Prince Edward Island Motorcycle Route: A One-Day Coastal Loop
PEI is the smallest province in Canada, but it packs more riding per square kilometre than anywhere else in Atlantic Canada. Red-sand cliffs, lighthouses, lobster shacks, and coastal roads that curve along every shore. Here is a complete one-day route that hits the best of it.
Table of Contents
Route Overview
This route covers 430 to 490 km (267 to 304 mi) depending on detours, hitting four coastal corners of PEI in one day. The pavement is excellent throughout, the traffic is light outside July and August, and the scenery changes every 50 km.
Starting point: Confederation Bridge (Borden-Carleton). Ending point: Confederation Bridge. Bike: The Indian Pursuit is ideal for this route. The roads are smooth, the distances are manageable, and the bike's comfort makes a full day enjoyable.
Morning: West Point to North Shore
Distance: 140 km (87 mi) | Time: 2.5 hours with stops
From the Confederation Bridge, head west on Route 1A to West Point Lighthouse, the westernmost point of PEI. This is a 70 km (44 mi) stretch of open coastal road with farmland on one side and the Northumberland Strait on the other. Stop at the West Point Lighthouse for photos and a stretch.
From West Point, ride north and east along the coast to Summerside, then continue on Route 6 toward Cavendish. The North Shore between Cavendish and Stanhope is the best motorcycle road in PEI: rolling hills, ocean views, and red-sand cliffs. Stop at Cavendish Beach for a walk and a coffee.
Midday: North Shore to East Point
Distance: 120 km (75 mi) | Time: 2 hours with a lunch stop
From Cavendish, follow Route 6 east to Route 2, then northeast on Route 16 toward East Point Lighthouse. This section passes through rural PEI farmland and small fishing communities. Stop for lunch in Souris, a small harbour town with several seafood restaurants.
Continue to East Point Lighthouse, the eastern tip of PEI. The road follows the coastline with views of the Gulf of St. Lawrence. This is one of the quietest sections of the route, with very little traffic outside of peak summer.
Afternoon: East Point to Point Prim
Distance: 170 km (106 mi) | Time: 3 hours with stops
From East Point, ride south on Route 16 to Route 4, then west to Charlottetown. If time allows, ride through Charlottetown for a quick walk around the historic downtown. From Charlottetown, head south on Route 1 to Point Prim, the southernmost point of PEI. The Point Prim Lighthouse is the oldest lighthouse on the island, built in 1845.
From Point Prim, ride back to Borden-Carleton for the Confederation Bridge crossing. Plan to arrive at the bridge by 5 PM to avoid the heaviest departure traffic in summer.
"The North Shore between Cavendish and Stanhope is the best motorcycle road in PEI. Rolling hills, ocean views, red-sand cliffs, and pavement that flows."
Confederation Bridge
The Confederation Bridge is 12.9 km (8 mi) long and connects PEI to New Brunswick. It is toll-free entering PEI and tolled when leaving. The motorcycle toll is approximately $50.25 CAD as of 2026.
The bridge can be windy. Cross-check the wind advisory before riding across. In strong crosswinds, the bridge authority may restrict motorcycle crossings or require reduced speed. If the wind advisory is in effect, ride in the center lane and maintain a firm grip on the bars.
For more on getting to PEI, see the Atlantic Canada ferry guide which covers all crossings including the ferry alternative to the bridge.
Riding Tips for PEI
Speed limits: PEI speed limits are strictly enforced. The Trans-Canada Highway within PEI is 90 km/h (56 mph). Coastal routes are 80 km/h (50 mph) or lower. Photo radar is common in summer. Stick to the limit.
Pavement: PEI roads are generally excellent. However, some secondary coastal roads have frost heaves in spring. By July, most are repaired. Watch for patchwork repairs on rural routes.
Fuel: PEI is small enough that fuel is never far away. Gas stations are common on the main routes. Fill up in Charlottetown or Summerside and you will have enough range for the entire loop.
Timing: Avoid the first two weeks of August if possible. PEI is at peak tourist capacity, and the coastal roads are busy. September is ideal: warm water, empty roads, and lower prices. See the month-by-month timing guide for details.
Food: Plan a seafood stop in Souris or Charlottetown. PEI mussels, lobster rolls, and oysters are fresh and inexpensive compared to mainland prices. A lobster roll lunch is approximately $18 to $25 CAD.
One day, 430 to 490 km, four lighthouses, and the best coastal riding in Atlantic Canada. Start early, pack a rain layer, and plan a seafood lunch. The Confederation Bridge toll is $50.25 CAD on exit only.