Penticton, BC, offers various outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, and leisurely activities. There's something for everyone, from stunning beaches to scenic trails and renowned wineries. This comprehensive guide covers the best of Penticton, providing valuable details to help you make the most of your visit.
Sun, Sand, and Family Fun
Okanagan Beach
Okanagan Beach is a favourite among locals and visitors for its long, sandy shoreline and crystal-clear waters. Located on Lakeshore Drive, this beach is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking. Facilities include public washrooms, playgrounds, and free parking, making it an ideal spot for families. The nearby amenities and lifeguards on duty during peak season ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
Wibit Penticton
For a fun-filled day on the water, Wibit Penticton is a must-visit. This floating water park, located on Okanagan Beach, features a variety of inflatable obstacles, including slides and bouncy bridges. Open during the summer months, it's a hit with kids and adults alike. The park offers hourly rates and all-day passes, with life jackets provided for safety.
Peach Fest
Celebrating Community and Tradition
Penticton Peach Festival, commonly known as Peach Fest, is one of the most anticipated annual events in the Okanagan Valley. Held every second week of August, this festival celebrates the region's rich agricultural heritage, particularly its famous peaches. The event draws thousands of visitors annually, offering entertainment, community spirit, and family-friendly activities.
Pier Water Sports
Adventure on the Water
Pier Water Sports offers a range of watercraft rentals for those looking to explore Okanagan Lake. From Seadoos and Wake Boats to kayaks and paddleboards, there's an option for every level of adventure. The 24-passenger "party barge" is a popular choice for larger groups. Conveniently located near the Penticton Lakeside Resort, it's easy to include in your beach day plans.
SS Sicamous Museum & Heritage Park
A Step Back in Time
The SS Sicamous Museum & Heritage Park offers a glimpse into the past with its beautifully restored steam sternwheeler. Built-in 1914, the SS Sicamous once provided luxurious travel along Okanagan Lake. Today, it is a museum showcasing historical exhibits, including the Gentleman's Saloon and a detailed Kettle Valley Railway scale model. Self-guided tours allow visitors to explore at their own pace.
LocoLanding Adventure Park
Family-Friendly Fun
LocoLanding Adventure Park is the perfect destination for family fun. Located near Okanagan Beach, this amusement park offers a variety of activities, including mini-golf, go-karts, bumper boats, and a high-level ropes course. The park is open seasonally and provides a safe, enjoyable environment for kids and adults. Special packages and group rates are available, making it an excellent option for parties and gatherings.
Penticton Channel Tubing
Relaxing on the River
One of Penticton's most popular summer activities is tubing down the Penticton Channel. This leisurely float takes about 1.5 hours, offering a unique way to enjoy the sunny weather and scenic views. Tube rentals and shuttle services are available from Coyote Cruises, ensuring a hassle-free experience. Remember to bring sunscreen and water for a comfortable float.
Munson Mountain Trail
Scenic Views and Easy Access
Munson Mountain Trail offers stunning views of Penticton and Okanagan Lake. The trail is short and accessible, with paved and unpaved sections leading to various viewpoints. The iconic Penticton sign is also located here, making it a popular photo spot. It's a free activity and a great way to start or end your day in Penticton.
Kettle Valley Rail Trail
A Historic Journey
Part of the Trans Canada Trail, the Kettle Valley Rail Trail is a must for outdoor enthusiasts. The trail is ideal for walking, cycling, and horseback riding, with gentle inclines and beautiful views of Okanagan Lake. Passing through orchards and vineyards offers a scenic journey through the region's history and natural beauty. Sections of the trail are well-maintained, making it accessible for all abilities.
Wine Tasting on Naramata Bench
A Wine Lover's Dream
The Naramata Bench is renowned for its vineyards and wineries. With over 40 wineries to explore, visitors can enjoy tastings, tours, and stunning views. Many wineries offer culinary experiences, pairing local wines with gourmet dishes. Booking a wine tour is recommended to enjoy the experience without the need to drive fully. Some notable wineries include Hillside Winery, Ruby Blues Winery, and La Frenz Winery.
Fruit Picking in the Okanagan Valley
Fresh Flavours of Summer
Penticton is in the heart of the Okanagan Valley and is known for its bountiful orchards. Visitors can enjoy picking their fruit at various local farms during summer. You might find cherries, peaches, apples, and more depending on the season. This activity provides a fun and tasty way to experience the region's agricultural heritage.
Skaha Lake Park
Outdoor Recreation and Relaxation
Skaha Lake Park is another gem in Penticton, featuring a beautiful beach, calm waters, and plenty of recreational activities. The park includes tennis courts, basketball courts, and a playground, perfect for a day out with family or friends. The beach is ideal for swimming, windsurfing, and parasailing. Picnic areas and BBQ facilities are available for those looking to spend a whole day enjoying the outdoors.
Local Breweries
Craft Beer Capital of Canada
Penticton boasts a thriving craft beer scene, with several local breweries offering a variety of styles and flavours. Known as the Craft Beer Capital of Canada, the city's breweries are located mainly downtown, making exploring multiple spots in a day easy. Each brewery has its unique atmosphere and specialty brews, providing a rich and diverse tasting experience.
Arts and Culture
Inspiration from the Landscape
Penticton's history and stunning landscapes inspire a vibrant arts and culture scene. Local galleries, such as the Penticton Art Gallery, showcase works by regional artists. The city also hosts numerous cultural events and festivals annually, celebrating everything from music and film to visual arts. These events provide an excellent opportunity to immerse yourself in the local creative community.
Skaha Bluffs Provincial Park
Climbing Paradise
Skaha Bluffs Provincial Park is a premier climbing destination in Canada, attracting climbers worldwide. Known for its rugged beauty and diverse routes, the park offers over 1,200 climbing routes that cater to all skill levels, from beginners to advanced climbers. The terrain includes a mix of sport and traditional climbing, with routes set against stunning backdrops of the Okanagan Valley.
The rock formations at Skaha Bluffs primarily comprise gneiss, providing solid and varied climbing surfaces. The park has several climbing areas, each with unique character and challenges. Climbers can enjoy a range of routes, from short, technical climbs to longer, multi-pitch adventures. The well-maintained trails and clear route markings make it easy for climbers to navigate the park and find routes that match their abilities.
Outdoor Adventure
Beyond the Beach
Penticton offers excellent mountain biking, rock climbing, and kayaking opportunities for those seeking more adventure. Skaha Bluffs Provincial Park is a top climbing destination in Canada, with routes suitable for all skill levels. The nearby lakes and rivers provide ideal conditions for kayaking and paddleboarding. At the same time, the surrounding trails are perfect for hiking and biking.
Winter Activities
Snow Sports and More
Penticton transforms into a winter wonderland with downhill skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing activities. Apex Mountain Resort is known for its reliable snow conditions and diverse terrain, catering to all levels of skiers and snowboarders. For cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, the Nickel Plate Nordic Centre offers well-groomed trails and stunning mountain views.
Conclusion
Penticton, BC, is a destination that offers something for everyone. Enjoy the diverse experiences and beautiful landscapes that make Penticton a unique and memorable destination.
