Are you a bookworm or someone who enjoys a good read in a peaceful setting? Kelowna has a lot to offer when it comes to both new and used bookshops, and lovely spots for reading. Whether you’re in search of a bestseller, a rare find, or simply a comfortable corner to immerse yourself in a good book, here’s a glimpse at the best bookstores Kelowna has to offer.
Best Bookstores in Kelowna
Maybe you’ve finished all the books you’ve brought with you on vacation or need a break from reading reports and school textbooks. Or maybe you just need to have a real life, solid book in your hands instead of reading off your phone or Kindle. Either way, we’re listing off some of the best places in Kelowna to get your hands on a new read.
The Book Bin
Close to The Shore in South Pandosy is The Book Bin, a small but well-stocked used bookstore. It’s perfect for travellers coming to Kelowna for a visit – bring in your finished books and trade them for fresh ones. Plus, it’s less than a 5 minute walk from a Blendz coffee shop and Abbott Park Beach – both great spots to read your new book.
This clean and tidy space has shelves wall-to-wall and floor-to-ceiling, so there’s a great selection to choose from. And the books are organized by genre and alphabetically so if you’re looking for something specific, it’s a quick find.
500 Groves Ave, Kelowna, BC
3 min (1.1km) drive from The Shore
Pulp Fiction Coffee House / Robbie Rare Books
This shared space is part coffee house, part pulp-fiction haven called Robbie Rare Books, and the perfect blend of caffeine and literature. This cozy café not only serves up delicious coffee and pastries but also boasts a small but well-curated collection of books, art, and antiques for sale. It’s an ideal spot to enjoy a hot beverage while perusing their selection or settling down with a good read.
1598 Pandosy St, Kelowna, BC
9 min (3.8km) drive from The Shore
Mosaic Books
Located on Bernard Avenue, Mosaic Books is Kelowna’s largest independent bookstore. This cozy shop is a haven for book lovers. You can find a wide selection of new books, including bestsellers, local authors, and unique gifts.
Mosaic Books, located in the heart of downtown Kelowna, is a well-loved institution among locals and visitors. With its welcoming atmosphere and knowledgeable staff, it’s easy to lose track of time here. The store is neatly organized, making it a breeze to find your next literary adventure.
They carry a wide range of genres, from fiction and non-fiction to children’s books and a selection of local authors. Don’t forget to check out their bargain section for some hidden gems at affordable prices.
411 Bernard Ave, Kelowna, BC
9 min (3.9km) drive from The Shore
Okanagan Regional Library – Downtown Branch
While not a traditional bookstore, the downtown branch of the Okanagan Regional Library deserves a spot on this list. It’s a serene place to read, study, or explore the vast collection of books, e-books, and audiobooks. The library often hosts events, book clubs, and workshops, so be sure to check their schedule if you’re looking to engage with fellow book enthusiasts.
1380 Ellis St, Kelowna, BC
9 min (4.2km) drive from The Shore
Indigo Books
Located in the Orchard Park Mall, Indigo is an easy place to make sure you get a copy of the latest bestsellers. Their wide selection of titles ensures there’s something for everyone in the family and their expansion beyond just being a bookseller means you can always find a fun gift among their specialty toys and lifestyle products.
2271 Harvey Ave, Kelowna, BC
12 min (5.8km) drive from The Shore
Salvation Army Thrift Store
Thrift stores often hold hidden bookish treasures, and the Salvation Army Thrift Store in Kelowna is no exception. With a bit of patience and a keen eye, you can stumble on some fantastic second-hand books at budget-friendly prices. It’s a great place to explore if you enjoy the thrill of the hunt.
200 Rutland Rd S, Kelowna, BC
15 min (10.5km) drive from The Shore
Our Favourite Reading Spots in Kelowna
What’s the one thing you do when you get a new book – you want to read it right away, right? Check out a few of our favourite distraction-free spots around town where you can lose yourself in the story.
Kasugai Gardens
If you’re seeking a tranquil environment to dive into your book, head to Kasugai Gardens, a serene escape in the heart of the city. This Japanese garden features notable traditional elements, such as pine trees, stone lanterns, waterfalls and a pond stocked with Koi fish. Its beautiful integration of stone, pathways, plants and water will put you in the right relaxing mood to lose yourself for an afternoon of reading and relaxation.
1435 Water St, Kelowna, BC
11 min (4.3km) drive from The Shore
Gyro Beach
Any of Kelowna’s beaches are the perfect spot for a day of sun, sand, and reading but we particularly like Gyro Beach for its easy 3 minute walk access from The Shore. Grab your beach chair or towel, pick a shady spot under the trees, and get lost in your book while listening to the soothing sound of the waves.
Boyce-Gyro Beach Park, 3400 Lakeshore Rd, Kelowna, BC
3 min (190m) walk from The Shore
At Home at The Shore
If you prefer a more luxurious reading experience, you can stay home at The Shore. Enjoy the stunning views from your private suite patio or head to our outdoor terrace for a little more room and social time. There’s nothing that really beats sipping a glass of local wine or beer and diving into a book as the sun sets over the water.
3499 Lakeshore Rd, Kelowna, BC
Stay at The Shore
Whether you’re looking for new releases or hidden literary gems, the city’s bookshops have something for every reader. And when it’s time to relax with your favourite book, the natural beauty of Kelowna’s gardens and beaches provides the perfect backdrop. So, grab your book, find your favourite spot, and let the world fade away.
After a full day of shopping and reading (and maybe a coffee and pastry… or two), possibly finishing with a fun brewery visit, there’s no better place to come home to than your own private suite at the Shore. Each suite features a full-sized modern kitchen, in-suite laundry, and high-speed internet.
Learn more about our suites and start planning your stay today!