Whether you plan on living in Penticton year-round or only for the summer months there are many fun things to do with your family every single day. Located in the beautiful, sunny Okanagan Valley, spending time here means you will not be at a loss of things to do to keep your family busy and fulfilled on those long summer days.
With an abundance of lakes, parks, wineries and orchards there is plenty in the Okanagan to keep one busy enjoying all the region offers. Everyone likes a good day trip and heading off from here is a great way to start any adventure. You may love the area so much that you research the Penticton real estate market to purchase your own little piece of paradise. These trips will help you learn about the area one day at a time.
Skaha and Okanagan Lake
Penticton is a town situated between two beautiful lakes. Skaha tends to be the less windy beach and is located on the south side of the city while Okanagan Lake is the larger of the two. Both have great sand and nearby amenities such as volleyball courts, paddle board rental shops, ice cream stands and communal fire pits. Stop by the farmer’s market and pack your picnic basket for a day at the beach.
Naramata
A short 20-minute drive from Penticton, Naramata is a quaint little village and a great place to spend the day. It is on the southeast shore of Okanagan Lake with breathtaking views and wineries dotting the landscape. Spend your time at the beach or visit one of their many restaurants or wineries. Manitou Park and Beach features a playground and is pet-friendly. Check out their many local artisans as well.
Kettle Valley Rail Trail
If you enjoying hiking or biking the KVR Trail is a nice place to spend some time. With spectacular views and pathways that are comfortable for all levels of activity it is a great spot for family fun. The trail follows the east bluffs of Okanagan Lake and is popular with both visitors and people living in the region. There are maps and interpretive signs along the trail so you can learn about the area while discovering it on foot or bike.
Parrot Island Sanctuary
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Located in Peachland this bird sanctuary is unique as it was established as a safe haven for abandoned and abused exotic birds. Spending time with the birds is not only educational it is also a good cause. Once you have finished the visit here enjoy the rest of your day in the beautiful town that rests on the shore of Okanagan Lake. Take a stroll along the 7km/4 mi beach trail and visit the many shops and restaurants.
Gyro and Rotary Beach
If you feel like a bit of a drive head to Kelowna and visit both Boyce-Gyro Beach and Rotary Beach Park which are in walking distance of one another. Located in The Mission a hip and trendy Kelowna neighbourhood you will find these beaches less crowded and a bit more relaxed than City Park. With restaurants and frozen yogurt close by spending the day there will be both fun and worth the hour drive from Penticton.
Osoyoos
Being the southernmost town in the Okanagan, Osoyoos boasts a dry arid heat in a desert setting. It is home to Canada’s warmest freshwater lake. Spend time swimming in the lake and enjoying the beautiful beaches. There are also guided tours along the 1.5 km/.9 mi boardwalk through the desert with plants and animals found nowhere else in Canada. There is horseback riding on rescued horses at Sun Hills Riding Center too.
Penticton River Channel
Fun seekers come from near and far to tube the channel as it is great for families and young people alike. It is a slow moving river so bringing along a tube for your drinks and lunch is a good idea. The section suitable for floating is about 7 km/4 mi long with a rest stop around the halfway point. Rent or buy some floaties and some life jackets for the kids and enjoy a relaxing day on the river soaking in the sun.
Kettle Valley Steam Railway
Take a drive to the scenic town of Summerland and ride the Kettle Valley Railway that was built from 1910 – 1915. Their restored steam powered trains are a sight to see as they run along the only preserved section of the historic railway. Enjoy views of the vineyards, orchards and lakes. Reserve and take part in a train robbery and BBQ with 2 hours of “Old West” fun.