We tend to go to the Shuswap when we take a summer vacation to the lake, what are some of the other nice lakes in Alberta and BC? We don't have a boat, but love to either camp or rent a cabin/condo and spend time at the beach. I have also travelled to the islands off the coast of BC (and they were beautiful), but I am looking at something that is not that far west.

My sister and her family are also looking, but are wanting to make an investment and potentially buy some land and build, or buy a cottage or condo. They have slightly more experience than I do with checking out the lakes in the area, but are still shopping for the ideal lake/provincial park that is not too far away. Their home base is Calgary, but they have not lived there too long. Any suggestions?

Thanks!

i think it's called wasa lake around the kimberley area. suppose to be very nice. kokanee creek provincial campground is really nice with a great beach. cold water though.
sylvan lake in alberta is nice. 1 1/2 hrs from calgary towards red deer. pigeon lake is also popular.

Have you considered Okanagan Lake, or Skaha Lake? Both are south of Shuswap and offer many, many beaches.