Private North Shore Tour of PEI

If you’re considering a private North Shore tour of Prince Edward Island (PEI), you’re in for a treat. This experience offers a personalized way to see some of the island’s most iconic sights, from rugged beaches and historic buildings to the scenic landscapes that define PEI. While I haven’t personally taken this exact tour, the detailed itinerary and reviews paint a picture of a well-rounded, engaging adventure that balances natural beauty with cultural highlights.

What I love about this tour is its flexibility and comprehensive coverage—covering everything from the PEI National Park to the Green Gables house—without feeling rushed. Plus, the private setting means you’ll get a personalized narrative tailored to your interests. On the flip side, it’s a full day with multiple stops, so it might feel a bit packed if you prefer to linger longer at each site. This tour is ideal for families, couples, or friends eager to see PEI through the lens of a local guide.

This experience will particularly appeal to those who value stunning vistas, authentic local stories, and a mix of nature and history. If you’re after a flexible, informative journey that showcases both the grandeur and charm of PEI’s north coast, this tour could be perfect.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: The private tour offers a tailored look at PEI’s north shore, ideal for families and small groups.
• Natural and Cultural Highlights: From beaches and lighthouses to historic villages and the Green Gables house, the itinerary balances scenic beauty with local history.
• Value for Price: At just over $500 for up to five people, it provides a comprehensive and convenient way to explore.
• Includes National Park Entrance: The cost includes admission to PEI National Park, which saves money and hassle.
• Flexible Stops: With optional entries and time for photos, you can customize your experience.
• Perfect for All Ages: The tour’s pace and content suit travelers from 9 to 99, with engaging sights for everyone.

The Comfort and Convenience of Private Transportation

Starting from Charlottetown, this private tour offers a relaxed, hassle-free way to see the north coast. The pickup service means you won’t need to navigate unfamiliar roads or worry about directions. The journey itself is part of the experience—rolling through PEI’s lush landscapes, with your guide offering tidbits about the island’s history and culture along the way. The group size of up to five ensures a cozy atmosphere, perfect for meaningful conversations or simply enjoying the scenery without the intrusiveness of larger tour buses.

The Itinerary in Detail: What to Expect

The tour kicks off on Great George Street in Charlottetown, passing by notable sites like St. Dunstan’s Basilica and Province House. These sights set the tone—highlighting PEI’s capital’s rich heritage before heading north.

Dalvay Beach and Historic House

The first stop is Dalvay Beach, where you’ll admire the historic Dalvay House, now a charming hotel. The quick 10-minute stop allows for photos of this picturesque building nestled near the beach. While no admission fee is required, it’s a lovely spot to stretch your legs and enjoy the sea breeze.

Prince Edward Island National Park

Next, we weave through the PEI National Park, starting with a brief stop at Covehead Lighthouse—arguably one of the most photogenic points on the island. The lighthouse, often featured in postcards, offers a classic PEI vista. A few minutes at Brackley Beach provides a quick look at one of the island’s renowned sandy stretches, perfect for dipping your toes in or snapping photos of the dunes.

The Dunes Studio Gallery & Cafe

Then, a visit to The Dunes combines art, gardens, and local craft. This stop is ideal for picking up souvenirs or simply marveling at the well-tended gardens. It’s a relaxed, enjoyable break from the car, and the gallery’s setting offers some of the best garden views on the tour.

Rustico’s Historic Sites

A brief stop at the Farmers’ Bank of Rustico Museum and the Doucet House introduces you to PEI’s history—though entrance to the bank isn’t included, the outside view still offers a glimpse into early island finance. Nearby, the oldest Catholic Church and the oldest house in PEI are visible, giving a sense of the island’s layered past.

North Rustico Harbour and Lobster Industry

The charming North Rustico Harbour is a highlight, offering postcard-worthy views of working boats and colorful fishing shacks. Here, your guide shares stories of PEI’s famous lobster industry, giving you a real sense of the island’s culinary culture. You’ll also see another lighthouse and drive past the Rotating House, a fun sight that sparks curiosity.

Second Section of PEI National Park

Driving through the park’s second section, you’ll stop at MacKenzies Brook and Oceanview Lookout—perfect spots for photos and soaking in PEI’s rugged coastline. These quick stops are ideal for capturing the natural beauty without taking up too much time.

Green Gables

The tour’s most iconic stop is Green Gables—home to the fictional setting of Lucy Maud Montgomery’s beloved books. You can choose to explore the house or just take photos from outside, but either way, it’s a must-see for literature fans and history buffs alike. The 45-minute window offers enough time without feeling rushed, and the admission fee (not included) is modest.

The Prince Edward Island Preserve Company

Finish the day at the PEI Preserve Company, where you can sample local preserves, jams, or buy a few souvenirs. The setting boasts beautiful views—an ideal way to end the tour on a sweet note—before heading back to Charlottetown.

The Value of This Tour

At $500.69 for up to five people, this tour offers a lot of bang for your buck. The price covers transportation, several key entrance fees (like PEI National Park), and a knowledgeable local guide with a multi-generation island background. You’ll appreciate the effort to include free stops and scenic photo opportunities, making the day both informative and visually rewarding.

While admission to certain sites like Green Gables or Farmers Bank isn’t included, the overall cost remains reasonable considering the personalized experience and the convenience of door-to-door service. It’s ideal for small families, couples, or friends wanting a flexible day without the hassle of planning individual visits.

What Travelers Say

Though reviews are limited, the feedback highlights stunning views and informative guides as the main draws. One noted that the stops at Covehead Lighthouse and MacKenzies Brook provided “beautiful photo opportunities,” while another appreciated the “charming stops that balanced scenery with history.” The flexibility to choose whether to visit Green Gables or just photograph it was also appreciated by visitors.

Practical Tips

• Bring your camera: The scenic stops are picture-perfect.
• Dress appropriately: Some stops are outdoors, and weather conditions can change quickly.
• Be prepared for optional site visits: Admission fees apply if you choose to go inside certain sites.
• Timing is tight but flexible: The itinerary is packed, but the guide is usually accommodating if you want more time at a favorite stop.

This private North Shore tour of PEI is best suited for travelers who love a mix of natural beauty and cultural history in a comfortable, personalized setting. It’s a wonderful choice for small groups or families wanting to see key sights without the constraints of larger tours. The pace allows for plenty of photo opportunities and meaningful stories, making it ideal for those who want to learn about PEI’s heritage while soaking in its breathtaking landscapes.

It offers excellent value by including many highlights in just five hours, with the flexibility to customize your experience. If you’re after a relaxed, scenic journey that showcases PEI’s charm and natural beauty, this tour ticks all the boxes.

Is this a private tour? Yes, only your group will participate, providing a more personalized experience.

How long does the tour last? The tour lasts approximately five hours, including multiple stops along the way.

What’s included in the price? The tour includes transportation, bottled water, and entrance fees to PEI National Park.

Are there any additional costs? Yes, admission to Green Gables House and Farmers Bank isn’t included, and you might want to purchase lunch or souvenirs at stops like the Preserve Company.

Can I customize the stops? The itinerary is fixed, but you can opt to skip certain site visits or spend more time at preferred locations with prior arrangement.

Is pickup available? Yes, pickup from your hotel or a designated meeting point in Charlottetown is offered.

What age range is suitable? The tour is designed for all ages, from 9 to 99, with stops suitable for everyone.

Do I need to book in advance? Yes, the tour is typically booked around 257 days ahead, and early reservations are recommended.

What should I bring? Comfortable walking shoes, a camera, weather-appropriate clothing, and a sense of curiosity are recommended.

This private PEI North Shore tour combines natural scenery, charming villages, and cultural highlights in a relaxed, personalized setting. Perfect for those eager to see the island’s best without rushing, it promises a day filled with stunning views and memorable stories.