We are coming to PEI for the winter games. Staying for a week. Looking for any winter day trips or day drives? Looking for local restaurants with great atmosphere and great food. Arriving Feb 26th for 7 days. The more options the better :)

Hello Scott,

Welcome to Prince Edward Island and the Winter Canada Games!

Prince Edward Island has three Coastal Drives, North Cape Coastal Drive, Central Coastal Drive and Points East Coastal Drive.

North Cape Coastal Drive is 350 km, about a five-hour drive, without stopping. You will want to stop, the tall red dramatic cliffs are photo worthy! Lighthouses, harbours, the windmill farms and charming small communities.

Dining in North Cape Coastal drive, in Tignish enjoy Our Family Traditions. They are known for their meat pies and at home atmosphere. If you are looking for a sweet to nibble on, try visiting M.J.'s Bakery and Caboose Cafe. In Tyne Valley, check out either Backwoods Burger or on the weekends Tyne Valley Teas. Backwoods has won awards for their burgers! 

Central Coastal Drive is 253 km, a solid four-hour drive. This is a great drive featuring the Green Gables Shore and Red Sand Shore. Visit the artisan village of Victoria by the Sea. Most artisans are open on the weekend, the restaurants are seasonal only, so make sure to come back in the summer and enjoy some of the freshest seafood and unique meals in this community. Then travel to the Prince Edward Island Preserve Co. and walk the grounds, walk the boardwalk in North Rustico and stop into Pedro's for an amazing meal, the National Park, Kensington and walk the property of Green Gables. 

Dining in the Central Coastal region is a struggle, because there are just too many wonderful restaurants and chefs. With only seven days, I am going to narrow this area down to a few of the unique stops to try, based on the meal.

Looking for breakfast, the Blue Goose in DeSable, Budley's at the airport, Linda's Coffee Shop and Casa Mia are all in Charlottetown. The weekend brunch at Old Triangle and Chambers at the Rodd are a treat. Good basic breakfasts.

Lunch can be enjoyed almost anywhere, but I love the atmosphere at Founders' Hall and the numerous food spots. Don't forget to check out Oh Fudge, it is made with Island potatoes!! If you skate, you might want to bring them for their outdoor staking rink. Looking for the feel of the Island, try the Old Dublin Pub, Churchill Arms, Gahan House or Hunter's Ale House. Great meals, beautiful buildings with some great history. In Kensington, try the Island Stone Pub in the old train station or across the road Family & Friends. Any of the bakeries in Kensington are great.

Dinner would be some place like the Pilot House, Merchantman, Claddagh Oyster House, Sea Rocket Oyster House and Slaymaker's.  

Points East Coastal Drive is 475 km and we tend to advise visitors, this is a seven to eight-hour drive, so consider two days. Boasting over 50 beaches, this is a sea glass haven for those who love beach combing. Lovely small harbour communities, farms, unique nooks and crannies and even a cow or two! 

Dining in Points East is going to be extra special with the Feast in the East promotion running on the weekends. Must try places would include Clam Digger's in Cardigan, deep fried clams, need I say more? The Home Plate in Murray River for their fish and chips or British fare. Strait Goods or 21 Breakwater in Souris. The Maroon Pig for sweets in Georgetown or travel to Belfast and visit Country Taste Kitchen and Bakery. 

Scott, you have made me hungry! Enjoy the locals fish and chips, the search for the best lobster rolls, slurp an oyster or two and don't hesitate to explore!

Enjoy your stay!

Erin Davis