A Summer Guide to Calgary’s Local Beaches

Calgary is home to many parks with easy access to the Bow and Elbow rivers that accommodate a host of interests, whether it’s swimming, floating down the river, or simply sitting by the shore and taking in the scenic views. While the city’s eight public outdoor pools are always an option, nothing beats the beauty of the natural environment. Here are some of the local beaches the city has to offer.

St. Patrick’s Island

Located on the Bow River near East Village and next door to the Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo, St. Patrick’s Island Park gives urbanites convenient access to nature, not far from the bustling activities of downtown. The riverbank has somewhat rocky terrain, so visitors should come with appropriate footwear. For those looking to engage in water activities, a wading area known as The Cove is a popular spot for rafters and licensed fishers, and there is a pebble beach on the west end of the island, where visitors can dip into the river. The park has walking and biking pathways, a picnic area, a playground, and a grassy hill that overlooks the water and provides scenic views of downtown. On the east side of the park, Confluence Plaza is a popular destination for live music and performances in the summer, with shade, seating and public washrooms available.

1300 Zoo Rd. N.E.

Sandy Beach Park

Within Altadore, right along the Elbow River, Sandy Beach Park features lush green spaces and a beach that offers public river access for rafting and canoeing. In addition to walking and biking pathways, the park has picnic sites and fire pits that can be booked in advance through The City of Calgary’s website. Four of these picnic areas allow alcohol. For families with small children, Sandy Beach is home to an inclusive playground with equipment that can be used by people with mobility devices. It’s also a popular spot for dog owners to bring their furry friends, with off-leash areas in the north- and west-end pathways. Access is via 50th Avenue S.W., east from Crowchild Trail, though visitors should anticipate periodic roadway and pathway closures and detours while the park undergoes improvements until the fall of 2025.

1411 50 Ave. S.W.

Harvie Passage

Located off Pearce Estate Park in Inglewood, Harvie Passage is a recreational area on the Bow River commonly used for canoeing, kayaking, surfing and paddle boarding. Since the area has rocky terrain, visitors should come with appropriate gear, specifically life-jackets, water shoes and helmets. The passage has two river channels with rapids for different skill levels. The (right) south channel has low flow patterns with some surfable waves, while the (left) north channel is only recommended for experienced whitewater paddlers who can skillfully navigate fast and powerful water currents. All visitors to the passage should be aware of standard river risks and safety guidelines before accessing the water. Seasonal washrooms and limited free parking are available at Pearce Estate Park.

1440 17A St. S.E.

Sikome Aquatic Facility

Located in Fish Creek Provincial Park, Sikome Aquatic Facility is the destination for a classic family beach day. The water in this human-made beach comes from three freshwater wells and water quality is maintained by an onsite water-treatment plant. Sikome is ideal for swimming or simply lounging on the sandy shore. The seasonal facility is open from late June to the Labour Day long weekend and requires paid admission. There are picnic tables and a concession for snacks, and beach essentials like sunscreen and inflatables are available for purchase at the Beach Shop. While “safety ambassadors” monitor and patrol the area, there are no certified lifeguards onsite and visitors should exercise caution when accessing the water. With the exception of service dogs, pets are prohibited. Depending on the weather, how big the crowds are and how many supervising staff are onsite, sporting gear like footballs and badminton may be permissible.

22 Sikome Circle S.E. (via Bow Bottom Trail S.E. or Sikome Road S.E.)

Calgary Nude Beaches

While the law is a bit ambiguous on being nude in public in Canada, there are at least two unofficial, clothing-optional areas in Calgary where groups like Calgary Nude Recreation and others have been known to gather. The far-western edge of Weaselhead Flats, by Glenmore Reservoir, has been an established spot for more than two decades and is accessible via an approximately 30-to-40-minute dirt-trail hike from the Weaselhead Natural Area parking lot. Hidden Beach is a newer location in the northwest end of Fish Creek Provincial Park, much closer to the city and accessible through multiple, well-established dirt paths.

Private Lakes

Calgary is also home to several lake communities that offer exclusive water access to its residents and their guests. If you want a chance at accessing these lakes, you’ll want to either move to one, or become pals with a resident.

66 Avenue and 37 Street S.W.; 14428 Bannister Rd. S.E. (via Glennfield area)

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