There’s no better way to soak up Kelowna’s warm, sunny summers than with an outdoor picnic. From Okanagan Lake beaches and family-friendly parks to orchards and wineries, you’ll find the perfect backdrop for every kind of alfresco feast.
Many of these locations welcome leashed dogs, so your furry companions can join the fun too. The best time to enjoy these scenic spots is when the weather begins to warm in the early spring and into early fall, when the weather is ideal, the lake is warm, and the landscape bursts with vibrant colours.
Whether you’re packing a homemade spread or grabbing bites from specialty food retailers, here are the top places in Kelowna to lay out a blanket and savour the season.
Bertram Creek Regional Park
Tucked away on the southern edge of the city, Bertram Creek Regional Park is a peaceful lakeside park with beaches, forested trails, and ample green space. Arrive early for the shady picnic tables near the shore and bring water shoes for the pebbled beach.
Boyce-Gyro Beach Park
Closer to the city centre, Boyce-Gyro Beach is a convenient and classic spot for a beach picnic. With soft sand, shady trees, volleyball courts, and calm swimming waters, it’s a vibrant, social hub, perfect for groups and families.
Gellatly Nut Farm Regional Park
A unique picnic experience awaits at this century-old nut farm along the West Kelowna shoreline. There are plenty of grassy areas, walking paths, shade, and even a small swimming beach. Bring your camera—the trees make for Instagram-worthy picnic shots.
Kelowna City Park
Located downtown, this is one of the most accessible parks in Kelowna. It offers a sandy, lakeside beach, picnic tables, a skate park, and a children’s water park and playground. Pick up picnic provisions from nearby downtown cafes and bakeries.
Knox Mountain Regional Park
North of downtown, Knox Mountain Regional Park offers panoramic lake views and a mix of grassy spots and rocky perches ideal for scenic picnics. Hike or bike up to the first or second lookout for a memorable meal with a view.
Mission Creek Greenway Regional Park
This creekside park offers shaded picnic areas, playgrounds and flat walking trails. The park also features a children’s fishing pond and connects directly to the Mission Creek Greenway, a scenic multi-use trail ideal for walking, birding, biking, or a post-picnic stroll.
Picnic at a Local Winery
(1) Picnic Views at Quails' Gate. Photo: Ken Hagen, (2) Arrowleaf Cellar's Picnic Area. Photo: Ken Hagen, (3) The View Winery Picnic in the Orchard. Photo: Ken Hagen
For a wine-filled picnic outing surrounded by stunning vineyard scenery, head to Quails’ Gate Winery in West Kelowna. In addition to their acclaimed Old Vines Restaurant with outdoor seating, you’ll find The Market. Stock up on locally sourced artisanal cheeses, charcuterie, fresh-baked breads, desserts, and a full selection of estate wines. Then settle into their designated picnic area. The View Winery and Arrowleaf Cellars also offer great picnic spots for any occasion.
These wineries are just one of 40+ wineries and vineyards in Kelowna and its neighbouring communities, including Lake Country and West Kelowna. Many of these wineries offer picnic-friendly patios, garden seating, or quiet corners among the vines, inviting you to slow down and savour the Okanagan lifestyle.
Picnicking Is Just the Beginning of Kelowna’s Summer Fun
Ready to plan more alfresco fun? Check out our full guide to summer in Kelowna, from outdoor concerts and patios to paddling spots and festivals, it’s your one-stop source for seasonal inspiration.