PEI – Questions and Answers

People everywhere are interested in PEI – the tiny Canadian province that attracts thousands of tourists. ‘Anne of Green Gables’ fans around the world always love to travel to the island. They have become enchanted with the region through Lucy Maud Montgomery’s portrayal of the area in her famous novel. 

‘Anne’ fans want to continue to explore Prince Edward Island. People who have not yet experienced the island are anxious to discover its appeal. Besides the island’s attractions, travellers also need to know the ‘basics’ about PEI.

The Basics

Where is PEI?

PEI (the widely-used abbreviation for Prince Edward Island) is in eastern Canada. This popular vacation spot is a small island located north of the Nova Scotia peninsula.

Is it difficult to travel to the island?

Visitors can easily arrange a vacation in Prince Edward Island.  Many tourists reach the province by air but people can also drive their own cars or take the bus. The Confederation Bridge connects the island to the mainland. Various cruise lines stop in Charlottetown. As well, visitors can travel by rail to Moncton, New Brunswick, and catch a bus. Several shuttle buses also operate on the island.

Does travel to the province (by car or bus) involve a long crossing by bridge?

The Confederation Bridge crossing is just a ten-minute trip. There is a reasonable and affordable toll charge to be paid upon leaving the island. People cannot walk or bike across the bridge and vehicles cannot stop on the bridge.

Shuttle buses offer an all-day, every-day service to the island. These buses can accommodate bikes and baggage. Reservations are not required for shuttle bus service.

What can I expect in island weather?

Actually, all seasons are pleasant in beautiful Prince Edward Island. Winters are even milder than in the rest of Canada. Spring temperatures are comfortable on the island. This ‘clean and green’ province looks very appealing in the season of rebirth. While summer brings higher temperatures, the heat is not oppressive and seasonal temperatures range from 20-something degrees C to 32C. Autumn arrives with the change of colors and the island enjoys a cool period and clear skies.

Is this island a popular destination for beach vacations?

Since Prince Edward Island has endless beaches and white, red, and even pink sand, the island is a favorite with beach-lovers. The region has more than 90 beaches. Some areas are unsupervised but the island has at least 14 supervised beaches – perfect for families with young children.

Can tourists find accommodations on the island?

Prince Edward Island has excellent accommodations of various types – hotel suites, lovely cottages, quaint inns, charming bed and breakfasts, and even secluded cabins for a relaxing retreat. It is easy to find glowing testimonials from guests about the exceptional comfort and excellent service in PEI cottages and hotels.

Besides ‘Anne of Green Gables ‘ attractions, what else can I enjoy on Prince Edward Island?

The island has numerous sites, events, and activities devoted to “Anne of Green Gables.” Yet PEI is a paradise itself with its picturesque beauty, rolling hills, miles of sandy beaches, and red earth. The island is home to all types of activities including incredible water sports, geocaching, harness racing, some of the best golf in Canada, and much more.

The island’s festivals and historic landmarks provide even more sights and sounds. Prince Edward Islanders celebrate art, music, culture, and fine cuisine. Many visitors have such an enjoyable time that they make return trips to this “Gentle Island.”