Point Prim Travel Guide: Things to Do, Best Time to Visit & Itinerary

Jutting out into the Northumberland Strait, Point Prim is a place where the red earth of Prince Edward Island seems to reach desperately for the sea. It is a destination defined by the elements, the salt spray, the wind, and the rhythmic crashing of waves against red sandstone cliffs. As you drive down the long, winding peninsula, modern life fades away, replaced by a landscape of rolling fields, lupins, and the promise of maritime history.

At the very tip of this land stands a beacon that has guided sailors since 1845. But Point Prim is more than just a lighthouse; it is a culinary destination and a sanctuary for those seeking the quiet beauty of the East Coast. Whether you are hunting for sea glass at low tide or savoring the freshest oysters you’ve ever tasted, this corner of PEI offers an authentic slice of island life.

A Legacy of Light and Resilience

Point Prim is historically significant not just for its geography, but for its people. The area is steeped in the history of the Lord Selkirk Settlers, Scottish immigrants who arrived in 1803 to forge a new life on these shores. Their resilience is mirrored in the Point Prim Lighthouse, the oldest lighthouse on Prince Edward Island. Unlike the typical square or octagonal wooden towers found elsewhere on the island, this structure is a unique round brick tower, originally designed by architect Isaac Smith.

Beyond the architecture, the peninsula maintains a deep connection to the ocean. Fishing boats still dot the horizon, and the community rhythm is dictated by the tides. Visiting here is an opportunity to slow down and connect with a past that feels surprisingly present, preserved in the old cemeteries and the stories of the locals.

The Icons You’ll Want to See

Point Prim Lighthouse - This is the crown jewel of the peninsula. Built in 1845, it is one of the few round brick lighthouses in Canada. Visitors can climb to the top for a small fee (approx. $5 CAD) to see panoramic views of the Northumberland Strait and Hillsborough Bay. The gift shop features local artisan crafts.

Point Prim Chowder House - Located mere steps from the lighthouse, this restaurant is an icon in its own right. With a patio that sits practically in the ocean during high tide, it offers an unpretentious yet world-class dining experience. Prices range from $20 to $50 CAD for mains, and reservations are absolutely critical during peak summer months.

Hannah’s Bottle Village - Located a short 10-minute drive (8 km) back up the road in Belfast, this unique attraction features a village of small buildings made entirely of glass bottles and cement. It is a charming stop for photographers and families. Entry is by donation.

Polly Cemetery - A somber but beautiful historic site located midway down the peninsula. It serves as the final resting place for many of the original Selkirk settlers. It is free to visit and offers a quiet place for reflection amidst the trees.

Planning Your Visit

Getting to Point Prim requires a vehicle, as there is no public transit servicing the peninsula. It is located about 40 minutes (50 km) southeast of Charlottetown. The drive itself is scenic, but keep an eye out for foxes and other wildlife crossing the road, especially at dusk.

Pack layers, even in the height of summer. The point is exposed to the ocean on three sides, meaning it is almost always breezy and significantly cooler than the sheltered inland towns. If you plan to dine at the Chowder House, book your table weeks in advance, aiming for a slot about an hour before sunset for the most spectacular views.

While summer brings the best weather and full amenities, the shoulder seasons of June and September offer a special kind of magic at Point Prim. The crowds thin out, the light softens, and the pace becomes even more relaxed. However, if your heart is set on climbing the lighthouse and eating chowder by the sea, avoid the deep winter months when the point goes into hibernation.