Among Canada’s provinces, Manitoba is pretty unique. It’s the country’s longitudinal center, but Manitoba is far from landlocked, featuring abundant coastline on its northeastern edge and around its enormous freshwater lakes.
In fact, travelers would be hard-pressed to drive for more than 30 minutes without coming upon another breathtaking waterfront view. From the largest city in Winnipeg to the northern reaches of Fort Churchill on the Hudson Bay, Manitoba is a land of lakes and landscapes that are ready to be discovered.
Along Lake Winnipeg’s southwestern shore, about 56 kilometers north of Winnipeg, is the beautiful town of Winnipeg Beach. Here you’ll find Winnipeg Beach Provincial Park, which features a nice stretch of sand, a delightful boardwalk, and lots of lush greenery. The park has plenty of other attractions, too, like camping, tennis and much more. This is a great spot for an extended beach stay.
The city of Thompson is a northern destination, perfect for outdoorsy types and the like. Paint Lake is a favorite local spot all year, offering fishing, hiking, and boating in the summer. In the winter, the lake transforms into a destination for sledding, skating, snowmobiling, and more. The city of Thompson is full of scenic outdoor adventure. Pisew Falls is another worthy stop for photos and taking in the beauty of the area.
Grand Beach is one of Manitoba’s most beloved summer spots — and for good reason. At Grand Beach Provincial Park there are powdery white sand beaches and enormous sand dunes. You’ll also find a lagoon with lots of beautiful birds, a delightful boardwalk, campgrounds, and even an outdoor amphitheater. These vast facilities are put to good use for events like the Canada Day Family Festival and Manitoba Summerfest. Lake Winnipeg’s eastern shore really knows how to do summer right.
Brandon is the second-largest city in the prairie province of Manitoba, and it’s got a lot to offer. This facility helps to maintain healthy shorelines for the Assiniboine River. It features an interpretive centre and a small network of trails that offer visitors and residents an up-close view of the stunning waterfront landscape. Keep your cameras handy, you may even see some wildlife.
In case you’re looking for more waterfront fun, don’t forget that the Best Western Plus Brandon Inn has an impressive indoor pool, featuring Brandon’s fastest water slide.
Along Lake Winnipeg’s southwest end is Gimli, a rural municipality with one of Manitoba’s absolute best beaches. The curving sandy bay at Gimli Beach is right there in the heart of Gimli and features a truly picturesque stretch of sand spanning about 600 meters. Don’t miss the Gimli seawall gallery, a long outdoor procession of spectacular murals. Cottages line the beach’s waterfront road, and all of Gimli borders the beach. That means there are many, many places here to have fun in the sun.
If you’re ready to travel, then visit Manitoba with Best Western! We have hotels throughout the province —including near these beautiful waterfront destinations — that’ll make your next stay one you’ll never forget. Whenever you end up traveling, we’re excited to see you. Here’s to better travel with Best Western® Hotels & Resorts.
