A Definitive Handbook to Why St Malo Beach Winnipeg Should Be Your Next Weekend Getaway
It was a sweltering summer day in Winnipeg, and I was sprawled on my couch, encircled by a battalion of fans, desperately seeking refuge from the blazing heat.
Having exhausted all avenues of entertainment, from Netflix binging to organizing my sock drawer, I had a revelation: I needed a beach day, pronto! But alas, living in the heart of the Prairies, the nearest beach wasn’t exactly a hop, skip, and jump away.
So, fueled by a potent mix of boredom and determination, I embarked on a mission to uncover the closest slice of sandy paradise. After a brief rendezvous with Google Maps (and perhaps a touch of procrastination), I settled on St Malo Beach.
Three hours of road-tripping later, I found myself gazing upon the shimmering shores of Lake Winnipeg, feeling as though I had unearthed the Holy Grail of summer sanctuaries.
But hold onto your beach hats, people, because I realized that the adventures at St Malo Beach were just beginning! For now, here’s the ultimate guide for crafting your own unforgettable St. Malo Beach escapade.
About St Malo Beach
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If you’re looking for a great spot to unwind that’s not too far from Winnipeg, go to St Malo Beach! It’s only about a 45-minute drive south, so it’s perfect for a quick getaway.
Nestled within St Malo Provincial Park, this beach sits snugly by a reservoir formed by the Rat River dam.
You’ll love the sandy shores here—meticulously maintained, with not one but two swim-friendly areas. Plus, there are designated areas for picnics, a playground to keep the kids happy, and even watercraft rentals for the adventurous.
Now, the water can get a bit murky sometimes, but fear not; it’s usually good for a dip.
Best Time to Go to St Malo Beach
The best time to go to St. Malo Beach is between mid-May and September.
To avoid crowds on weekends, plan your trip during the week for a quieter experience. This way, you can enjoy the beach with fewer people and a more relaxed atmosphere.
Things to Do at St Malo Beach
Swimming
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St Malo is great for swimming. It has this huge, shallow area, which is just perfect if you’ve got little ones with you.
Plus, during the peak season, you’ll find lifeguards on duty to keep everyone safe.
Just a friendly reminder: the water clarity can change from time to time, so it’s always a good idea to check with park officials for current conditions before diving in.
Sunbathing
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Sunbathing at St Malo Beach is a must! You can stretch out on the sandy beach and soak up the Manitoba sunshine.
You can also rent beach chairs and umbrellas if you want, but bringing your own gear works just as well.
Here’s a little tip: If you’re planning to sunbathe, try to find a spot outside the designated swimming areas. That way, you won’t be in the way of swimmers.
Building Sandcastles
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You can also try your hand at building sandcastles if you’re heading to St Malo Beach; it’s one of the best ways to spend your time there.
The sand is just perfect—nice and soft, so you can really get creative with your designs. I’d suggest packing some sandcastle-building tools like buckets, molds, and shovels.
Trust me, they make all the difference.
It’s a fantastic way to unleash your inner architect and have fun, whether you’re with family, friends, or even on your own.
Playing Beach Volleyball
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Another thing you can do here at St Malo is play beach volleyball. They’ve got these dedicated courts located near the area.
You can bring your own volleyball, but if you don’t have one, no worries—you can usually rent one from the park concession stand (just double-check because availability can vary).
And if you don’t have enough people for a full game, that’s not a problem at all! You might spot others at the beach eager to join in for some friendly competition.
Picnicking
— Media credit: sevenoaks_swis
Your visit to St Malo isn’t complete without having a picnic there! You can pack some tasty snacks, sandwiches, and maybe even some local treats and head out for a chill time by the water.
They’ve got these neat picnic tables and shelters all over the place, so finding a shady spot for your feast is a breeze. And don’t forget, when you’re done, dispose of your trash in the designated bins to keep the beach clean.
Where to Eat Near St Malo Beach
Bigg Smoak Bbq Smokehouse & Grill
If you’re craving some juicy barbecue, go for Bigg Smoak BBQ Smokehouse & Grill. It’s a local gem, famous for its award-winning smoked meats.
They’ve got these amazing platters where you can mix and match smoked brisket, ribs, pulled pork, and all the delicious sides.
Now, if you want to know what everyone’s raving about, it’s definitely the Brisket Mushroom Mozza Burger.
An 8-ounce Canadian Wagyu patty topped with brisket, mushrooms, their bold BBQ sauce, and mozza cheese, all on a grilled bun with lettuce, tomato, and mayo.
Trust me, it’s as good as it sounds!
Lucky Luc’s Bar and Grill
For a casual, tasty bite you’re after, Lucky Luc’s Bar and Grill is definitely a good choice.
It’s one of those restaurants where everyone seems to end up for lunch or dinner. Whether you want to dine in or grab something to take out to the beach, they’ve got you covered.
Their menu is packed with all the pub classics, like wings, burgers, and pizza. And let me tell you, the portions are generous, and the prices won’t break the bank!
If you’re wondering what to order, their Lucky Luc Burger is the crowd favorite. It’s a 5-ounce grilled patty slathered in BBQ sauce, topped with onion rings, cheddar cheese, crispy bacon, lettuce, tomato, and fried onions.
But if you’re in the mood for something a bit different, try the Perogy Pizza. It comes with chopped, deep-fried perogies, green onions, bacon, and a dollop of sour cream.
Where to Stay Near St Malo Beach
Days Inn by Wyndham Steinbach
If you’re planning a trip to St Malo Beach and need a great place to stay, I highly recommend the Days Inn. It’s a bit of a drive from Winnipeg, but totally worth it.
This hotel is super clean, and the rooms are really comfortable. You’ll love the heated indoor pool, especially with the waterslide—perfect if you’re traveling with kids or just want to have some fun.
There’s also a hot tub to unwind in after a day at the beach.
They serve a complimentary continental breakfast, which is a nice touch before you head out for the day. Plus, if you’re bringing your furry friend along, you’ll be happy to know that it’s pet-friendly.
St. Norbert Hotel
The St. Norbert Hotel is a budget-friendly hotel that has everything you need!
They’ve got a restaurant, a handy beer store right on-site, and a cozy café for your morning pick-me-up. And don’t worry about staying connected—they’ve got complimentary Wi-Fi sorted.
As per the rooms, they are simple but comfy, with flat-screen TVs for some evening relaxation. It’s a solid choice if you’re exploring the area and want a convenient place to crash after a day at the beach.
Travelodge by Wyndham Winnipeg East
Travelodge is another great option if you’re looking for a night to stay near St Malo Beach. It’s got this cool indoor tropical courtyard with a pool, hot tub, and sauna—perfect for unwinding after a day out.
Their guest rooms are known for being nice and clean, with thoughtful amenities for a comfy stay. They’ve got free WiFi (which is always a win), and there’s on-site dining if you don’t feel like venturing out.
Plus, they’ve got bowling too, so you can have some fun without leaving the hotel.