Over the many years we’ve been coming to PEI in the summer, we’ve managed to visit every corner and many stops along the way.
There have been many favourite locations we have discovered and returned to over the years, but one that we always make a point of going to is Victoria By the Sea.
Why we love Victoria By The Sea
Located only 20 minutes east of the Confederation Bridge (which is close to where we stay), it’s an easy drive to a coastal town that is perfectly picturesque.
There is a lighthouse to climb and snap photos of (every PEI trip should include lighthouse visits) and it’s situated with a backdrop that is worth seeing.
Give yourself enough time to walk around and shop the Village. I love these two shops where you can purchase local gifts, decor and more!
Of course, we don’t go anywhere without knowing we’ll be eating some amazing local food.
Beachcombers on the Wharf has a gorgeous on-the-water patio and serves breakfast, lunch and dinner (note: The kids’ meals are served on frisbees that they get to take home!).
There’s the newly re-done Landmark Oyster House that we weren’t able to get to (yet, I’m hoping to make it there this trip!) but with daily specials that sound amazing (including a late afternoon oyster special) we’re excited to see this new(ish) addition in town.
We always end up at the Lobster Barn for one of the best lobster rolls we can get (opt for the side of potato salad). I love that the kids’ meals are well priced and don’t include a drink or dessert. This gives us more flexibility with them. The service is always amazing and drinks on the patio is the perfect spot for a bite.
For my own dessert I can’t help but order their sticky date pudding every year. I can’t even describe how amazingly good this is. There isn’t even a picture, I basically inhaled it.
Other places to visit
There are many other places to check out in this small town, but here are a few more to consider:
Island Chocolates will have treats for the family or gifts to bring home (if they make it that long!) and also serves locally roasted coffee. We always stop in the shop to buy chocolate for the kids, sometimes chocolate chips for cottage pancakes and gifts. You can see them making the chocolate too!
The Victoria Playhouse offers a season of live theatre. It may not be for the kids, but if you are on a solo trip (or the kids are older) this may be worth checking out. The current play is a romantic comedy which basically screams that I should be seeing it!
And finally, if you are feeling adventurous, you can rent kayaks or bicycles to tour around (or even learn how to kayak!)
A few notes:
As with almost every destination on the Island, it’s worth checking to confirm that shops and restaurants are open and for what times. In high season, they are open more frequently but sometimes closed early or not at all, especially during the quiet seasons.
There are a few small parking lots but you may end up needing to street park.