Here’s What to Do on Your Next Trip to Kelowna, CA

Here’s What to Do on Your Next Trip to Kelowna, CA

Nestled on the eastern shores of Okanagan Lake, Kelowna is full of surprises for everyone. Check out some of the must-do activities that you need to add to your bucket list.

Vineyards, a glacial lake with its own warm microenvironment, water sports, and winter sports. Kelowna really has it all.

This British Columbia town is a true hidden gem that started to draw in more tourists as the years went by. Here are some of the things you shouldn’t miss when you make your trip to this picturesque destination.

1. Sail the BBQ Boats

Having a BBQ on the Okanagan Lake might not be high on everyone’s list of things to do in Kelowna. But it’s a local activity that’s increasing in popularity each year.

The donut-shaped boats are eco-friendly, electric-powered, and seat up to 10 people each. And riding in one is a great way to spend a few hours on your family vacation.

For the best experience, glide on the glistening Okanagan Lake water on a sunny day.

2. Go In for a Unique Spa Treatment

What’s Okanagan Valley known for apart from its wine? 

You may not know this, but Kelowna also offers vinotherapy treatments to go along with its fantastic tours and tastings.

Enjoy various wraps and massages with winery byproducts. Grape antioxidants, for example, are highly popular and can do wonders for your skin.

So, if you’re looking for unique things to do in Kelowna, a wine-themed spa treatment is definitely one for the books.

3. Have Some Fun at the Scandia Golf and Games

This entertainment center is conveniently located slightly outside the city and en route to the airport. So, you can’t miss it.

If you get good weather, this outdoor golf course puts you in a magical setting. It has many fountains, fun foliage, and a castle, making you feel like you’ve stepped inside a fantasy world. And if you’re not in the mood for some golf, you can test your skills on the go-kart track and the batting cage.

Even if it’s raining or cold outside, there’s still plenty to do. The huge arcade and the indoor jungle-themed mini-golf course can keep you entertained all day.

4. Go on a Half-Day Nature Trip

When you want to go sightseeing, a bike ride on the Kettle Valley Railway is worth considering. It offers a fantastic scenic route that takes you through the Myra Canyon.

Renting a bike is easy, but you can also go on a good old fashioned hike along the former train tracks if you wish. The recreation trail is a hit among locals and tourists and easily one of the best things to do in Kelowna.

5. Get Your Dose of Winter Thrills

Are you up for excitement and adventure? Then try visiting Kelowna in the winter. 

The Big White Mountain Resort, in particular, will have you enjoy over 2,700 acres of explorable and skiable terrain. Take your gear up the summit with any of the 16 lifts and experience one of the most impressive vertical drops of about 2500 feet.

Whether you like skiing or snowboarding, this resort is one of the best in the province and the closest to downtown Kelowna.

6. Tour the Lavender and Herb Farm

Visiting this eco-friendly farm is one of the most relaxing things to do in Kelowna. Guests are free to explore an 8-acre facility that grows a wide range of plants and herbs.

And if you’re in Kelowna during the summer, you’re in for a special treat: that’s when lavenders are in bloom at this farm.

While there, you can sample the farm’s botanical products and pick some for you to take home on the on-site shop.

7. Check Out a Famous Farm to Flask Distillery

Looking for one of the fun things to do in Kelowna? Then, take a tour of the Okanagan Distillery.

All their products are made from local grains and fruits. But what’s even more remarkable is that the distillery specializes in over two dozen types of spirits. 

Do you fancy tasting some fruit brandy? How about something harder like whiskey or absinthe? They have it, and more. You’ll even find local vodka and gin in the local tasting room. 

So, make sure to eat something before you go on your tour. But more importantly, prepare to have your taste buds tingling with pleasure.

8. Spend Time at the Beach

Yes, Kelowna has a beach, and it’s a great one. 

The Boyce-Gyro Beach Park is the city’s top beach on the bank of Okanagan Lake. The good news is that you’re allowed to have a picnic and engage in various water activities, including swimming, kayaking, flyboarding, and others. 

And when you have to seek out some shade, the beach has plenty of trees for you to do so.

9. See More in Record Time

You can spend weeks on foot in Kelowna and still might not see everything. But what if you could do it from the sky?

Going on a helicopter tour is one of the most exciting activities you’ll find in Kelowna. 

Imagine being able to see the Okanagan Valley from above. Not to mention getting a bird’s eye view of the many wineries, Kettle Trail, National Park, and other important locations of the town.

10. Chill at the Kasugai Japanese Garden

When you’re tired after a long day of sightseeing or water sports, why not have some downtime?

Visit the Kasugai Japanese Garden if you want some peace and quiet after your adventure. This garden is a gift from Kelowna’s Japanese sister city, Kasugai. It’s a very peaceful spot in downtown Kelowna.

The garden stays open late during the summer and it’s one of the free things to do in Kelowna that can make your jaw drop.

A British Columbian Gem

What’s not to like about Kelowna? 

After all, it’s a relaxing destination with loads of activities for both summer and winter tourists. So, make sure to bring your camera, as the idyllic scenery of the Okanagan Valley makes for some picture-perfect backdrops. 

Whether traveling alone or in a group, you’ll always find something exciting or even unique to do.