-Sea a hidden gem for art hunters.

North Rustico

North Rustico offers a delightful blend of artistic expression and culinary indulgence. Explore working studios of potters, painters, and jewelers, and treat yourself to fresh, local seafood at charming waterfront restaurants.

Thunder Cove

This captivating location boasts awe-inspiring red cliffs, sandstone caves, and a unique rock formation nicknamed "Teacup Rock." Hike the trails, explore the shoreline, and witness the power of nature firsthand. The cliffs here are a striking display of red sand and stone, sculpted over centuries by the sea.

West Point Lighthouse

Standing sentinel over the Northumberland Strait, West Point Lighthouse is a historic landmark steeped in maritime history. Climb to the top for panoramic views of the rugged coastline and surrounding waters. Keep an eye out for whales and seabirds during your visit!

Basin Head Provincial Park

Famously known for its "singing sands," Basin Head offers a one-of-a-kind beach experience. Walk along the shore and listen to the melodic squeak beneath your feet – a truly unique phenomenon! Cool off with a swim in the refreshing waters, or simply relax on the warm sand. With its wide sand beach and warm summer waters, it’s perfect for families and beach lovers alike.

Non Touristy Things to do in Prince Edward Island

Kayaking Adventures

Embark on a kayak tour and explore PEI from a different perspective. Paddle along the Northumberland Strait, marvel at the red cliffs, and discover hidden coves teeming with marine life.

If you're feeling more adventurous, try sea kayaking along PEI’s rugged shoreline to spot seabirds, seals, and hidden inlets.

National Park Delights

Prince Edward Island National Park is a treasure trove of natural wonders. Hike through forests, explore wetlands teeming with birdlife, or soak up the sun on pristine beaches. Rent a bike and explore the park's network of trails, or pack a picnic and find a secluded spot to relax and reconnect with nature. Some beaches in the park even feature soft white sand, perfect for sunbathing or peaceful walks.

Sample Local Ice Cream

No trip to PEI is complete without indulging in its world-famous Cows ice cream. With locations scattered across the island, treat yourself to a scoop (or two) of their unique and delectable flavors, made with fresh, local ingredients.

Historic Gems

History lovers will find hidden treasures scattered throughout PEI. Explore historic sites like Beaconsfield Historic House, Orwel Corner Historic Village, or the Cape Tryon Lighthouse. Step back in time and learn about the island's rich heritage.

Points East Coastal Drive

On the eastern side of the island, the Points East Coastal Drive takes you through postcard-perfect landscapes and quiet communities full of character. Start in Murray River from where Cape Bear Lighthouse is just a short drive away. It was the first Canadian station to hear the Titanic's distress signal.

Continue east toward Souris, where you’ll find sandy beaches, seafood shacks, and even a ferry terminal if you're feeling adventurous enough to hop to the Magdalen Islands. As you continue exploring this coastline, consider a detour to St. Peter’s Bay, a serene community known for its scenic beauty and close access to the Greenwich Dunes.

Central Coastal Drive

For a classic PEI experience, take the Central Coastal Drive, which loops around the island’s north shore and through the Green Gables region. Along the way, stop in New Glasgow for a taste of a traditional lobster supper, or detour through French River, a picture-perfect fishing village with candy-colored houses and boats bobbing in the water.

Culinary Adventures in PEI

PEI may be famous for its lobster rolls and oyster bars, but there’s a whole world of local flavor waiting beyond the shoreline. From Acadian kitchens to sweet island treats, this is where Prince Edward Island truly satisfies curious taste buds.

Different parts of PEI offer distinct flavors, from coastal seafood in the north to traditional Acadian dishes in the west.

Eat Like a Local

To really get a taste of the island, dig deeper into its Acadian roots. In the Evangeline Region, food is a celebration of heritage. Think fricot (a hearty chicken stew), râpure (grated potato pie), and traditional meat pies served at local festivals.

Also, you can skip the white tablecloth and head to a community-run lobster supper — a PEI tradition where locals serve up hearty, no-frills meals in parish halls and community centers. These gatherings often include unlimited mussels, fresh salads, homemade pies, and of course, a full lobster with all the fixings.

Save Room for Dessert

Sweet tooth? PEI has you covered. Beyond the beloved scoops of Cows Ice Cream, you’ll find hidden gems like Island Chocolates in Victoria-by-the-Sea — a charming family-run shop crafting hand-dipped Belgian truffles inside a century-old heritage building. Try flavors like lemon-lime, espresso, or sea salt caramel, then sip a hot chocolate on the garden patio.

Savor Island Staples

No PEI culinary journey is complete without the humble PEI potato. Grown in the island’s red soil, these spuds are celebrated in everything from chowders to artisan chips. Farmers’ markets across the island often sell fresh, hand-dug potatoes — perfect for your next picnic or beachside cookout.

Dine With a View

Few spots rival the Point Prim Chowder House, perched beside PEI’s oldest lighthouse. Here, you can enjoy lobster rolls or a full steamer pot on a scenic patio with ocean views and salty breezes. Time it right for golden hour, and you’ll understand why this simple coastal meal becomes a memory.

Hidden Trails & Outdoor Access Gems

Tucked between the waves and woodlands are quiet trails and secret nooks where locals go to recharge — and where visitors can find a deeper connection to the island’s wilder side.

Robinsons Island Trail

Nestled within PEI National Park, Robinsons Island is a local favorite for those seeking a peaceful mix of forest, beach, and bike-friendly paths. The looped nature trail stretches about 5 km and offers multiple beach access points where you can hop off your bike and dip your toes in the sea.

Golf Courses With a View

PEI’s scenic landscape is also home to top-rated golf courses. Whether you're a casual player or an avid golfer, courses like Crowbush Cove and Green Gables Golf Club combine challenging greens with unforgettable island views.

Greenwich’s Floating Boardwalk

For something truly unique, head east to Greenwich and walk the trail that seems to float above the wetlands. This elevated boardwalk cuts through lush marshes, leading to the towering sand dunes of Greenwich and a quiet stretch of beach that feels like your own private paradise.

Bonshaw Hills Provincial Park

Just a short drive from Charlottetown, this trail system is a lush, rolling network of pathways perfect for hikers of all skill levels. With wooden footbridges, trickling streams, and panoramic lookouts, it’s as scenic as it is accessible.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where to Find Something Special in PEI?

Michael Stanley Pottery, located near Victoria-by-the-Sea, is a must-stop for lovers of earthy textures and coastal colors.

In Charlottetown, browse independent boutiques and weekend craft fairs that spotlight everything from hand-poured candles and driftwood art to knitwear and local prints.

For edible keepsakes, don’t skip the jams and preserves made with island berries, or a bottle of maple syrup tapped just a few miles from where you bought it.

Both Charlottetown and Summerside host seasonal markets, artisan pop-ups, and boutique shops full of local flavor and character. And if you’re lucky enough to pass a roadside stand selling handmade soap, PEI sea salt, or quilts stitched by local hands — pull over.

How to Spend Evenings on the Island?

- Take a peaceful evening walk along Charlottetown’s waterfront or relax on a dock in coastal towns like North Rustico or Victoria-by-the-Sea while the sun sets and local music drifts through the air.

- Enjoy PEI’s signature fiddles and folk tunes in welcoming pubs, small venues, or lively ceilidhs where locals and visitors share in the island’s musical spirit.

- Catch a show at the Confederation Centre of the Arts, where musicals, plays, and exhibits bring PEI’s creativity and storytelling to life after dark.

- Unplug under PEI’s dark skies with stargazing, cozy fires, and quiet moments at countryside inns or eco-retreats like Maytree.

- For a peaceful evening, take a sunset drive toward the Confederation Bridge, where the horizon meets sea and sky in breathtaking harmony.

When’s the Best Time to Discover PEI’s Hidden Side?

Spring (May–June):

Watch PEI come alive with blooming wildflowers, quiet beaches, reopening cafés, and the start of lobster season — all before the summer crowds arrive.

Summer (July–August):

Embrace festival vibes, warm waters, and bustling villages — but plan ahead and make time for peaceful escapes like Greenwich or Robinsons Island.

Fall (September–October):

Enjoy crisp air, vibrant foliage, and events like Fall Flavours — ideal for scenic drives, harvest markets, and cozy local meals.

Offbeat Tip:

Visit on weekdays for fewer crowds, and head out in the early morning or late afternoon for the best light and quietest trails.

Conclusion

PEI offers an abundance of experiences beyond the well-trodden tourist path. So, ditch the crowds, embrace the island's hidden gems, and create memories that will last a lifetime. From scenic road trips to spontaneous beach stops, PEI invites you to wander off course and write your own island story.

With recommendations inspired by Tourism PEI, you’re sure to experience the island like a local. Book your Prince Edward Island tours with See Sight Tours today and let our local guides show you the magic that awaits!