Things To Do
in Summerside

A PEI staple — served hot with butter or chilled in a roll; available at seafood shacks and many restaurants along the waterfront.

Must-Try!

Locally harvested PEI mussels, often steamed in garlic-white wine or served in chowders; widely available in season.

Potatoes are island-grown — expect them in soups, sides, poutines and roasted forms in many meals.

Fresh, briny oysters from PEI and nearby waters, offered raw on the half shell at markets and upscale restaurants.

Seasonal market featuring local produce, baked goods, preserved seafood and artisan products — great for sampling seasonal berries, cheeses and prepared foods.

Pop-up shacks and stands in summer selling lobster rolls, steamed mussels, seafood platters and cold drinks — casual, fresh and locally focused.

Islanders are known for politeness and small talk; greet shopkeepers and say thank you. A friendly, low-key manner is appreciated.

Much of the scenic coastline is next to working fishing areas or private land — observe signs, stay off wharves where restricted, and ask before photographing people at work.

Be on time for booked tours, ferry departures and restaurant reservations-operators rely on schedules, especially in the short tourist season.

Take litter with you, avoid picking protected flowers or disturbing wildlife, and follow posted rules at parks and beaches.

Tipping in Canada is customary: 15–20% for sit-down restaurant service, 10–15% for takeaway or casual service at your discretion, and rounding up or a small tip for taxis and hotel porters. If service is poor, tips can be reduced. Always check whether gratuity is already added for large groups.

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; contactless (tap) payments are common. Cash is still used for small purchases and some markets or seasonal stands, but many places prefer card. ATMs are available in town; notify your bank if travelling from abroad.

Cool and changeable weather with lingering chill early on; spring brings budding landscapes, migrating birds and quieter attractions before the summer crowds.

Warm, mild and the busiest season — long daylight hours, busy waterfronts and open seasonal restaurants; book accommodation early and expect peak tourist traffic on coastal roads.

Crisp air, fewer visitors and beautiful fall colors; a great time for photography, coastal drives and enjoying harvest-season food events.

Cold with snow and ice — quiet tourism, limited seasonal businesses and potential road weather hazards; winter sports and cozy indoor activities are the focus.

Many residents are descendants of Scottish, Irish and English settlers with deep family roots on PEI; community life often centers on family and local organizations.

A smaller Acadian French-speaking population is present on PEI with cultural events, bilingual signage in some areas and community ties.

The Mi'kmaq are the Indigenous people of the region, with communities and cultural presence across PEI; there are ongoing cultural revitalization and community partnerships.

Population increases in summer with seasonal visitors, cottagers and workers boosting activity and services during peak months.

Vegetarian options are available but fewer than in larger cities; look for salads, potato-based dishes, vegetarian chowders and farm-vegetable specials in cafes and bistros.

Vegan choices exist at some cafés and markets (plant-based sandwiches, soups and sides), but calling ahead to restaurants is advised outside peak tourist areas.

Many places can accommodate gluten-free requests, especially for simple seafood plates and salads; confirm cross-contamination if you have celiac disease.

Shellfish are central to the local cuisine — always inform servers of allergies; choose restaurant meals away from seafood-preparation areas if needed.