12 Best Things to do in Kelowna, BC

Planning a trip to Kelowna, BC? Oh boy, are you in for a treat!

This sun-soaked corner of the Okanagan has so much to offer visitors, from wine tasting and lakeside views to adventurous activities like canyoning and wakesurfing. So, as a proud Canadian who’s spent plenty of time exploring Kelowna, I’ve narrowed down the best things to do so you can skip the guesswork and dive straight into the good stuff. 

This guide pulls together my top picks, from scenic bike rides to food tours, and all of the need-to-know info about each. Grab your sunglasses and let’s get going!

Things to do in Kelowna

1. Ride the historic Kettle Valley Railway on a bicycle tour

Take in the dreamy views of Okanagan Lake and the surrounding valley on this Kettle Valley Railway tour! This tour is a day packed with incredible views, leisurely exercise, and wine tasting. What more could you ask for? 

After a prompt hotel pickup, you’ll spend your morning cycling along the Kettle Valley Railway. This historic 24-kilometer (15-mile) trail takes you through two tunnels and over 18 historic trestle bridges with viewpoints that belong on a postcard! While it is a cycling tour, you don’t need to be an experienced cyclist to enjoy it. Since the trail is mostly flat, the ride feels easygoing and manageable for just about anyone who knows how to ride a bike.

After completing the bicycle tour, your guide will drive you to Meadow Vista Honey Wines to relax and enjoy lunch at their onsite bistro. Since lunch is not included in the tour price, it’s worth bringing some extra cash to delve into their delicious farm-to-table menu. From there, the afternoon shifts into wine tasting, with visits to a few local favorites such as The View Winery, Camelot Vineyards, or Kitsch Wines. 

Since the tour requires at least four people, it’s a great excuse to gather some friends for a fun day of cycling, scenery, and wine tasting!

2. Taste your way around Kelowna on a food tour with tastings 

I’ve done food tours all over the world, from Tokyo to Barcelona, so who would have thought that this one in Kelowna would stand out as one of the best? 

What makes this experience special is not just the incredible food and drink, but the owner and guide himself, Andrew. He runs this tour as a one-man show and has built very strong relationships with the owners of the establishments we visited, so we got a super personalized experience. 

The first rule of this tour is “come hungry.” Trust me, Andrew is not about to let you leave feeling even remotely peckish! Over the course of our 3-hour adventure, we sampled everything from artisan tacos to decadent baked treats, plus plenty of drinks along the way. 

We also got to see a ton of Kelowna’s top sights. We started at the Laurel Packinghouse and wandered through the gorgeous Cultural District, stopping at hidden gardens, art installations, and even a tucked-away waterfall! Andrew knows the city inside out and told us the kind of stories that you won’t find in any guidebook or on Google, so this is an amazing opportunity to see (and taste) the real Kelowna.

If you only do one thing in Kelowna, make it this food tour. There’s a reason it boasts hundreds of outstanding reviews!

3. Visit the Kangaroo Creek Farm

Okay, so this wasn’t something Daniel was overly excited about at first. He grew up seeing kangaroos everywhere in Australia, to the point where he actually tries to avoid them while driving on country roads back home.

But as a Canadian, I have to admit Kangaroo Creek Farm ended up being a really fun stop. If you’ve never seen a kangaroo before, this is honestly one of the best opportunities you’ll get outside of Australia.

The drive to the farm from Kelowna is around 20 minutes. Entrance costs are $20 CAD for adults and $10 CAD for kids (admission is free for kids under 5), making it one of the cheapest things to do in Vernon. The farm is home to many types of kangaroos, including small joeys (baby kangaroos). 

In addition, they also have other types of animals here, like a sugar glider, a capybara, a pot-bellied pig, an emu, and a peacock. The farm allows guests to pet and feed the animals with the consistent presence and guidance of knowledgeable staff members.

Kangaroo Creek Farm is a really unique opportunity, and the farm is run by a great group of people who really love their kangaroos!

4. Go canyoning 

Kelowna is full of adventurous activities, especially this awesome canyoning tour! It was one of the most exhilarating things I’ve ever done here—and that’s saying a lot.

I’ll admit that I was a little nervous (okay, a lot nervous) heading into this experience. Fortunately, our guide Matt completely changed that. In fact, I think he put everyone in our group at ease! He was hilarious and reassuring at the same time, so I was able to relax and just enjoy the canyoning adventure. 

The canyon itself was absolutely stunning, with tall rock walls, mossy ledges, and rushing water. We were able to take our time and explore in depth as we slid down natural water chutes, zipped across clear pools, and rappelled down cliffs with a waterfall thundering right next to us! It was pure adventure, from start to finish. 

Canyoning is so much fun, and if you’ve never tried it before, then I think that this tour is the perfect place to start. Saying that, it’s still exciting and scenic enough for seasoned pros to enjoy. In short, it’s a total must-do for any adventurer visiting Kelowna, and the glowing reviews certainly attest to that!

5. Learn all about honey bees at a local winery

Honey lovers, this one’s for you! Set amongst the beautiful Okanagan landscape, this guided bee tour gives you a chance to learn about the fascinating world of bees before settling in for a farm-to-table lunch and honey wine tasting. Since the tour only lasts around two hours, it’s also easy to pair with another activity if you’re planning a full day around Kelowna.

You will meet at Meadow Vista Honey Wines to take an informative tour of their gardens and bee farm. Taken at a leisurely pace with room for questions and pictures, the tour feels peaceful. I loved how passionate the staff is about their bees and the care they take in maintaining the surroundings. 

After the tour, you’ll sit down for a farm-fresh lunch made with local ingredients from Meadow Vista and nearby farms. The menu includes items like flatbreads, soups, paninis, charcuterie boards, and freshly baked bread, along with snacks such as honey sticks and fruit leather. You’ll also get to sample Meadow Vista’s award-winning honey wines during the tasting experience. 

Be sure to visit the gift shop for some unique honey items to take home. I appreciated the assortment of home made soaps, lotions, and bath bombs as they made great gifts for friends! 

6. Go hiking

Hiking is a popular activity in Kelowna and the surrounding area. There are tons of different hiking trails you can explore that range from easy to difficult. 

Head to Myra Canyon for a flat and easy walk along the iconic Kettle Valley Trail (as we mentioned earlier, for biking!). The entire trail is 25.1 kilometers long (15.6 miles), but the best part is that you don’t have to walk very far for amazing views. The route has numerous tunnels through rocks and trestle support bridges overlooking steep declines, which are super cool to see in person!

For something a little more exciting, head to Knox’s Mountain Park, located 25 minutes north of downtown Kelowna. 

I recommend walking to Paul’s Tomb, it’s a moderate 4.8-kilometer (3-mile) out-and-back trek that gains very little elevation. At the end, you can go swimming or do some cliff jumping if you dare! It only takes most people a little over an hour to complete, so it’s a great option for busy itineraries. 

Inside Knox Mountain Park, there are other trails you can choose from that vary in length and difficulty. For some epic views without having to hike up a huge elevation gain, take the scenic chairlift at SilverStar Mountain Resort. 

7. Relax on a private sailing cruise on Lake Okanagan

This private sailing cruise is the perfect option for couples, families celebrating a special occasion, or anyone looking for a relaxing way to take in Kelowna from a different angle! With the cruise being a private tour, you can personalize it however you’d like. 

You can choose from three sailing times: 12 pm, 3 pm, or 8 pm, depending on the type of experience you’re after. The daytime cruises are great for soaking up the sunshine and enjoying the lake views, while the evening option offers a beautiful sunset over Kelowna’s skyline.

Along the way, you’ll sail past popular landmarks like downtown Kelowna, the Floating Bridge, Kelowna Yacht Club, City Park, and Hot Sands Beach. You’ll also get to peek at the incredible homes that line the lake. 

Our skipper was super knowledgeable about Kelowna and gave us some detailed insight about the area, while also giving us plenty of quiet time to soak in the beauty of Lake Okanagan. He even offered to teach us how to sail the boat, making it a memorable highlight of our trip! 

8. Go wakesurfing

If you’re looking for a fun and active way to spend time on Lake Okanagan, this wakesurfing tour is such a great choice. It’s perfect for groups of friends, families, or anyone wanting to try something a little adventurous while enjoying a day out on the water.

Don’t let the action of wakesurfing intimidate you! Any skill level is welcome, as the tour caters to all types of riders. Whether you’re a total newbie, a dabbler, or super experienced wakesurfer, this tour has you covered on fun and safety. 

Instructors will tailor your class based on the group’s comfort level and confidence. Beginners can expect to learn proper form and basic tricks (with a whole lot of patience) while more advanced riders can hone in on more difficult maneuvers with instructor guidance. 

All the equipment you need is included, along with snacks and bottled water. It’s an incredibly supportive and positive environment while you’re learning or mastering existing skills. Snap some epic shots to show off your new adrenaline-filled skillset and cheer on your friends! 

While lunch is not included, the tour guides are more than happy to stop by lakeside restaurants and bars after you work up your appetite. 

9. Visit the Kelowna Farmers and Craft Market

Everyone loves a good market, and the Kelowna Farmers and Craft Market is just that! The Kelowna Farmer’s Market is filled with food, produce, and crafts. It’s rated one of the top markets in all of BC, and a must-stop for anyone visiting Kelowna. 

In summer, the market is held every Wednesday and Saturday from 8 am until 1 pm outdoors at the Landmark District. In winter, the market is only held on Saturdays from 8 am to 1 pm and is held at the Parkinson Rec Center. 

Show up hungry, as the market has nearly 30 food vendors! If you’re looking for a specialty gift or souvenir to take home, there are even more artisan booths. It’s always special to purchase locally made items you can’t find in some of the big box stores. Ditch the generic t-shirts and get yourself something beautiful to display from Kelowna’s own. 

The market also features varying live musicians each week to keep your ears entertained as you stroll through the bustling booths. It has everything you’d want to experience the best of Kelowna’s local side!

10. Explore Kelowna’s wineries by e-bike

As a wine lover, there was just no way that I could turn down the chance to enjoy this Kelowna e-bike tour! I loved feeling as though the Okanagan Valley was my oyster, and the e-bikes were a breeze to ride. I didn’t even break a sweat during the uphill climbs! 

We followed a carefully planned route, which wound through the stunning Okanagan Valley. Along the way, we enjoyed lakeside views and stopped at many Instagram-worthy spots. Best of all, we visited two local wineries, where we enjoyed complimentary tasting sessions as well as a local bistro for a delicious farm-to-table lunch with a generous helping of mead. I was so impressed! 

This tour was so special because we had the freedom to take our time. We didn’t have to keep up with a group. Instead, we were free to linger where we wanted, take in the views for as long as we liked, and just enjoy ourselves. The route was perfectly curated to showcase the best of the Okanagan Valley, and the bikes were a dream to ride.

Whether you’re a wine lover, an outdoor enthusiast, or just looking for a unique way to explore Kelowna, this tour is a must-do!

11. Take a beach day 

Ah, the beach. No Kelowna itinerary is complete without a day spent on the beaches of Lake Okanagan. Grab your shades, a good book, and clear your day for a relaxing time along the shores at one of the many beaches of Kelowna. 

• Hot Sand Beach (Kelowna City Park) — One of Kelowna’s most popular beaches, located within Kelowna City Park. This lively stretch of sand offers volleyball courts, basketball, tennis courts, and a nearby water park for kids. It’s a great spot if you want both beach time and activities all in one place.

• Tugboat Beach — This beach was my most frequented, since it is in the center of Kelowna, but it was a little bit more relaxed than some of the surrounding beaches. Bring an umbrella because there is not a lot of natural shade!

• Dog Beach — Most beaches don’t allow dogs, so if you are hoping to bring your pup, you should definitely head to Dog Beach in Cedar Creek Park.

• Rotary Beach Park – A great spot for swimming and sunset with beautiful views of Peachland’s valley across the lake. It has bathrooms, picnic tables, a playground, concessions, and kayak and paddleboard rentals.

• Bryce-Gyro Beach – A nice, clean city beach that is great for those with kids, as the water stays shallow for a long distance. You’ll find 2 free zip lines, volleyball courts, and paddleboard and water trike rentals. Parking is cheap, starting at $1.25 CAD per hour, but it can be limited at busy times.

12. Enjoy a wine and sightseeing tour in Kelowna or West Kelowna

As a Canadian who’s visited Kelowna a few times, I thought I knew the region pretty well, but this wine tour gave me a whole new appreciation for West Kelowna’s vineyards! We visited four incredible wineries, each with its own vibe and story. 

The wineries that you’ll visit do vary from day to day, but we’ve got to start at Quails’ Gate. It was an instant favorite for me! The lake views were unreal, and their Pinot Noir was absolute perfection. 

We also visited Indigenous World Winery, where we got to learn about how they blend traditional and modern winemaking, and we even got to taste a few of their spirits to boot. Later on, we went to a hidden winery right on the beach, and a gorgeous wine farm perched on the site of an ancient volcano. Talk about variety! 

We were in expert hands with our guide, John, who was so funny and knowledgeable. He made sure that everyone felt at ease, and the small group vibe made this tour feel so personal. With no need to worry about driving, you can just sit back, sip wine, and soak in the scenery. I’d do this tour again in a heartbeat! No wonder it has hundreds of glowing reviews!

Where to Stay in Kelowna, BC

Choosing the right place to stay is essential for your weekend getaway in Kelowna! Whether you’re looking for something luxurious to relax in, something budget-friendly to save your money for activities, or something in between, we have the list! We have stayed in Kelowna dozens of times, so these truly are our top picks.

Luxury – $$$

Delta Hotels – This is the best high-budget hotel in Kelowna. It comes at a hefty price of $420 CAD a night, but it’s superbly located right on Okanagan Lake. It has both an indoor and outdoor pool as well as an on-site casino! Talk about a relaxing weekend away.

You can check prices and book your stay on Booking.com.

Mid-range – $$ – Our Top Choice!

We’ve stayed at our fair share of hotels in Kelowna, but last time we stayed at the Coast Capri Hotel and loved it! Our pool-view room was perfect with a huge balcony and two large queen beds.

One of the best things about the Coast Capri Hotel is that it’s affordable without sacrificing any of the comforts you’ll need for a relaxing and enjoyable stay – suitable for almost all travelers and budgets. The location is central and the amenities are top-notch. Rooms start at $340 CAD and fill up quickly, so book your stay on Booking.com.

Budget – $

Samesun Kelowna – This is easily your best budget option and one of the only options for backpackers. A dorm bed in a mixed room costs $41 CAD, whereas a private room with a shared bathroom costs $98 CAD. The reviews are really good and the property is quite modern, plus, there is a large common kitchen and indoor and outdoor lounge spaces. The location is perfect if you want to be close to downtown and they include a free breakfast that includes fruit and pancake mix.

You can book a room on either Booking.com or Hostelworld.com.

Renting a Car in British Columbia

If you’re arriving in British Columbia via plane, then I can’t recommend getting a rental car enough. British Columbia is a large province, and traveling between the best places to visit in BC requires transport. Although you can use public transport on some occasions, this means your trip will not only require more time but more planning.

Car rental in Canada isn’t relatively cheap, but it’s not that expensive either, especially if you get a budget car. The cheapest car with a pick-up and drop-off in different locations is around $100 CAD per day. The price does vary though, depending on the time of year. For car rentals, I use the website Discover Cars. It’s a search engine with lots of deals with good customer service. In fact, I’ve used Discover Cars all over the world, including in Chile, New Zealand, and Australia. Read my honest review of Discover Cars here for more details!

Another popular option is to rent a campervan or motorhome (only for the brave in winter). Using Motorhome Republic, you can search hundreds of deals across multiple companies to pick a great vehicle and the cheapest price. Having a motorhome is a stunning way to see Canada and you can often camp for free or very cheap in the most beautiful places imaginable! Read my tips on using Motorhome Republic here before you book!

And if you’re planning to visit the Canadian Rockies during your trip, we highly recommend Smile Campervans. Based in Calgary, this local company provides compact campervans fully equipped with everything you need for a comfortable and affordable road trip adventure!

In fact, Smile Campervans has actually given us a special discount code for our readers! Use the code DESTINATIONLESSTRAVEL at checkout to get 5% off your campervan rental! Click here to browse availability, prices, and book with our discount code!

Thanks for reading!

Kelowna totally stole our hearts with its sunshine, lakeside charm, and endless things to do. From biking along the water to canyoning through rugged terrain, this slice of the Okanagan is packed with fun, flavor, and local character. Whether you’re craving adventure, culture, or just a beautiful place to unwind, Kelowna delivers.

Before you plan your next Canadian getaway, don’t miss our other Canada guides here! We’ve traveled far and wide across the country and love sharing our favorite spots, hidden gems, and top travel tips. Here are a few great reads to check out:

Where to Stay in Kelowna, BC – BEST Areas & Hotels

15 BEST Wineries in Kelowna, BC (that you need to check out!)

How to Spend a Weekend in Kelowna, BC – 2 Day Itinerary!