Stanhope can be explored through three distinct highlights: the fine sand of Stanhope Beach, Covehead Harbour Lighthouse and activities along the Gulf Shore Way. When planning your trip, it helps to consider these offerings separately: the beach, coastal trail and local history each offer a different focus. This can help you decide which themes matter most when choosing your accommodation and planning your days.
Beach and Coastal Landscape
Stanhope Beach has fine sand and is known for its boardwalks, a large parking lot and its proximity to Charlottetown. For many island residents, it is a popular summer destination. Visitor services are seasonal, and their timing may vary from year to year. Check the current conditions for your travel dates.
The beach is considered the most accessible beach in Prince Edward Island National Park. As visitor facilities may change, confirm the current arrangements before your trip.
Covehead Harbour Lighthouse
Covehead Harbour Lighthouse is set among the sand dunes of Prince Edward Island National Park, on the beach east of the entrance to Covehead Bay. Its square, tapering wooden tower is 8.2 metres high and topped with a square wooden lantern. It was built in 1975 to replace the original tower. The lighthouse is considered an iconic visual landmark; its significance is connected to the area’s maritime and navigation history.
Coastal Trails and Views
Stanhope Campground is located on the Gulf Shore Way, a 10-kilometre coastal trail suitable for cycling, inline skating and walking. This gives Stanhope a specifically named route for several ways to get outdoors. The length and activities described can help you decide what kind of trail suits your stay.
Bubbling Springs Trail is about two kilometres east of Stanhope. Its viewpoints overlook waterfowl on Long Pond. The trail is another option for travellers who would like to include this view in their plans.
Camping and Local History
Stanhope Campground has more than 100 campsites, including sites with accessibility features. Facilities include washrooms with hot showers and flush toilets, kitchen shelters, a laundry facility and a playground. As facility details may change, check current conditions and availability before your trip.
Pioneer Cemetery is located on the Farmlands Trail in Stanhope. It is the resting place of many of the area’s early settlers and victims of the Yankee Gale Disaster. The cemetery adds another local connection to the lighthouse’s maritime history: early settlement and remembrance of the disaster’s victims.
Discover more destinations: Mt Stewart, Cumberland, Rice Point, Vernon Bridge, Belle River, Cymbria, North Rustico, Miltonvale Park.
For the broader travel overview: Queens County.
