Located on the north shore of Prince Edward Island, Brackley Beach is a small, rural community perched at the doorstep of Prince Edward Island National Park. The scenery here recalls an artist’s palette with rust-red hues and bright green pastoral fields expanding to the Atlantic. Some 60 kilometres in length, the park encompasses a wide variety of natural landscapes, from wind-sculpted dunes to sandstone cliffs to six protected beaches, including the biggest and most popular, Brackley Beach. A wooden boardwalk connects the parking lot to the beach to protect the dunes, which are critical to the park’s delicate ecosystem. Wildlife to watch for include the endangered piping plover that uses the beach as a nesting site.

The town surrounding Brackley Beach is Brackley — a rural community of farmers and artists. Although it was only incorporated in 1983, the rich Acadian and Mi’kmaq Indigenous cultures of the region date back to the 18th century and 12,000 years ago respectively.

Located just 15 minutes south of Brackley Beach, Charlottetown Airport (YYG) is the one public airport on Prince Edward Island, and connects to major Canadian hubs in Montreal, Toronto, and Ottawa. An alternative way to get to Prince Edward Island is by taking a ferry from Nova Scotia or driving across the Confederation Bridge. This 12.9-kilometre-long box girder bridge is the longest bridge in the world that goes over icy waters. Towards the centre of the bridge, you’ll reach a height of 60 metres above sea level, tall enough to let ships pass through the piers. A car will get you from Charlottetown to Prince Edward Island National Park. Every beach in the park has a parking lot, and once parked, you can hop on a bike and cycle the Brackley Beach trail to get a panorama view of the coastline.

Brackley Beach is almost exclusively a summertime destination, something to be aware of if you’re booking Brackley Beach cottages during July and August, the most popular months. Summers in Prince Edward Island are hot during the day and cool at night, which is pleasant for outdoor excursions. The wind can be a factor any time you visit a beach on the Atlantic Ocean, so it’s a good idea to check the wind speed forecast during your visit. Information on current wave conditions is also available online for avid swimmers.

Prince Edward Island’s population is significantly lower over the winter than in the summer, so anyone who appreciates an untouched snowy landscape will find what they’re looking for in the national park during the colder months. Snowshoeing on the beach’s shoreline is a fun way to experience the billowy conditions, provided you dress for the weather. Note that visitor services are available only from May to October, with full facilities open for July and August. Parking lots are generally kept clear of snow in the offseason for the wintertime explorers.

Prince Edward Island National Park

Prince Edward Island National Park is more than a collection of stunning Atlantic beaches. Recently, an extra 400 acres of land encompassing the Greenwich community was added to the park, increasing its size and area for further exploration. Here, you’ll find forests, wetlands, and coastal dunes that provide habitat for endangered species, including the island’s little brown bat. Navigate your way around via the wooden boardwalk and make sure to catch a glimpse of the red and white Cove Head Lighthouse nestled between tall grass and sandy ground, with the Atlantic Ocean in tow.

Studios and galleries

Prince Edward Island is home to a thriving artist community, including some world-renowned potters; stopping at the local studios is a great way to get to meet the makers behind the pieces. Hand-sculpted vases, rustic jugs, and dishware are all popular items, often displayed in studio storefronts. Many galleries come with a lovely garden or outside area to lounge around while admiring the artwork on display.

The Drive-in Theatre

The drive-in movie theatre culture is alive and well on Prince Edward Island, and Brackley Beach has its own local drive-in that embraces its original 1950s identity. You can park your car in front of the massive screen or cozy up outside on a picnic blanket to watch classics, or new releases. The drive-in also has a canteen with popcorn, cotton candy, nachos, and more to satisfy salty and sweet cravings.