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

Souris is the quintessential maritime town, perched on the eastern shores of Prince Edward Island where the land meets the vast Gulf of St. Lawrence. It is a place where the rhythm of life is dictated by the tides and the ferry schedule to the Magdalen Islands. The air here is perpetually salty, and the sound of gulls overhead is the town’s natural soundtrack. Unlike the more commercialized central coast, Souris offers a rugged, authentic charm that invites you to slow down and breathe deeper.

Known as a friendly harbour town, Souris serves as the economic hub of Eastern Kings County. The waterfront is a bustle of activity with lobster boats unloading their daily catch and visitors hunting for sea glass along the red sandy shores. Whether you are here to cycle the Confederation Trail or simply watch the sun dip below the horizon from the breakwater, Souris captures the heart of every traveler with its unpretentious beauty and welcoming community spirit.

The Gateway to the East

Historically, Souris has always been a vital connection point. The name itself, French for “mouse,” dates back to plagues of mice that early Acadian settlers encountered, but today the town is famous for much more pleasant reasons. It is the primary gateway to the Îles-de-la-Madeleine (Magdalen Islands), with a major ferry terminal that brings a unique cosmopolitan flow of travelers through the region. This transit hub status has allowed Souris to develop a culinary and cultural scene that punches well above its weight for a town of its size.

Beyond the ferry, the town is the anchor for the “Points East Coastal Drive,” a scenic route that showcases the best of the island’s red cliffs and lighthouses. The local culture is deeply tied to the sea, with generations of families working the waters for lobster, tuna, and oysters. This connection is palpable in the local museums and, more importantly, on the plates of the local restaurants where “catch of the day” is a promise, not a marketing slogan.

The Icons You’ll Want to See

Souris Historic Lighthouse - Situated on the cliffs overlooking the bay, this lighthouse is more than a beacon; it is a museum and observation deck. Visitors can climb to the top for 360-degree views. Located at 134 Breakwater St. Entrance is approximately $10 CAD.

Basin Head Provincial Park - Located just 13 km east of Souris, this is home to the “Singing Sands,” a white sand beach that squeaks when walked upon due to high silica content. It features a supervised beach, a fisheries museum, and the famous bridge jump. Parking is free; museum entry is around $5 CAD.

Confederation Trail - Souris marks the eastern terminus of this tip-to-tip trail. The crushed stone path is perfect for cycling or walking, offering a flat, scenic route through woodlands and along the coast. Access is free and starts near the centre of town.

East Point Lighthouse - A short 25 km drive east, this lighthouse marks the very tip of PEI where the tides of the Northumberland Strait and the Gulf of St. Lawrence meet. It is a stunning spot for photography and picnics. Site access is free; tower climb is roughly $6 CAD.

Planning Your Visit

Getting to Souris usually involves a drive from Charlottetown, which takes approximately one hour and 15 minutes along Route 2. Public transportation is scarce in this part of the province, so renting a car is highly recommended to explore the surrounding beaches and attractions effectively. If you are arriving via the ferry from Nova Scotia to Wood Islands, the drive is about 50 minutes north.

When packing, remember that the coast can be breezy even in summer. A light windbreaker or sweater is essential for evening walks on the beach. If you plan to visit the Singing Sands at Basin Head, bring water shoes if you intend to explore the run or jump off the bridge. Accommodations in Souris range from historic inns to seaside cottages, but they book up quickly in July and August, so reserve your spot well in advance.

Souris is a destination that feels like a hidden secret, even in the height of summer. Whether you are eating fresh oysters by the harbour, listening to the sands sing beneath your feet, or watching the ferry disappear into the mist, the memories you make here will be as enduring as the red cliffs themselves.