The Okanagan Valley is undoubtedly the lake vacation capital of British Columbia, offering some of the best beaches for all to enjoy. This region is one of the warmest in Canada, making it an ideal destination for a summer getaway.
With its captivating landscape of rolling green hills, breathtaking lake views, and renowned wineries, it’s the perfect vacation spot. But which Okanagan beach should you visit?
There are numerous beaches along the stunning 135 km stretch of Okanagan Lake in BC. We’ve carefully selected our favorites, though you’ll be hard-pressed to find a bad beach in this area.
Top 5 Beaches in Okanagan
1. Kal Beach, Coldstream – Kalamalka Lake
This 16 km long lake in the North Okanagan is a favorite among locals and tourists alike. The unique rocks and minerals in the lake create captivating colors that shift with the seasons and weather, earning it the nickname ‘Lake of Many Colours’. Surrounding this area of stunning natural beauty are various provincial and regional parks and a multitude of beach options.
While you can’t go wrong with any beach on this enchanting lake, our top pick is Kal Beach, which provides spectacular views down its length, almost to the southern tip.
Located just south of Vernon, Kal Beach is bustling with activity, which adds to its charm. We chose this beach for its vibrant atmosphere and amenities, which make it one of the best in the region. The Kalamalka Lake Rotary Pier, extending into the water, is a favorite spot for sunbathers, anglers, and divers. At the eastern end, a beach pub features a large lake-view terrace, while a popular concession stand and general store are conveniently nearby.
The expansive stretch of soft, white sand is perfect for accommodating summer visitors, and the calm, shallow aqua waters are ideal for swimming and paddling. Paddleboards and kayaks can be rented from a store located next to the beach. You can also enjoy the Okanagan Rail Trail that runs along Kal Lake, revealing stunning views of the lake.
Best For: A relaxed beach day on a beautiful lake, with all the essentials nearby.
Budget: Econolodge Vernon | Mid-Range: Prestige Hotel Vernon | Luxury: Sparkling Hill Resort – Adults Only OR Predator Ridge Resort
2. Hot Sands Beach, Kelowna – Okanagan Lake
Hot Sands Beach is located in the heart of downtown Kelowna, right next to City Park. This beach has everything you need for a fun-filled family day, including volleyball courts, basketball courts, a skate park, a water play park, washrooms, changing rooms, picnic areas, concessions, and vendors. During summer, the park buzzes with buskers, performances, and events, making it a lively beach destination.
Even if it didn’t have all these amenities, the beach itself is a beautiful space. It features a wide stretch of sand to accommodate crowds and ample grassy areas to relax. The shallow, sandy water is ideal for swimming, paddling, and lounging in the sun. For more active kids, there’s a giant inflatable fun park in the lake for climbing, bouncing, and sliding!
And when you’re finished at the beach, just take a leisurely stroll over to downtown Kelowna for a plethora of shops, restaurants, and bars. Hot Sands Beach is indeed one of the best family-friendly beaches around.
Best For: Families looking to be right in the midst of the action.
Budget: Econo Lodge Inn & Suites | Mid-Range: Royal Anne Hotel | Luxury: Delta Hotels by Marriott Grand Okanagan Resort
There’s an abundance of accommodation options in Kelowna, so it’s easy to find a place near this beach. However, hotels get booked up quickly here, so it’s advisable to reserve in advance to avoid disappointment.
3. Swim Bay, Peachland – Okanagan Lake
Swim Bay offers a free water playground right on the lake, featuring diving boards, rope swings, and zip lines that will keep the kids entertained for hours. Lifeguards are on duty during the summer, ensuring a safe experience.
For those preferring a more laid-back day, there’s a stretch of sandy beach, grassy areas, and shady trees to relax under. Take a leisurely stroll along Beach Avenue towards nearby Peachland, where you can discover concessions, lakeside restaurants, and wineries along the way.
Best For: Families seeking pure fun for energetic and adventurous kids.
Budget: Pleasant View Motel | Mid-Range: Summerland Motel | Luxury: The Cove Lakeside Resort OR Summerland Waterfront Resort & Spa
The best places to stay nearby are in West Kelowna or Summerland.
4. Okanagan Lake Beach, Penticton – Okanagan Lake
Nestled at the southern tip of Okanagan Lake, close to Penticton, BC, this stunning white sand beach is a favorite among tourists and visitors. With nearly a kilometer of soft sand and a bustling promenade, it’s easy to see why it’s so popular.
This beach has shallow water that’s perfect for kids, with designated swimming areas, slides, and floating docks for resting and sunbathing. There’s also a giant inflatable water park for adventurous fun. With picnic areas, ample shade, and washrooms on site, this beach is ideal for families.
Located at one end of the beach boardwalk is the well-known Penticton Peach Ice Cream shop; at the other end is the S.S. Sicamous museum. In between, you’ll find vendors, concessions, buskers, and restaurants overlooking the lake. If you want to explore further, the vibrant downtown Penticton—with its wineries—is just a short stroll away.
Best For: A lively beach experience with something for everyone in the family.
Budget: 5000 Motel | Mid-Range: Days Inn by Wyndham | Luxury: Penticton Lakeside Resort
Stay in Penticton or any of the charming surrounding towns.
5. Skaha Beach, Penticton – Skaha Lake
Last but certainly not least, Skaha Beach is a strong contender for the title of the best family beach in BC and is frequently recognized as one of the best beaches in Canada. Located on the opposite side of Penticton from Okanagan Lake Beach, this beach offers a shallow, sandy bottom lined with floating docks and kids’ water slides, as well as a marina and boat launch area.
This expansive beach features unique reddish sand and is backed by a long promenade filled with washrooms and vendors.
If you want a break from the beach, Skaha Beach is part of the 21-acre Skaha Lake Park, which includes large grassy areas, playgrounds, various sports courts, and even a sprinkler water park. There are also picnic areas, power and drinking water stations, and fire pits for those planning to spend the day. Plus, you’re close to Skaha Bluffs Provincial Park, an excellent spot for a visit.
Best For: Those who can’t choose between the beach and the park, and anyone looking for one of the best beaches in Canada.
Budget: Flamingo Motel | Mid-Range: Best Western Inn at Penticton | Luxury: Wesbert Winery & Guest Suites
Map of Okanagan Beaches
We’ve highlighted five remarkable beaches in the Okanagan Valley, but as you explore the area, you’ll discover countless hidden gems worth checking out!
Other Beaches to Explore in Okanagan:
- Gyro Beach – A popular beach in Kelowna featuring a fantastic playground and a small zip line for kids over the water. There’s also a grassy area and picnic tables available.
- Okanagan Beach Club – An ideal beach for those seeking a quieter atmosphere away from the city, set in a charming lakeside community.
Tips for Enjoying BC Beaches
- Remember to pack all your beach essentials and refer to a comprehensive beach packing list for your trip.
- The water temperature at Lake Okanagan may be cooler than that of smaller lakes due to its vast size.
- There are many attractions to explore in Okanagan BC, including family-friendly wineries.
- The primary lakes in the region include Okanagan Lake, Wood Lake, Kalamalka Lake, and Skaha Lake, alongside many smaller ones.
- Always check for highway closures or accidents on BC Highways before heading to these beaches.
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