With shimmering blue water stretching as far as the eye can see and sunny skies above, Kelowna is a true lake lover’s paradise. Whether you're paddling out on a peaceful morning or catching some speed behind a boat, the lakes in and around Kelowna offer an activity for every kind of water adventurer.

Three Lakes, Endless Opportunities

Okanagan Lake is a 135-kilometre-long lake that carves through the Okanagan Valley, offering beaches, boat launches, and breathtaking views. It's ideal for everything from casual swimming to adrenaline-pumping parasailing. Along its shores, you'll find lively downtown beaches, quiet coves, the Okanagan Paddle Trail, and over 290 km of shoreline.

Just north of Kelowna, Kalamalka Lake is a showstopper in its own right. Known for its striking turquoise colour that shifts with the sunlight, “Kal Lake” is a popular launch spot for paddle sports and a favourite among photographers and nature lovers.

Connected to Kalamalka, you’ll find Wood Lake, a calm, narrow body of water that’s perfect for fishing, waterskiing, or a family-friendly day on the water. It connects to Kalamalka Lake via a canal, making it easy to explore both in one outing.

Choose Your Adventure

^{Okanagan Lake. Photo: Darren Hull Studios}

There’s no shortage of ways to get on (or in) the water. Here are just a few of the lake activities to try while you’re here:

• Kayaking, Canoeing & Paddleboarding: Calm mornings on the lake are perfect for exploring hidden inlets and shoreline cliffs. Paddleboards and kayaks are widely available for rent, and lessons or guided tours are easy to find.

• Swimming: With dozens of public beaches and designated swimming areas, there’s no better way to cool off.

• Boating & Jet Skiing: Rent a speedboat, pontoon, or personal watercraft and explore the open waters. Many rental companies also offer tubes, wakeboards, or water skis for extra fun.

• Parasailing: See the valley from a whole new angle, high above the water. Several operators launch right from downtown Kelowna.

• Hydrofoiling: Want to try the next big thing? Hydrofoiling (a board that rises above the water as you gain speed) is growing in popularity and offers a futuristic thrill.

• Wibit Waterpark: For families and fun-seekers, this floating obstacle course near downtown Kelowna is a must-visit. Climb, bounce, and slide your way across this inflatable playground anchored right on Okanagan Lake.

Paddle the Okanagan Lake Paddle Trail

^{Photo: Darren Hull Studios}

If you're looking to combine paddling with sightseeing, the Kelowna Paddle Trail is a must. This 27-kilometre water route runs along the lake’s eastern shoreline from McKinley Beach to Bertram Creek Regional Park. It's designed for non-motorized watercraft like kayaks and SUPs, with over 20 beach access points where you can launch, land, or take a break. The trail is marked by buoys and maps are available to help plan your route, whether you want to paddle a short section or tackle the full trail over a few days.

Where to Launch Your Boat

^{Photo: Okanagraphy}

If you're bringing your own watercraft, there are several public boat launches around Kelowna, West Kelowna,Lake Country, and Peachland that make it easy to get on the water:

• Cook Road Boat Launch (South Pandosy) – One of the busiest launches in summer, near hotels and restaurants.

• Sutherland Park (North Kelowna) – Great for a quieter launch, with access to the north end of Okanagan Lake. Please note it is only suitable for smaller boats.

• Water Street Boat Launch (Downtown Kelowna) – A central location close to downtown amenities.

• Oyama Boat Launch (Lake Country) – Access to Wood Lake and the canal to Kalamalka Lake.

• Gellatly Boat Launch – Launch into Okanagan Lake in West Kelowna.

• Beach Avenue Boat Launch – Access Okanagan Lake from Peachland.

Parking can be limited at some locations, especially on weekends, so arrive early if possible.

Where to Rent Gear

Not travelling with your own gear? No problem. Kelowna and surrounding communities are home to numerous rental companies ready to outfit you for the day. Many hotels and resorts also offer rental services directly on site, making it easy to dive into a day on the water.

Stay Safe While You Play

^{Photo: Matt Ferguson Photography}

Lake life is all about fun, but lake and boating safety should always come first. Here are a few tips to keep your time on the water stress-free:

• Wear a lifejacket: Even strong swimmers should wear a properly fitted lifejacket when out on the lake.

• Watch the weather: Winds can pick up quickly in the Okanagan. If you see clouds rolling in or feel strong gusts, it’s best to head to shore.

• Know the rules: If you’re operating a motorized boat, you’ll need a Pleasure Craft Operator Card. Be mindful of no-wake zones and local regulations.

• Stay sober: Alcohol and water sports don’t mix. Save the celebratory drink for after you're back on shore.

• Be courteous: Give swimmers and paddlers space, and always look both ways before pulling out from shore or docks.

• Help protect our lakes: If you're trailering a boat into the Okanagan, follow the Don't Move a Mussel guidelines. Invasive species like zebra and quagga mussels can do serious damage to lake ecosystems and infrastructure. Always Clean, Drain, and Dry your watercraft and gear before launching.

Whether you're after a relaxing paddle, a high-speed thrill, or just a swim at sunset, Kelowna’s lakes are waiting to be explored. So grab your sunscreen, round up your crew, and let the lake set the pace for your Okanagan adventure.

^{Cover Image: Ken Hagen}