Where Adventure Meets Tranquility
As the crown jewel of Breezy Point, Pelican Lake beckons visitors with its crystal-clear waters and more than 8,000 acres of surface area. Whether you’re an avid angler, a boating enthusiast, or simply seeking a tranquil getaway, this enchanting lake offers an idyllic setting for unforgettable experiences.
Join us as we dive into the wonders of Pelican Lake, exploring its fishing opportunities, boating adventures, beach-side bliss, dining options, and convenient water access, all waiting to be discovered in this ultimate guide.
Size and depth
Nestled amidst the serene beauty of Breezy Point, Minnesota, Pelican Lake stands as a true haven for outdoor enthusiasts seeking a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation. With its crystal-clear waters, abundant fish species, pristine beaches, and a host of recreational activities, Pelican Lake beckons visitors from far and wide.
Pelican Lake impresses visitors not only with its natural beauty but also with its impressive size and depth. According to the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR), Pelican Lake spans approximately 8,253 acres, making it a substantial body of water that invites exploration.
Additionally, the lake boasts an average depth of 21 feet, with certain areas reaching depths of up to 104 feet. This substantial depth provides ample habitat for a diverse range of fish species, making Pelican Lake a prime destination for anglers in search of their next big catch. Whether you’re cruising its expansive surface, casting a line, or simply basking in its tranquility, Pelican Lake’s size and depth offer a captivating setting for endless waterborne adventures.
Boating
For those seeking an adrenaline rush, Pelican Lake offers excellent opportunities for water skiing and tubing. Feel the wind in your hair as you glide across the shimmering waves, or challenge your friends to a friendly competition on skis. The lake’s vast expanse allows for unhindered exploration and hours of aquatic fun.
One thing to note: Some areas of the lake are extremely shallow. We recommend you bring a navigation map or GPS unit before heading out onto Pelican Lake.
Here’s how to get out on the water:
Pelican Lake Public water Access
Located near Breezy Point Resort, this public boat launch provides easy access to Pelican Lake. To reach the boat launch, head north on County Road 11 and turn right onto North Drive. Follow the road until you see the signs for the public access area. Ample free parking is available, and a well-maintained boat ramp allows for a smooth launch into the sparkling waters of Pelican Lake. There’s also a bathroom.
Additional access points
There are additional boat launches available for public use; however they have less parking options and no bathroom.
- Halverson Bay Public Water Access (free)
- Pelican Lake Jones Bay Public Water Access (free)
- Breezy Point Boat Marina (must pay to use)
Boat Rentals
Need a boat? Not a problem! Breezy Point Resort offers a comprehensive boat rental service, allowing visitors to experience the beauty of Pelican Lake and its surroundings at their own pace.
With a variety of watercraft available, including pontoons, fishing boats, and speedboats, there’s something to suit every boater’s preference. Whether you’re seeking a leisurely cruise, an exhilarating water skiing session, or a peaceful fishing excursion, Breezy Point’s boat rentals provide the means to create unforgettable memories on the water.
With a convenient location and a fleet of well-maintained boats, Breezy Point Resort ensures that your boating experience is both safe and enjoyable, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the natural wonders of this captivating destination.
Fishing
Boasting a variety of fish species, including walleye, bass, and northern pike, Pelican Lake is a paradise for fishing enthusiasts. Cast your line from the shore, or venture out onto the lake on a boat for an exhilarating angling experience.
Fish species in Pelican lake (according to the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources): black bullhead, black crappie, bluegill, brown bullhead, green sunfish, hybrid sunfish, lake whitefish, largemouth bass, northern pike, pumpkinseed, rock bass, smallmouth bass, tullibee (cisco), walleye, yellow bullhead, yellow perch, bowfin (dogfish), silver redhorse, white sucker, banded killifish, bigmouth shiner, blackchin shiner, blacknose shiner, bluntnose minnow, brook silverside, common shiner, emerald shiner, fathead minnow, golden shiner, Iowa darter, Johnny darter, logperch, mimic shiner, mottled sculpin, sand shiner, spottail shiner, tadpole madtom, trout-perch
Don’t forget to obtain a fishing license before your adventure! You can pick one up, along with some fresh bait, at Ace Hardware, right outside the entrance to Breezy Point Resort.
As mentioned above, several areas of the lake are extremely shallow and sometimes rocky. We recommend you bring a navigation map or GPS unit before heading out.
Beaches
Pelican Lake boasts several public beaches where visitors can bask in the sun, swim in the refreshing waters, and create unforgettable memories. Here are some of the popular public beach options on Pelican Lake.
Breezy Point Public Beach
Situated in the heart of Breezy Point, this beautiful sandy beach offers a convenient and family-friendly spot to enjoy the lake. To get there, take Breezy Point Drive to Sand Beach Drive. This beach unfortunately does not show up on the map apps, but we promise it’s there!
Park in the designated parking area and follow the signs to access the beach. With its picnic tables, playground, and clean facilities, Breezy Point City Beach provides a perfect setting for a day of relaxation and fun.
Learn more about the public swimming beach
Pelican Lake Public Beach
Situated on the eastern side of Pelican Lake, Pelican Beach Park provides a picturesque setting for beachgoers. This beach is family friendly, with changing rooms, bathrooms, and picnic tables. To get there, take County Rd 4 N to County Rd 118 N. Follow County Rd 118 N to Ross Point Rd, and then turn left. After a short distance, turn right onto Pelican Lake Rd. Follow this to the beach, which will be on your left.
Breezy Point Resort Beach
If you’re staying at the resort, you can enjoy the beautiful sandy beach located right next to Dockside Lounge and the main lodge. During the busy season, this place gets very busy!
Gooseberry Island
Gooseberry Island, a captivating gem within the sparkling waters of Pelican Lake, stands as a beloved tourist attraction that offers a unique and memorable experience for visitors. Though owned by the resort, anyone can visit the island.
The island is a long and narrow strip of land with sandy beach on both sides. It has become a popular party spot, where boats line up along the shore, creating a lively atmosphere perfect for floating on floaties, enjoying refreshing beverages, and reveling in the company of friends.
In addition to its vibrant ambiance, Gooseberry Island has an intriguing history that includes the presence of goats in the past. The resort intentionally and temporarily placed goats on the island to help control poison ivy and to control vegetation.
Although the island no longer has resident goats, nature enthusiasts will be delighted to discover that one side of the island is a haven for various bird species. A bustling rookery hosts a magnificent gathering of sea gulls and cormorants, allowing birdwatchers to witness the fascinating dynamics of these feathered inhabitants.
Whether you’re seeking a festive lakeside party, an encounter with friendly goats, or a glimpse into the avian world, Gooseberry Island on Pelican Lake promises an unforgettable adventure that blends social enjoyment with natural wonders.
Lakeside Dining
What could be more satisfying than combining a day of boating on the pristine waters of Pelican Lake with a delicious meal at a charming lakeside restaurant? If you’re seeking a day adventure that allows you to seamlessly transition from the water to a delightful dining experience, you’re in luck.
Located on the shores of Pelican Lake within the Breezy Point resort grounds, Dockside Lounge is a must-visit destination for boaters in search of both delicious “Up North” style cuisine and stunning lake views. As the name suggests, this charming establishment provides docking facilities, allowing boaters to effortlessly pull up and enjoy a meal.
Dockside Lounge is a popular bar and grill nestled within Breezy Point Resort, offering a lively and enjoyable atmosphere. Its prime location by the beautiful Pelican Lake makes for a scenic dining experience that can even be accessed by boat.
The menu at Dockside features a range of basket-style dishes that are perfect for families, with options including burgers, pizza, appetizers, and salads. The environment is relaxed and casual, and patrons can even catch a performance by a local Elvis impersonator or enjoy live music on most days of the week.
The Breezy Belle Boat Cruise
Take a tour of Pelican Lake on the 100-passenger Breezy Belle. This paddle wheeler creates the perfect setting for relaxation and enjoyment. Find it docked next to Dockside Lounge at Breezy Point Resort. You can book the Belle for a custom event, or reserve your place on any of the regular cruise days (usually Wednesday evenings and Sunday afternoons).
The Breezy Belle is open to the public; you do not need to be a resort patron to enjoy this boat cruise.
Conclusion
As your journey to Pelican Lake in Breezy Point comes to a close, you’ll find yourself reminiscing about the awe-inspiring experiences and treasured memories created in this natural paradise.
Whether you spent your days casting a line, cruising the tranquil waters, soaking up the sun on the sandy beaches, indulging in delightful lakeside dining, or simply reveling in the serenity of the lake’s surroundings, Pelican Lake has undoubtedly left an indelible mark on your heart.
This picturesque destination embodies the perfect synergy of adventure, relaxation, and natural beauty, providing an escape from the ordinary and an invitation to embrace the wonders of the outdoors.
So, pack your bags, plan your trip, and let Pelican Lake in Breezy Point enchant you with its abundant offerings. Unforgettable experiences await on the shores of this pristine Minnesota gem.