Winnipeg Beach Travel Guide

Plan your next trip to Winnipeg Beach with our comprehensive tour guide. Explore the natural attractions, cultural landmarks, and find the best places to stay and eat.


Introduction to Winnipeg Beach

Located in Interlake, Manitoba, Winnipeg Beach is a charming lakeside town that attracts visitors with its scenic natural beauty, outdoor adventures, and rich cultural attractions. With its sandy beaches, crystal clear waters, and scenic views of Lake Winnipeg, Winnipeg Beach is a popular vacation spot for families, couples, and solo travelers alike.

In this tour guide, we’ll provide you with all the information you need to plan your trip to Winnipeg Beach. From the best things to do and see, to where to stay, eat, and shop, we’ve got you covered.

List of Places to Visit in Winnipeg Beach

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

If you’re interested in learning about the local history and culture of Winnipeg Beach, there are several must-visit museums and historical landmarks in the area. These include:

  • Winnipeg Beach Heritage Museum: Located in the heart of Winnipeg Beach, this museum houses a collection of artifacts and exhibits that showcase the town’s history, from its early settlers to present-day.
  • Marine Museum of Manitoba: This museum showcases the rich maritime history of the region, with exhibits on the fishing industry, boat building, and more.
  • St. Michael’s Ukrainian Greek Orthodox Church: This historic church was built in the early 20th century by Ukrainian immigrants and is a beautiful example of the region’s cultural heritage.

Natural Attractions of Winnipeg Beach: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Winnipeg Beach is known for its scenic natural beauty and outdoor adventures. Some of the top natural attractions in the area include:

  • Lake Winnipeg Beach: Spend a day soaking up the sun and playing in the crystal clear waters of Lake Winnipeg. With its sandy beaches and tranquil waters, it’s the perfect spot for swimming, picnicking, and relaxing.
  • Boardwalk and Pier: Take a stroll along the boardwalk and enjoy some of the best views of Lake Winnipeg. You can also take a walk out on the pier for even more stunning views of the lake and the surrounding landscape.
  • Winnipeg Beach Provincial Park: This park offers miles of hiking and biking trails, as well as opportunities for birdwatching, fishing, and more.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Winnipeg Beach

Winnipeg Beach is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. There are plenty of hiking and biking trails in the area that offer scenic views of the lake and the surrounding landscape. Some of the top trails include:

  • Winnipeg Beach Provincial Park Trails: This park offers several hiking and biking trails, ranging from easy to challenging. The trails wind through the forest, offering stunning views of the lake and the surrounding scenery.
  • The Boardwalk Trail: This easy trail takes you along the boardwalk, offering beautiful views of the lake and the town. It’s a great way to explore the area and get some exercise at the same time.

Best Things to Do in Winnipeg Beach: Activities and Tours

There are plenty of things to see and do in Winnipeg Beach, from outdoor adventures to cultural experiences. Some of the top activities and tours in the area include:

  • Fishing Charters on Lake Winnipeg: Spend a day on the lake with an experienced fishing guide and try your luck at catching walleye, northern pike, and other fish species.
  • Winnipeg Beach Railway Station Museum: This historic railway station has been turned into a museum, showcasing the history of the area’s railway system and its impact on the local community.
  • Winnipeg Beach Farmers’ Market: Visit the local farmers’ market to sample some of the freshest produce and homemade goods from the region.

Week-Long Itinerary for Winnipeg Beach

If you have a week to spend in Winnipeg Beach, here is a suggested itinerary to make the most of your time in the area:

Day Activity
1 Visit the Winnipeg Beach Heritage Museum and take a walk along the boardwalk and pier
2 Spend a day relaxing on Lake Winnipeg Beach and exploring the surrounding area
3 Take a guided fishing charter on Lake Winnipeg and try your luck at catching some fish
4 Visit the St. Michael’s Ukrainian Greek Orthodox Church and explore the Marine Museum of Manitoba
5 Take a hike on one of the many trails in Winnipeg Beach Provincial Park
6 Visit the Winnipeg Beach Railway Station Museum and explore the local shops and markets
7 Spend a day relaxing and enjoying the beach before heading home

Food and Drink Scene of Winnipeg Beach

Winnipeg Beach is home to some amazing restaurants and bars, offering everything from classic Canadian dishes to international cuisine. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages to sample during your visit:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Prairie Burger: This iconic dish features a juicy beef patty topped with smoky bacon, cheddar cheese, and all the fixings.
  • Perogies: A staple of Ukrainian cuisine, perogies are delicious dumplings filled with potatoes, cheese, and other ingredients.
  • Pickerel: As a freshwater fish found in Lake Winnipeg, pickerel is often a popular dish in the area, served either pan-fried or deep-fried.

Local Beverages

  • Fort Garry Brewing Company: This local brewery offers a range of craft beers, including the popular Fort Garry Dark Ale and the Fort Garry Boondock Wheat.
  • Crown Royal: This iconic Canadian whiskey is produced in nearby Gimli and can be found at many local bars and restaurants.
  • Prairie Bee Meadery: This local meadery produces delicious honey-based beverages, including traditional mead and fruit-infused varieties.

Where to Stay in Winnipeg Beach: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Winnipeg Beach has a range of accommodation options to suit every budget and preference. Here are some top hotels, hostels, and guesthouses to consider:

  • Lakeview Resort and Conference Centre: This lakeside hotel features comfortable rooms, a restaurant, bar, and a range of amenities, including a fitness center, indoor pool, and more.
  • Winnipeg Beach Bunkhouse Hostel: This affordable hostel is located just a few blocks from the beach and offers bunk-style accommodation, shared bathrooms, and communal living areas.
  • Betula Lake Resort: Located just a short drive from Winnipeg Beach, this cozy guesthouse offers beautiful views of the lake, comfortable rooms, and a range of outdoor activities, from hiking and canoeing to fishing and kayaking.

What to Buy in Winnipeg Beach: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

No trip is complete without some souvenirs to bring home. Here are some top items to look for in Winnipeg Beach:

  • Fisherman’s Wharf: This local shop offers a range of fishing gear, tackle, and apparel, as well as gifts and souvenirs, including t-shirts, hats, and other items.
  • Windcatchers: These beautiful wind chimes are a popular souvenir in the area, made from natural materials like driftwood and seashells.
  • Local Artwork: Check out the local galleries and shops for paintings, sculptures, and other artwork created by local artists.

Local Culture and Customs of Winnipeg Beach

Winnipeg Beach is a friendly and welcoming community, known for its strong Ukrainian heritage and connection to the land and water. When visiting the area, it’s important to respect the local culture and customs.

Best Time to Visit Winnipeg Beach

The best time to visit Winnipeg Beach is during the summer months (June-August), when the weather is warm and sunny, and the lake is perfect for swimming and other water activities. However, the fall and winter months can also be a great time to visit, with fewer crowds and a range of outdoor activities to enjoy, like ice fishing and cross-country skiing.

Do’s and Don’ts of Winnipeg Beach

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and customs.
  • Take care of the environment and leave no trace when exploring the area.
  • Try the local cuisine and beverages.
  • Explore the natural beauty of the area.

Don’t:

  • Disturb the wildlife or the natural habitat of the area.
  • Litter or leave trash behind.
  • Ignore safety recommendations when exploring the lake or hiking trails.

Safety and Health

Safety in Winnipeg Beach

Winnipeg Beach is generally a safe and peaceful community. However, it’s important to take common-sense precautions when exploring the area, like locking your car doors and securing your belongings.

Health in Winnipeg Beach

The water in Lake Winnipeg Beach is generally safe for swimming, but it’s important to follow any advisories or warnings issued by local officials.

Getting to Winnipeg Beach: Transportation Options and Logistics

Winnipeg Beach is located about 50 miles north of Winnipeg and is easily accessible by car or public transportation. Here are some options to consider:

Airports Near Winnipeg Beach

  • Winnipeg James Armstrong Richardson International Airport: Located about an hour’s drive from Winnipeg Beach, this airport is serviced by several major airlines and offers flights to a range of domestic and international destinations.

Bus Stations Near Winnipeg Beach

  • Greyhound Bus Station: Located in Winnipeg, this bus station offers service to several cities throughout Manitoba and beyond.

Other Options

  • Car Rental: Renting a car is an easy and convenient way to get to Winnipeg Beach and explore the surrounding area.
  • Taxi/Limo Service: Several taxi and limo companies offer service to Winnipeg Beach from Winnipeg and other nearby cities.

How to Get Around in Winnipeg Beach

Winnipeg Beach is a small town, and many attractions can be easily reached on foot or by bike. However, having a car can be useful for exploring the surrounding area.

Where to Go Next from Winnipeg Beach: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you have some extra time to explore the area, here are some nearby destinations and excursions to consider:

  • Gimli: This charming lakeside town is located about 20 miles north of Winnipeg Beach and is known for its Icelandic heritage and festivals.
  • Grand Beach Provincial Park: This beautiful park is located about 40 miles northeast of Winnipeg Beach and boasts some of the best beaches and outdoor activities in the region.
  • Winnipeg: Manitoba’s capital city is located about an hour south of Winnipeg Beach and offers a range of cultural attractions, shopping, and dining options.

Conclusion

Winnipeg Beach is a wonderful destination for anyone looking to explore the natural beauty and rich cultural heritage of Manitoba. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or just a relaxing getaway, there’s something for everyone in this charming lakeside town. Use our comprehensive tour guide to plan your next trip, and discover all that Winnipeg Beach has to offer.

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