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Why Gimli Beach Winnipeg is the Ultimate Summer Escape [A Local’s Guide]

Every summer, my family would pack up the car and head out on road trips, chasing the sun and the sound of crashing waves. 

One particular day, we ventured westward, and by some stroke of luck (or perhaps fate), we stumbled upon Gimli Beach. From the moment my toes sank into the soft sand and the salty breeze kissed my cheeks, I was hooked. 

It was like finding my own slice of paradise right in the heart of Manitoba! 

As the years went by, my love for all things beach-related only grew stronger. I became a connoisseur of sandcastle architecture, a master of boogie board maneuvers, and a seasoned seashell collector. 

So, when it comes to Gimli Beach, you can bet your bottom dollar that I’ve got stories to tell and some things to share. Trust me, the end of this journey will be the beginning of your endless love affair with the sun, sea, and sand.

About Gimli Beach 

— Media credit: mitchieko77

Gimli Beach is an awesome spot in the town of Gimli, located on the shores of Lake Winnipeg. It’s a popular day trip destination for those living in the city, only about an hour away.

This place is a long stretch of sandy shoreline with a bit of a reputation for being a “typical northern lake beach.” This means the sand isn’t the white, powdery kind you’d see in the tropics — it’s a bit more rugged.

What’s really fantastic about Gimli Beach is the whole package. There are picnic tables where you can set up a nice lunch, public restrooms for convenience, and plenty of parking. 

If you’re into water sports, you can rent jet skis and other fun watercraft right there too. 

And don’t forget about the town of Gimli itself. It’s got this rich Icelandic heritage that you’ll see everywhere—in the shops, restaurants, and even the museums. 

It’s a cool mix of culture and history that you don’t want to miss.

Things to Do at Gimli Beach 

Relaxing on the beach.

— Media credit: purrpurr2

If you’re heading out to Gimli Beach, there are a bunch of things you can do to really make the most of it. 

First off, you’ve got to stretch out a beach towel on that fine, light-brown sand and just soak up some of that gorgeous Manitoba sunshine. If you’re into getting a tan, this is the place to do it!

Feeling a bit creative? Grab your friends and family and dive into some sandcastle buildings. 

The sand here is perfect for crafting all sorts of sandy masterpieces. It’s always fun to see what everyone comes up with.

And don’t forget to take a leisurely stroll along the shoreline. Keep your eyes peeled for interesting rocks, cool shells, or even a piece of driftwood that would make a great souvenir. 

Beachcombing here is a bit like a treasure hunt—you never know what you might find!

Taking a dip. 

— Media credit: nadiakozubal

The shallow waters at Gimli are perfect for a swim, especially if you’ve got little ones. You can wade in comfortably and cool off from the summer heat—it’s such a refreshing escape.

One tip from a local: the lake bottom can be a bit rocky in some areas, so wearing water shoes is advised. They’ll keep your feet happy while you’re splashing around and having fun.

Jet skiing and paddleboarding.

— Media credit: viking_rentals

For a thrilling ride, you should try jet skiing. You can rent one at the beach and speed across the surface of Lake Winnipeg. 

It’s such a rush, feeling the cool spray on your face as you cut through the waves. Just hold on tight!

Now, if you prefer something a bit more laid-back, paddleboarding is the way to go. You can rent a paddleboard and just drift along, taking in the beautiful views of the lake and the shoreline. 

Exploring the beach. 

— Media credit: aaron_cawson

Taking a stroll or hopping on a bike while cruising along the path that runs by the beach is another great thing to do here at Gimli. You can enjoy the scenic views of the water and maybe even catch some birds flying by. 

But don’t just stick to the sandy shore. Venture a bit further and explore the dunes behind the beach; just be mindful of the environment.

Picnicking by the beach. 

— Media credit: j.bell006 

Your visit to Gimli can’t be complete without having a good old picnic by the beach. They’ve got picnic tables and shelters dotted all along, which are ideal spots to unwind with some tasty grub. 

Don’t forget to pack yourself a delicious lunch, maybe some juicy burgers or a tasty salad, and enjoy it with that sweet lake breeze and the sound of the waves.