West Cape, PEI

Along the Path of Totality » West Cape, PEI
Information regarding viewing times is below. Please remember that the only time you can view the sun directly during an eclipse is while it is in totality. Before and after this time you will need eclipse glasses or you may very likely suffer irreparable damage to your eyesight. Please view safely!!
Eclipse start time Totality start time Duration of totality Where to look
3:26:42 PM
4:35:35 PM
2m 56.1s

Table notes: 1) All times are local to the location. 2) The ‘Eclipse start time’ is when the first sliver of moon starts to cross the sun. 3) The ‘Totality start time’ is the moment that the entire sun is covered by the moon (and at which point you should be able to briefly remove your eclipse safety glassses for the ‘Duration of totality’ time period. 4) The ‘Where to look’ graphic shows the area on the sun where the moon will take it’s first “bite” and then continue across the face of the sun until it has reached totality.

Major Hotel Chains

While West Cape itself may not host major hotel chains, the West Point Lighthouse offers a unique accommodation experience in a historic setting. For those seeking more traditional hotel options, the nearest significant municipality, Summerside, offers a variety of choices about an hour’s drive from West Cape. Try booking your stay via our affiliate link on Trivago for deals and options.

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West Cape, PEI

General Location

West Cape is a picturesque locality situated on the western tip of Prince Edward Island (PEI), Canada. It is renowned for its rugged coastline, lighthouses, and wind farms. Surrounded by the Gulf of St. Lawrence to the north and the Northumberland Strait to the south, West Cape offers breathtaking views and a serene atmosphere. Its location makes it a peaceful retreat away from the more populous centers of PEI, yet it remains accessible for visitors seeking the unique charm of the island’s western edge.

Major Routes into the Location

Access to West Cape is primarily via road, with Route 14 (also known as the Western Road) serving as the main artery that connects the area to other parts of the island. This scenic route offers drivers stunning views of the coastline and the rural landscape of PEI. The nearest major airport is Charlottetown Airport, located approximately 2 hours away by car, offering flights to and from major Canadian cities and seasonal international destinations. There is no direct rail service to West Cape, making road travel the most viable option for reaching this beautiful location.

Demographic Info

Specific demographic information for West Cape is limited due to its small size and rural nature. It is part of the larger community of West Prince, which is characterized by a close-knit population engaged primarily in fishing, agriculture, and renewable energy sectors. The area’s demographic is a blend of long-time residents and newcomers attracted by the peaceful lifestyle and natural beauty.

Points of Interest

West Cape is best known for its striking landscapes, including the West Cape Wind Farm, one of the island’s significant renewable energy projects, featuring towering wind turbines against the backdrop of the ocean. The West Point Lighthouse is another notable attraction, offering not only a glimpse into the maritime history of PEI but also accommodations and a museum. The area’s beaches, such as Cedar Dunes Provincial Park, are perfect for those looking to enjoy the island’s natural beauty, with opportunities for beachcombing, swimming, and observing local wildlife.

Major Industries

The major industries in West Cape revolve around agriculture, fishing, and renewable energy. The presence of the West Cape Wind Farm highlights the community’s commitment to sustainable energy sources. Fishing remains a staple economic activity, with local fishermen harvesting lobster, mackerel, and other seafood from the surrounding waters. Agriculture, particularly potato farming, is another critical sector, reflecting PEI’s island-wide importance in this industry.

Sports Teams

Given its small population and rural setting, West Cape does not host any significant sports teams. However, local community sports, particularly hockey and curling, play a vital role in community life in the wider West Prince area. These activities offer residents and visitors alike the chance to engage in traditional Canadian sports and experience the community spirit.

Interesting Historical Facts

West Cape’s history is deeply intertwined with the sea and the land. The area’s lighthouses, such as the West Point Lighthouse, serve as historical markers of the importance of navigation and maritime safety in the Gulf of St. Lawrence. The development of the West Cape Wind Farm is a more recent historical milestone, signifying the community’s pivot towards sustainable energy sources and marking a new chapter in the area’s economic and environmental history.

Website of the Local Municipal Government

For more information about West Cape and its services, visitors can refer to the official website of the Prince Edward Island government at https://www.princeedwardisland.ca. While the site covers the entire province, it provides valuable resources and links to local government services and initiatives, including those in West Cape and the broader West Prince area.

Local Newspaper

The local newspaper serving West Cape and the wider West Prince region is “The West Prince Graphic.” As of my last update, a dedicated website for the newspaper was not available, but local news can often be found through PEI-wide news outlets such as the “The Guardian” at https://www.theguardian.pe.ca, which covers news from across the island, including the West Cape area.

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