British Columbia, Canada
Penticton,
British Columbia
Two lakes, world-class wine country, and one of Canada's great cycling trails — all in the sunny Okanagan Valley.
beExploring / Penticton
Overview
Penticton sits between Okanagan Lake to the north and Skaha Lake to the south, making it one of the most lake-forward cities in Canada. With over 2,000 hours of sunshine per year, the city's sandy beaches and warm water are the main summer draw — but the surrounding Okanagan Valley gives Penticton real depth in every season.
More than 80 wineries sit within a short drive, anchored by the renowned Naramata Bench. The Kettle Valley Rail Trail begins right above downtown, climbing through orchards and vineyards with sweeping lake views. Craft breweries, a vibrant culinary scene, and a walkable waterfront complete the picture.
beExploring / Penticton
What Makes Penticton Special
Two lakes, one city
Penticton sits between Okanagan Lake to the north and Skaha Lake to the south, offering sandy beaches, warm water, and endless opportunities for swimming, boating, and paddleboarding.
Canada's premier wine country
More than 80 wineries are within a short drive, anchored by the Naramata Bench — boutique vineyards on rolling hillsides above Okanagan Lake producing award-winning varietals.
Kettle Valley Rail Trail
One of Canada's most celebrated multi-use trails begins right above downtown Penticton, climbing through orchards and pine forest with sweeping views of the valley and lake below.
Over 2,000 hours of sunshine
Penticton is one of the sunniest cities in Canada — a true four-season destination with summer beach days, fall harvest festivals, winter skiing at Apex Mountain, and spring cycling.
beExploring / Penticton
Things to Do
Kettle Valley Rail Trail
The KVR Trail starts just above downtown — gentle rail-grade climbing through orchards and vineyards, with sweeping lake views and historic trestles within the first few miles.
Kettle Valley Rail Trail →
Wine Tasting
The Naramata Bench and surrounding Okanagan wine region offer 80+ wineries — bold reds, crisp whites, sparkling wines, and rosés, many with on-site restaurants and lake views.
Wine Tasting →
Beaches & Water Sports
Okanagan Beach and Skaha Beach offer sandy shores and warm water for swimming, with paddleboard, kayak, and boat rentals nearby. The Kiwanis Pier makes for a scenic waterfront stroll.
Beaches & Water Sports →
Canada's Craft Beer Capital
Penticton has more breweries per capita than any other city in Canada. Follow the Penticton Ale Trail through downtown tasting rooms, outdoor patios, and live music venues.
Canada's Craft Beer Capital →
Boating & Water Activities
Both Okanagan and Skaha Lakes offer calm, warm water for boating, water-skiing, wakeboarding, and tubing. Multiple marinas and rental companies make it easy to get out on the water.
Boating & Water Activities →
Sights & Culture
The S.S. Sicamous Museum, Ikeda Japanese Garden, Penticton Art Gallery, and Rose Garden give the city genuine cultural depth beyond its waterfront appeal.
Sights & Culture →
beExploring / Penticton
Best Time to Visit
March – May
Wine country in bloomOrchards and vineyards burst into bloom across the valley. Ideal for hiking, cycling, and wine touring before summer crowds arrive. Mild temperatures and open patios create a lively but relaxed atmosphere.
June – August
Peak beach seasonLong sunny days with temperatures regularly in the mid-80s °F. Both lakes buzz with swimmers, paddleboarders, and sailors. Summer festivals, farmers markets, and outdoor concerts add to the energy.
September – October
Harvest & wine seasonCooler temperatures and stunning valley colors make fall excellent for wine touring and harvest festivals. Still warm enough for outdoor activities, and far less crowded than summer.
November – February
Apex Mountain skiingThe quietest season in town, but nearby Apex Mountain Resort offers excellent skiing and snowboarding. Cozy dining, craft breweries, and scenic lakeside walks make winter worthwhile for the right traveler.
Summer weekends book up fast. Reserve accommodations well in advance for July and August.
beExploring / Penticton
Tips for Visiting
Summer weekends fill quickly. Book accommodations well in advance for July and August, especially if you want to stay within walking distance of Okanagan Beach.
For Naramata Bench wineries, check hours and call ahead before visiting — many boutique operations require reservations or keep limited tasting hours.
The KVR Trail starts right above downtown and is easily accessible without a car. Rent bikes in town and ride out — you can turn around at any point and still get great views.
Penticton's sun is intense. Bring sunscreen, a hat, and more water than you think you'll need — especially on exposed sections of the KVR Trail or at the beach.
beExploring / Penticton
Common Mistakes
Spending all your time on the beach and skipping wine country. The Naramata Bench is one of Canada's best wine destinations and it's only 10 minutes from downtown.
Not trying the KVR Trail. Even a short walk or ride to the first trestle gives you some of the best views in the Okanagan — and it starts right above downtown.
Treating Penticton as a one-day stop. The city rewards slowing down — a full weekend gives you time for wine touring, beach days, biking, and the food and beer scene.
Overlooking Skaha Beach and Skaha Lake. While Okanagan Beach gets the crowds, Skaha is quieter, equally warm, and has a strong family-friendly vibe.
beExploring / Penticton
Plan Your Trip
beExploring / Penticton
