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Ready those swimsuits for Manitoba’s 12 best beaches!
Did you know Manitoba boasts some of the world’s longest freshwater beaches? Here, you can build towering sandcastles and enjoy stunning sunsets.
Last summer, our travels took us from the vibrant Grand Beach to the calm Patricia Beach, each offering a unique slice of that island life we always used to dream of.
So, grab your beach bag and let’s explore Manitoba’s best beaches!
Grand Beach
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Address: Grand Marais, MB R0E 0T0, Canada
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Entrance Fee: $9.50 (Annual Pass costs $44.50)
Grand Beach boasts stunning white sand dunes and crystal-clear waters on the eastern shores of Lake Winnipeg.
The soft sands make for an ideal lounging day, and the lively boardwalk, filled with local eateries and shops, adds to the fun.
During the summer, the beach becomes a hub of activity with people flying kites, playing games, and soaking up the sun. This spot is great for families and groups looking to enjoy a busy day out by the water.
Pro Tip:
Head to the northern end of the beach for quieter spots perfect for reading or sunbathing if you’re looking for relaxation away from the crowds. This area tends to be less crowded but just as beautiful.
Victoria Beach
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Address: Victoria Beach, Manitoba R0E 2C0
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Entrance Fee: Free
Victoria Beach is a serene getaway, known for being a car-free zone during the summer months.
This makes it uniquely peaceful—perfect for those looking to escape the noise of city life. With quaint cottages dotting the shoreline, it offers a picturesque setting that feels like stepping back in time.
The community here is tight-knit and friendly, making it a safe and welcoming place for visitors. Also, this coast is very well-maintained, with clear waters and gentle waves, ideal for swimming and paddling.
Pro Tip: Rent a bike to explore the surrounding area. With cars out of the picture, cycling is the best way to enjoy the scenery and it helps you cover more ground than walking.
Patricia Beach
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Address: 219 1 Ave, Victoria Beach, MB R0E 2C0, Canada
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Entrance Fee: $9.50
Patricia Beach is a slice of tranquility located within a provincial park on Lake Winnipeg. Its natural beauty is perfect for those who appreciate quiet moments by the water.
What’s great about this place is that it is less commercialized, offering unspoiled landscapes and plenty of wildlife to spot, from birds to the occasional deer.
As for the sand here, it’s incredibly soft and the water is crystal clear, making it a great spot for a swim or just to dip your toes in. It’s less crowded than other beaches, providing a more intimate experience with nature.
Also, its surrounding park is full of trails and picnic spots, ready for an afternoon stroll or a casual outdoor lunch.
Pro Tip:
Bring binoculars for bird watching. Patricia Beach is known for its variety of bird species, especially during migration seasons. It’s a birdwatcher’s paradise.
Winnipeg Beach
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Address: Winnipeg Beach, Manitoba, Canada
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Entrance Fee: Free
Winnipeg Beach offers a vibrant atmosphere with its bustling boardwalk and ample picnic areas. This beach is a hub of activity, where you can find everything from music festivals to beach volleyball tournaments throughout the summer.
Also, it’s a place that combines natural beauty with entertainment, making every visit memorable.
The beach itself is spacious, with fine sand and well-maintained public amenities, including clean washrooms and changing areas. It’s ideal for day trips as there are plenty of food vendors and local shops nearby.
Pro Tip:
Check the local calendar for event schedules. Attending a beach concert or festival can be the highlight of your visit, offering fun for all ages.
Gimli Beach
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Address: Gimli, MB R0C 1B0, Canada
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Entrance Fee: Free
Gimli Beach lies in the heart of the Icelandic community of Gimli, vibrant with cultural heritage and bustling local life.
The beach is renowned for its clean, swim-friendly waters and wide stretches of sand, perfect for volleyball and sunbathing.
If you’re into local treats and events, then you’ll be glad to hear that the community spirit here is palpable, with festivals and events that reflect its Icelandic roots.
For the beach area, it’s pretty well-equipped for visitors, with accessible facilities and a variety of dining options that include fresh seafood and traditional Icelandic dishes.
It’s a great spot to enjoy a day in the sun followed by a cultural feast that offers more than just the typical beach fare.
Pro Tip:
Check the local calendar for event schedules. Attending a beach concert or festival can be the highlight of your visit, offering fun for all ages.
Albert Beach
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Address: 0 Alice Rd, Traverse Bay, MB R0E 2A0, Canada
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Entrance Fee: Free
Albert Beach is a serene haven, perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.
With its fine sandy shores and calm atmosphere, it’s an ideal spot for reading a book under the sun or taking a peaceful stroll along the water’s edge. The beach is less commercialized, which preserves its quiet charm and natural beauty.
Also, you can appreciate the clean environment and the scattered driftwood that adds a rustic touch to the picturesque landscape. It’s a great place for a quiet day out if you’re sunbathing, swimming, or simply enjoying the peace.
Pro Tip:
Arrive early in the morning to experience the peaceful solitude and the stunning sunrise over Lake Winnipeg. It’s also a perfect time for bird watching as the area teems with wildlife at dawn.
Lester Beach
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Address: Lester Beach Manitoba R0E 0E0 Canada
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Entrance Fee: Free
Lester Beach is celebrated for its clear waters and spacious sandy shores, making it a prime location for beach games and sunbathing.
The beach is expansive enough to fly kites or engage in a game of frisbee, creating a perfect setting for active beachgoers.
Its cleanliness and the clarity of the water make it a safe and inviting place for swimmers of all ages. The area is particularly popular among families and groups looking for a spot that combines fun and relaxation.
Pro Tip:
Pack sports equipment such as a volleyball or frisbee to make the most of the wide-open sand spaces. Lester Beach is perfect for those who love an active beach day.
Hillside Beach
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Address: Alexander, MB, Canada
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Entrance Fee: Free
Hillside Beach offers you a more private beach day experience with its serene location and less crowded environment.
This spot is ideal if you prefer a quiet day by the water, away from the busier, more popular beach destinations.
The simplicity of Hillside Beach adds to its charm too. With fewer amenities and less commercial activity, you can truly appreciate the natural beauty and tranquility of the area. It’s a great place to relax and enjoy the sound of the waves.
Pro Tip:
The calm waters make this beach perfect for paddleboarding or kayaking. Check the weather and wind conditions before you go to ensure the best experience.
Manitou Beach
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Address: Manitou Beach Saskatchewan Canada
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Entrance Fee: Free
Manitou Beach is renowned for its mineral-rich waters that naturally buoy swimmers, similar to the Dead Sea.
This unique feature makes swimming here a novel and relaxing experience, as you can float effortlessly in the water.
The beach itself is surrounded by fine sand and is equipped with various amenities, making your visit comfortable and enjoyable.
Pro Tip:
Don’t miss the chance to visit the nearby mineral spas. Incorporating a spa visit into your day can enhance the therapeutic benefits of the mineral-rich waters.
Sandy Hook Beach
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Address: Hartshorne Dr, Highlands, NJ 07732, United States
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Contact Details: +17328725970
Entrance Fee: Free
Sandy Hook Beach is ideal for you and your family, especially if you have young children, thanks to its shallow waters and gentle waves.
This setup ensures a safe environment where your kids can swim and play freely by the shore. The beach’s soft sand and mild surf provide the perfect conditions for your little ones to enjoy the water without worry.
The area is well-equipped with playgrounds and numerous picnic spots, making it easy for you to relax and spend the whole day comfortably. Every amenity is designed with family fun in mind with safe swimming areas and child-friendly facilities.
Pro Tip:
Don’t miss the chance to visit the nearby mineral spas. Incorporating a spa visit into your day can enhance the therapeutic benefits of the mineral-rich waters.
Spruce Sands Beach
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Address: Spruce Sands Manitoba R0C 0C0 Canada
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Entrance Fee: Free
If you’re scouting for a quiet spot to lay your beach blanket, Spruce Sands should be on your radar. It’s a cozy little beach with calm waters and plenty of soft sand for building sandcastles or just catching some rays.
The community around Spruce Sands is super welcoming, making it feel like your beachy home away from home.
You won’t find the big crowds here, which means you can really spread out and enjoy your space.
It’s perfect for a family day out or a quiet afternoon with a good book by the lake. Plus, there are picnic areas and some shady spots where you can escape the sun when it gets too much.
Pro Tip:
Spruce Sands is a fantastic place for stargazing on clear nights. Pack a blanket and some snacks, and enjoy the sky show after a day in the sun.
Beaconia Beach
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Address: St. Clements, MB R0E 0B0, Canada
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Contact Details: N/A
Entrance Fee: Free
Beaconia Beach is the place to go if you like your beach days wild and free. This hidden treasure offers miles of natural shoreline where you can wander without bumping into beach umbrellas every few feet.
Grab your fishing gear or kayak when you head to Beaconia because the water is just right for both. If you’re into photography or bird watching, you’ll be in heaven with the local wildlife around here, not to mention the photogenic sunsets that light up the evening sky.
Pro Tip:
Beaconia’s waters are ideal for finding “treasures” along the shore—look for interesting rocks, shells, and even occasionally driftwood pieces that make perfect souvenirs from your beach day adventure.
