Summer activities in Kelowna are all about warm weather, lake days, and enjoying the outdoors. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or you live here and want to explore more of what the city has to offer, there’s no shortage of things to keep you busy. From hikes and beach days to wine tastings and festivals, here are ten ways to make the most of summer in Kelowna.
1. Spend the Day at the Beach
Kelowna has plenty of lakeside beaches that are perfect for a relaxing day in the sun. Check out Gyro Beach or Hot Sands Beach in City Park for easy access to food trucks, paddleboard rentals, and space to spread out. The water is warm by mid-summer, so bring your towel, sunscreen, and something to float on.
2. Paddle Okanagan Lake
Stand-up paddleboarding is a local favourite, and for good reason. Okanagan Lake is calm in the morning, making it ideal for beginners or anyone who wants a peaceful paddle. Rentals are available at most beach spots, and the views from the water are unbeatable. You can even follow the Kelowna Paddle Trail, a marked 27-kilometer route along the shoreline.
3. Hike Knox Mountain
Just a few minutes from downtown, Knox Mountain is a go-to for locals looking to stretch their legs and get a view of the city. The Apex Trail is the most popular route, and it leads to a scenic lookout where you can see the entire downtown waterfront and beyond. Go early to beat the heat and enjoy the quiet.
4. Cycle the Rail Trail
The Okanagan Rail Trail stretches from Kelowna to Vernon and passes through orchards, lakes, and farmland. It’s a flat, easy ride that’s perfect for families or casual cyclists. Bring your own bike or rent one in town, then cruise along the shaded trail and stop for a cold drink or ice cream along the way.
5. Explore the Myra Canyon Trestles
A little farther out but well worth the trip, Myra Canyon is one of Kelowna’s most scenic spots. The trail follows an old railway line across wooden trestle bridges and through tunnels with amazing canyon views. It’s a popular spot for both biking and walking, and there are plenty of places to stop and take in the scenery.
6. Go Wine Tasting
Kelowna is surrounded by wineries, and summer is the best time to check them out. You’ll find tasting rooms with patios, lake views, and great local food. Some of the most well-known spots include Mission Hill, Summerhill Pyramid Winery, and CedarCreek. Book a wine tour or drive at your own pace, but be sure to make a reservation if you’re going on a weekend. Travelling with children and wondering can I bring my children on the wine tour? All wine experiences hosted by Vivid Tours are public wine tours requiring a minimum age of 19 years old. For families looking to explore our wine region, we may be able to accommodate children on a private tour.
What is the best way to visit wineries in Kelowna? Joining a wine tours hosted by Vivid Tours is commonly regarded as the best option for visiting the wineries in Kelowna. These wine tours include transportation, removing the need for walking or sourcing your own transportation and creating a positive experience.
7. Pick Fresh Fruit
Okanagan orchards come alive in the summer, and you can pick your own cherries, peaches, and apricots at local farms. It’s a fun way to spend a couple of hours, and you’ll leave with a basket full of fruit. Look for U-pick signs in East Kelowna, Rutland, or Lake Country, especially during peak season in July and August.
8. Check Out a Local Festival
Kelowna’s summer events calendar is packed. There’s something happening almost every weekend, whether it’s an outdoor concert, a farmers’ market, or a community celebration. Don’t miss Parks Alive!, a series of live music shows in local parks. There’s also the Downtown Kelowna Block Party, wine festivals, and local markets.
9. Take a Boat Out
If you want to explore Okanagan Lake from the water, renting a boat is a great option. You can cruise the shoreline, anchor near one of the beaches, or try wakeboarding or tubing. Boat rentals are available at the downtown marina and in the Mission area. For a more relaxing experience, book a guided sunset cruise.
10. Walk Downtown and Grab a Patio Seat
Downtown Kelowna is a great place to wander, especially in the evening. The waterfront boardwalk stretches from the marina to City Park and is perfect for a walk after dinner. Along Bernard Avenue, you’ll find restaurants, patios, and local shops. In the summer, Bernard is closed to traffic to create more space for people and pop-up events, also known as “Meet on Bernard.”
Enjoy Kelowna Summer Activities
If you’re looking for summer activities in Kelowna, this list is a solid place to start. From time on the water to exploring local food and wine, there’s plenty to do whether you’re here for a weekend or the whole season. Make sure to check the hours, book in advance when needed, and enjoy everything the Okanagan has to offer this summer
Vivid Tours helps you make the most of summer activities with curated experiences like wine tastings, lake adventures, and scenic views. Check out our tours or reach out to start planning your perfect Kelowna day!
