Pack the cooler, grab the kids and head out to the beach for some family fun. Check out our ultimate list of family friendly beaches in & around Edmonton for Summer, 2023.
Pigeon Lake
Ma-Me-O beach at Pigeon lake has white sand, shallow water and is fairly warm compared to other lakes in Alberta
Location: Approx 1 hour south of Edmonton
Half Moon Lake
Half Moon lake is a smaller lake with a sandy beach, fire pits, picnic areas and washrooms on site. There is a cost to get in here. Kids are $6, adults are $13 and families are $30 for the day. Double check that the beach pavilion is open before heading out.
Alberta Beach
Located right in town, Alberta Beach has many amenities, warm and shallow water and a nice beach area. Occasionally there are water advisories, so just double check that before making the trip
Location: Lac St. Anne, about an hour from Edmonton
Sylvan Lake Beach
Right in the town of Sylvan Lake, this is one of Alberta’s most popular destinations for family beach days. Get there early to secure your spot!
Location: Sylvan Lake
Hastings Lake
A more quiet area with a rock & sand beach, playground and picnic bench, but less available amenities. It is great place to watch wildlife. This lake is fed by an underground stream and was named Kawatikh by the Cree which means “lake that does not freeze.”
Loctation: 40km Southeast of Edmonton
Ebeling Beach
The water here stays shallow for quite a while, making it great for families with younger kids. The beach has a playground, picnic bench and occasionally a (cash-only) concession stand for food & snacks 🙂
Location: Gull Lake
Wabamun Lake
Another popular destination for Edmontonians, this is clearly a favorite for a reason. Lots of space to picnic, a playground, sandy beach and of course: the water. Grab a mini grill and some food and make a day of your stay! The parking lots are big but fill up fast on hot days, so get there early to secure your spot!
Location: Wabamun Lake, less than an hour West of Edmonton
Long Lake Provincial Park Beach
This lake has a campground beach and a beach for day use with a playground, change rooms, washrooms, cooking shelters, concession stands and a fountain. Shallow areas are clearly marked in the water for family safety.
Location: Approximately 1.5 hours from Edmonton
Aspen Beach
This one is great for young families. Stroller-friendly boardwalk, sandy beach, fire pits and shallow water. Approx 1.5 hours from Edmonton
Location: Gull Lake
Allan Beach Resort
Now open for day use. Large sandy beach, grassy area with fire pits, on-site store and porta potties. There is a charge to get in here. Adults are $12, kids 6+ up are $6 and kids 5 and under are free. Cost includes your parking pass. (no pets allowed)
Location: Hubbles Lake
Beaches in Edmonton just off the river
Note: These beaches and scenic spots are just off of the North Saskatchewan River; exercise caution as rivers can be dangerous for water play.
- Fort Edmonton Footbridge Sandbar – just upstream from the Fort Edmonton Footbridge
- Terwillegar Park – rocky beach with great views – located on the South bank of the North Saskatchewan River
- Buena Vista Park
- Louise McKinney Riverfront Park
- Cotton Tail Corner
- Wolf Willow Beach
- Keillor Point
Remember to follow all recommended safety precautions when entering the water, to pack SPF, water bottles, towels & have fun! Follow us on Instagram for more family friendly things to do in & around Edmonton this Summer!
Photo credit: abbateins.com