In my opinion, one of the nicest beaches in PEI is Basin Head. It is a little less than an hour from Tracadie and there is no fee. No, no beach other then the National Park has fees to access the beach.

In Prince Edward Island (PEI), the cost of visiting a beach depends on whether it is a Provincial or National park. PEI Provincial Park beaches are entirely free to enter, including famous spots like Basin Head (the "Singing Sands") and Red Point. However, beaches located within the Prince Edward Island National Park (such as Cavendish, Brackley, and Greenwich) require a daily admission fee or a Parks Canada Discovery Pass. This fee goes toward the conservation of the fragile dune systems and the upkeep of facilities like showers and changing rooms. In 2026, many visitors find that the Provincial beaches offer the same stunning red sands and warm waters as the National parks without the entrance cost. It is worth noting that while entrance is free at Provincial sites, you should still check for "Beach Reports" regarding water quality and safety before heading out for a swim.