Where the Past Shapes the Present

Nestled along Prince Edward Island’s north shore, the neighbouring communities of Morell and St. Peter's Bay share a rich history shaped by the land, the sea, and the people who have called this coastline home for centuries. From Mi'kmaw heritage and early European settlement to bustling fishing villages and modern-day tourism, this area has always been a place where nature and community thrive side by side.

Mi’kmaq Heritage

Long before European settlers arrived, the Mi’kmaq people fished and gathered along the sheltered waters of St. Peter's Bay, known to them as Pogomkek, meaning “sand hills.” Their deep connection to the land and sea continues to influence the region’s cultural and environmental identity today.

St. Peters Bay: A Gateway Through Time

French settlers arrived in the early 1700s, followed by Scottish and Irish immigrants who established farms and small businesses along the bay. By the 1800s, St. Peter's was a thriving trading and shipbuilding hub, with schooners sailing in and out to deliver goods across the Island.

The Landing Shops, located near the old wharf, became the village’s commercial heart — where locals came to trade, share stories, and connect with the wider world.

Visitors can explore Greenwich, Prince Edward Island National Park, where a stunning floating boardwalk winds through parabolic dunes and wetlands. Interpretive trails share the area’s natural and cultural stories, connecting the past with the living landscape.

Morell: From River to Sea

Just west of St. Peter's Bay, Morell grew along the banks of the Morell River, one of PEI’s most celebrated salmon and trout rivers. Fishing has always been central to life here, both as a livelihood and a cherished local tradition.

A short drive north leads to Red Head Harbour, a working wharf that remains an important link to the sea — and a favourite spot for locals and visitors to watch the fishing boats or enjoy the view across the Gulf of St. Lawrence.

Nearby stands the beloved St. Peters Harbour Lighthouse, built in the 1860s to guide mariners through the shifting sands and tides. Its bright red and white frame stands as a symbol of resilience and coastal heritage.

A Living Legacy

Today, Morell and St. Peter's Bay blend deep-rooted tradition with vibrant local life. From family-run shops and fishing wharves to coastal trails and community events, these villages continue to honour their past while welcoming visitors to discover their beauty, history, and heart.