Summer in the Okanagan is known for its beaches and bountiful wineries. However, there’s certainly no shortage of other great activities to get you outdoors and active. Whether you’re looking for a unique experience or a new sport to try in your own backyard, Kelowna has something for everyone at every skill level.
With beautiful backdrops, refreshing lakes, and unbeatable weather, who wouldn’t want to be outdoors? If you’re looking for some ideas on staying active, here are our favourite summer sports in Kelowna.
Reminder: The Okanagan Valley can get incredibly hot! Be sure to be sun smart, travel safe, and always pack extra water when getting active.
Fun on The Lake
The Shore Kelowna is just steps from the water and Boyce-Gyro, one of Kelowna’s most popular beaches. If swimming or lazing on the beach isn’t floating your boat, one of these water sports just might!
Paddleboarding
Paddleboarding offers a unique way to get out on the water and see the city from a different perspective. While some skill is required, people of all ages and skill levels can pick it up and master the basics in just an hour. Okanagan Beach Rentals, located right on Gyro Beach, offers reasonable rates on rentals and lessons.
If you’re up for an adventure, take your paddleboard out on Kelowna’s new Paddle Trail. This 27 kilometre trail on Okanagan Lake stretches from McKinley Beach to Bertram Creek Regional Park, passing by over 20 beaches and parks along the way.
If you’re really looking for a challenge, OKGN Lifestyle offers a Yoga Paddle Class. It’s a perfect chance to test your paddling and yoga skills. If you’re more of a land lover and still looking for ways to connect with your breath, stretch, and enjoy nature – fear not, we have some options for you, too.
Boating
Another fun way to experience some of the best parts of the Okanagan is out on a boat with some water toys.
The Shore is just a 15 minute walk to the nearest boat launch, where Sunwave Boat Rentals or Okanagan Lake boat rentals will meet you with your boat and gear. You can take a boat for a full or half day on the water and rent whatever equipment you want to go with it. From waterskis to wakeboards, tubes, and more, there will be no shortage of activities to choose from.
Canoeing and Kayaking
If you are struggling to decide between the first two options, kayaks or canoes may be a perfect compromise. These are conveniently available to rent at Okanagan Beach Rentals, across from your suite at The Shore Kelowna.
Kayaks typically offer better maneuverability and speed, with accessibility for all skill levels. Okanagan Beach Rentals offers single and tandem kayaks, so you can choose whether to split the work with a friend or propel yourself.
Canoes, on the other hand, are typically slower and more stable. They provide more space for passengers, picnic supplies, or whatever other goodies you might want out on the water. With space for two paddlers and a passenger, this is an ideal option for those looking for leisure time out on the water.
Swimming and Watersports
Finally, H2O Adventure + Fitness Centre is an incredible indoor facility ideal for swimmers, water sports enthusiasts, or anyone looking to beat the summer heat. This facility is complete with an olympic sized swimming pool, multiple waterslides, a Flow Rider wave pool, and so much more. With an attached fitness centre and regular kids programs, there’s certainly no shortage of activities to enjoy here.
If indoor swimming isn’t for you – don’t fret. The Shore is located just steps away from Boyce-Gyro Beach, one of Kelowna’s most popular beaches. With an expansive sandy beachfront, outdoor volleyball courts, a waterfront playground, and plenty of shaded grassy areas, it’s has everything you need for a great day at the beach.
Staying Active on Land
After all that time by the lake, you might be looking to spend some time out of the water. If so, consider these other popular summer sports in Kelowna.
Outdoor Yoga
If paddleboard yoga isn’t right for you, outdoor yoga is a relaxing alternative to get active in Okanagan scenery.
Outdoor Yoga at Off the Grid Organic Winery is hosted in their vineyard every Sunday morning from 10am – 11am and is open to all skill levels.
Yoga with Buddha Beats at the Vibrant Vine is hosted outdoors every Sunday morning from 10am – 11am. The class is focused on relaxing and letting go, while meditating with the breath. It is also accompanied by soothing live music.
While you’re there, consider grabbing a glass of wine or completing a wine tour. You earned it!
Cycling & Mountain Biking
Cycling is another popular activity here in the Okanagan. Whether you’re looking for a nice scenic ride to enjoy the Okanagan sun or to challenge yourself in a bike park, here are a few great options.
- Velo Volt Mobile E-Bike Rentals has high quality E-Bikes so you can go further and experience more of the Okanagan. Consider this option if you’re looking to take a self-guided tour of the city.
- If you’re feeling more adventurous, Myra Canyon Bike Rentals is located on the Historical Kettle Valley Railway (KVR) trail, a scenic 24 km circuit across 18 trestles and through two tunnels.
- For those looking to push themselves and test their bike skills, Silver Star Resorts bike park is worth a visit. They have an excellent selection of bike rentals, as well as a wide variety of trails from downhill to cross country.
Hiking
If you prefer to venture by foot, The Shore Kelowna is located in close proximity to some of the Okanagan’s most popular hikes. When heading out for a hike, be sure to go prepared by planning your route, knowing your limits, and packing extra supplies. Choose from varying levels of challenge – from difficult options for avid hikers to casual day hikes for the whole family.
Rose Valley Lake Loop
Skill Level: Difficult
Located just across the bridge, this moderately trafficked trail is a part of a larger network of trails with a great range of difficulties to choose from. The Rose Valley Lake Loop is an approximately 13 km loop with 500 m of elevation gain. The challenging hike rewards you along the way with stunning views of Rose Valley Lake and West Kelowna.
Knox Mountain
Skill Level: Moderate
A short drive from The Shore with 15 trails to choose from, there’s a range of difficulties to choose from. The Apex Trail is a local favourite and offers stunning views of Kelowna and the surrounding valley from the mountain’s highest lookout point. The trail is roughly 4 km with 300m of elevation gain with a few lookouts along the way.
Mission Creek Greenway – Scenic Valley
Skill Level: Easy
A popular trail for young families or those interested in the unique formations that the Okanagan features. This well-marked trail will get you up close with the rock ovens, layer cake mountain, and exposed walls of sediments. The whole trail is about 5 km with 150 m. of elevation gain, but trail users can plan which sights they want to visit if they don’t plan to complete the full walk.
E-Scooters
As electric vehicle popularity continues to rise, so do their presence on Kelowna streets. E scooters have been a popular choice for not only transportation, but entertainment in Downtown Kelowna. Lime Scooters is among the most common you’ll see in Kelowna and offers reasonable rates. Use them to explore Kelowna or to get back to your suite at The Shore.
Stay and Play with Kelowna Summer Sports
No matter your fitness level or interest, there’s a sport here for you. And when you’re living at the Shore, you’re never really far from being able to enjoy some summer activities.
Explore our rental suites and apply today!
