Summers in the Okanagan are long and bountiful with clear skies and crystal waters. We are blessed with the ability to spend so much time outdoors and much of that is in, on or around the lakes. Thankfully we have plenty of them to choose from. These are some of our personal favourites and recommendations for time well spent.
Whether it’s a swim, beachside lounge, canoe, kayak, paddle board or boating, our pristine waters are welcoming and great for working up an appetite as well as relaxation and quality time.
Views over Okanagan Lake looking towards Kelowna
Okanagan Lake
Okanagan Lake temperatures average 19°C-23°C in July, making it the perfect place to cool off in the hot summer sun. From Vernon in the North to Penticton in the South, our stunning lake spans a vast 135km with Kelowna nestled in the middle. There are countless beautiful beaches along the Kelowna shoreline equipt with picnic tables and Adirondack chairs for lounging.
Wooden Canoe on the beach at Okanagan Lake
Kelowna Paddle Trail
The Kelowna Paddle Trail is a great way to explore the array of beaches and stretches from McKinley Beach to Bertram Creek Regional Park. Guided by buoys near the shore, you’ll paddle by three waterfront resorts, two bird sanctuaries, over 20 beaches and parks, and the sights of bustling downtown Kelowna. An impressive 27km of paddle trail can be undertaken from start to finish but if you can enjoy as much or as little as you like.
Views of Kalamalka Lake looking towards Kelowna from Kelkuli Bay
Kalamalka Lake
Okanagan Lake’s smaller but no less beautiful companion is Kalamalka Lake, or “Kal Lake” as it’s known to the locals. Under an hour’s drive North from Kelowna, this world-renown lake reaches balmy temperatures of 22°C – 27°C in the summer months. Also known as ‘lake of a thousand colours‘, Kalamalka displays different hues depending on the time of year, so you’re in for a treat whenever you choose to visit.
Views of Kalamalka Lake from Juniper Bay in Kalamalka Provincial Park
Treasures of Kalamalka
Perfect for a picnic and paddle, the beaches of Jade Bay & Juniper Bay in Kalamalka Provincial Park are a must-see. Surrounded by Ponderosa Pines, there’s plenty of shady spots to escape the direct sun. Kaloya Regional Park in the village of Oyama is another lakeside gem. With pretty flower gardens and well maintained amenities this beach is picture perfect, often a favourite venue for weddings.
Bikes on the Okanagan Rail Trail looking over Kalamalka Lake
The Rail Trail
The wonderful Okanagan Rail Trail spans the length of Kalamalka Lake and gives easy access to Kelkuli Bay Provincial Park along the way. This incredible community accomplishment runs all the way down to Kelowna and is one of our favourite ways to experience the lakes. The trail’s near-level surface means it can be enjoyed safely by all ages, abilities and activities.
Real Okanagan Living
If it sounds like lakeside life is for you, visit us at ARIVA to experience real Okanagan living and see for yourself. Phase 2 of our luxurious 12.5-acre lakeview estate is available for reservation. Our exceptional condominiums designed for indoor/outdoor living are located just five minutes from the buzz of downtown Kelowna but feel a world away when you’re in the tranquility of your private space. ARIVA is an oasis where residents enjoy an active lifestyle in a vibrant social community – come and see for yourself what life at ARIVA could mean for you.
Book a private appointment today on (236) 420-0693