Central Coastal Drive & Cavendish Beach

With its red and white sand beaches, quaint fishing villages, local artisan shops, lighthouses, and delicious cuisine, Central PEI feels like a scene straight out of a storybook. Whether you’re an avid adventurer, Annelover, romantic at heart, or anticipating a family vacation, there are loads of activities for everyone to enjoy.

BRACKLEY, STANHOPE, AND DALVAY BEACHPart of the PEI National Park, these three communities have white sand beaches for as far as the eye can see. Stop by Penzie’s Bistro located within Shaw’s Hotel for local entertainment. Enjoy dinner, drinks & folk art at The Dunes Studio Gallery & Cafe. Before you go, don’t miss out on the iconic Brackley Drive-In Theatre!

AVONLEA VILLAGE - Walk and dine your way through this village full of historic building replicas based on scenes from the original Anne of Green Gables novel. Perk up with a coffee stop at Samuels, enjoy your new favourite lobster roll at Dave’s Lobster, and cap it off with PEI’s signature COWS Ice Cream.

NORTH RUSTICO - Experience the rich Acadian and fishing heritage first-hand with a beautiful oceanside view. Stop into the infamous Blue Mussel Cafe or On the Dock Eatery, and enjoy a show at the Watermark Theatre. North Rustico is also the capital of Deep Sea Fishing on the island, so jump on a boat and catch your dinner!

NEW GLASGOW - It may be small, but the mighty rolling hills of New Glasgow has food for every palate at the New Glasgow Lobster Suppers, Glasgow Glen Farm, Pipers Restaurant & Patio, PEI Preserve Co., and The Mill.

CAVENDISH - The iconic Cavendish Beach area is famous for its sandy beaches, red cliffs, and gentle waters within the PEI National Park. A bustling hub of family fun on PEI, Cavendish is home to Anne of Green Gables Heritage Place, Sandspit Amusement Park, Shining Waters Family Fun Park, and plenty more! Take a swing with Golf Cavendish Beach, offering six incredible golf courses.

VICTORIA BY THE SEA - This charming coastal village feels like you’ve stepped back in time. Explore Victoria Glass Studio and Stanley’s Pottery for one of a kind, Island-made momentos. Local restaurants like the Landmark Oyster House, Richard’s Fresh Seafood, and Casa Mia by the Sea are ideal spots for lunch or dinner. Be sure to grab your dessert or takeaway treats at Island Chocolates!

BONSHAW - Perfect for the outdoor enthusiast! Explore endless winding trails on foot or by bike in Bonshaw, Strathgartney and Brookvale Provincial Parks. Visit Bits Bikes Brews for a drink and a snack after your ride or stop into nearby Riverdale Orchard for a cold glass of local cider.

BORDEN-CARLETON - Home to the Confederation Bridge, this area is known as the gateway to Prince Edward Island and the beginning of your Island vacation. Start by visiting Lone Oak Brewing Co. and The Abbey for a taste of PEI and check out the shops at Gateway Village. Be sure to snap a photo of the Confederation Bridge from the Marine Rail Historical Park.

STANLEY BRIDGE & FRENCH RIVER - The most picturesque, quaint fishing villages you ever did see. Visit Sou’ West Bar & Grill and Carr’s Oyster Bar for the best wharfside dining experiences, and enjoy dessert at Jane & Sue Chocolate shop. Stop into Village Pottery or shop along the Stanley Bridge Marina while the family heads to Alexander & Darlene’s Petting Farm.

KENSINGTON - A well-loved little town surrounding part of the Confederation Trail, Kensington hosts a number of welcoming shops and restaurants, including C&B Corner Cafe (try the bagels), The Willow Bakery & Cafe (try the cinnamon rolls!), Frosty Treat Ice Cream, Island Stone Pub, and the Bloom House.