Unlike some of Canada's coastal provinces, landlocked Alberta swimming destinations aren't exactly legendary.

"People have this perception that there's no lakes, or they're gross here," says Edmonton beachcomber Jenelle Polok.

But those yearning for a refreshing dip, without the price-tag of a tropical vacation, don't despair.

A white sandy beach or placid lake is never that far away.

The gang at CBC Edmonton's afternoon show, Radio Active, put out a call to Alberta's most water-wise weekend warriors, and asked them to share their favourite swimming spots.

Whether you're up for a long road trip, or a quick day trip, there are plenty of 'watering holes' to choose from.

Know a beach or swimming spot we missed? Let us know in the comments section below.

Pigeon Lake

Revel in the white sand beaches of Pigeon Lake in central Alberta. (Pigeon Lake Provincial Park)

Long Lake Provincial Park Beach

This amazing park, hidden away in northern Alberta, includes beautiful beaches and secluded fishing spots. (Travel Alberta )

North Saskatchewan River

The once-neglected beaches of the North Saskatchewan River are becoming increasingly popular for swimmers and paddlers in Edmonton. (Edmonton Tourism)

Alberta Beach at Lac Ste. Anne

Located northwest of Edmonton, Alberta Beach, with its sandy beaches and grassy picnic areas, has become a popular swimming hole for families. (MamaT/Flickr)

Sylvan Lake

Considered the swimming destination for central Alberta, the Sylvan Lake beach offers calm waters, a manicured shoreline, plenty of waterfront shops, and is home to Alberta's only lighthouse. (Town of Sylvan Lake)

Lesser Slave Lake Provincial Park

Alberta beachcombers will find miles of lovely clean sand on the beaches of Lesser Slave Lake. (Travel Alberta )

Cold Lake

The beaches on the shores of Cold Lake may possibly be the best in Alberta, according to some weekend warriors. (Alberta Parks)

Horseshoe Lake

Best explored on a sunny summer day, this horseshoe-shaped lake has crystal clear water and plenty of swimming spots, surrounded by cliffs. (theoutbound.com)

Lake Annette Beach

Nestled in the Rocky Mountains, Lake Annette Beach may be one of the most stunning beach settings in Alberta. (Holger Knecht)

Herbert Lake

The water may be chilly, but plenty of Lake Louise locals like it that way, and there's even a diving board where you can really take a plunge. (fusionpanda/Flickr)

Wapiti River