Not far from Penticton’s city center is Okanagan Beach with an attractive sandy shoreline on Okanagan Lake. Enjoy your time on this beach. It has been voted number two among a group of best beaches in Canada.
At the back of the beach, nature provides its own umbrellas for hot days with a row of trees that grow straight out of the sand. Stroll along the 0.6 mile (1 kilometer) of sand and dip your toes in the warm lake water. Don your bathing suit to swim out to one of the floating docks nearby. Go onboard the SS Sicamousto tour Canada’s largest historic surviving sternwheeler.
Although the beach does not have lifeguards, swimming areas are well marked. Bring the whole family to enjoy lots of attractions, such as children’s slides and water sports equipment rentals. Across the street are a playground, splash park, amusement park and skateboard area. Get something to eat or drink at the many restaurants located in town behind the beach. Stay in accommodations that front the beach for the closest access.
Come early on warm days, particularly if you want a place in the shade, as the beach fills up quickly. Bring an inner tube or air mattress, along with a life jacket, and head to the Penticton River Channel on the lake. Float over 4 miles (7 kilometers) to the end or stop anywhere you’d like. Bring water and sunscreen, as floating down the entire channel can take 3 to 4 hours. To return to the start, hop aboard a shuttle bus that runs from the mid-point location.
End your day with a dinner cruise on Okanagan Lake. Sit on the boat’s deck as the sun goes down over the city and the lake. Discover the varied appeal of Okanagan Beach, with plenty of relaxing and exciting activities.
