The Okanagan Valley is BC’s most popular destination in the summer. With its lake views, vineyards, and desert landscape, it’s the perfect mix of outdoor adventure and relaxation. Whether you’re hiking through forested trails, sipping wine in the sun, or boating on Okanagan Lake, there’s no shortage of things to do.
The region stretches from Vernon in the north to Osoyoos in the south, with charming towns and scenic spots in between. Whatever your travel style—family fun, romantic getaway, or solo adventure—the Okanagan Valley delivers.
Must-Visit Cities and Towns
Each town in the Okanagan has its own charm. Kelowna, the largest city in the valley, has lakeside living, shopping, restaurants, and a marina. West Kelowna, just across the bridge, is quieter but has great wineries and views.
Penticton is between two lakes and perfect for beach days and outdoor adventures. Vernon has small-town vibes and a vibrant arts scene, and access to nature. Osoyoos has a desert climate and is perfect for families to relax by the lake or explore the unique ecosystem at the Desert Centre.
Natural Attractions
Nature is at the heart of the Okanagan experience. Okanagan Lake is the valley’s crown jewel, with crystal clear water and countless beaches and parks. Knox Mountain in Kelowna has hiking trails and views of the city and the lake. Near Osoyoos, you’ll find Spotted Lake, a mineral-rich body of water that forms colourful spots in the summer—a natural wonder.
The Osoyoos Desert Centre is a great place to learn about Canada’s only desert. And all around the region, you’ll see rolling hills, orchards, and vineyards, especially in the spring and summer. The Okanagan is an outdoor playground. Hiking and biking trails are plentiful, especially along the Kettle Valley Rail Trail, which winds through trestles and tunnels with stunning views. For thrill seekers, there’s zip lining, horseback riding, and rock climbing.
Kayaking, paddleboarding, and boating are popular on the lake, and there are countless spots to picnic, play disc golf, or watch the sunset. In the winter, ski resorts and snowshoe trails open up another side of the valley’s outdoor offerings, making this a year-round destination for nature lovers.
Water Activities on Okanagan Lake
Lake life is at the heart of summer in the Okanagan. Okanagan Lake stretches over 135 km and offers everything from peaceful paddling to high-speed boating. Rentals for kayaks, jet skis, and pontoon boats are widely available.
Take a guided cruise, go wakeboarding, or simply swim at one of the many public beaches like Gyro Beach in Kelowna or Skaha Beach in Penticton. For a unique experience, try snorkeling, fishing tours, or even scuba diving. The lake’s warm water and scenic shoreline make it the perfect backdrop for summer fun.
Family Friendly Fun
The Okanagan is very family-friendly with attractions and activities for all ages. Kids will love the water parks, nature trails, and sandy beaches. The Osoyoos Desert Centre offers educational fun, while the Kettle Valley Rail Trail is perfect for a family bike ride.
Fruit picking at local orchards is a summer favourite, and in the winter, there’s sledding, ice skating, and beginner ski hills. Many lakeside resorts have kid-friendly amenities like playgrounds and pools, making family vacations easy and enjoyable across the region.
Arts, Culture, and Festivals
The Okanagan has a thriving arts and culture scene that comes alive in the summer. Kelowna and Vernon have excellent galleries and museums, and small towns throughout the valley have art walks, live music, and theatre performances.
Festivals are a big draw—like the Okanagan Wine Festival, Kelowna Folk Festival, and Penticton’s Peach Festival. From public art installations to vineyard concerts, there’s always something to enjoy that celebrates the valley’s creative spirit and community vibe.
Shopping and Dining Experiences
Foodies and shoppers will find plenty to explore in the Okanagan. Farmers’ markets in Kelowna, Penticton, and Vernon are bursting with local produce, crafts, and gourmet treats. The region’s restaurants reflect a farm-to-table approach, often sourcing ingredients from just down the road.
Wine bars, craft breweries, and cozy cafes offer everything from casual snacks to fine dining. You’ll also find unique boutiques and artisan shops selling everything from local art to handmade jewelry. Guided food and wine tours make it easy to sample the best of the valley in one go.
Winter Adventures
Though best known for summer, the Okanagan shines in winter too. Ski resorts like Big White, SilverStar, and Apex offer world-class runs, family areas, and après ski fun. Snowshoeing and cross-country skiing are available in many provincial parks and local trails.
Ice skating rinks pop up in town centers, while snowmobiling, ice fishing, and even dog sledding offer unique winter experiences. Local festivals like the Penticton Winter Carnival bring seasonal cheer, and the quieter pace of winter makes it an excellent time for cozy winery visits and scenic drives.
Getting Here and Around
The Okanagan is easy to get to and get around. Kelowna International Airport (YLW) offers flights to and from most major Canadian cities, and Penticton Regional Airport services local routes. Highway 97 runs through the heart of the valley, connecting all the major towns.
Car rentals, shuttle services, and public transit make it easy to get around, and there are plenty of bike-friendly areas and scenic routes for cyclists. Boat tours and guided trips are also great ways to experience the area without having to navigate on your own.
Where to Stay
Accommodation options in the Okanagan suit all tastes and budgets. Lakeside resorts offer luxury amenities and easy access to water activities, while cozy B&Bs and boutique hotels provide a more intimate experience.
Vacation rentals, cabins, and cottages are perfect for families or groups, and there are also plenty of campgrounds and RV parks for nature lovers. Many are pet-friendly, and several offer on-site wineries or farm-to-table dining. No matter where you stay, you’ll be close to the beauty and adventure the valley has to offer.
Just One More Thing…
Ever wished for the fun without the hassle of planning? Our Canada Hustle app is the perfect answer when you are looking to make your stay fun and easy. Finding the best places to hike, trek, swim, and sail is just a few clicks away.
Available for both Android and iOS users, this one’s a lovely travel companion. Be it wild adventures, captivating stories, or calm escapes, Canada Hustle builds the experience you’re looking for.
Conclusion: Get the Most Out of Your Okanagan Visit
Whether you’re sipping wine in the sun, paddling on clear lakes, or strolling through local markets, the Okanagan has something for everyone. With its natural beauty, outdoor adventure, and laid-back vibe, this is the perfect place to unwind, explore, and make memories.
From family vacations to romantic weekends or solo escapes, the Okanagan Valley welcomes all kinds of travellers. So pack up, bring your sense of adventure, and get ready to experience the best of this beautiful corner of BC.