The hot weather is here and it’s time to hit the beach. If you’re searching for a beach to visit in Alberta, you’ve got lots of option – but unfortunately, many of the beaches close to Edmonton get overcome with algae (and let’s face it) aren’t the best beaches. Instead of these hour-away from the city beaches, we’ve put together our list of favourite places to swim
Devonshire Beach | Worth the trip to Slake Lake, this beach is one of the most popular requested of our kids during the summer. At under three hours away, it’s a doable day trip for the family, but there are plenty of great camping options nearby. The beach is vast, with soft sand, and the water is clean. (pictured above)
Quarry Lake | If you’re heading to Canmore for the weekend, you’re going to want to head out to Quarry Lake, a popular place for locals to cool off and play in the water.
Kinbrook Island Provincial Park | At Lake Newell, there’s a huge lake, fantastic campground, with fun for the kids in the form of a playground close to the beach, this is one beach you’re going to want to explore. The sand can be rocky, but the water is clean, and it’s a perfect way to cool off if you’re exploring Alberta this summer. Plus, you’re a hop, skip and jump away from dinosaur park.
Blue Ridge Recreation Area | Technically not a beach, but one of our favourite places to spend the time with the kids, jumping off of the dock into the water of the man-made lake. The water is crisp, clear and deep and since there isn’t a current, it’s the perfect place to float with the kids after you’ve spent some time biking around the area.
Cold Lake Beach | A top choice because of the close-by campground, making the three hour road trip easier. There is clean water, and roped off areas for kids to play in the shallow water. A playground, grassy areas and lots of space to play, you’re going to want to add this one to your day trip ideas from Edmonton.
Allan Beach | Closest to Edmonton, this is one of our favourite beaches that doesn’t suffer from the algae problem that a lot of the local beaches suffer from. However, it does come with a fee to use the day area, that’s around $20 for the family. With amenities like sand and beach, it’s fine once in a while to pay it – but it can get expensive if you’re visiting regularly.
What are some of your favourite beaches to explore in Alberta?