Facts About Canada

Prince Edward Island National Park

Prince Edward Island National Park protects sweeping sandy beaches, dune systems, wetlands, ponds, and red-sandstone headlands along the island’s north shore on the Gulf of St. Lawrence. The park is arranged in three main sectors—Cavendish–North Rustico, Brackley–Dalvay, and Greenwich—linked by scenic parkways and multi-use trails. It is one of Canada’s most accessible seashore parks and a key nesting area for the endangered piping plover.

At a glance — Prince Edward Island National Park
Location North shore of Prince Edward Island on the Gulf of St. Lawrence (Cavendish–North Rustico; Brackley–Dalvay; Greenwich)
Province Prince Edward Island
Established 1937 (Greenwich unit added later)
Shoreline extent ~60 km of beaches, dunes, and headlands
Notable features Parabolic dunes and floating boardwalk (Greenwich Dunes Trail); Cavendish and Brackley beaches; red-sandstone cliffs; lagoons & wetlands; coastal barrens
Nearby communities Cavendish, North Rustico, Brackley Beach, Dalvay, Stanhope, St. Peters Bay; regional hub: Charlottetown

Overview

Long, gently shelving beaches and wind-sculpted dunes define much of the park, backed by ponds, lagoons, and coastal forests. The Gulf Shore Parkway corridors provide beach access, viewpoints, and trailheads in the Cavendish–North Rustico and Brackley–Dalvay sectors, while the Greenwich sector protects rare parabolic dunes and wetlands at the eastern end of the island. Summer is the busiest season, with warm water by regional standards; spring and fall bring migratory birds and quieter trails.

Landscapes and ecosystems

  • Dunes and beaches: Marram-grass stabilized foredunes, blowouts, and backdunes front some of Atlantic Canada’s best swimming beaches. Dunes are fragile—stay on designated access.
  • Wetlands & lagoons: Brackish ponds and salt marshes behind barrier dunes support waterfowl, shorebirds, and unique plant communities.
  • Headlands & cliffs: Red sandstone headlands and coves punctuate the shoreline, with lookouts and short cliff-edge walks in signed areas.
  • Wildlife: Endangered piping plover nests on selected beaches (seasonal closures/cordons). Also look for terns, sandpipers, herons, fox, and seals offshore in season.

Things to do

  • Beaches & day-use: Popular supervised beaches at Cavendish, Brackley, Stanhope, and along Greenwich (check daily advisories for supervision, surf, and water quality).
  • Trails & cycling: Family-friendly loops and coastal paths; the multi-use Gulf Shore Way pairs with roadside viewpoints. The Greenwich Dunes Trail features an iconic floating boardwalk to dramatic dune scenery.
  • Camping & roofed stays: Frontcountry campgrounds at Cavendish and Stanhope (oTENTik and serviced/unserviced sites in season); nearby accommodations in gateway communities.
  • Paddling & nature watching: Calm-day sea kayaking and lagoon paddles (experience and weather judgment required); birding peaks during migration.
  • Learning & programs: Visitor centres and staff offer beach safety, species-at-risk stewardship, and nature activities during peak months.

Access and visitor services

The park’s sectors are reached from Route 6/15 (Cavendish–Brackley–Dalvay) and from St. Peters Bay for Greenwich. Parking lots, change houses, and accessible beach access points are signed. Summer services include lifeguards at designated beaches, day-use facilities, and programming. Reservations are recommended for campgrounds and oTENTik units during July–August.

Safety and low-impact travel

Rip currents, surf, and changing weather require caution—obey lifeguard directions and posted flags. Water temperatures vary through the season; cold-water shock is possible early/late summer. Protect dunes by using boardwalks and marked paths only; avoid closed areas for plover nesting. Sun, wind, and blowing sand can be intense—carry water, sun protection, and layers. Keep wildlife wild: do not feed foxes or gulls; store food securely.

See also

External links (official)

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