Top 10 Waterfront Retirement Communities In Manitoba
Retirement is a time to slow down, relax, and truly enjoy life — and what better way to do that than by settling near the water? Manitoba is home to some of the most inviting waterfront retirement communities in Canada, offering serene lakefront views, peaceful surroundings, and endless opportunities to connect with nature.
Many retirees are drawn to waterfront living because it brings a sense of calm, relaxation, and the chance to enjoy an active outdoor lifestyle. With its abundance of lakes, rivers, and scenic shorelines — from the vast beauty of Lake Winnipeg to the charm of smaller lakeside towns — Manitoba offers the perfect backdrop for retirement living. Whether you’re dreaming of a cozy small-town retreat or a community with easy access to both nature and city amenities, Manitoba has waterfront retirement options to fit every lifestyle.
Benefits of Living by the Water
Experts often highlight the health benefits of living near water, including:
- Reduced stress and anxiety – Research shows that being close to rivers, lakes, or beaches can lower stress and boost overall mental wellness.
- Better air quality – Manitoba’s freshwater lakes provide cleaner, crisper air that supports healthier breathing.
- Encouragement for an active lifestyle – Living near the water makes it easy to stay active with activities like walking, boating, fishing, swimming, or simply enjoying the outdoors.
Manitoba is home to some of Canada’s most scenic waterfront communities, from charming small towns along Lake Winnipeg to peaceful retirement spots near the Red River. The province offers a balance of affordable lakefront living and upscale retirement residences. Whether you’re looking for independent living in a quiet lakeside town or assisted living with supportive care near the water, Manitoba has options that fit a variety of retirement lifestyles.
In this guide, we’ll explore the best waterfront retirement communities in Manitoba to help you discover the perfect place to enjoy your golden years.
What Makes Manitoba’s Waterfront Retirement Communities Special?
Waterfront retirement communities in Manitoba stand out because they combine natural beauty, recreation, and a slower pace of life. Here’s why they’re such a great choice for retirees:
1. Peaceful & Scenic Environment
Manitoba is home to thousands of lakes and rivers, offering retirees stunning water views and a calming environment. From the shores of Lake Winnipeg to the tranquil waters of Clear Lake in Riding Mountain National Park, these communities provide a serene escape from urban noise.
Expert Insight: “Research shows that living near water can boost well-being and reduce stress. In Manitoba, the open skies and wide waters create a sense of peace and freedom that appeals to many retirees.”
2. Access to Nature & Outdoor Activities
Waterfront living in Manitoba comes with endless outdoor options. Depending on the season, retirees can enjoy:
- Fishing and boating on Lake Winnipeg, Lake Manitoba, and countless smaller lakes
- Hiking, cycling, and birdwatching in provincial parks like Whiteshell and Hecla-Grindstone
- Golfing at lakeside courses
- Cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and ice fishing in winter
Many waterfront communities also feature marinas, beaches, and nature trails, keeping retirees active year-round.
3. Year-Round Appeal: Four Seasons of Beauty
Manitoba’s waterfront retirement communities offer something special in every season:
- Spring & Summer: Long sunny days, lakeside barbecues, and evening strolls by the water.
- Fall: Brilliant golden foliage reflecting on calm lakes.
- Winter: Snow-covered landscapes, cozy firesides, and winter sports like skating and ice fishing.
This four-season lifestyle is perfect for retirees who enjoy variety and the outdoors.
4. Strong Community & Social Life
Manitoba’s small-town waterfront communities are known for their warmth and friendliness. Retirees often participate in:
- Local festivals and cultural events (such as Icelandic Festival in Gimli)
- Senior clubs, arts and crafts groups, and recreational programs
- Volunteer opportunities that foster community connections
- Social gatherings at local halls, churches, and community centers
This welcoming atmosphere helps retirees build lasting friendships.
5. Convenient Access to Healthcare & Amenities
Many of Manitoba’s waterfront communities are within reach of larger centers like Winnipeg, Brandon, or Selkirk, where hospitals, clinics, and senior care services are available. Retirees get the best of both worlds: peaceful waterfront living with essential services close by.
Top 10 Waterfront Retirement Communities in Manitoba
Manitoba is home to thousands of lakes, winding rivers, and beautiful waterfront communities that make retirement feel like a permanent vacation. For retirees looking for peace, recreation, and a close-knit community, these destinations offer the perfect mix of natural beauty and comfort.
1. Victoria Beach (Lake Winnipeg East Shore)
Known as one of Manitoba’s most exclusive cottage areas, Victoria Beach has long been a favourite retreat for retirees. This resort-style municipality is car-free in the summer months, creating a quiet, walkable environment.
Highlights:
- Pristine sandy beaches and warm summer waters
- Yacht club, tennis courts, and golf course
- Close-knit seasonal community with long traditions
- Peaceful, residential-only zoning—no commercial noise
Why Retire Here?
If you’re looking for an active summer lifestyle with swimming, sailing, and social gatherings, Victoria Beach offers a serene yet vibrant waterfront community.
2. Gimli & Winnipeg Beach (Lake Winnipeg West Shore)
Gimli, famous for its Icelandic Festival and fishing heritage, and Winnipeg Beach, known for its boardwalk and summer events, form a dynamic pair of waterfront towns. Both are within an hour’s drive of Winnipeg, making them very accessible.
Highlights:
- Sandy beaches, marinas, and beachside festivals
- Active arts and cultural scene (e.g., Gimli Film Festival)
- Strong community spirit, ideal for seniors who like staying socially engaged
- Local healthcare services and proximity to Winnipeg hospitals
Why Retire Here?
These towns are ideal for retirees who want year-round living by the lake with a mix of culture, community events, and access to healthcare.
Also read Top 10 Worst Places to Retire in Ontario
3. The Whiteshell (Falcon Lake, West Hawk Lake, Brereton Lake)
The Whiteshell Provincial Park area offers some of Manitoba’s most scenic and recreational waterfront retirement options. With its granite cliffs, clear lakes, and forest trails, it’s paradise for nature lovers.
Highlights:
- Falcon Lake and West Hawk Lake have thriving communities and marinas
- Hiking, kayaking, snowmobiling, and golf available year-round
- Plenty of seasonal cabins, retirement cottages, and quiet lodges
- National park–like setting with abundant wildlife
Why Retire Here?
If you’re an outdoorsy retiree who loves four-season recreation and a “cabin country” atmosphere, Whiteshell is perfect.
4. Lac du Bonnet (Winnipeg River)
Nestled along the Winnipeg River, Lac du Bonnet offers both a strong small-town community and endless recreational opportunities.
Highlights:
- Fishing, boating, and camping destinations at your doorstep
- Annual events like the Lac du Bonnet Ice Fishing Derby
- Golf courses and nature trails for active living
- Affordable real estate compared to other waterfront areas
Why Retire Here?
Lac du Bonnet is a balanced option—close to Winnipeg but far enough to feel relaxed, with excellent recreational appeal and strong community spirit.
5. Dunnottar (Matlock, Ponemah, Whytewold)
The Village of Dunnottar sits on Lake Winnipeg’s southwest shore and is known for its long beaches and welcoming seasonal residents.
Highlights:
- Relaxed village lifestyle with strong community ties
- Walking and cycling paths along the shoreline
- Small-town friendliness with seasonal cottages and permanent homes
- Quick access to Winnipeg for healthcare and shopping
Why Retire Here?
Dunnottar is perfect for retirees who value quiet waterfront living without losing access to urban services.
6. Twin Lakes Beach (Lake Manitoba)
Twin Lakes Beach is one of the cleanest and most pristine beach areas in Manitoba, with a low population and lots of open space.
Highlights:
- Long sandy beaches and fresh air
- Peaceful, low-density living—ideal for retirees who want tranquility
- Family-friendly community with seasonal and year-round residents
- Located about one hour from Winnipeg
Why Retire Here?
If you’re seeking a quieter, more secluded lakeside retirement, Twin Lakes Beach is a hidden gem.
7. St. Laurent (Lake Manitoba East Shore)
This culturally rich community on Lake Manitoba’s east shore is home to one of the largest Métis populations in Canada.
Highlights:
- Rich heritage and cultural events rooted in Métis traditions
- Tranquil lakefront living with strong community ties
- Affordable real estate compared to more tourist-heavy lake towns
- Quiet, welcoming environment for seniors
Why Retire Here?
St. Laurent is perfect for retirees who want cultural richness, affordability, and a deep sense of place along the water.
8. Paradise Village (R.M. of Ste. Anne)
Unlike seasonal lake towns, Paradise Village is a purpose-built 55+ retirement community with a strong focus on active living.
Highlights:
- Private, gated community with clubhouses and social programs
- Golf course nearby and recreational amenities
- Snowbird-friendly, with many residents spending winters down south
- Located just outside Winnipeg for easy healthcare access
Why Retire Here?
Paradise Village is a great option for seniors who want a safe, organized retirement community with lots of peer activities.
9. Winnipeg Waterfront Residences (River Ridge, Seine River, Shaftesbury Park)
For retirees who want city amenities but still enjoy waterfront living, Winnipeg offers several riverside retirement residences.
Highlights:
- Upscale, all-inclusive retirement homes with water views
- Social programming, fitness centers, and medical support on-site
- Urban convenience with restaurants, shopping, and healthcare close by
- Beautiful walking trails along the Red and Seine Rivers
Why Retire Here?
This option is ideal for retirees who want low-maintenance living with full amenities while still enjoying the tranquility of riverside views.
10. Amber Meadow (Winnipeg)
Located within Winnipeg, Amber Meadow blends independent senior living with easy access to rivers and parks.
Highlights:
- Convenient access to urban hospitals and services
- Green spaces and waterfront trails nearby
- All-inclusive lifestyle with meals, housekeeping, and social activities
- Perfect for seniors who want a mix of independence and support
Why Retire Here?
Amber Meadow suits retirees who want to stay close to the city while enjoying natural surroundings and a strong retirement community.
Manitoba’s waterfront retirement communities range from secluded natural escapes like Twin Lakes Beach and Whiteshell, to resort-style villages like Victoria Beach, to urban riverfront residences in Winnipeg. Whether you’re looking for active outdoor living, cultural vibrancy, or convenience and healthcare access, Manitoba has a lakeside or riverside community that fits your lifestyle.
Challenges of Retiring in Manitoba’s Waterfront Communities
Waterfront retirement living in Manitoba can be peaceful and scenic, but there are some important challenges to keep in mind.
1. Cost of Living: Higher Real Estate Prices in Popular Waterfront Areas
- Waterfront properties near lakes like Lake Winnipeg, Lake Manitoba, or the Whiteshell are in high demand, so prices can be higher than inland properties.
- Maintenance costs for lakeside properties can also be higher due to exposure to wind, snow, and ice.
💡 Solution: Consider more affordable waterfront areas such as Gimli, Selkirk, or Ste. Anne instead of high-demand areas like Grand Beach or Pinawa.
2. Weather and Seasonal Adjustments
- Manitoba winters are long, cold, and snowy, which can make daily life more challenging for retirees.
💡 Solution: Look for communities with reliable winter services such as snow clearing, or plan for snowbirding—spending winters in warmer regions like Arizona or Florida.
3. Limited Access to Urban Amenities in Remote Waterfront Areas
- Many of Manitoba’s scenic waterfront communities are far from major cities like Winnipeg, meaning fewer hospitals, shopping centers, or recreational options.
💡 Solution: Choose communities that balance lakeside living with access to services, such as Winnipeg Beach, Selkirk, or the eastern Whiteshell area.
4. Insurance and Property Maintenance
- Waterfront homes may have higher insurance costs due to potential flooding or water-related damage.
- Lakeside properties require regular upkeep to prevent weather-related wear and tear.
💡 Solution: Include these expenses in your retirement budget and consider properties built with flood-resistant features.
