Seldom is the summer weather anything but perfect in the Okanagan. And there is so much to explore and do while there.
Okanagan Lake is 135 km long and 4 to 5 km wide. The highway drive beside most of the lake has breathtaking views. But there are many other beautiful lakes in the valley as well, such as Kalamalka, Skaha, Osoyoos and more. All of these lakes have fabulous swimming at sandy beaches and various water sports to enjoy.
For accommodation there are many campgrounds either private or provincial. Most are located either on a lake or very near. Of course there are also many motels, hotels and even high end resorts to choose from as well.
Restaurants abound. Whatever your palate is yearning for can be found in the Okanagan. My favorite is a Greek restaurant in Penticton called Theo's. Their Moussaka and Mediterranean Ribs are like none other.
Lots of exciting activities await you in the Okanagan Valley. Fun in the sun is on most people's itinerary while there. For young children, a free water park is in Summerland at the beach. In Penticton, many like to take a leisurely float down the canal from Okanagan Lake to Skaha Lake on inner tubes or air mattresses. Tubes can be rented at the starting point in the north west end of Penticton. Also at the Penticton Lakeside Resort you can parasail and have a birds eye view of the Valley.
There are countless trails to hike or bike. One of my favorites is easy for either of these activities and offers glorious views of Okanagan Lake. It is the KVR Trail between Penticton and Naramata. The trail head is located in north east Penticton at the end of a cul-de-dac on Vancouver Place. I also enjoy the hike up Giant's Head Mountain in Summerland when I need a good work out. More fabulous views await you at the top.
Let's not forget the famous wine tours in the Southern Okanagan Valley. Most of British Columbia's wine is found in this region and many are award winning. Fine wineries are located in Naramata, Summerland and between Oliver and Osoyoos. Popular Wine Tours are available in the Fall Season but stop in for wine tasting any time of year.
If you are driving through Okanagan Falls, don't miss stopping at Tickleberry's for their fabulous Ice Cream Cones and Fudge.
In Summerland, a visit to Summerland Sweets is a popular stop for their specialty syrups and jams, unique fruit wines and delicious ice cream. Summerland is also the location of my favorite beach on Okanagan Lake called Sun-Oka Beach. There is even a great dog beach in one isolated section for furry family members to cool down. Also in Summerland is a great restaurant called Local Lounge. It is on Lakeshore Drive and has a great outdoor patio to enjoy the great views while feasting on fabulous food. There are boat and jet ski rentals available here for more adventure.
You will run out of vacation time before you run out of things to see and do in the Okanagan Valley. It is an extremely popular vacation destination for good reasons. If you have not yet visited, then start planning now. The "WOW Factor" is unending!
I just finished a one week vacation in the Okanagan and wonder why I ever moved away. But I am blessed to be able to return every summer for a visit to this incredible destination!
Give Thanks!
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