South Beach Casino & Resort Review

Last year, South Beach Casino & Resort handed out over C$8 million in jackpots, capturing our interest. But while it sports a distinctive retro aesthetic, does it offer real substance? Stick with us as we explore the extensive selection of games, numerous benefits from the rewards program, and beyond.

South Beach Casino & Resort Ratings

Table of Contents

• How we conducted our review of South Beach Casino & Resort
• Slot Machines – 5/5
• Casino Games – 3/5
• Staff & Service – 5/5
• Loyalty & Rewards – 5/5
• Casino Atmosphere – 5/5
• House Rules (T&Cs) – 4/5
• Player Feedback – 4.1/5
• Operator – 5/5
• Comparing South Beach Casino & Resort with other casino experiences
• Advantages and disadvantages of South Beach Casino & Resort
• Is South Beach Casino & Resort a good option for gamblers?

How we conducted our review of South Beach Casino & Resort

Our experts employ a unique evaluation system to thoroughly inspect each casino we visit. This method guarantees that we can provide you with an accurate and informed recommendation for your upcoming casino experience. Our system ensures uniformity, authenticity, and precision across our assessments of Canadian casinos.

Our inspection process for South Beach Casino & Resort

• Date of visit: 01/20/2024
• Time of visit: 7 PM – 1 AM
• Initial bankroll: C$100
• What we played: Slots and Roulette
• Final bankroll: C$126
• Next visit: 01/21/2025

What we looked at

Our reviews consider both objective and subjective aspects. Objectively, we assess the range of available games, inspect unique features, and confirm that essential quality standards are upheld. In contrast, subjectively, we evaluate the overall ambiance and the specifics of the casino's policies.

What we found

Slot Machines – 5/5

The casino offers hundreds of slot machines from five leading game developers globally. We encountered many progressive jackpots, an array of summer-themed slots, and betting options ranging from C$0.01 to C$5.

Slot machines we tried at South Beach Casino & Resort

We kicked off our gaming session with the Wheel of Fortune jackpot but had no success. Moving on, we stumbled upon a machine with both Wicked Winnings II and IV, opting for the latter to leverage the Sticky Stacks and Respins features. After some roulette, we concluded our night playing Larry’s Loot Lobstermania 4, which boasts five jackpots.

Total number of slot machines at South Beach Casino & Resort

We verified that there are more than 570 slot machines available on the floor of South Beach Casino & Resort.

Do the slot machines accept coins?

Slot machines only accept cash, and you can utilize your rewards card for any free play available.

Slot machine providers

• IGT
• Aristocrat
• Konami
• AGS
• Scientific Games

Local progressive jackpots

The slot machine selection is incredibly diverse, featuring progressive jackpot games like Lightning Link, Dancing Drums, Mystical Mermaid, and Fu Nan Fu Nu.

Casino Games – 3/5

Table games at the casino, unlike slots, don't have as extensive an offering. You can enjoy classics like blackjack and roulette, but there aren't any baccarat tables for high rollers or particularly high stakes.

Game types

• Double Deck
• Blackjack
• Roulette
• Texas Shootout
• High Card Flush
• VLT games

Betting limits

When we visited, the starting bet for blackjack was C$10 and roulette began at C$3, though the lower limit table might not always be available.

Are the highest table limits accessible to all, or is special VIP access required?

There are no VIP-exclusive tables, so anyone is welcome to play within the table limits.

Staff & Service – 5/5

Food & Drinks

Dining options at South Beach Casino & Resort include four venues. The Blue Dolphin Bar features a wide-ranging menu with items like hot dogs, burgers, and salads. Mango's offers a breakfast selection alongside a menu similar to the Blue Dolphin’s, plus special discounts for members.

You can also hit The Palms for a buffet experience on Fridays and weekends. Alternatively, for light bites, the South Beach Café serves muffins, coffee, and sandwiches. Prices are generally reasonable, exemplified by steaks costing less than C$20.

Mango’s

• Opening hours: Mon-Sat: 8:00 am – 9:00 pm / Sun: 11:30 am – 9:00 pm

Blue Dolphin Bar

• Operating hours: Sunday – Thursday: 11:30 am – 12:00 am / Friday & Saturday: 11:30 am – 1:00 am

The Palms

• Opening hours: Fri – Sat: 4:00 pm – 9:00 pm / Sun: 8:00 am – 11:30 am

South Beach Café

• Opening hours: 24/7

What is the customary tipping amount at South Beach Casino & Resort?

The average tipping range in Manitoba is around 15-20%.

Are complimentary beverages available at South Beach Casino & Resort?

Indeed, customers actively playing are treated to free coffee, hot chocolate, and soft drinks.

Does South Beach Casino & Resort provide buffet meals?

Yes, The Palms offers buffets on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays. Becoming a member means significantly reduced buffet costs, otherwise, a dinner buffet would be priced at C$41.95, while 50 Plus members pay C$27.95 and OC members C$34.95.

Parking

No shortage of parking is evident at South Beach Casino. The surrounding area has ample space to accommodate casino patrons.

Accommodation

South Beach Casino & Resort also offers hotel accommodations, including high-speed internet, an indoor pool, an executive level, and various room options. Rooms, particularly the Grand Suite, tend to book up months in advance. We could only reserve a Deluxe King room, which offers standard amenities at C$180 per night—a relatively high price.

Should you tip room service at South Beach Casino & Resort?

No need to tip, as in-room dining services are not provided at the resort.

Are there smoking areas?

Being a non-smoking establishment, smoking is only allowed outside the premises.

Security

Upon entry, security personnel checked our identifications with courtesy. Occasional checks were also observed in the parking lot.

Loyalty & Rewards – 5/5

Explanation of the rewards program at South Beach Casino & Resort

There are two distinct reward cards at South Beach Casino & Resort. Those aged 50 or above can acquire the 50 Plus card, which offers larger savings compared to the standard member card.

What you get

Oceans Club

• Convert points to cash
• C$10 off hotel stays
• 15% gift shop discount
• 20% dining discount on selected days

50 Plus Club

• Convert points to cash
• 20% dining discount
• 15% gift shop discount
• C$15-20 off hotel stays

How to register in the program

1. Go to South Beach Casino & Resort
2. Head to Ocean Club and ask to sign up
3. Fill out the form
4. How to obtain your rewards card quickly
5. For a more efficient process, you can download and print the application form from the casino’s website at https://www.southbeachcasino.ca/ocean-club-membership/, allowing you to complete it before arriving.

Casino Atmosphere – 5/5

Inside South Beach Casino & Resort

Our expert analysis explores the overall casino atmosphere, additional entertainment choices, and the distinctive design.

Design experience

The casino exudes a Miami Vice ambience, evoking a compelling urge to don Wayfarers and pastel blazers. Its art-deco architecture brings to mind Miami Beach in the 1980s, with blue, orange, and white tones reinforcing the theme. This exceptional style distinguishes the casino from others in Canada, and we noted its cleanliness throughout our visit.

Are you allowed to take photographs within South Beach Casino & Resort?

Yes, photography is permitted, although not at the gaming tables. Feel free to capture a winning slot moment, your bountiful buffet plate, or moments with friends at the Dolphin bar.

Location and surroundings

Situated on the Brokenhead Ojibway reserve, the casino offers scenic views of Lake Winnipeg. It's a short journey from Victoria Beach, Patricia Beach Provisional Park, and Grand Beach Provincial Park. Golfenthusiasts can enjoy three stunning courses, including Manitoba’s latest, the Granite Hills Golf Course.

Is a passport needed to visit South Beach Casino & Resort?

A passport isn't necessary; however, you'll need a legitimate government-issued photo ID. For international visitors, a passport may still serve as the most reliable form of identification.

Events

The Blue Dolphin Bar is known for hosting live music performances every Friday night, showcasing a diverse lineup of local artists who play rock, pop, country, and even some heavy metal. These events are open to the public at no charge.

House Rules (T&Cs) – 4/5

Hours of operation for South Beach Casino & Resort

The casino operates daily from 10 AM to 3 AM. However, live gaming tables are unavailable on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Wednesdays. Between Thursday and Saturday, the tables start late in the afternoon and close by 2 AM, with Sunday set for a closing time of 1 AM.

Is there an entry fee for South Beach Casino & Resort?

Access to the casino is entirely free.

Do you need to book in advance to play at South Beach Casino & Resort?

Reservations aren't necessary as the gaming tables are always open to all, with seating available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Is membership mandatory at South Beach Casino & Resort?

Membership is not required; however, joining the Ocean Club or 50 Plus Club can offer numerous benefits and discounts.

Dress code

The dress code at South Beach Casino & Resort is casual and laid-back. Whether dressing up for a birthday in fancy dress or opting for a more formal look with a suit and tie, visitors are welcome. Guests can also dress comfortably in shorts, a T-shirt, or a sundress. The key is to avoid attire that's offensive, violent, threatening, or linked to gangs.

Noteworthy rules at South Beach Casino & Resort

The regulations at South Beach Casino & Resort are fairly standard and echo those you'd find at most Canadian casinos.

Player Feedback – 4.1/5

Over 2,400 satisfied customers on platforms like Google and TripAdvisor have given South Beach Casino & Resort exceptional reviews.

Customer feedback for South Beach Casino & Resort

Google – 4.2/5

Numerous visitors praised the amiable service, the diverse gaming options, and the helpfulness extended to new players. Some did remark on the higher buffet costs and a slight dip in the perceived quality.

Tripadvisor – 4/5

Guests have noted the increased buffet prices and average quality, but most players appreciated the friendly service and well-maintained VLT machines, often highlighting the staff's commendable performance.

Most common issues

• Rising buffet costs
• Buffet quality may have declined

Operator – 5/5

Who owns South Beach Casino & Resort?

South Beach Casino & Resort is independently operated by First Nations groups, and the community is reflected throughout the casino.

While the casino is situated on the Brokenhead Ojibway Nation reserve, its ownership is shared among several First Nations, namely the Black River, Bloodvein, Brokenhead, Hollow Water, Little Grand Rapids, Pauingassi, and Poplar River.

Furthermore, the facility was constructed and is managed by Hemisphere Gaming, a company based in Minnesota.

Contact info

Comparing South Beach Casino & Resort with other casino experiences

Besides online casinos in Canada In the city of Winnipeg, if you're looking for casino establishments, you'll find that the closest options are located downtown, which is about an hour's drive from here. There, you'll have two prominent casino venues to choose from.

A comparison between South Beach Casino & Resort and McPhillips Station Casino.

McPhillips Station Casino At the McPhillips Station Casino, you'll discover more than 1,200 slot machines along with a comparable selection of table games as found at South Beach Casino. Additionally, there is a fantastic bar where you can enjoy major sporting events on TV or simply relax with a refreshing cocktail.

When it comes to playing slot machines, McPhillips Station Casino is the place to be.

They offer a diverse collection of over 1,000 slot games featuring various themes, game styles, and progressive jackpots. Among these is the C$1 Million Powerbucks progressive jackpot slot, known for its substantial rewards.

Contrast between South Beach Casino & Resort and Club Regent Casino.

Club Regent Casino Similar to McPhillips Station Casino, Club Regent Casino is operated by the same parent company, Casinos of Winnipeg. It also boasts an impressive collection of over 1,200 slots and allows wagers up to C$100 per slot.

Club Regent Casino excels as a great choice for dining experiences.

The venue offers four dining options, including an ice cream shop and a selection of distinctive bars. One example is the Heineken Banyan Bar, designed to replicate the ambiance of an outdoor tiki bar, delivering an authentic feel.

What distinguishes South Beach Casino & Resort from its rivals?

Uniqueness is key. Both McPhillips and Club Regent have a traditional casino aesthetic, resembling one another closely, whereas South Beach Casino & Resort breaks the mold with 1980s art-deco design elements, creating an unparalleled experience not found at other casinos in Winnipeg.

Advantages and disadvantages of South Beach Casino & Resort

Pros

• Numerous enticing progressive jackpot slots.
• Significant discounts on dining when using the rewards card.
• The rewards program offers monetary benefits and opportunities for free gameplay.
• A remarkable atmosphere set against a one-of-a-kind interior design.

Cons

• Limited table gaming hours
• Expensive hotel

Is South Beach Casino & Resort a good option for gamblers?

We believe a trip to South Beach Casino & Resort is a must for everyone. While few establishments can claim a distinct atmosphere, South Beach undoubtedly stands out. It features over 500 slot machines, including many progressive jackpots, several VLT machines, and a variety of table games to ensure an exhilarating casino adventure.

The reward system here is loaded with more advantages than most loyalty programs we've encountered throughout Canada. However, avid table game enthusiasts might be discouraged by the limited playing hours, the absence of poker tournaments, and the lack of tables for high-stakes games. Nevertheless, even the most experienced players will be captivated by the unique setting of this casino.