We have the most beautiful beaches; each one has its own unique characteristics that set them apart from one another. There are many great swimming beaches, and many more to beachcomb for beautiful items. Please respect the beaches and take all your garbage with you.
East End Beach
Located at John MacCallum Memorial Park, on the most eastern end of the island, off the main road - about 6km from the ferry landing. This beach is the most popular beach due to its beautiful sand and wonderful swimming spot. It's also a great place for walking and beachcombing, as you will find beautiful rocks, shells and beach glass. The attached park has picnic tables, a public outhouse and changing facilities. The park is closed at night, so no camping or fires are permitted.
Wharf Beach
Located just west of the wharf where the ferrty lands, this beach is a great place for day trips to Pictou Island. The beach has a great swimming spot and is a short walk to the Pictou Island Market, Southern Lighthouse and Pictou Island Vineyard.
North Beach
Located at the end of the Factory Road, about 2km from the ferry landing, the north shore has beautiful views. This is the site where many of the old canning factories were located on the island.
West End Beach
Located at the far west end of the road (about 1.5 km from the ferry landing), this beach is not safe for swimming due to its many large rocks. However, it is an amazing place to view the sunset. It is also the best place to find driftwood! From here you can also see both the mainland and PEI and if your timing is right, the PEI Ferry crossing.
Roger's Point
Located at the southern tip of the island. This beach has no public access roads. The only access is hiking a few kilometres east of the wharf over the rocky coastline or staying at an accommodation that grants access. This beach has beautiful sandbars and warmer water, due to its shallow waters and the proximity to the mainland.
John Dan's Cove
Located on the north of the island, they say this is the most beautiful beach. Unfortunately getting to it is difficult. This beach is accessible to the public only by boat or with a hefty hike over rough terrain. The public access from the island is from the Factory Road, where you have to hike east a few kilometers, along the rocky shoreline.
Located at the end of the Factory Road, the north shore has beautiful views. This is the site where many of the old canning factories were located on the island.