Penticton in the Okanagan Valley BC

Penticton enjoys prime position in the Okanagan Valley between the southern tip of Lake Okanagan and the northern shores of Skaha Lake.

Penticton has long been a popular tourist destination but like other Okanagan towns, it is getting a modern makeover to meet the needs of more cosmopolitan travellers.


Highlights around Penticton:

     › Skaha & Okanagan lake beaches
     › Penticton River Channel
     › Skaha Bluffs
     › Penticton Ironman
     › Wine tours



From North to South: Okanagan lake - Penticton - Skaha lake

It’s not quite Rio, but Penticton is blessed with several sandy beaches. Okanagan Beach on the north shore has more hotels, resorts and visitor attractions along the waterfront and is closer to the city centre.

At the Skaha Lake, there’s more park, shade, a water park and less traffic. Both beaches have a marina and activities include biking, tennis, swimming, waterskiing, windsurfing, parasailing and boating.

Penticton River Channel connects Lake Okanagan to Skaha Lake. Originally built for flood control, it’s now a very popular tubing destination.

The channel is slow moving and mostly shallow and the biggest risk is sunburn. Hire a tube at the head of the channel near Lake Okanagan and pick up return transport at the half-way point.

Visit Skaha Bluffs south east of Penticton for challenging climbs and great views across the valley. Local climbers and conservationists secured long-term access to the bluffs by campaigning to give the area provincial park status.

During the last week of August, more than 2,000 of the world’s fittest sport competitors arrive in Penticton for Ironman Canada, one of the oldest Ironman Triathlon events in North America.

Thousands of spectators take to the streets as the toughest of the tough grit their teeth as they swim, bike and run past some of the Okanagan’s most famous natural landmarks.

Penticton lies at the crossroads of wine country and there are around 30 vineyards within 30 minutes of the city.

Drive to the charming wine-growing enclave of Naramata just 16km north of Penticton or head for the cluster of vineyards above Summerland on the eastern shore of Lake Okanagan less than 30 minutes away.


For those in search of winter sport, the closest ski resort to Penticton is Apex Mountain, a 40-minute drive to the west. For hiking, biking and horseback riding pick up the Kettle Valley Railway in Penticton. Golfers can visit the Penticton Golf & Country Club right on the edge of the city centre.