North Shore Travel Guide: Things to Do, Best Time to Visit & Itinerary

The North Shore of Prince Edward Island is a place where reality feels remarkably like a storybook. It is a landscape painted in bold, primary colours: the rusted iron-red of the soil, the vibrant emerald of the rolling farm fields, and the deep sapphire of the Gulf of St. Lawrence. This region is the spiritual home of Anne of Green Gables, but even without the literary connection, its pastoral beauty would be enough to capture your heart. The rhythm here is dictated by the tides and the fishing seasons, offering a tranquil escape from the rush of modern life.

Driving the Gulf Shore Parkway, you are treated to a visual feast of rugged sandstone cliffs that crumble into soft, singing sands. The air smells of salt spray and wild roses, and the horizon is dotted with white-capped waves and fishing boats hauling in the day’s catch. Whether you are here to trace the footsteps of L.M. Montgomery or simply to eat your weight in the world’s freshest lobster, the North Shore offers a gentle, welcoming embrace that feels distinctly Canadian.

A Tapestry of Culture and Coastline

The North Shore is defined by its harmonious blend of Scottish heritage, Acadian roots, and maritime tradition. This area wasn’t just the setting for a famous novel; it is a living community where farming and fishing have sustained families for generations. The iconic “singing sands” of the beaches here actually make a squeaking sound when you walk on them, a phenomenon caused by the high silica content and spherical shape of the quartz sand grains.

Beyond the beaches, the region is a culinary hotspot. The unique terroir of the red soil produces potatoes of world-renowned quality, while the cold Atlantic waters yield sweet, tender lobster and briny oysters. Visiting the North Shore is as much a journey for the palate as it is for the eyes, with small family-run restaurants serving recipes that have been perfected over centuries.

The Icons You’ll Want to See

Green Gables Heritage Place - Located in Cavendish, this is the premier attraction. It features the restored farmhouse, the Haunted Wood, and Lovers’ Lane. Entry is roughly $9.00 CAD per adult, and you should allow 2 hours to explore the grounds fully.

PEI National Park (Cavendish Section) - Just 2 km from Green Gables, this park protects sand dunes, beaches, and wetlands. A daily pass costs approximately $9.00 CAD per adult. The boardwalks offer accessible views of the stunning red cliffs.

Covehead Harbour Lighthouse - Situated about 25 km east of Cavendish, this picturesque lighthouse sits among the dunes. It is free to visit and makes for one of the most photographed spots on the island, especially at sunset.

New Glasgow Lobster Suppers - A 10 km drive inland from North Rustico, this is an institution for seafood lovers. Expect to pay between $40 and $60 CAD for a complete meal including chowder, mussels, lobster, and dessert.

Planning Your Visit

Getting to the North Shore usually involves flying into Charlottetown (YYG) and driving about 30 to 40 minutes north, or driving across the Confederation Bridge from New Brunswick. Public transport is virtually non-existent in this rural area, so renting a vehicle is essential for getting around. GPS works well, but cell service can be spotty in the low-lying dune areas.

When packing, remember that the maritime climate can change quickly. Even on hot summer days, the evenings by the water can be cool and breezy, so bring layers and a waterproof jacket. If you plan on visiting multiple sites within the National Park, purchasing a Parks Canada Discovery Pass can save you money on entry fees.

Ultimately, the North Shore of PEI is a destination that invites you to slow down. Whether you are watching the fishing boats return to North Rustico Harbour at dusk or reading a book on the red sands of Cavendish, the magic of this island lies in its peaceful simplicity.