Orby Head - Image 1

Orby Head

4.8
·50 reviews·Cavendish, Canada

Dramatic red sandstone cliffs meet the vast Gulf of St. Lawrence, offering breathtaking coastal views and spectacular sunsets.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Sunrise & Sunset

Golden hour magic

CrowdLow
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Orby Head - Image 1

Orby Head

Best Time

Sunrise & Sunset

Golden hour magic

CrowdLow

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Dramatic red sandstone cliffs meet the vast Gulf of St. Lawrence, offering breathtaking coastal views and spectacular sunsets.

4.8
(50 reviews)

"My number #1 amazing, awe moment, stunning, worth the long drive from home, will be back, I love it."

Vertical photo
TIP

Stay Safe on the Edge

Always respect the safety rope; the cliffs are steep and dangerous.

Limited Parking

Parking is tight for more than 10-15 cars. Arrive early or consider visiting off-peak.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Dramatic Red Cliffs

Dramatic Red Cliffs

Orby Head

Towering red sandstone cliffs meet the vast Gulf of St. Lawrence. A truly awe-inspiring natural wonder.

Instagram
Sunset Spectacle

Sunset Spectacle

Orby Head

Witness breathtaking sunsets that cast a golden glow over the red cliffs and the sea.

Instagram
Coastal Flora and Fauna

Coastal Flora and Fauna

Orby Head

Discover unique natural flora and observe abundant cormorants along the coastline.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Red Cliffs

Orby Head boasts dramatic red sandstone cliffs plunging into the Gulf of St. Lawrence. Stay behind the safety rope for stunning views and photos. Parking is limited, so arrive early, especially during peak season. Reddit

Timing is Key for Views

The best light for capturing Orby Head's beauty is during sunrise or sunset, painting the red cliffs in warm hues. Low tide can also reveal unique coastal features. InstagramReddit

Best Times

When
Sunrise & Sunset
Why
Golden hour magic
Crowd
Low
When
Low Tide
Why
Reveal hidden gems
Crowd
Low
When
Summer Evenings
Why
Warm, beautiful light
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

summer nights like these 🖤 #pei #princeedwardisland #sunset #Summer #maritimes
@ellenmallard
888.9K likes • 4.1M views

Stay Safe on the Edge

Always respect the safety rope; the cliffs are steep and dangerous. Reddit

Limited Parking

Parking is tight for more than 10-15 cars. Arrive early or consider visiting off-peak. Reddit

summer vibes in pei #princeedwardisland #pei #beachvibes #travel
@valeriestravels
52.3K likes • 309.8K views
A must-visit place in PEI .It feels like a different planet🥹 Reel Location:Orby Head 📍Green Gables, 940 Rue du Gulf Shore Parkway West, Cavendish, PE C0A 1M0 If you ever visit PEI make sure to spare to sometime to visit the Orby Head🧡 . . . . . #princeedwardisland #pei #explorepei #welovepei #orbyheadpei #coast #eastcoastcanada #discoverpei #cavendishbeach #roadtripcanada #tourcanada #truepei #...
__hermes__wings
422 likes • 7K views

Photo Opportunities

Allow at least 20 minutes to explore the cliff edges and capture stunning photos. Reddit

No Services Available

Be prepared as there are no facilities or services at Orby Head. Reddit

Few of our guests enjoying our Harbour Passage tour. Orby Head looking spectacular from the water. Call 9029633366 to book
outsideexpeditions
32 likes • 1.5K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Stay Safe on the Edge

Always respect the safety rope; the cliffs are steep and dangerous. Reddit

Limited Parking

Parking is tight for more than 10-15 cars. Arrive early or consider visiting off-peak. Reddit

Photo Opportunities

Allow at least 20 minutes to explore the cliff edges and capture stunning photos. Reddit

No Services Available

Be prepared as there are no facilities or services at Orby Head. Reddit

Explore from the Water

Consider a boat tour for a unique perspective of Orby Head. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.8
(50 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about the stunning, awe-inspiring views of the high red clay cliffs meeting the open sea at Orby Head. It's frequently described as a must-visit natural wonder, perfect for sunset viewing and photography. However, some note the limited parking and the need for strict adherence to safety ropes due to the steep drop.

"This location gives you nice views of high red clay cliffs and the open sea. A safety rope keeps you back a bit from the edge. Parking could be a bit cramped for more than 10 to 15 cars. Allow 20 minutes to walk the cliff edges and get pictures. Other than parking no services are there."

Ron Smith

"Very interesting geological feature of PEI featuring very high, red sandstone cliffs dropping straight down to the Gulf of St. Lawrence. Stay inside the fenced area for your safety!"

James Cross

"Great view of the surrounding beaches, amazing spot to watch the sunset ! Great place to stop to take in all the beauty and snap some photos."

Dana Hyde

What People Like

Stunning red cliff views
Amazing sunset spot
Awe-inspiring natural beauty

What People Dislike

Limited parking
Steep drop safety

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Orby Head is located near Cavendish, PEI. While specific public transport options are limited, it's best accessed by car. Parking is available but can be cramped. InstagramReddit

Orby Head is a well-known geological feature on PEI, often mentioned in local guides. Look for signs or use GPS coordinates for navigation. Instagram

Renting a car is highly recommended for exploring Prince Edward Island and reaching Orby Head comfortably. TikTok

Some boat tours operating from nearby harbors may offer views of Orby Head from the water. Instagram

While close to Cavendish, walking directly to Orby Head might be challenging due to coastal terrain. Driving is the most practical option. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Orby Head is a natural attraction and does not require an entrance fee or tickets. Reddit

As a natural landmark, Orby Head is accessible at all hours. However, visiting during daylight for safety and optimal viewing is advised. Instagram

No, there is no admission fee to visit Orby Head. It's a free natural attraction. Reddit

Yes, Orby Head can be visited year-round, but access and conditions may vary with weather and seasons. TikTok

The primary restriction is to stay behind the safety rope for your own protection. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The golden hours of sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic lighting for photographing the red cliffs. TikTokInstagram

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive coastal views. A tripod can be useful for sunset shots. Instagram

While not explicitly stated, drone usage may be subject to local regulations. Always check current rules before flying. Instagram

The cliff edges offer dramatic perspectives, and the coastline provides opportunities for capturing the sea and natural flora. Reddit

Yes, you can photograph the abundant cormorants and other coastal birds, but maintain a respectful distance. Reddit

🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience

The main activities are enjoying the stunning views of the red cliffs and the sea, taking photos, and observing the natural surroundings. InstagramReddit

Most visitors spend about 20-30 minutes to walk the cliff edges and take photos. Reddit

There are designated paths along the cliff edges, but they can be uneven. Sturdy footwear is recommended. Reddit

No, there are no services like restrooms or shops at Orby Head. Come prepared. Reddit

You'll see very high, red sandstone cliffs dropping directly to the Gulf of St. Lawrence, showcasing PEI's unique geology. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Orby Head offers a dramatic natural spectacle that can captivate children, but safety is paramount. Ensure children stay well within the safety ropes at all times, as the cliffs are steep and dangerous. Reddit The limited parking can be a challenge with young children, so consider visiting during off-peak hours or being prepared for a short walk from your parking spot. While there are no playgrounds or specific child-focused amenities, the sheer visual impact of the red cliffs and the sea can be an exciting experience for curious young minds. Pack snacks and drinks, as there are no services available on site. Reddit

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

For photographers, Orby Head is a dream destination, especially during sunrise and sunset when the red cliffs are bathed in golden light. TikTokInstagram Bring your wide-angle lenses to capture the dramatic scale of the landscape and experiment with compositions that highlight the textures of the sandstone. Keep an eye out for seabirds like cormorants for wildlife shots. Reddit Be mindful of the limited parking and the safety rope, and plan your visit accordingly to maximize your shooting time and avoid crowds. Reddit

🚗 Day-Trippers from Charlottetown

If you're on a day trip from Charlottetown, Orby Head is a worthwhile stop to experience PEI's stunning coastal scenery. It's a relatively short drive, and the dramatic red cliffs offer a fantastic photo opportunity. TikTok Combine your visit with other attractions in the Cavendish area, such as Green Gables Heritage Place, for a full day of exploration. Remember that parking is limited, so factor that into your timing. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Geological Marvel of Orby Head

Orby Head is a striking example of Prince Edward Island's distinctive red sandstone geology. The dramatic cliffs, carved by the relentless action of the Gulf of St. Lawrence, plunge vertically to the sea, creating a breathtaking spectacle. These formations are a testament to millions of years of erosion and geological processes that have shaped the island's iconic coastline. Visitors are often struck by the sheer scale and vibrant color of the cliffs, especially when bathed in the warm light of sunrise or sunset. InstagramReddit

The area is also notable for its natural flora, adding a touch of green to the red landscape. Birdwatchers will find Orby Head a rewarding spot, as it's a habitat for various coastal birds, most notably cormorants, which can often be seen perched on the cliffs or diving in the waters below. Reddit The unique combination of geological grandeur and natural life makes Orby Head a must-see for nature enthusiasts.

Safety First at the Cliffs



It's crucial to emphasize the importance of safety when visiting Orby Head. A safety rope is in place to keep visitors a safe distance from the cliff edge, and it's imperative to respect this boundary. The sandstone can be crumbly, and the drop is significant. Visitors are urged to stay within the designated fenced areas to avoid any accidents. Reddit The limited parking also means that during busy periods, it can be challenging to find a spot, so planning your visit for off-peak times is advisable. Reddit

Capturing Orby Head's Beauty: Photography Tips

Orby Head offers incredible photographic opportunities, particularly for landscape and nature photographers. The vibrant red of the sandstone cliffs contrasts beautifully with the blue of the ocean and the green of the coastal vegetation, creating stunning visual compositions. Instagram The best times to visit for photography are undoubtedly during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset. The low-angle sunlight accentuates the textures of the cliffs and casts a warm, ethereal glow over the entire scene, making for truly memorable shots. TikTokInstagram

When planning your shots, consider using a wide-angle lens to capture the expansive vistas and the sheer scale of the cliffs. Experiment with different vantage points along the cliff edge (while staying safely behind the rope) to find unique perspectives. The presence of cormorants and other seabirds also provides opportunities for wildlife photography, though it's important to maintain a respectful distance. Reddit While drone footage can offer a spectacular aerial view, as seen in some social media posts, always ensure you are aware of and comply with any local drone regulations before flying. Instagram

Remember that Orby Head is a natural site with no facilities. Therefore, it's essential to come prepared with everything you might need, including water, snacks, and extra batteries for your camera. The limited parking also means that an early morning or late evening visit might be more conducive to a relaxed photography session without the stress of finding a spot. Reddit

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