The search is OVER. We found the best beaches in Edmonton for you!
Edmonton may not have its own beaches, but there are plenty of beautiful spots just a short drive away. Whenever I’m craving a beach day, I know where to go to cool off and have fun.
Whether it’s relaxing by a calm lake or enjoying water sports, these nearby beaches offer something for everyone. If you’re wondering where to find them, look no further!
Half Moon Lake Resort
– Media from resortathalfmoon
Website: https://halfmoonlakeresort.com/
Address: Strathcona County
Distance from Edmonton: 37-minute drive
Half Moon Lake Resort offered a great mix of relaxation and fun during my visit. I spent hours on the sandy beach soaking up the sun, followed by a swim in the heated outdoor pool and a game of beach volleyball with friends.
For our stay, we opted for one of the cozy cabins, though plenty of visitors brought their RVs or camped under the stars. The resort store was a lifesaver, offering everything we needed and even rentals for paddleboards and kayaks so we could fully enjoy the lake.
| Pro Tip: If you’re short on time, take advantage of Half Moon Lake Resort’s day-use option for full access to the lake and amenities (excluding the pool). It’s an affordable way to enjoy a fun-filled day, with fees starting at just $6 per child or $35 for a family. |
Alberta Beach
– Media from princesstrenna
Address: Lac Ste. Anne
Distance from Edmonton: 51-minute drive
Alberta Beach is a scenic retreat where visitors can enjoy swimming, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and relaxing pontoon boat tours. The sunset cruises are particularly memorable, offering breathtaking views of the lake as day turns to night.
It’s conveniently close to the Alberta Beach Museum, Mama’s In The Kitchen, and the Beachside Market for a well-rounded summer getaway. For those staying overnight, a nearby campground provides spacious sites, clean washrooms, and fire pits.
| Pro Tip: Use the overflow parking lot east of 50th Street near Heritage Park to avoid congestion and tow-away zones. Plan ahead, as parking near the lake is limited during peak summer months. |
Wabamun Lake
– Media from edmontonfeelings
Address: Parkland County
Distance from Edmonton: 57-minute drive
Wabamun Lake offers a variety of activities, including motorized boating, kayaking, paddleboarding, and relaxing on its calm provincial park beach. The beach features picnic areas, fire pits, washrooms, changerooms, and a lifejacket station.
Nearby, the Wabamun Marina & RV Park provides boat rentals, and the village of Seba Beach offers a small sandy stretch for enjoying the water. Plus, visitors can also explore the scenic hiking trails around the lake and discover the Wabamun District Museum.
| Pro Tip: Check out the Seba Beach Farmers’ Market on Saturdays and the Carvel Station Farmers’ Market on Thursdays for local goods. Don’t miss the Entwistle Rodeo in late July or the Blueberry Music Festival in Stony Plain over the August long weekend. |
Ma-Me-O Beach
– Media from ericshio
Address: Pigeon Lake
Distance from Edmonton: 1-hour-and-5-minute drive
Ma-Me-O Beach is a favourite spot of mine for its sandy shoreline, clear, shallow water, and family-friendly atmosphere. It’s a popular venue for swimming, kayaking, boating, and fishing, with a playground and picnic areas for a relaxed day by the water.
One of the best things about it is how close it is to shops, restaurants, and accommodations, making it an easy destination for a longer stay. I always enjoy having everything I need within reach.
| Pro Tips: Stop by Pier 6 Ice Cream for creamy, delicious treats made with Foothills Ice Cream, just off the beach and near the washrooms. It’s a great spot for a casual treat after a stroll along the shoreline!Consider visiting during the summer to enjoy a lively atmosphere, as the beach hosts fun events and festivals that enhance the experience. |
Wapasu Lake
– Media from ndaskaluk
Address: 995R+F5, Innisfree
Distance from Edmonton: 1-hour-and-26-minute drive
Wapasu Lake is a peaceful retreat surrounded by farmland and known for its migratory bird sightings, including swans. The lake features a beautiful sandy beach, picnic areas, a playground, and multi-use nature trails for visitors to enjoy.
This spot offers great amenities, including a cookhouse, BBQ area, and outdoor showers. If you want to stay longer, consider booking a room at the nearby Beachside Bed & Breakfast for a peaceful overnight experience.
| Pro Tip: The lake is shallow near the shore, so be prepared to walk out a bit to reach deeper water. |
Long Lake Provincial Park
– Media from ounmouy79
Address: Range Rd 191A, Ellscott
Distance from Edmonton: 1-hour-and-33-minute drive
Long Lake Provincial Park is a serene getaway with a variety of outdoor activities. The park’s lake is ideal for water sports like sailing, windsurfing, and water skiing, while its clear, warm water is perfect for a swim.
With over 200 campsites and hiking trails, Long Lake offers plenty of options for those looking to stay longer. The park also has rental facilities for canoes, kayaks, and paddle boards, as well as a nearby golf course for added recreation.
| Pro Tip: If you want to make the most of your visit, book a camping spot in advance as Long Lake Campground is a popular destination. Take time to explore the scenic White Earth Valley Trail for a great outdoor experience. |
Sylvan Lake
– Media from visitsylvanlake
Address: 4403 Lakeshore Dr
Distance from Edmonton: 1-hour-and-43-minute drive
Sylvan Lake’s beachfront stretches from the lighthouse to 34 Street, offering parks, trails, and areas for picnicking, along with a marina and boat launch. The beach is shallow, with amenities like washrooms, benches, and picnic tables.
What I love the most is that there’s an off-leash dog park nearby, perfect for letting my dog run free. Additionally, there’s a splash park for kids to cool off in and plenty of places to relax, like Adirondack chairs scattered along the beach.
| Pro Tip: Don’t forget to visit Lakeshore Drive for ice cream, beach toys, and delicious food at the many patios. It’s the ideal spot to enjoy a bite and relax while taking in the stunning sunset views over the lake. |
Camp Lake
– Media from kimouelletteyeg
Address: Beaver County
Distance from Edmonton: 1-hour-and-55-minute drive
Camp Lake Park is a versatile outdoor destination offering both beach relaxation and a variety of water activities. With two beaches, a boat launch, and ample recreational options, it’s a perfect spot for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
In addition to water activities, this spot provides amenities such as picnic shelters, volleyball courts, and a concession offering food and firewood. The park also features a well-equipped campground with showers and trailer parking.
| Pro Tip: If you’re looking to enjoy cooler weather and beautiful autumn scenery, fall is a great time for camping at Camp Lake Park. For outdoor activities, summer offers warm temperatures perfect for water sports and hiking. |
Hope Lake Campground
– Media from jessicadirks
Address: Boyle, Athabasca County
Distance from Edmonton: 1-hour-and-59-minute drive
Hope Lake offers a peaceful retreat in northern Alberta, featuring a sandy beach, fishing opportunities, and scenic views. The campground has 51 unserviced sites for both RVs and tents, along with a boat launch, picnic areas, and playgrounds for families.
Visitors can enjoy activities like swimming, fishing, and ATV trails, with amenities such as a cook shelter, horseshoe pits, and firewood for sale. The site also has group camping options and allows stays of up to 14 days.
| Pro Tip: If you’re planning to bring extra vehicles, be aware that each campsite allows only two, with an additional $5 per day charge for any extra vehicles. Remember to park additional vehicles in the designated public lots to avoid any issues. |
Whitefish Lake
– Media from willy.grant
Address: Northern Boreal (Nb1) Zone
Distance from Edmonton: 2-hour-and-4-minute drive
I’ve always found Whitefish Lake to be the perfect place to unwind. The sandy beach and boat launch make it easy to enjoy a day on the water, and with a store, hot showers, and a playground nearby, it’s a convenient stop for families.
During our last visit, we considered staying at Paradise Cove Resort for a few extra days. The peaceful environment and proximity to the water made it an easy choice, especially with the fishing opportunities right there.
| Pro Tip: The most popular fish species to catch are northern pike and lake whitefish. Be sure to follow local regulations, like using only barbless hooks and respecting fishing seasons. |
Westcove Campground
– Media from the.corgi.cross.adventures
Address: 59221 3A4, 59221 Range Rd 100, St. Paul
Distance from Edmonton: 2-hour-and-17-minute drive
Westcove Campground features a large beach along the south shore of Vincent Park, with a spray park and picnic areas. It provides amenities such as 30/50 amp-powered sites, fire pits, showers, a sani station, and complimentary Wi-Fi.
With easy access to the boat launch, you can try a variety of water activities, including canoeing, kayaking, and motor boating. You can also enjoy the beautiful surroundings by taking a stroll along the nearby hiking trails after a day of fun on the beach.
| Pro Tip: During winter, take advantage of the cross-country ski trail network at Westcove Municipal Recreation Area for a unique outdoor experience. While winter camping is not available, the trails offer a great way to explore the park’s scenic beauty. |
Moose Lake Provincial Park
– Media from jamessawatzky98
Address: Bonnyville
Distance from Edmonton: 2-hour-and-32-minute drive
Moose Lake Provincial Park offers a variety of outdoor activities with its beautiful lakeside setting. The park features a sandy beach for sunbathing, along with opportunities for fishing, canoeing, and windsurfing.
The park’s campground operates from May to October and offers 59 campsites, with 47 including electrical hookups. It has amenities like showers, picnic tables, and dry toilets, and pets are allowed on trails but not at the public beach or inside park buildings.
| Pro Tips: Keep an eye out for wildlife, including bald eagles, moose, deer, and bears, as well as migratory birds passing through. Don’t miss the stunning night sky views at the park, which are ranked between a #3 and #4 on the Bortle Scale, offering great stargazing opportunities. |
Sir Winston Churchill Provincial Park
– Media from akanksha_yeg
Address: Lac la Biche
Distance from Edmonton: 2-hour-and-36-minute drive
Sir Winston Churchill Provincial Park consists of two main islands: Big Island and Long Island. The park offers campsites, cabins, and tipis with full kitchens and bathrooms, as well as 15-km hiking trails, birdwatching, and boat rentals.
Visitors can enjoy fishing, kayaking, and paddleboarding. The park also has day-use areas, a campground store, and cross-country skiing trails in the winter, along with cultural programs and special events like “Music in the Forest.”
| Pro Tips: For up-to-date trail conditions during the winter season, check the Lac La Biche Nordic Ski Club Facebook page. If you’re into snowshoeing, explore the interior island trails, Old Growth Alley, and lakeshore areas. These spots are ideal for a winter adventure, though they aren’t groomed for cross-country skiing. |
Dilberry Lake Provincial Park
– Media from nabina.sapkota.526
Address: Township Rd 420, Chauvin
Distance from Edmonton: 3-hour-and-2-minute drive
When I visited Dillberry Lake Provincial Park, I was immediately drawn to the sandy beaches and clear, spring-fed lake. My family spent the day building sandcastles, fishing, and exploring the short hiking trails teeming with birds and wildlife.
Camping here was a delight with the private, well-spaced sites surrounded by aspen trees. After a day of swimming and paddling, we enjoyed stargazing by the campfire, soaking in the tranquillity of this prairie oasis.
| Pro Tip: Bring binoculars and an early morning or evening visit to spot migratory shorebirds and other local wildlife. The park’s designation as an Important Bird Area makes it a prime spot for birdwatching throughout the year. |
Kinosoo Beach
– Media from nikki955
Address: 1 Ave, Cold Lake
Distance from Edmonton: 3-hour-and-9-minute drive
You can’t miss Kinosoo Beach for its lively atmosphere and variety of activities such as beach volleyball, basketball, and even a zipline over the lake. I had a great time soaking up the sun, walking along the beach, and enjoying the splash park with the kids.
The energy was contagious with events like Canada Day celebrations and Aqua Days bringing the community together. Even in the winter, you can catch stunning views of the northern lights dancing above the lake, making it a year-round destination.
| Pro Tip: If you’re looking for a quieter spot, check out the beaches around Cold Lake that can only be reached by boat. You can rent a boat from a local charter or visit less crowded beaches outside the city. |