Prince Edward Island

In both population and area, Prince Edward Island is the smallest of the provinces, with just 160,000 residents.

It’s located in the Gulf of St. Lawrence, about 200 kilometres north of Halifax. As with all the Maritime provinces, there’s a lot of history and rich culture here, and the island is often referred to as “the birthplace of confederation.” Mi’kmaq presence is strong. Tourism is an important industry, as is farming and, of course, fishing. Remember, when you arrive, you are “on” PEI, not “in” it. Very important.

Central Coast

The Central Coast encompasses the middle portion of the island and is divided between the Red Sands Shore to the south and the Green Gables Shore to the north. The Green Gables Shore is — you got it — named for Lucy Maud Montgomery’s Anne of Green Gables. You’ll find exceptional beaches and a generous number of golf courses. The Red Sands Shore to the south hugs the Northumberland Straight, and is a less cluttered part of the island, framed by dramatic sandstone cliffs. You’ll find a lot of small (and tiny) villages, and unique and alluring local culture. If outdoor adventure is your thing, with a healthy dose of tranquility, this is the place.

North Cape

The North Cape is a large swath on the western side of the island, where Acadian and Mi’kmaq cultures continue to build on their heritage. Celtic culture lives here too — and there’s a college for the Highland arts. Farming is the main pursuit, with the mighty potato much revered, and you’ll find many fishing communities. This is where the Canadian Oyster Shucking Championship happens, so you will have to be into bivalves to live here. There’s a glorious energy here and, of course, remarkable scenery, along with several provincial parks. The city of Summerside is here, at the very eastern tip where the North Cape joins the Central Coast.

Summerside

PEI’s second largest city, after Charlottetown, offers an ideal mix of urban living, with easy access to the communities and attractions of the North Cape and Central Coast. The city itself is beautiful, with tree-lined streets and parks, lending a definite tranquility that is notable for an urban setting. Captivating sunrises and sunsets can be enjoyed from the water’s edge, and a seven-kilometre Baywalk takes you along the harbour shore, through the business district, and into a peaceful wood. There is plenty to do in the city, with museums, historical buildings, theatre, concert venues and restaurants.

Charlottetown Region

The region defined as Charlottetown (by Statistics Canada) is much larger than the city itself, encompassing a swath of land extending from the south shore to the north, with the city itself located roughly in the middle. This region has more than half of the population of PEI, and is growing rapidly — by 12.5% over the past five years — making PEI the Canada’s fastest-growing province. The city itself is located on the south shore, at the confluence of three rivers, with Charlottetown Harbour opening out into the Northumberland Straight. This is the capital of the island and its centre point, with two universities and several colleges, and with many citizens employed in the public sector. Though with a population of 40,500, it has a decidedly small-town feel, and is very attractive for anyone looking for an urban experience unlike any other in Canada.

Points East

The east side of PEI is replete with scenic drives, picturesque communities, breathtaking land and seascapes…and an unmistakable old-world feel. There’s no “hurry” here. If you want to move to this region, you’ll have innumerable choices of rural towns, seaside fishing villages and — if that’s what you’re after — remote forest “getaways.” Make no mistake, there are plenty of towns for your urban fix, but you can pretty much find your ideal vibe, as long as it’s centered on “relaxed.” There are 475 milometers of scenic roads, taking you through tiny towns and along incredible scenic scapes — you’ll want to come and explore.