Where are the BEST lakes & beaches near Edmonton? Look no further! We have something for you in every direction from the city. Nothing beats a day at the beach during the summer, so we are making it easy to pack a cooler and hit the road for a day of fun in the sun with the family.
Unfortunately, cyanobacteria (blue-green algae) regularly occurs in our lakes in the summer months, so be sure to always check the Alberta Health advisories before heading out.
Best Lakes & Beaches Near Edmonton:
Long Lake Provincial Park Beach
Location: Long Lake Provincial Park (20 km south of Boyle on Hwy. 831 & 2 km northeast)
Distance: Approximately 1.5 hours from Edmonton
Cost: FREE
Features: The day-use beach features a roped off swimming area, playground, change rooms and washrooms, cooking shelters, and a concession stand. There are also canoes, kayaks, and stand-up-paddle board rentals available.
Jubilee Park Day-Use Area | Wizard Lake
Where: Jubilee Park Campground (Hwy 39 W to Calmar then 19 km S on Hwy 795)
Distance: Approximately 45 minutes from Edmonton
Cost: Day-use parking charge of $8/day
Features: Look forward to a sandy beach, playground, boat launch, and picnic areas with fire pits.
Ma-Me-O Beach | Pigeon Lake
Where: Pigeon Lake
Distance: Approximately 1 hour from Edmonton
Cost: FREE
Features: Enjoy the beach and day-use area in the summer village of Ma-Me-O with white sand beaches, shallow water, and nearby picnic and playground areas.
Aspen Beach/Eberling Beach | Gull Lake
Location:Aspen Beach Provincial Park (17 km west of Lacombe on Hwy. 12)
Distance: Approximately 1.25 hours from Edmonton
Cost: FREE
Features: The sandy beach and warm, shallow water is perfect for young families. There is also a nearby playground and cash-only concession for snacks and ice cream.
Sylvan Lake
Where: Sylvan Lake
Distance: Approximately 1.5 hours from Edmonton
Cost: FREE
Features: One of the most popular lake destinations in Alberta, this beach is right in the town of Sylvan Lake with a amazing selection of nearby dining and entertainment options including an inflatable wibit obstacle course on the lake. This spot is busy so bring your patience and expect to have to walk a far ways from where you park.
Wabamun Lake Provincial Park | Wabamun Lake
Where: Wabamun Lake Provincial Park (3 km east & 1 km south of Wabamun off Hwy. 16)
Distance: Approximately 1 hour from Edmonton
Cost: FREE
Features: Wabamun Lake features a sandy beach, boat launch, large playground, washrooms, and grassy picnic areas. With it’s close proximity to the city it is usually a busy spot in the summer and you should plan to head out early to get a parking spot. For another great way to cool off, be sure to also check out the spray park at Wabamun Waterfront Park!
Alberta Beach | Lac Ste. Anne
Where: Lac Ste. Anne
Distance: Approximately 1 hour from Edmonton
Cost: FREE
Features: This spot offers warm, shallow water and a sandy and grassy picnic area. Located right in the town of Alberta Beach, you will be walking distance of dining and other town amenities.
Half Moon Lake Resort | Half Moon Lake
Where: Half Moon Lake Resort (21524 TWP Road 520, Sherwood Park)
Distance: Approximately 30 minutes from Edmonton
Cost: $13 Adults, Kids $6, Family $30
Features: Spend the day at the Half Moon Lake Resort with a sandy beach, firepits, washrooms and picnic areas available in the day use area. While there you can also enjoy beach sports, mini-golf, and kayaking.
Hastings Lake
Where: Hastings Lake
Distance: Approximately 40 minutes from Edmonton
Cost: FREE
Features: This underground-spring fed lake is a more rustic option offering limited facilities of a picnic area, playground, and boat launch at the campsite on the north shore. The beach is a mix of rock and sand and a great spot to watch for wildlife.
What is your picks for the BEST Lakes & Beaches near Edmonton? Please reach out if you have a suggestion we are missing from our list!
