
Semer's Park and Shagawa Beach
A pristine park and beach on Shagawa Lake, perfect for swimming, exploring a charming island, and enjoying unique sights like seaplanes.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Perfect for beach fun

Semer's Park and Shagawa Beach
Best Time
Perfect for beach fun
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A pristine park and beach on Shagawa Lake, perfect for swimming, exploring a charming island, and enjoying unique sights like seaplanes.
"Awesome place. Looks well kept and cared for. Adorable little island that is super fun and pretty to explore."

🧺 Picnic Perfection
Utilize the pavilion for a shaded picnic with great lake views. Perfect for takeout from local eateries!
🦆 Wildlife Spotting
Keep an eye out for ducks and loons; you might even hear their calls!

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Shagawa Beach
Lakeside
A clean, inviting beach perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying the lake breeze.

The Island
Central park area
A charming, well-maintained island offering a fun and pretty area to explore.

Playground & Pavilion
Park area
Excellent facilities for families, including a nice playground and a covered pavilion for gatherings.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Outdoors
Lake Views & Wildlife
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🧺 Picnic Perfection
Utilize the pavilion for a shaded picnic with great lake views. Perfect for takeout from local eateries!
🦆 Wildlife Spotting
Keep an eye out for ducks and loons; you might even hear their calls!
✈️ Seaplane Spectacle
Enjoy the unique sight of seaplanes taking off and landing on the lake.
🎣 Fishing Fun
The lake is a great spot for fishing; some visitors have reported catching impressive pike!
Tips
from all over the internet
🧺 Picnic Perfection
Utilize the pavilion for a shaded picnic with great lake views. Perfect for takeout from local eateries!
🦆 Wildlife Spotting
Keep an eye out for ducks and loons; you might even hear their calls!
✈️ Seaplane Spectacle
Enjoy the unique sight of seaplanes taking off and landing on the lake.
🎣 Fishing Fun
The lake is a great spot for fishing; some visitors have reported catching impressive pike!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Semer's Park and Shagawa Beach, highlighting its excellent upkeep, clean facilities, and beautiful island. It's a beloved spot for families, offering a great playground and beach, and a unique experience with seaplanes and wildlife. While primarily a daytime recreational area, its charm and natural beauty make it a highly recommended local gem.
"Awesome place. Looks well kept and cared for. Adorable little island that is super fun and pretty to explore."
Debra Roloff
"Super nice park, clean flush toilets, very nice playground and beach. Well kept and clean . Can see the sae planes take off and land."
Daniel Killeen
"Ate our takeout from Ely Steakhouse, we were able to grab a bench in the pavilion, where we had great views of the lake.
We watched some ducks going in and out of the water. My wife saw a Loon and we heard a few Loon calls as well."
Magician Roogna
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Semer's Park and Shagawa Beach are located in Ely, Minnesota. The park is easily accessible by car, with ample parking available. It's a well-known local spot, so most GPS systems will guide you directly there.
Public transportation options directly to Semer's Park are limited in Ely. Driving is the most convenient way to reach the park and beach.
The park offers plenty of parking, making it easy to find a spot, especially outside of peak event times.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Semer's Park and Shagawa Beach are generally free to enter and enjoy, making it an accessible destination for everyone.
The park and beach are typically open from dawn until dusk, allowing visitors to enjoy the space throughout the day. Specific hours may vary seasonally.
Yes, the pavilion is available for reservations, making it ideal for parties, family gatherings, or events. It's recommended to book in advance, especially for popular dates.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can enjoy swimming at Shagawa Beach, exploring the charming island, picnicking, fishing, and letting kids play on the playground. It's a great spot for a relaxing day outdoors.
Yes, the park is well-maintained and features clean flush toilets for visitor convenience.
Shagawa Beach is known for being clean and safe for swimming. Always exercise caution and supervise children near the water.
Absolutely! The lake is a popular spot for fishing, and anglers have reported success catching various species, including pike.
Visitors often spot ducks and hear loons. It's also a unique spot to watch seaplanes take off and land.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no on-site restaurants within Semer's Park. However, it's a perfect spot to bring your own picnic or enjoy takeout from nearby Ely eateries.
Ely offers several dining options, including places like Ely Steakhouse, which visitors have enjoyed while picnicking at the park.
While not explicitly stated, picnicking and using the pavilion are encouraged. Check local regulations for specific grilling policies.
📸 📸 Photography
The beach offers beautiful lake vistas, the island provides charming exploration shots, and the pavilion is great for group photos. Don't miss capturing the seaplanes!
Yes, with ducks and loons often present, it's a good location for casual wildlife photography. Early mornings or late afternoons might offer the best light.
Golden hour, just after sunrise and before sunset, offers beautiful lighting for lake and park landscapes. Midday can be bright but still good for capturing activities.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🎣 Anglers and Nature Lovers
🎉 Event Planners and Picnickers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Semer's Park Island
While not a large or challenging hike, the island provides a sense of discovery and a picturesque setting. It’s well-maintained, ensuring a pleasant experience for all visitors. The island's accessibility makes it a highlight for families and anyone looking for a bit of light exploration during their visit to Semer's Park and Shagawa Beach.
Shagawa Beach: A Lakeside Gem
The beach is well-kept, contributing to a pleasant experience for swimmers and sunbathers alike. Its proximity to the park's amenities, such as the playground and pavilion, makes it a convenient choice for families. The clear waters and scenic views enhance the overall appeal, solidifying Shagawa Beach as a must-visit spot for anyone spending time at Semer's Park.
Unique Sights: Seaplanes and Wildlife
Beyond the seaplanes, the park is also a great spot for observing local wildlife. Many visitors have reported seeing ducks and hearing the calls of loons, adding a natural element to the park's appeal. For those who enjoy nature, Semer's Park provides opportunities to connect with the local ecosystem while enjoying the recreational facilities.

Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit