The best Revelstoke beaches for those hot, sunny days

Revelstoke beaches possibly aren’t the first thing you think of when you think of Revelstoke.

This cool mountain town in British Columbia, Canada is known for its powder skiing in winter, and its gnarly mountain biking and beautiful Revelstoke hiking trails come summer.

My first visit to Revelstoke in the winter was an experience. We slept in our campervan overnight and woke up to find my ski boots were frozen. After trying to thaw them out over our Mr Buddy heater I eventually got my feet into them and then had to spend 30 minutes with my feet on the radiator in the warming hut up the mountain when I lost all feeling in my feet from the cold after an hour of skiing.

All that to say that Revelstoke gets absolutely freezing cold BUT it also gets very hot in the summer and that’s when you’ll want to find some of these Revelstoke beach areas.

Since Revelstoke isn’t on the coast, these aren’t beaches in the traditional sense where you lay by the ocean in the sand.

Instead, the beaches in Revelstoke are by lakes and rivers.

Same, same but different.

If you’re visiting Revelstoke in summer and are looking for somewhere to cool off, then these Revelstoke beaches have your back!

What to know before visiting a Revelstoke beach

Before you grab your swimwear and head off to these fantastic beaches in Revelstoke, here are some important things you should know to ensure a safe, respectful, and enjoyable visit.

• Be prepared for cold waters: Many of these spots, especially those on Lake Revelstoke, have cooler waters. If you’re sensitive to cold, consider wearing a wetsuit or just enjoy sunbathing on the shore.
• Leave no trace: Always pack out what you pack in to preserve the beauty of these natural areas for everyone. This includes food, trash, and any other items you bring with you.
• Accessibility: Some of these beaches are off the beaten path and require a 4×4 vehicle and a radio for safe access, especially Echo Lake.
• Be respectful: Some of these areas are popular with locals and visitors alike. Respect other users’ space and experience.
• Plan ahead: For beaches like Eva and Miller Lakes, a moderate hike is required to reach the swimming area for which you need a permit. Make sure to pack plenty of water, sunscreen, a good pair of hiking shoes and the 10 hiking essentials.
• Swim safely: Always monitor the conditions and be aware of your swimming abilities before entering the water.
• Wildlife: Remember, we share these spaces with local wildlife. Be aware of your surroundings, keep your distance, and never feed the animals.
• Facilities: While some places have great facilities like picnic tables and camping sites, others are more natural with fewer amenities, so plan accordingly.
• Always check local guidelines: Weather conditions, park rules, and access can change, so always check local guidelines before your trip.

Swim safely tips

Before jumping into the cool waters of Revelstoke’s best beaches, it’s important to prioritize safety. Keep in mind the following:

• Always observe posted safety signs and warnings.
• Make sure to swim in designated areas and avoid secluded or unfamiliar spots.
• Check the water’s temperature before diving in, as many lakes around Revelstoke can be chilly.
• Use a life jacket if you’re not a strong swimmer or when participating in watersports.
• Never swim alone. Always make sure there’s someone to help in case of an emergency.
• Be mindful of local wildlife. Keep a safe distance, don’t feed the animals, and know what to do in case of encounters.
• Last but not least, don’t forget to use sunscreen and drink plenty of water to stay hydrated!

Best Revelstoke Beaches

Ready to dive into the best beaches in Revelstoke? Let’s explore these fantastic spots where you can swim, picnic, or simply soak up the sun, and see why they’re considered Revelstoke’s finest.

Williamson Lake

Williamson Lake in Revelstoke is really the perfect place for an awesome day out or even a weekend camping trip.

You’ll find a great sandy beach here which is perfect for relaxing with a good book and taking dips in the refreshing waters when you get too hot. There’s also a raft you can swim out to for a bit of fun!

You can also rent a boat at Williamson Lake and take it out on the lake. Whether you’re after a leisurely row or a kayak ride, they’ve got you covered.

If you’d rather stay on land, there’s a cool minigolf course to test your skills.

And when hunger strikes, just head to one of the picnic tables with your packed lunch or fired-up BBQ.

For camping lovers, Williamson Lake is a great place to camp in Revelstoke. The camping facilities are good, and you get to be in the heart of nature, yet you’re not too far from downtown Revelstoke. You can just hop on your bike and you’ll be in town in no time, ready to explore its charming streets, quaint shops, and tasty food spots.

Also, there’s no shortage of outdoor activities around the lake. From hiking and mountain biking to spotting local wildlife, there’s so much to see and do.

Martha Creek Provincial Park

Martha Creek Provincial Park isn’t just a park; it’s an adventure waiting to happen.

This beach in Revelstoke has a day-use area that’s perfect for those looking for a refreshing escape from the summer heat.

You won’t be able to resist the cool, inviting waters of Lake Revelstoke. Remember, the waters here are a bit cooler due to the massive size of Lake Revelstoke, but that’s what makes it so perfect on a hot summer’s day.

You can also enjoy some Lake Revelstoke camping at this provincial park.

Blanket Creek Provincial Park

About 40 kilometres south on Highway 23 out of Revelstoke, you’ll find Blanket Creek Provincial Park.

Not only is this where you’ll find one of the best Revelstoke waterfalls, Sutherland Falls, but the park has a beautiful lagoon which is a great place for swimming.

Although the waters are on the colder side, a swim in this lagoon is nothing short of refreshing and rejuvenating on a hot day in Revy in summer!

You’ve got a variety of camping sites for an overnight stay under the stars, and a picnic area for sharing meals with family and friends.

On long weekends and summer weekends, you’ll want to get here early on a Friday (or perhaps even a Thursday) to secure a camping spot as it can get busy.

Wadey Recreation Site

Wadey Recreation Site is a short 25 km drive north of Revelstoke on Highway 23. It’s a great place to go if you’re looking for a Revelstoke beach with gorgeous views.

Wadey Rec site has a great day-use area and access to a pebbled beach onto Lake Revelstoke.

Mexico Beach Revelstoke

In my view, this secret beach in Revelstoke is best accessed by mountain bike!

To get to Mexico Beach in Revelstoke, head down the Frisby Creek FSR for about a km and then turn right to make it down to the lake.

This Revelstoke beach area is a local favourite and you’ll find an old floating dock that’s a great launchpad for a swim.

Being popular with both locals and visitors, the beach always has a lively atmosphere. Remember to leave this area as beautiful (or better) than you found it!

Eva and Miller Lakes

Eva and Miller Lakes are two beautiful alpine lakes in Revelstoke but they require the most effort out of all these Revelstoke beaches to get to.

First, you’ll need to secure a permit to hike and camp at Eva and Miller Lake Revelstoke, and then you’ll have to gear up for one of the best hikes in Revelstoke.

The lakes are found in Mount Revelstoke National Park and after working up a sweat on this hike you’ll be desperate for a swim before heading back or setting up camp for the evening.

Echo Lake

Echo Lake is an oasis of calm and is perhaps surprisingly warm unlike most of the other Revelstoke beaches on this list. That means Echo Lake is perfect for a long, relaxing swim.

The lake is a bit off the beaten path, accessible via a logging road and it’s recommended to have a 4×4 and radios for safety. But the journey is part of the adventure!

Once there, you’ll find a tranquil, undeveloped setting that is just perfect for a quiet day out.

There’s also a trail that circles the small lake, ideal for a leisurely walk or to find that perfect secluded spot to read your book in peace.

Moses Creek Community Park

You can also find some Revelstoke beach areas along the Columbia River that runs through the town.

One of the best places for this is Moses Creek Community Park which has some hiking trails, the beautiful Moses Creek waterfall and a beach area where you can take a paddle in the river. The beach here is pebbly, but there are some grassy areas too.

Do pay attention to the speed and flow of the river though and don’t paddle if it’s particularly high and fast.

Upper Arrow Lake

Near Echo Lake there are some beach areas on Upper Arrow Lake which is another great place for swimming in Revelstoke.

Upper Arrow Lake is a man-made reservoir on the Columbia River and is a long, narrow silhouette, flanked by mountains. It’s a beautiful spot for relaxing.

Lots of people head to Arrow Lake for boating, swimming and camping and some of the best views are along Airport Way Road, which also has a boat launch area making it easy to get into the lake.

Best Revelstoke restaurants

After spending the day at the beach, you’re bound to work up an appetite. Luckily, Revelstoke is home to some fantastic local eateries:

• Old School Eatery: Great restaurant in Revelstoke serves delicious food with vegetarian and vegan options available.
• The Village Idiot Bar and Grill: This laid-back spot is perfect for a casual, hearty meal after a day of swimming and sunbathing.
• The Taco Club: A local favourite serving a variety of mouth-watering tacos.
• La Baguette: Located in the heart of Revelstoke, this place serves up freshly baked goods, sandwiches, and excellent coffee. Perfect for breakfast and lunch!

Where to stay in Revelstoke

Whether you’re planning an overnight trip or a longer stay, Revelstoke has plenty of accommodations to suit every budget and preference:

• Basecamp Resorts Revelstoke: One of the most stylish and ‘cool’ Revelstoke accommodation options. Offers apartment-style living and pet-friendly accommodation in Revelstoke.
• The Sutton Place Hotel: For a more luxurious stay, this hotel offers modern rooms with fantastic mountain views and is right at Revelstoke Mountain Resort so perfect for biking and hiking in the resort.
• Stoke Hotel: A comfortable, mid-range option with friendly staff and clean rooms. We’ve stayed here on several visits to Revelstoke

Best things to do in Revelstoke

Revelstoke is much more than just its beautiful beaches. Here are some nearby attractions to make your visit even more memorable. For more ideas check out this guide to things to do in Revelstoke in summer.

• Mount Revelstoke National Park: A paradise for nature lovers, this park offers stunning views, hiking trails, and a chance to see local wildlife.
• Revelstoke Mountain Resort: Offering activities year-round, this resort is a must-visit for adrenaline junkies and leisure-seekers alike.
• Revelstoke Dam Visitor Centre: Learn about the importance of hydroelectric power in this interactive visitor centre.
• Go paddleboarding on the lakes around Revelstoke.
• Visit Glacier National Park, Canada: A beautiful national park not far from Revelstoke.

FAQs about the best Revelstoke beaches

Final thoughts on beaches in Revelstoke

And there you have it – the most amazing beaches in Revelstoke. Each of these Revelstoke beaches has its own unique appeal, from Martha Creek Provincial Park to the relaxing secluded corners of Echo Lake.

If you’re looking for more things to do in Revelstoke as you travel, check out this guide to the best waterfalls near Revelstoke, and the best Revelstoke hikes. If you’re visiting Revelstoke as part of a larger BC road trip, be sure to take a look at these guides to Sun Peaks, BC, visiting Golden and my road trip guides from Vancouver to Banff National Park and the Kootenay Hot Springs road trip itinerary.

Visiting Vancouver? Check out these beautiful swimming lakes in BC.