Discover Penticton's Best Beaches
With its prime location between two stunning lakes, Penticton offers many beach options for visitors and locals. Each beach has unique vibe and amenities, from expansive sandy shores to more secluded spots. Here's a detailed look at what makes these beaches unique and why they are worth visiting.
Skaha Beach
Skaha Beach is a standout among Penticton's beaches, often cited as one of the best in Canada. This expansive 500-metre beach is at the city's southern end on Skaha Lake. Its soft, golden sand and clean waters make it a favourite for swimming and sunbathing. The beach is part of a larger parkland that spans 21 acres, offering plenty of space for various recreational activities.
Visitors to Skaha Beach can enjoy numerous amenities, including playgrounds, splash parks, volleyball and tennis courts, and walking paths. The beach also has picnic areas with tables and fire pits, making it an excellent spot for a family outing. The parkland provides a natural barrier from nearby roads, creating a peaceful environment. During summer, the beach is bustling with activity, with many choosing to relax on the sand or participate in water sports. Skaha Lake Marina, located at the eastern end, offers boat rentals and a new pub, adding to the beach's appeal.
Okanagan Beach
Okanagan Beach is the most popular beach in Penticton, stretching 1 kilometre along Lakeshore Drive. This beach is well-known for its lively atmosphere and proximity to downtown amenities, making it a tourist hotspot. The soft sand slopes gently into Okanagan Lake, providing a safe and enjoyable swimming experience for all ages.
The beach has various attractions, including water slides, a floating platform, and an inflatable water park set up during the summer months. The iconic SS Sicamous Paddle Wheeler and the famous Peach concession stand add to the beach's spirit. Visitors can also find numerous restaurants and craft breweries along Lakeshore Drive, making it easy to grab a bite or enjoy a drink after a day in the sun.
Okanagan Lake Park Beach
Okanagan Lake Park Beach, situated east of Okanagan Beach, offers a quieter and more relaxed atmosphere. This 200-metre beach is situated in Okanagan Lake Park, a popular venue for events such as the Elvis and Peach festivals. The park provides a beautiful backdrop with trees and green spaces, making it a lovely spot for picnics and gatherings.
The beach has a designated off-leash area for dogs and day moorage for boats, catering to pet owners and boating enthusiasts. It offers stunning views and a pleasant environment. The park behind the beach is often less crowded, providing plenty of space for games and picnics. The nearby washroom facilities and paved walkways enhance the convenience for visitors.
Marina Way Beach
Marina Way Beach is favoured by locals. This small strip of sandy beach is bordered by Marina Way Park, which provides a tranquil setting away from the more crowded beaches. The designated swimming area, floating platform, and beach slide make it a fun spot for families and swimmers.
One of the main attractions of Marina Way Beach is its peaceful atmosphere. While the facilities are limited, with no public washrooms nearby, the beach's charm lies in its simplicity. The adjacent park is usually quiet and offers an excellent space for picnics, kite flying, or bocce. The beach's proximity to the marina means that boat traffic can create some wake, but this is generally a minor inconvenience compared to the overall relaxing experience.
Sudbury Beach
Sudbury Beach is located just west of Skaha Beach and offers a vast expanse of soft, golden sand. Known for its excellent conditions for windsurfing and kiteboarding, this beach attracts sports enthusiasts, especially during the fall when the winds are stronger. The beach is also an excellent spot for swimming, with a beach slide and floating platform enhancing the experience.
The amenities at Sudbury Beach include a washroom building, a concession stand, and Stand-Up Paddleboard rentals. Fire pits and volleyball courts add to the recreational options available. Despite being close to Skaha Lake Road, the beach's width helps mitigate noise from traffic, providing a more serene environment. Sudbury Beach's natural beauty and simplicity make it a favourite for those who prefer a less commercialized beach day.
Three Mile Beach
Three Mile Beach is a unique destination on Naramata Beach, a short drive from downtown Penticton. This beach is divided into two distinct areas, one of which is known for being nudist-friendly. The southern half of the beach faces Penticton and features a rocky shoreline, while the northern half offers fine sand and scenic views of Naramata, Summerland, and sandy bluffs.
The beach has stairs to the beach, outhouses, and trash bins. However, its natural setting and the freedom it offers make it a popular spot for adventurous beachgoers. The designated off-leash area for dogs and day moorage for boats add to its appeal. Three Mile Beach provides a unique experience.
Manitou Park & Beach (Naramata)
Manitou Park & Beach in Naramata is a top choice for families and those exploring the nearby wine country. This beach features a vast stretch of light-coloured sand that slopes gently into Okanagan Lake, with plenty of shade from scattered trees. The facilities include playgrounds, a floating dock, a beach slide, and a newly built washroom building with change rooms.
Manitou Park Beach offers a relaxed and family-friendly environment. Picnic tables and benches line the shore, providing ample spots for a leisurely meal. The beach's proximity to the amenities of Naramata, including Real Things Pizza, which delivers right to the sand, makes it a convenient option for visitors. The scenic views of Mount Nkwala and Giant's Head Mountain add to the beach's relaxed feel, making it a great place to unwind.
Conclusion
Penticton's beaches provide diverse options for all types of beachgoers. Each beach has something unique, from bustling tourist hotspots to tranquil local favourites. Penticton's beaches are sure to provide an unforgettable experience.