Don’t know where to stay on Prince Edward Island? Well you’ve come to the right place!
Charlottetown, Summerside, and Cavendish are the three main cities to stay in on Prince Edward Island. But which one is the best for you?
Each city is quite different from each other, and offers a unique stay in PEI. Where you stay on Prince Edward Island really depends on your budget but also what you want to do while you’re visiting.
Here’s an overview of each city, and the the top hotels on Prince Edward Island in each for your budget.
Psst! This blog post contains affiliate links in it which sends me a bit of extra money if you use them… at no extra cost to you!
Pro Tip: Book Hotels On Prince Edward Island EARLY
The earlier you book your hotels on Prince Edward Island, the better!
PEI is small, so there aren’t that many good hotels to choose from on the Island.
In order to be able get first choice of hotels in PEI, you want is to book as early as possible – especially if you’re travelling during high season.
When we were booking in October, I already saw that hotels in PEI are completely booked for the summer season!
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Where To Stay On Prince Edward Island: Three Main Cities
Prince Edward Island isn’t exactly big. In fact you can drive across the entire province from tip to tip in just over 3 hours (and I highly doubt there’s ever any traffic to delay you!).
So where you stay on Prince Edward Island depends on what you’re interested in doing, and the type of stay you’re looking for. The answer might even be to stay in all three cities!
For example, if you’re interested in exploring the entire Island during your visit, I recommend staying in both Charlottetown and Summerside.
We stayed for 5 nights in Charlottetown and then moved to Summerside for 2 nights. This way we were able to see the entire Island without having really long driving days. From Charlottetown we explore the Central and Eastern coasts, while Summerside brought us closer to the North side.
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Stay In Charlottetown
Charlottetown is the largest city on Prince Edward Island.
You’ll have the easiest time finding hotels in Charlottetown Canada. It’s the most central city on the Island and really the most city-like out of the three. It feels livelier during the day, and especially at night.
Click here to see hotels and find out more about staying in Charlottetown.
Stay In Summerside
Summerside is more of a harbour and coastal town, you’ll find less regular Prince Edward Island hotels and more Bed and Breakfasts style stays in here.
Stay in Summerside PEI if you’re interested in more relaxed, Islands vibes with a hint of city life. Summerside is also the largest city on the Northern part of the Island.
Click here to see hotels and find out more about staying in Summerside PEI.
Stay In Cavendish
Cavendish is the most touristy city on the Island. It isn’t really a city at all in fact, it’s more tourist town than city. It’s also where you’ll find most Anne of Green Gables attractions.
So it’s meant for family vacations, but also if you’re looking for a cottage near the beach. Places to stay in PEI in Cavendish are cottage villages and motels.
Click here to see hotels and find out more about staying in Cavendish PEI.
Staying In Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island
Charlottetown is the capital of Prince Edward Island, so whether or not you stay here, you should still check it out.
Being the capital city of the province, comes with a few perks though…
Why Stay In Charlottetown?
Charlottetown is both the largest and most centrally located city on the Island. So you’ll have the most things to do in the city itself, and its surroundings.
P.S. Read my list of top 10 things to do in Charlottetown.
Being the largest city might come as a shock to you because it’s still very small! But it’s still the most lively place in all PEI, during the day, and especially at night!
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Charlettotown is also the least touristy place (but keep in mind, it is still quite touristy… it’s just the least between Cavendish and Summerside).
If you’re looking to visit PEI during shoulder season (September / October or April / May), you should stay in Charlottetown. Most of the Island shuts down during the months so you’ll have the most luck with finding restaurants and shops that are still open.
But as I mentioned, not only is Charlottetown the largest city, but it’s also the most centrally located on the Island. Charlottetown makes the perfect base city if you’re interested in exploring the central and east coast.
P.S. The North Cape is still reachably by car from Charlottetown but I find it a bit far to see in one day. It’s about a 2 hour drive each way, and you still need time for exploring. If you’re interested in visiting the North Cape, I would stay in Summerside instead (read my guide to the North Cape coastal drive here).
Plan the ultimate vacation
My digital travel planner template has everything you need to plan your vacation: research templates, travel planner itinerary, travel budget templates…etc. . You can print it out or use it digitally on your phone, tablet, or computer.
Hotels In Charlottetown Canada
You have the most hotels options in Charlottetown Prince Edward Island. As I said, this is the largest city on the Island.
You’ll find everything type of hotel in Charlottetown Canada: from bed and breakfasts, boutique hotels, to big chain hotels.
To see all hotel options on Booking. com, click here. Or continue reading to see my hotels in Charlottetown Canada recommendations.
Where I Stayed: The Great George Historic Boutique Hotel
The Great George is the best hotel in Charlottetown Prince Edward Island, and quite possibly the best hotel I’ve ever even stayed at!
Such care is put in to every detail at this hotel, and it shows!
And the hotel is in the heart of Charlottetown, you’ll have everything you need right at your fingertips!
Not Sure About Booking The Great George Boutique Hotel In PEI?
Read My Full Review Why I Think It’s The Best Hotel In Charlottetown
The Sydney Boutique Inn & Suites
The Sydney Boutique Inn & Suites is the perfect boutique hotel in Charlottetown Prince Edward Island for longer stays.
They have suites equipped with full kitchens.
It’s located a bit further outside the city centre than the Great George, but let’s be real, nothing is really far in Charlottetown.
P.S. My sister also stayed here and LOVED it!
Stay At The Shipwright Inn Charlottetown PEI
If you’re looking to stay at a quintessential Prince Edward Island Bed and Breakfast in the heart of Charlottetown, that’s The Shipwright Inn.
It’s another historic building in Charlottetown that actually takes you back in time to the Victorian maritime era.
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My digital and printable packing guide on Etsy. Filled with packing planning prompts for your next trip!
The Rodd Charlottetown Hotel
The Rodd Charlottetown is a classic hotel in Charlottetown Prince Edward Island that is right off the main street. Seriously you can’t get a better location than this!
The Rodd Charlottetown also isn’t new to town, but it’s been around for quite some time. In fact, it’s believed to be where Queen Victoria stayed when she visited.
But the best part about The Rodd Charlottetown hotel? The rooftop garden where you can relax and watch the boats come into the harbour!
Floating Cottages On The Quay
The Floating Cottages On The Quay are the most unique hotels in Charlottetown Canada!
There are 4 cottages you can rent that are literally floating on a dock.
It’s a one bedroom cottage equipped with full kitchen and private balcony.
Let the waves rock you to sleep!
Find More Hotels in Charlottetown Canada
To see all hotel options on Booking. com, click here.
Where To Stay In PEI: Summerside
Another place to stay in Prince Edward Island is Summerside.
Summerside is closer to northern part of the Island, and is smaller than PEI. But that doesn’t mean it’s not without its’ benefits!
Why Stay In Summerside PEI?
Summerside is surprisingly the second largest city in Prince Edward Island. It’s quite a bit smaller than Charlottetown and offers a completely different experience. It’s more coastal, harbour, small town vibes.
As I mentioned, Summerside is the best place to stay if you’re interested in exploring the North side of the Island as well. This coast is a bit too far from Charlottetown, so staying in Summerside for a few days makes it easier to explore.
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Downsides To Staying In Summerside
Summerside is a much smaller city than Charlottetown, so there isn’t much to do in the city itself.
And it practically shuts down in the off season (around October to May). So that’s definitely something to be aware of if you are travelling outside of high season.
We stayed in Summerside for 2 nights at the Summerside Inn Bed and Breakfast (and loved it!). We were able to explore more of the central and northern coasts o the Island from here.
The Best Hotels On Prince Edward Island In Summerside
There are a lot less places to stay in Summerside, there’s less just less demand for it. So if you are interested in staying in Summerside, you’ll want to book as much in advance as possible.
On top of that, there are less actual hotels in Summerside Prince Edward Island. What I mean by that is that it’s more about finding a local Bed and Breakfast.
You’re living maritime and Island life here, so embrace it! Book a bed and breakfast or local in to support local and take life a bit slower!
For more hotel options in Summerside on Booking com, click here.
Where I Stayed In Summerside: Summerside Inn Bed & Breakfast
Step back in time at the Summerside Inn Bed & Breakfast. This beautiful house that is over a hundred years old has been beautifully renovated and decorated as a bed and breakfast.
There are only 4 rooms, so make sure to book in advance!
Holman’s Heritage Suites
Support local by living like a local at Holman’s Heritage Suites.
Seriously it’s one of the best places to stay in PEI if you’re a larger group and are looking for a longer term stay.
P.S. the owners also run an ice cream store downstairs for the BEST Summerside late night snack.
Warm House Retreat Bed & Breakfast Hotels In PEI
If you’re looking for a where to stay in PEI for a romantic getaway, look no further!
This PEI hotel a bit further outside the Summerside city centre, but that just makes it an even better escape from city life.
The rooms are also all soundproofed with private bathrooms, and they even a gourmet chef.
You won’t find a more personal experience anywhere else in Summerside.
They offer airport shuttles and guided tours, free bike rentals and breakfast with your stay!
More Summerside Prince Edward Island Hotels
For more hotel options in Summerside on Booking com, click here.
Staying In Cavendish Prince Edward Island
Cavendish is the ultimate summer destination on Prince Edward Island for families and anyone looking to live on the beach!
But if you aren’t a part of that group, you might want to avoid staying in Cavendish Prince Edward Island…
Cavendish isn’t really a city on it’s own but rather, no locals actual live here so it’s only a tourist town.
Cavendish comes to life during the summer months, but it can be a ghost town any other time of year. We visited in October, so we didn’t end up staying in Cavendish.
Why Stay In Cavendish Prince Edward Island?
The town is sort of tourist crazy, but that doesn’t mean it’s not perfect for families, beach lovers, and Anne of Green Gables fans.
There are tons of little theme parks and different family friendly activities for kids to enjoy. You’re also really close to the Cavendish section of the Prince Edward Island National Park with beaches galore!
Cavendish is also where Lucy Maud Montgomery lived and it’s where you’ll find most of the inspiration for Anne of Green Gables.
You might also be interested in reading…
Top Anne of Green Gables Destinations To Visit On Prince Edward Island
Cavendish Hotels In PEI
If you’re looking to stay in Cavendish Prince Edward Island, you’re looking for a different type of place to stay. Unlike Charlottetown where it’s boutique hotels, and Summerside where it’s Bed and Breakfast, in Cavendish PEI, it’s all small cottage villages and motels.
For more hotels in Cavendish on Booking com, click here.
Simply Charming Cottages
If you’re going on a family vacation there’s no better place to stay in PEI than in Cavendish at Simply Charming Cottages.
You can sleep up to 7 guests at some of the cottages, and they come equipped with everything you’d need for the ultimate family vacay!
Boardwalk Motel
Photo from Booking
Looking for a great motel to stay at in Cavendish? The Boardwalk Motel is it!
It’s so centrally located in Cavendish with all the amusement parks around you to enjoy!
You’ll even have access to a BBQ for the perfect summer dinner!
Cavendish Lodge & Cottages
Why not cozy up in the heart of Cavendish with your own private little cottage in a small cottage village. What’s a cottage village?
Cavendish Lodge & Cottages is a small community with little cottages for rent. There’s access to a pool, fire put, and playground! Your furry friend is also invited to stay here!
Find More Cavendish Hotels On Prince Edward Island
For more hotels in Cavendish on Booking com, click here.
Bonus! Unique Hotels On Prince Edward Island
Prince Edward Island is so much more than those three cities. So when looking for where to stay in PEI, you should consider some of the unique hotels on Prince Edward Island.
As it turns out, accommodations on the Island really come in any shape and size, making it more about the experience and taking in where you are!
There are some truly unique “off the grid” and one of a kind places to stay in PEI, from lighthouses to rotating buildings! Here are some of my favourites!
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Stay In A Lighthouse On Prince Edward Island
Did you know you can actually stay in a lighthouse on Prince Edward Island! Attached to West Point Lighthouse is actually a hotel overlooking the ocean.
If you’re lucky, you might also be able to book a room in the lighthouse itself.
The lighthouse is right on the beach so it offer amazing views throughout your stay. It’s only available to book during high season in PEI.
P.S. What About Renting An Entire Lighthouse For Yourself?
If you’re interested in having an entire lighthouse to yourself, you can book the Oceanfront lighthouse on Airbnb. This is ideal if you’re a family or larger group. There is a minimum 7 night stay at the Oceanfront Lighthouse, but it also has an indoor pool… so it’s probably worth it!
Check availability on Airbnb here.
Unique Places To Stay In PEI: Escape To Nature!
For a true escape to nature you can camp in two locations in the Prince Edward Island National Park.
You can either rent a tent or RV campsite, or stay in one of their unique accommodations like oTENTiks and bunkies.
You might also be interested in reading…
The Breathtaking Prince Edward Island National Park: Everything You Need To Know
Around the Sea – Canada’s Rotating House
Around The Sea is an actual rotating building! Yup! In North-Rustico, bordering Cavendish, this is one of the best places to stay in PEI if you’re looking for beach views and want an entire apartment to yourself.
Plus – it actually rotates… how cool is that!?
Stay On A Working Ranch In PEI
Ever wonder what it’s like to live on a ranch? Well now you don’t have to!
There are few unique stays you can book at Venture Stables depending on your interests. My personal favourite is the Sunset Stables for two – a private mini cabin on ranch.
During your stay you can go horseback riding into the sunset! Does it get more romantic than this!?
Hotels In PEI: Stay In A Heritage House
If you’re interested in a unique luxury rental on Prince Edward Island, you have to book a room at Dalvay-by-the-Sea.
Dalvay by the Sea is a heritage house by the sea, in the Prince Edward Island National Park. So if you were interested in staying in the National Park but didn’t want to camp, you can call this the glamping version!
P.S. Dalvay-by-the-Sea is only open from May to October.
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My digital and printable packing guide on Etsy. Filled with packing planning prompts for your next trip!
My Prince Edward Island Hotel Must-Haves On Amazon
Related Posts!
- Honest Review of The Great George Hotel In Charlottetown
- Top 10 Things To Do In Charlottetown Prince Edward Island
- Discover The Top Lighthouses On Prince Edward Island
- Top Anne of Green Gables Destinations To Visit On Prince Edward Island
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Last update on 2024-05-07 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API