Prince Edward I, New Brunswick, and a little Maine

Road Trip Tally

This Trip
4,000 MILES 
600 PHOTOS CATALOGED

Cumulative
Larry Has Gone: 30,000 Miles
Cataloged 13,250 photos
11 NEW LIFE LIST Bird Species

Prince Edward Island

P.E.I. was my favorite surprise on this trip, beginning with the ferry ride over. Since I was driving up from Halifax, I didn’t get to every corner of the province as I had planned, but the parts I visited were full of independent character and north Atlantic charm. I suppose that the next time I visit, I will try to stay on the island.

As usual, I found myself captivated by the lighthouses and I used them as the “drop pins” of my road trip, leaving everything else up to chance. My adventure began at the PEI Ferry Terminal adjacent to Wood Island Provincial Park. The lighthouse in the park, was visible from the ferry.

I took my photos and ate at a little “order at the window” restaurant, Treena’s Takeout, where I had the salt cod croquettes made with fresh local fish, PEI potatoes, and these homemade mustard pickles that I wish I had in my refrigerator right now.

Wood Island Lighthouse

Wood Island Lighthouse, perched on the eastern edge of PEI, is a captivating spot that draws you in with its classic maritime charm. The lighthouse, with its crisp white exterior and striking red trim, stands tall against a backdrop of rugged coastlines and tranquil waters. I spent hours capturing its beauty from different angles, the way the light dances on the Gulf of St. Lawrence. The surrounding landscape is equally photogenic, with rolling green fields meeting the sea. A visit to Wood Island Lighthouse offers a perfect blend of picturesque views and peaceful solitude, making it a must-see for lighthouse enthusiasts.

Cape Bear

The Cape Bear Lighthouse was built in 1881 shortly after the Island joined Confederation. At the time, the Gulf of St. Lawrence was busy with commercial trade shipping and smaller boats such as those captained by mackerel fishermen . On site is an exhibit of the Marconi Communication System that enabled this lighthouse to receive the very first mainland distress messages from the Titanic on that fateful night.

(click any photo below to see in gallery)

East Point

East Point Lighthouse is also known as Canada’s Confederation Lighthouse, as it is the only of several 1867-built wooden lighthouses that is still standing. There is a rich history associated with this lighthouse, much of which is documented inside. When I visited, a hike around the cliffs and shore revealed a pair of young foxes shuffling through the tall grass and pouncing on one another. The seemed pretty accustomed to people and allowed close approach. They were not shy, and several visitors to the area got some nice pictures of them.

Shipwreck Light

Shipwreck Lighthouse on PEI, constructed in 1900, is a fascinating piece of maritime history. Located near the treacherous waters of the Northumberland Strait, it was built to help guide ships safely through the perilous straits. This charming, whitewashed lighthouse, with its classic red lantern, stands 13 meters tall and has a light that once warned sailors of nearby shoals. Its name reflects the many shipwrecks that occurred in the area before its construction. Unfortunately, it is on private property (very private as evidenced by the signage and social media posts…not welcome!), so my view was from a distance.

St. Peter’s Harbour Area

St. Peters Harbour Lighthouse on PEI, built in 1869, is a charming piece of maritime history standing proudly at the entrance of St. Peters Bay. This beach was the last place I was able to explore on PEI before the sun set. I will need to return to see what there is to see on the western half of the island. This classic white tower, adorned with a distinctive red lantern, rises 10 meters above the shore, guiding vessels through the bay’s challenging waters. Its light, visible for 15 nautical miles, has been a vital aid for sailors navigating this picturesque yet hazardous stretch of coast. The surrounding area is lush and tranquil, offering beautiful views of the bay and the island’s rolling landscape. A visit to St. Peters Harbour Lighthouse reveals both scenic beauty and a rich maritime heritage.

Adjacent to Lakeside Beach on the island’s northern shore, this picturesque spot offers stunning views of the Gulf of St. Lawrence and a perfect setting for a relaxing day. However, at sunset, when I was there, it is also the biting insect capital of North America!

continue to page 2 for New Brunswick and way Downeast Maine