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City Pulse, Seaside Rhythm: 8 Coastal Things to Do in Charlottetown
July 10, 2024
Charlottetown has the best of both worlds. As a coastal city with a vibe that just won’t quit, you’re rarely more than a short walk, bike ride or drive from the water’s edge. Quaint streets lined with colourful houses lead you to harbourside boardwalks, while scenic drives through rolling farmland take you to the Island’s world-renowned beaches. Whether it’s the sound of lapping water, the taste of fresh seafood, or the smell of the salty breeze, there are so many ways to soak up the peaceful Island vibes during your visit.
And with lots of options for direct flights to Charlottetown with West Jet, Flair, Porter, and Air Canada, getting to Charlottetown has never been more convenient—or more affordable! Connected to the mainland of Canada by traversing the iconic Confederation Bridge or by taking a scenic ferry ride with Northumberland Ferries, Prince Edward Island is also very accessible by car from many major Canadian cities, as well as US cities along the East Coast. Did someone say road trip?
1) EXPLORE
Is there anything more refreshing than getting out on the water on a hot day? We don’t think so. Try your hand at flyboarding or hoverboarding with Explore More Watersports. Or get up close and personal to the Charlottetown harbour with kayak and stand-up paddleboard rentals at Paddles.
2) EAT & DRINK
A warm sea breeze is the perfect accompaniment to a feast of fresh seafood and other culinary delights translated through the hands of PEI’s finest chefs. There are plenty of dining options along the Charlottetown waterfront, including (from east to west) the all-new Grotto, Founders’ Food Hall & Market, Lobster on the Wharf, Nimrods’ Floating Restaurants, JC’s Tiki Bar, Peake’s Quay Restaurant, Dave’s Lobster, Brakish, Salt & Sol, and more.
*With nearly 50 patios within walking distance, and new ones popping up regularly, Charlottetown has a ton of cool options to choose from. From breezy dockside dining to hip rooftop terraces to swanky street-side spaces, find out the top 10 not-to-miss patios HERE.
3) PEDAL
Much of the city’s waterfront is linked by a series of boardwalks that provide the best views of the harbour and stunning cityscapes no matter the season. Sunset strolls or bike rides in Victoria Park are highly recommended, with a special stop at Kiwanis Dairy Bar for ice cream to enjoy on the nearby floating dock. Bike rentals are available at MacQueen’s Bike Shop, OuterLimit Sports, FunWheel Rentals, Rising Tide Electric Bicycles, and select accommodations around town. Epic Electric Scooters can also be found on almost every street corner downtown.
4) SLEEP
You can even sleep on the water! The Floating Cottages on the Quay provide a tranquil overnight experience while still feeling like you’re immersed in the heart of the city. Located within Peake’s Quay Marina on the historic Charlottetown waterfront, you can spend your nights under the glow of the stars and your mornings watching the sun rise over the harbour. The Delta Prince Edward by Marriott is also perched on the waterfront and offers wonderful views and full amenities.
5) CRUISE
If cruising the harbour by boat sounds like bliss, you’re in luck. There are plenty of tours departing from Peake’s Wharf and the SeaPort Marina, including a land-and-sea tour of the city aboard the amphibious Harbour Hippo, a seal watching excursion with Peake’s Wharf Tours, a lobster fishing experience with Top Notch Tours, or an eco-friendly option with Sol Paddle Tavern or Ride Solar.
6) DRIVE
Charlottetown is the perfect base to explore PEI’s 800km of beachfront. From National and Provincial Park beaches with all the amenities to those with barely any road signs, your options are endless. Whether you hit the red cliffs of the south shore or the white sandy dunes of the north, a day at the beach is never far away.
7) WATCH
At the bottom of Water Street sits the big red numbers (2024), the Love Locks and red Adirondack chairs, inviting you to soak in the beautiful surroundings and stay a while. You’ll enjoy listening to the knock of sailboats at the nearby Charlottetown Yacht Club as you embrace the art of doing less.
8) LISTEN
The sound of lapping water is matched only by the sound of live music during Sounds of the Waterfront. This summer music series is spread out between two venues – Founders’ Food Hall & Market (outdoors, weather-depending) and Peake’s Quay. This music series has it all: from fiddling folk to bright Cuban guitar to the smooth sounds of wind instruments and all genres in between, The Sounds of the Waterfront will be music to everyone’s ears!
Music daily 12-8PM from July 1 – September 1
It’s nearly impossible to miss a waterfront view while staying in Charlottetown, but we’re not complaining! There are many ways to live the coastal dream here in our little city, and we’re just getting you started. It’s smooth sailing from here on!
Need a place to stay? Check out our amazing selection of accommodations. Curious what else to do around Charlottetown? Don’t miss a beat over on our events page.
Follow along on social @discovercharlottetown and tag us during your stay to help share the coastal city love!
