Victoria-by-the-Sea

Halfway between Charlottetown and Summerside, lies a picture-perfect idyllic village known for its coastal exploration. Victoria-by-the-Sea is the place to go if you really wanna escape the noise of the usual, boring goings-on. From savoring the local lobster-rich cuisine to going on a clam-digging adventure, this place is truly a storybook village that you must visit when you're tired of the typical touristy places. 

 

What to Know

The first thing to know before going to Victoria-by-the-Sea is that this isn't your average touristy place with readily available information online or offline. You can't just go there and expect to make the most of your trip. Of course, the place is charming and you'll have fun regardless of what I'm saying, but the focus here is on making the most of your visit. For that, make an itinerary beforehand. This in-depth guide to things to do in Victoria-by-the-Sea will help you make a perfect itinerary.

First things first—the must-visit attractions and must-do activities. The beach is very obviously the main attraction here. The warm waters of the Northumberland Strait are perfect for swimming & splashing around, kayaking & canoeing, or simply sea-gazing. Clam digging is a popular activity here, as well as the classic sandcastle building. For nightly theatre and concerts, Victoria Playhouse is the perfect spot. 

And then comes the local cuisine—my mouth is watering even thinking about it. The best place to get seafood is, of course, a coastal town, but the absolute best place to truly taste the heavenly richness of seafood is a rural coastal spot, not an urban one. And Victoria-by-the-Sea is just that. This is the place where you'll eat seafood that has been freshly caught and cooked. And you can tell by the taste. Lobster rolls are their specialty.

Some restaurants and eateries that can give you a taste of the village's seafood include Blue Goose Restaurant, Landmark Oyster House, Richard’s Fresh Seafood, Victoria by the Sea Wharf, Lobster Barn Pub & Eatery, and Casa Mia by the Sea. A meal without a dessert isn't a meal. What better way to perfect your dinner than by indulging in some homemade chocolates in Victoria-by-the-Sea? Relish the best confectioneries prepared from roasted and ground cacao seeds and sip on warm mugs of locally roasted coffee. Factory Coffee is their must-try dessert-cum-beverage, the coffee you can enjoy with a spoon!

Another highlight of Victoria-by-the-Sea is the Palmers Range Light, a lighthouse bathed in its striking red and white beauty. Housing the Victoria Seaport Museum and the Keepers of the Light exhibit, this attraction is a must-visit for those who want to learn about the area's history. 

A must-do activity here is hunting for antiques and memorabilia at several artisan shops dotted here and there in the village. Artisans revived this island, for the reason that they found this charming village quite a perfect home for their decorative art and handmade products and decided to settle there. They turned this lush village into a thriving community of artisans which in turn was also responsible for the tourism in the region.

 

Best Time to Visit 

Prince Edward Island is perfect for a quiet visit in June and September, but that's usually the case for its most famous attractions like Green Gables Heritage Place and PEI National Park. Any time of the year is a great time to visit Victoria-by-the-Sea.

 

How to Get There

Getting to Victoria-by-the-Sea is a breeze, thanks to its convenient location halfway between Charlottetown and Summerside on the south shore of PEI and just a short 15-minute drive from the Confederation Bridge. Tucked away off the Trans-Canada Highway, this charming spot has managed to hold onto its timeless appeal. 

The best way to get there is as part of a package of Prince Edward Island tours. Choose a small-group tour operator like Tripshepherd and travel in June and September to have the most pleasant and quiet experience. The tour package might include other top hotspots of the island, which is always a bonus. Plus, a guided tour is so much better than a non-guided one. You'll get to know this quaint seaside village’s history, folklore, and more!

 

Highlights & Features

 

A Stroll Through Time:

Imagine stepping into a postcard. Victoria-by-the-Sea, with its vibrant heritage homes, tree-lined streets, and breezy atmosphere, feels like a sweet escape to simpler times. Founded in 1819, this charming village sits between Charlottetown and Summerside, offering a relaxing vibe that’s hard to beat. It’s where you go to unplug and just take in the moment.

Kayak Adventures:

Feeling adventurous? Hop in a kayak or paddleboard and explore Victoria from the water! The calm, warm waters make for the perfect afternoon of paddling. If you’re new to kayaking, don’t worry – there are plenty of guided tours to show you the ropes. Glide along the shoreline and soak in the stunning views, or if you’re feeling extra brave, head out solo and discover the coastal charm on your own.

Clam Digging Fun:

Ever tried clam digging? No? Well, now’s your chance! The low tides around Victoria reveal plenty of clams just waiting to be found. You can join the locals, or if you’re unsure how to start, book a guided clam-digging tour. It’s all hands-on – dig up some clams and then enjoy a cozy chowder right on the beach. It’s the kind of experience you won’t forget!

Catch a Show at Victoria Playhouse:

Victoria Playhouse is the heartbeat of entertainment in the village. This adorable little theater has been around since 1915 and offers a mix of plays, comedies, and live concerts. Whether you’re after a laugh, a good cry, or just a fun night out, the Playhouse has something for you. And with its intimate setting, every show feels personal.

Seafood Heaven:

You can’t visit Victoria-by-the-Sea without indulging in some seriously fresh seafood. From lobster rolls to oysters, this place is a foodie's dream. The Lobster Barn Pub & Eatery is a crowd favorite, offering simple but delicious seafood dishes. Or, if you’re in the mood for something a bit fancier, head over to Casa Mia by the Sea for a gourmet meal with unbeatable ocean views.

The Iconic Lighthouse & Seaport Museum:

No visit to Victoria is complete without checking out the Palmers Range Light. This red and white lighthouse is not only a picture-perfect spot, but it also houses the Seaport Museum, where you can dive into the village’s maritime history. And even though it’s set back from the water, the surrounding green space makes for a lovely spot to slow down and take it all in.

Handmade Chocolates & Candles:

Looking for something sweet? Swing by Island Chocolates and treat yourself to handmade goodies crafted with love. They’ve been perfecting their recipes since the 1970s, and trust me, you’ll taste the difference. And for a unique souvenir, stop by Ben Smith’s shop to see sand candles being made! They’re one-of-a-kind, and Ben’s stories make the visit even more special.

Beach Day Bliss:

You can’t come to Victoria-by-the-Sea without spending some time on its famous red-sand beaches. Walk along the shoreline, build sandcastles, hunt for seashells, or just relax as the gentle waves roll in. The warm waters are perfect for wading, and the scenery is nothing short of magical.

In short, Victoria-by-the-Sea is a hidden gem waiting to be explored. Whether you’re kayaking, clam digging, enjoying a show, or simply strolling through the village, this place has a way of slowing down time and making you appreciate the simple pleasures of life.