The mountains, not the beaches, are what makes Edmonton renowned. However, if you go past the rocky summits, you’ll discover plenty of great lake locations to explore!
Make a point of stopping at one of Edmonton’s lovely lakes on your next vacation. You’ll enjoy these beaches, ranging from secluded glacier lakes to sandy strips in the center of Edmonton’s highlands.
Wabamun Lake
Wabamun Lake, roughly an hour’s drive west of Edmonton, is a famous lake to start with if you seek lakes in Edmonton.
Wabamun Lake’s beaches offer boardwalks for hikes and walk around the water, in addition to a vast sandy beach area. On the sea, windsurfing, sailing, kayaking, and motorboats are prevalent, so swimmers should either stay on the beach or be cautious.
Locals regard Wabamun Lake to be the best whitefish lake in the area. For the past few years, though, the lake has only permitted catch-and-release fishing. Before bringing any fish home, double-check the restrictions. Don’t forget your fishing license, which isn’t challenging to obtain and is necessary at any lake in Edmonton where you wish to fish.
Wabamun Lake’s beach is busy and popular from mid-May through the long weekend in September. If you want to get a good position at one of the picnic sites, arrive early in the day.
Pigeon Lake
Another famous lake near Edmonton is Pigeon Lake. Pigeon Lake and the Village on the Lake, located a little over an hour south of the city, come alive every summer with visitors and part-time inhabitants.
Swim on the lake, go fishing on the water, or trek through the woods. The paths around Pigeon Lake are 12 kilometers long and aren’t too tough to navigate because there aren’t any severe inclines to contend with.
The adjacent Pigeon Lake Village is what makes Pigeon Lake unique. After a day of swimming in the lake, walk into town for a bite to eat at one of the cafés or restaurants. There’s even a spa for a relaxing day. It’s a combination of wildness and luxury.
When winter arrives, travel to Pigeon Lake, one of Edmonton’s best ice fishing destinations near Edmonton. Pike and other whitefish can be caught.
Sylvan Lake
We reach Sylvan Lake, Edmonton’s tourist town, traveling south from Pigeon Lake. Sylvan Lake, located halfway between Edmonton and Calgary, is a renowned tourist destination and one of Edmonton’s most popular recreational lakes.
The city’s beaches are divided into two sections: the main and minor beaches. Swimmers beware: neither park has a lifeguard on duty, so little children must be constantly watched. Windsurfing, swimming, or simply relaxing in the sun are all options.
Sylvan Lake’s water park is open from late June to early September. Aqua Splash isn’t like a regular water park in that it doesn’t have any permanent structures. It’s an inflatable park featuring slides, climbing towers, and a trampoline that floats on the lake. If you’re going to be at Sylvan Lake this summer, make sure you stop by Aqua Splash.
Sylvan Lake is a great place to bring your fishing rod since it’s full of whitefish throughout the fishing season. Before you cast your line, double-check for any catch-and-release limitations.
Kinosoo Beach
Kinosoo Beach, on the banks of Cold Lake, has been named one of Canada’s top 25 beaches by Canadian Geographic Magazine and is a must-see for swimming in Edmonton. Cold Lake is located northeast of Edmonton on the Edmonton-Saskatchewan border; however, the beach is entirely in Edmonton.
Volleyball courts, a playground, and a concession shop for beach snacks are all available at the beach. For safety reasons, the main swimming area is roped off. Young children will enjoy the new splash park, while adult beachgoers will appreciate the excellent walking routes.
Tip from the locals: didn’t you bring your toys? Paddleboards, kayaks, and other watersports may be rented through Wicked Watersport Rentals.
Kinosoo Beach is an excellent choice for a family holiday. It’s a hotspot named Project of the Year in 2018 by Edmonton Public Works. Now that the most important work has been finished, it’s time to see the new and better Kinosoo Beach.
Annette Lake
Annette Lake, located just outside of Jasper, is a tiny lake with a beautiful beach. While Annette is not one of Edmonton’s largest lakes, it is a hidden treasure that is an excellent alternative if the crowds at the more extensive beaches and lakes are too much for you.
Lake Annette is surrounded by easily accessible hiking and walking routes in Jasper National Park. The Lake Annette trek is slightly over 11 kilometers long and is paved, making it suitable for people with restricted mobility.
There are fire pits and picnic tables around the beach for a snack. You can even catch your meal if you have a fishing license (make sure you check the yearly regulations before you keep anything, though).
Scuba diving is a must-do activity at Annette Lake, making it a must-see lake in Edmonton. Beginner divers and anybody who is interested in trying cold water diving go to the lake. Edmonton’s surprisingly active diving community regularly organizes official excursions and activities in the area.
Moraine Lake
Moraine Lake is a tiny, brightly colored lake southeast of Lake Louise, near the Edmonton/British Columbia boundary. The brilliant turquoise color is due to the glacier feeding; light bounces off tiny rock particles, intensifying the color as the summer progresses.
The neighboring Moraine Lake walks are not missed and are a popular bathing place in Edmonton. Climb the Tower of Babel path if you’re looking for a challenge. However, keep an eye out for rain since the terrain becomes slick when wet.
If you’re afraid of getting turned away at the parking lot, make use of the Moraine Lake shuttle instead. It begins near Lake Louise and continues yearly from mid-May until mid-October.
Ghost Lake
Try Ghost Lake, Edmonton’s initial artificial aquatic playground, if you’re seeking beaches near Calgary.
Under the right conditions, Ghost Lake, like Moraine Lake, turns a stunning blue color. The lake is located just outside Cochrane, about 25 minutes west of Calgary. From December until mid-May, it is generally frozen. This lake is usually frigid since it is nourished by snow melting and flowing into the river. As a result, you should think about packing wetsuits.
The Ghost Dam, which dammed the Bow River in 1929, created Ghost Lake. Although it is just 1.5 kilometers wide at any location, its length makes it ideal for windsurfing, sailing, and waterskiing.
Local tip: There is a free public boat launch, but only three people may use it simultaneously, and the wait can grow lengthy. If you want to avoid waiting too long, arrive earlier in the day.
Are you planning a vacation to Edmonton and want to visit some of these beaches or lakes? Find a holiday rental house in Edmonton that is near your favorite beaches. Vrbo can assist you in locating the ideal vacation rental in Edmonton and across Canada.