Prince Edward Island (PEI) is the smallest province in Canada, both in land area and population. Located in the Gulf of St. Lawrence, it is known for its red-sand beaches, rolling farmland, and literary fame through Anne of Green Gables.
Quick Facts
- Capital and Largest City: Charlottetown
- Population: Over 170,000 (as of 2024)
- Official Language: English
- Area: 5,660 km²
- Time Zone: Atlantic Time Zone (AT)
Geography
PEI is an island province connected to mainland Canada by the Confederation Bridge. Its landscape features red cliffs, sandy beaches, patchwork fields, and scenic coastal drives.
Major Towns and Cities
- Charlottetown – Capital and birthplace of Confederation
- Summerside
- Stratford
- Cornwall
- Montague
Economy
PEI’s economy is supported by:
- Agriculture (especially potatoes)
- Fishing and aquaculture
- Tourism
- Aerospace and bioscience industries
Education
Key post-secondary institutions include:
- University of Prince Edward Island (UPEI)
- Holland College
Attractions
- Green Gables Heritage Place
- Prince Edward Island National Park
- Confederation Centre of the Arts
- Cavendish Beach
- Confederation Bridge (13 km long)
Did You Know?
- PEI is the “Birthplace of Confederation” — the 1864 Charlottetown Conference helped lead to Canada’s founding.
- Over 25% of Canada's potatoes are grown in PEI.