Your Guide to an Okanagan Summer

Summer is upon us and the Okanagan is the place to be for sun seekers. But what’s summer without beaches? Here’s a few ideas for soaking up the sunshine and making a splash in the water.

To the Beach!
Living near a 135km-long lake means beaches are everywhere! Bear Creek Provincial Park on the west side is a great choice nearby the Tallus Community, with 400m of sand, picnic spots and change rooms. Pritchard Park has a long pier that’s great for working on your tan. If you’re looking for a quieter, more out of the way beach, try Kalamoir Regional Park near Mount Boucherie winery. 

If you feel like crossing the bridge, Waterfront park, Boyce-Gyro Beach, and Hot Sands Beach in City Park are all popular options with lots of activity for both the young and old.

On the Water
If you feel like being in the water instead of laying beside it, look no further. CNR Wharf in the Gellatly Recreation Corridor has platforms to jump from, a zip line, and a floating dock for your enjoyment.

If you want the kids to burn off some energy, try the Wibit Water Park in Kelowna. This inflatable playground on the lake will have your kids climbing, jumping, and laughing all day.

For those who want to glide above the water, give flyboarding a try! This device can launch you up to 70 feet in the air and will really make it feel like you’re flying . . . just be careful on the descent. 

For something a little more out of the box, give Maeg’s BBQ Boat a call. The company will tow you around Kelowna’s waterfront in a round watercraft that can seat up to ten and has its own barbecue in the center. Perfect for a relaxing time out on the water with your friends!

Food & Beverage
All that time in the water is bound to work up an appetite. Fortunately, there’s no shortage of restaurants and wineries in the area. Find a place with a nice outdoor patio to continue enjoying the night air and a cool beverage to cap off your day. 

Wineries such as the aforementioned Mount Boucherie, Grizzli, Off the Grid, and Mission Hill will give you a real taste of the Okanagan with their local wines. If beer is more to your taste, Lakesider Brewing and Kind Brewing are both located on the west side, practically in your backyard. All have food menus to pair with your beverages along with alternate dietary options, so don’t be shy about asking to see the menu.

No matter what you choose to do with this Okanagan summer, be safe, enjoy the sun, and above all, have a fantastic time!