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Penticton lies between two lakes, Okanagan to the north and Skaha to the south, in the warm, dry heart of British Columbia's Okanagan Valley. Its name comes from the Syilx language, and the city grew with fruit orchards and paddlewheel steamers on the lake before becoming a summer resort and center of the region's wine country.
Okanagan Beach stretches along the northern lakeshore, with The Peach, a giant peach-shaped concession stand, marking the waterfront. Nearby, the SS Sicamous, a restored sternwheeler, is open for tours and recalls the era of lake travel. The Penticton Art Gallery, the Penticton Museum and Archives and the Leir House Cultural Centre show the city's arts and history. Munson Mountain, a short drive away, offers views across vineyards and both lakes. Skaha Beach is a quieter alternative at the south end of town, and in summer people float the River Channel between the two lakes on tubes and inflatables. Skaha Bluffs Provincial Park is a well-known rock climbing area, and the Kettle Valley Rail Trail offers cycling past vineyards and along the lakes.
Penticton suits families, cyclists, climbers and wine lovers. The Naramata Bench, just north, is lined with wineries. Summer brings heat and crowds; shoulder seasons are calmer and still sunny.
WiserMap travel guidePenticton British Columbia Wine Country and Lake BeachesPlan a Penticton trip between Okanagan and Skaha lakes with beaches, the SS Sicamous, Munson Mountain, Skaha Bluffs, wine country and an easy itinerary.Read the guide
Giant peach-shaped concession stand on the Okanagan Lake beachfront, a Penticton landmark since 1947 and a nod to the area's fruit-growing past. It sells ice cream, snacks and drinks in summer. It is a classic photo stop on a walk along Lakeshore Drive.
Long sandy beach along Lakeshore Drive at the south end of Okanagan Lake, right next to downtown. It has a paved promenade, swimming areas and plenty of restaurants nearby. Summer evenings are lively, and parking is easiest a few blocks back from the lake.
Large beach on Skaha Lake at the south end of town, with soft sand, a marina, a playground, a water park and picnic areas. The water is usually warmer and calmer than Okanagan Lake. It is a good choice for families on hot summer days.
The Okanagan River Channel links Okanagan and Skaha lakes, and floating its 7 km length on a tube or raft is a classic Penticton summer tradition. Rentals and a shuttle bus back to the start operate in season. Bring sun protection and a dry bag.
Restored 1914 sternwheeler that once carried passengers and cargo on Okanagan Lake, now beached on the lakeshore at the west end of Okanagan Beach. You can tour its decks, dining saloon and cabins, and there is a model railway on site. Allow about an hour.
Lakeside public gallery near the Skaha end of town, showing contemporary and historical art with a strong focus on regional artists. Exhibitions change regularly and there is a small gift shop. Admission is by donation on some days, so check before you visit.
Local museum on Main Street covering the Syilx people, the Kettle Valley Railway, sternwheelers and the city's orchard history, plus natural history displays. It is compact and well organized. It shares a building with the library, which makes it easy to fit into a downtown walk.
Historic stone house built for Penticton businessman Hugh Leir, now home to the local arts council. It hosts art shows, workshops and small events, and the gardens are pleasant to walk through. Check the schedule, as opening hours depend on events.
Small extinct volcanic hill on the edge of town, with a short paved road and trail to the top. The summit has a viewpoint over both lakes, the city and vineyards, and the hillside bears the large PENTICTON sign. It is a quick, easy climb and best at sunset.
Gneiss cliffs above Skaha Lake that form one of Canada's best known rock climbing areas, with hundreds of routes. Non-climbers can hike the trails for lake views and watch for bighorn sheep. There is a parking fee, and summer afternoons can be very hot.
Wine region along the east side of Okanagan Lake north of Penticton, with more than 20 wineries on benchland above the water. Many offer tastings and patio lunches. Cycling the Kettle Valley Rail Trail above the vineyards is a popular way to visit, but plan a safe ride home.
Saturday morning market on Main Street from spring to fall, selling fresh fruit, vegetables, baked goods and local crafts. It runs alongside the larger Downtown Community Market, so the whole street fills with stalls. Go early for the best produce and easier parking.
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