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Our top choices for Brainerd beach hotels

Marina

Ruttger's Bay Lake Resort

Ruttger's Bay Lake Resort
3.0 star property
Deerwood
8.4 out of 10, Very good, (352 reviews)
  • cleanliness
    Unwind on a sandy shore with easy beach access, kayaking adventures, and seaside volleyball at this waterfront resort
The price is £95
includes taxes & fees
15 Apr - 16 Apr
Ruttger's Bay Lake Resort
Fishing

Maddens On Gull Lake

Maddens On Gull Lake
4.0 star property
Brainerd
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (211 reviews)
  • cleanliness
    Bask in lakeside luxury on the sandy shores of Gull Lake with direct beach access, water sports, and six delicious dining options.
The price is £107
includes taxes & fees
27 Apr - 28 Apr
Maddens On Gull Lake
Lobby

Pine Peaks Lodge & Suites

Pine Peaks Lodge & Suites
2.5 star property
Crosslake
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (334 reviews)
  • cleanliness
    Relax on soft sand and scenic trails just moments from this lakefront retreat, where beach adventures and indoor comforts await.
The price is £80
includes taxes & fees
15 Apr - 16 Apr
Pine Peaks Lodge & Suites
Exterior

Manhattan Beach Lodge

Manhattan Beach Lodge
2.0 star property
Crosslake
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (63 reviews)
  • cleanliness
    Discover paradise on this private beachfront hotel, where sandy shores, beach loungers, and refreshing cocktails from the beach bar await.
The price is £73
includes taxes & fees
30 Apr - 1 May
Manhattan Beach Lodge
Spruce Cabin Residences | Premium bedding, pillow-top beds, blackout curtains, free WiFi

Nature Link Resort

Nature Link Resort
3.0 star property
Nisswa
9.8 out of 10, Exceptional, (80 reviews)
  • cleanliness
    Sun, sand, and shoreline serenity await at this lakeside cabin retreat with private beach access and complimentary loungers.
The price is £161
includes taxes & fees
23 Apr - 24 Apr
Nature Link Resort
Indoor pool

Country Inn Deerwood

Country Inn Deerwood
2.5 star property
Deerwood
6.8 out of 10, (1,002 reviews)
  • cleanliness
    Soak up the sun on a sandy beach getaway with direct access to the shoreline, plus nearby fishing and scuba diving adventures.
The price is £54
includes taxes & fees
14 Apr - 15 Apr
Country Inn Deerwood
Exterior

Lakeview East Gull Lake Condo, Playground, Firepit, Boat Rentals

Lakeview East Gull Lake Condo, Playground, Firepit, Boat Rentals
Nisswa
9.6 out of 10, Exceptional, (39 reviews)
The price is £151
includes taxes & fees
12 Apr - 13 Apr
Lakeview East Gull Lake Condo, Playground, Firepit, Boat Rentals
Property grounds

Your Gull Lake Reset Awaits | Bay Colony Condo | Sleeps 8

Your Gull Lake Reset Awaits | Bay Colony Condo | Sleeps 8
Nisswa
9.8 out of 10, Exceptional, (35 reviews)
The price is £151
includes taxes & fees
12 Apr - 13 Apr
Your Gull Lake Reset Awaits | Bay Colony Condo | Sleeps 8
On the beach, sun-loungers, beach towels

Cozy cabin w hot tub & fireplace, near Nisswa/crosslake

Cozy cabin w hot tub & fireplace, near Nisswa/crosslake
Merrifield
10.0 out of 10, Exceptional, (14 reviews)
  • cleanliness
    Escape to a tranquil waterfront cabin with private beach access, kayaking adventures, and serene lake views.
The price is £319
includes taxes & fees
15 Apr - 16 Apr
Cozy cabin w hot tub & fireplace, near Nisswa/crosslake
Exterior

Good Times, Great Lake | Bay Colony Condo | Sleeps 8

Good Times, Great Lake | Bay Colony Condo | Sleeps 8
Nisswa
10.0 out of 10, Exceptional, (40 reviews)
The price is £151
includes taxes & fees
15 Apr - 16 Apr
Good Times, Great Lake | Bay Colony Condo | Sleeps 8
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
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Choose what matters most at beach hotels in Brainerd

Pool
Breakfast included

Find out more about Brainerd

Brainerd and its attractions for beach lovers

Brainerd, Minnesota, offers a delightful selection of water-based activities perfect for families seeking a beach experience. Start your adventure at the stunning Gull Lake, renowned for its sandy shores and crystal-clear waters, where you can enjoy swimming, paddleboarding, and picnicking with the family. Don't miss the Crow Wing State Park, which boasts picturesque trails and access to the river, ideal for canoeing and fishing. For something a bit more unique, the Paul Bunyan Water Park provides indoor water fun, ensuring that even on cooler days, your family can splash around and create lasting memories. After a day of exploration, unwind at the charming hotels dotted around the area, particularly those near the water's edge. Many accommodations offer family-friendly amenities, including spacious rooms and on-site dining with local flavours, making it convenient to relax after a fun-filled day. Staying around Gull Lake or the Brainerd Lakes area ensures you have easy access to both natural beauty and comfortable lodging, allowing you to explore and enjoy the best of Brainerd's beach-like offerings.

Find the best beach hotels and resorts in Brainerd

For those seeking a beach getaway in Brainerd, Minnesota, these top hotels offer stunning lakeside experiences, perfect for relaxation and fun in the sun.

Maddens On Gull Lake

  • Why it's great for the ultimate beach vacation spot: Maddens On Gull Lake is an exceptional choice for beach lovers, a remarkable guest review rating of 9.4. With direct access to a pristine sand beach, guests can indulge in a variety of water sports, including kayaking, waterskiing, and motorboating right on-site. The marina provides additional opportunities for boating enthusiasts to explore the beautiful Gull Lake area.
  • Other amenities: This luxurious resort also features a full-service spa, an indoor and outdoor pool, and a golf course for those looking to unwind. Guests can enjoy supervised childcare, a playground for children, and a range of body treatments at the spa. The scenic views from the lakefront ensure a tranquil atmosphere, while options for fishing and hiking nearby add to the array of outdoor adventures available.
  • Nearby attractions: The Classic at Madden's Golf Course - 0 km, Gull Lake - 0.1 km, Social 9 - 0.5 km

Cragun's Resort & Hotel

  • Why it's great for the ultimate beach vacation spot: Cragun's Resort & Hotel is a family-friendly beach retreat that scores an impressive 8.2 in guest reviews. Situated near a lovely beach, it offers a variety of outdoor activities to keep beach enthusiasts entertained. Whether it's lounging on the sandy shores or enjoying the onsite swimming pools, this resort is perfect for a laid-back getaway.
  • Other amenities: Guests can take advantage of outdoor tennis courts, an indoor pool, and a terrace for relaxation. The resort also provides a golf clubhouse and an array of hiking and biking trails. With free self-parking and housekeeping services, convenience is at the forefront of the guest experience, while the health club ensures fitness enthusiasts stay active during their stay.
  • Nearby attractions: Gull Lake - 0.4 km, Social 9 - 2.4 km, Legacy at Cragun's - 0.6 km

Top Brainerd Hotel Reviews

Cragun's Resort & Hotel

Cragun's Resort & Hotel

6/10 Okay
"The room was clean and bed was comfortable. Rooms are very dated. The fireplace in the room didn’t work and the phone in the room didn’t work when I tried to call the desk for assistance. The front desk staff wasn’t very helpful. View of the lake was the best thing about the property. "
Amy 2-night trip
Posted 2 weeks ago
Cragun's Resort & Hotel
Maddens On Gull Lake

Maddens On Gull Lake

10/10 Excellent
"So much to do and the staff is incredibly friendly!"
Joseph 2-night trip
Posted 6 months ago
Maddens On Gull Lake

Frequently asked questions

What are the best beach hotels in Brainerd?
For hotels near the beach in Brainerd, consider Maddens On Gull Lake and Cragun's Resort & Hotel.

The 4-star Maddens On Gull Lake, with a 9.4 rating, offers an on-site golf course, providing a unique blend of beach and golfing activities. Guests can enjoy golf lessons, a pro shop, and golf carts.

Cragun's Resort & Hotel, a 3-star property rated 8.2, also features an on-site golf course. Reviewers frequently mention that the rooms are spacious and clean, and the customer service and food are great.
How much does a beach hotel in Brainerd cost?
Prices for beach hotels in Brainerd vary, but you can find a great deal from £54 on Expedia. You're likely to find lower rates if you're travelling during the off-peak season or mid-week. Find the best deals by being flexible with your dates, and sort search results by "Price: low to high" for our cheapest rates.
Which Brainerd hotels are near the best beaches?
For hotels near the best beaches in Brainerd, consider Maddens On Gull Lake and Cragun's Resort & Hotel.

The 4-star Maddens On Gull Lake, with a 9.4 rating, offers a fantastic golf experience with an onsite golf course, clubhouse, and even golf lessons. It also provides golf carts for convenience.

Cragun's Resort & Hotel, a 3-star property with an 8.2 rating, also features an onsite golf course and pro shop, with guests frequently mentioning the spacious and clean rooms, great customer service, and good food.
Which beach hotels in Brainerd are good for families?
For families looking for beach hotels in Brainerd, consider Maddens On Gull Lake and Cragun's Resort & Hotel.

The 4-star Maddens On Gull Lake, with a 9.4 rating, offers a wide range of golf amenities, including an on-site golf course, golf lessons, and a pro shop.

Cragun's Resort & Hotel is a 3-star property with an 8.2 rating. Guests frequently comment on its spacious and clean rooms, great customer service, and good food.
What are the best Brainerd hotels with ocean views?
For hotels with ocean views in Brainerd, Lakeside: 4 Kings, Room4Groups, Hot Tub, Dock, Firewood is a highly-rated option.

This 5-star property, with a superb 10.0 rating, offers a lakeside location. It includes a kitchen, and amenities for children such as games, books, a stair gate, a travel crib, and toys.
What are the top-rated beach hotels in Brainerd with a pool?
For top-rated beach hotels in Brainerd with a pool, consider Maddens On Gull Lake and Cragun's Resort & Hotel.

The 4-star Maddens On Gull Lake, with a 9.4 rating, offers a variety of swimming options including indoor, outdoor, and children's pools. It also provides extensive golf facilities for guests.

Cragun's Resort & Hotel, a 3-star property with an 8.2 rating, features indoor, outdoor, and children's pools. Guests frequently comment on the spacious and clean rooms, as well as the great customer service and food.
Which area of Brainerd is best to stay in for beaches?
The best areas to stay in Brainerd for beaches are along the shores of Gull Lake, particularly around the towns of Nisswa and Baxter.

Gull Lake is the largest and most popular lake in the Brainerd Lakes Area, known for its clear waters and numerous sandy beaches. The shoreline is dotted with resorts, many of which offer private beach access, water sports, and lake-view accommodation. The area is generally well-maintained and offers a relaxed, outdoorsy experience.

Families will find this area particularly appealing. Many resorts cater to families with amenities like supervised children's activities, shallow swimming areas great for youngsters, and plenty of space for building sandcastles. The convenience of having a beach right on your doorstep, coupled with easy access to boat rentals and fishing charters, makes it an ideal spot for a family holiday.

Couples looking for a tranquil getaway will also appreciate the lakeside resorts. You can enjoy quiet evenings by the water, romantic strolls along the beach, and the option of spa services or fine dining at many of the higher-end establishments.
Which top beach hotels in Brainerd offer water sport activities?
For top beach hotels in Brainerd offering water sport activities, Maddens On Gull Lake is a good option.

The 4-star Maddens On Gull Lake, with a 9.4 rating, provides a range of water sports equipment. Guests can enjoy motorboating, waterskiing, and kayaking directly on-site.
What is the best time of year to stay in a beach hotel in Brainerd?
The most popular time to stay in a beach hotel in Brainerd is during the summer months, particularly July and August. The weather is wonderfully warm, with average temperatures ranging from 20°C to 27°C, making it ideal for enjoying the area's many lakes and sandy shores.

During this peak season, the lakes are buzzing with activity, from swimming and sunbathing to boating and fishing. Families will find it an excellent time to visit, as all the water-based attractions and lakeside resorts are in full swing. The longer daylight hours also mean more time to enjoy outdoor dining and evening strolls along the shore.

As another option, June is a fantastic alternative. While still warm, with temperatures typically between 18°C and 25°C, it offers a wonderful opportunity to find better value on lakefront accommodations and it can be easier to secure reservations for popular activities.
How can I save on a beach hotel in Brainerd with Expedia?
One Key™ —Expedia's free travel rewards programme—gives you instant access to perks and Member Prices on Brainerd beach hotels. Plus, you'll earn OneKeyCash™* on eligible bookings to use on future trips. Typically, booking in advance will help you save on your hotel booking. But, if you're feeling spontaneous, check out the last-minute deals.



*Excludes taxes and fees. OneKeyCash is not redeemable for cash and can only be used on Expedia and other participating brands.
What beach activities should we do in Brainerd?
The best beach activities to do in Brainerd involve enjoying the numerous lakes and their sandy shores, particularly around Gull Lake and the connected chain of lakes.

Gull Lake is the largest and most popular lake in the area, offering extensive opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, and building sandcastles along its many public and resort beaches. For families, the beaches here are particularly appealing due to their generally calm waters and often shallower entry points, making them suitable for children. Many resorts also offer water sports rentals directly on their beaches, such as paddleboards and kayaks, providing easy access to fun on the water.

For those looking for a slightly more secluded experience, the smaller lakes within the Gull Lake chain, like Round Lake or Pelican Lake, also offer pleasing beaches. These might be a good fit for couples seeking a quieter spot for a picnic or a leisurely swim away from the main crowds. Public access points often provide picnic areas and basic facilities, making for a pleasant day out by the water.
Is it cheaper to book flights and a beach hotel in Brainerd as a package?
Booking a beach hotel and flight package on Expedia can be cheaper than booking flights and hotels separately. Bundling can lead to significant savings, especially for international travel or when booking a beach vacation package well in advance. However, savings vary depending on factors like destination, travel dates, and availability, so it's wise to compare options. With access to over 300,000 hotels worldwide, Expedia makes it easy to build the perfect travel package.
Can I cancel my beach hotel reservation on Expedia?
Many Expedia hotel reservations are refundable, provided that you cancel before the hotel's cancellation deadline. This is often within 24-48 hours of your scheduled arrival. Be sure to check your booking confirmation for the exact cancellation policy. For maximum flexibility, use Expedia's "Fully refundable property" filter during your search to find the right beach hotel in Brainerd for you.

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