Situated in the Gulf of St. Lawrence, PEI is separated from the mainland by the Northumberland Strait. Because the Island is surrounded by a shallow shelf the surrounding waters heat up nicely and the Island boasts some of the warmest ocean waters north of the Carolinas. The Island is in the Atlantic Time Zone. Climate Summer on PEI is very pleasant, hot but rarely humid.
Autumn is clear and bright.
September afternoons can be quite warm, but evenings are cool. Freezing temperatures can occur between late October and mid-May. Spring is comfortable but often arrives late. In addition to a typical wardrobe for school and play, suggested items for outdoor winter conditions include a warm winter jacket, hat, gloves, winter boots, rain jacket and warm sweaters. Water-proof footwear is also advisable for the spring.