The Okanagan Valley in British Columbia is one of Canada’s most scenic regions, known for its rolling vineyards, sparkling lakes, and year-round outdoor activities. Whether you’re looking for wine tasting, hiking trails, family-friendly beaches, or stunning mountain views, the valley offers something unique for every traveler. Here are the five best places to explore in the Okanagan Valley in 2025.
1. Kelowna – The Heart of the Valley
Kelowna is the largest city in the Okanagan and the perfect base for first-time visitors. Nestled along Okanagan Lake, the city combines modern urban amenities with easy access to nature. Visitors can enjoy wine tours at award-winning wineries like Mission Hill Family Estate and Quails’ Gate, both offering panoramic views alongside their tastings. Downtown Kelowna is lively with local shops, waterfront patios, and art galleries. For outdoor enthusiasts, Knox Mountain Park provides hiking trails that lead to breathtaking views of the city and lake. Families often flock to Gyro Beach and Hot Sands Beach during the summer for swimming, paddleboarding, and picnics. Kelowna also has a growing craft beer scene, giving travelers more than just wine to sample.
2. Penticton – Beaches and Wine Country
South of Kelowna lies Penticton, a city framed between Okanagan Lake and Skaha Lake, making it a paradise for water lovers. Penticton is famous for its sandy beaches and the popular Penticton River Channel, where visitors float lazily down the water in inner tubes during summer months. The city also sits at the gateway to the Naramata Bench, a stretch of more than 40 wineries producing some of Canada’s finest Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and sparkling wines. Cycling enthusiasts enjoy the Kettle Valley Rail Trail, which passes through vineyards and orchards with stunning valley views. Penticton also hosts events like the Peach Festival and the Granfondo cycling race, making it a vibrant stop with activities for all ages.
3. Osoyoos – Canada’s Desert Oasis
At the southern tip of the Okanagan Valley is Osoyoos, known for its warm climate and desert landscape. This small town sits on Osoyoos Lake, often considered the warmest lake in Canada, making it a favorite destination for boating, swimming, and jet skiing. Osoyoos is also rich in Indigenous culture, and visitors can learn about the Syilx Okanagan Nation at the Nk’Mip Desert Cultural Centre. The surrounding vineyards thrive in the desert heat, producing bold reds like Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Merlot. Osoyoos also features unique natural attractions, such as the Spotted Lake, a mineral-rich body of water that forms colorful spots during the summer. With its combination of culture, adventure, and wine, Osoyoos offers a truly distinct Okanagan experience.
4. Vernon – Lakes and Outdoor Adventure
North of Kelowna, Vernon blends small-town charm with incredible outdoor opportunities. Surrounded by three lakes—Okanagan Lake, Kalamalka Lake, and Swan Lake—the town is a haven for water sports. Kalamalka Lake, often called the “lake of many colors,” changes shades from turquoise to deep blue, making it one of the most photogenic spots in the valley. In the winter, SilverStar Mountain Resort draws skiers and snowboarders with its powder-filled slopes and colorful ski-in village. In the summer, the resort transforms into a hub for mountain biking and hiking. Vernon also has a thriving arts community, with local galleries and events like the Vernon Winter Carnival adding cultural flavor to the town. It’s a destination that shines year-round.
5. Naramata – A Wine and Culinary Retreat
For travelers who prefer a slower pace, Naramata is a hidden gem in the Okanagan Valley. Located just northeast of Penticton, this charming village is surrounded by boutique wineries, cideries, and farm-to-table restaurants. The Naramata Bench is particularly famous for small, family-owned vineyards producing limited batches of high-quality wines. Beyond wine, the area offers spectacular views of Okanagan Lake and plenty of opportunities for hiking and cycling. The Kettle Valley Rail Trail also runs through the region, giving visitors a scenic route past cliffs, orchards, and vineyards. Naramata’s laid-back atmosphere, combined with world-class food and drink, makes it one of the most relaxing spots in the valley.
Why Visit the Okanagan Valley in 2025?
The Okanagan Valley continues to grow as an international destination, offering more than just wine. Travelers in 2025 will find expanded cycling trails, upgraded waterfront areas in Kelowna and Penticton, and new culinary experiences that highlight the region’s fresh produce. With its combination of lakeside relaxation, desert landscapes, alpine adventures, and cultural attractions, the valley caters to both short getaways and extended stays.
Final Thoughts
From the bustling city of Kelowna to the desert oasis of Osoyoos, the Okanagan Valley delivers an incredible variety of experiences within just a few hours’ drive. Whether you’re drawn by the wine, the scenery, or the adventure, these five destinations—Kelowna, Penticton, Osoyoos, Vernon, and Naramata—stand out as the best places to visit. Each offers its own charm, ensuring that every traveler leaves with unforgettable memories of British Columbia’s most beautiful valley.
