Top Ten Places to Visit in Okanagan Valley

Whether you’re craving a romantic lakeside stroll, a slow morning in a vineyard, or a spontaneous road trip with the windows down and your favourite playlist on repeat, the Okanagan Valley delivers. This magical spot in British Columbia, Canada, has everything: soft adventure, sun-soaked wines, and slow living energy wrapped in mountain views.

As a mum of three, a full-time blogger, and someone who’s always got one eye on Pinterest for dreamy escapes and hidden gems, I live for curating beautiful moments—and that includes planning scenic getaways you’ll never forget. With over a decade of blogging experience and a passion for intentional living, I know how important it is to find places that fill your cup (sometimes literally, with a chilled glass of rosé).

Ready to explore? Here are ten of the most beautiful and vibe-filled places to visit in the Okanagan Valley.

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1. Kelowna

This lakeside gem is the buzzing heart of the valley. From paddleboarding on Okanagan Lake to sipping wine on a rooftop patio, Kelowna gives you city perks with lakeside peace. Wander through local markets, try a farm-to-fork dinner, and don’t forget that sunrise hike up Knox Mountain.

Charlotte Tip: Pack a picnic and watch the sunset at the Waterfront Park—pure magic.

2. Penticton

Cradled between two lakes, Penticton is the summer town of your Pinterest dreams. Think sandy beaches, fruit stands on every corner, and the famous Peach Festival that turns the town into a celebration of all things juicy, joyful, and local.

Must-do: Grab a floatie and drift down the Penticton Channel—it’s iconic.

3. Vernon

Vernon is peaceful, nostalgic, and full of character. Hike the surrounding hills, visit Kal Beach for a dip, and explore the colourful mural walk downtown. It’s a blend of local charm and lakeside beauty that feels like stepping into a slower time.

Soft Girl CEO Vibe: Davison Orchards is a must for fresh pie, flowers, and farm views.

4. Okanagan Mountain Provincial Park & Kootenay National Park

Adventure, but make it scenic. These two parks offer untouched nature and rugged beauty. Hike, spot wildlife, or simply sit still with a view. Okanagan Mountain is raw and wild, while Kootenay adds dramatic alpine energy.

Charlotte Says: Pack layers and snacks—some trails are challenging but worth every step.

5. Lake Country

Lake Country is quiet, chic, and full of charm. It’s perfect for escaping the crowds while still enjoying all the wine country goodness. The Scenic Sip Trail will take you to boutique wineries with dreamy lake views and Instagram-worthy tastings.

Charlotte Tip: Try the peach wine. Thank me later.

6. Oliver

With 40+ wineries and a name like Canada’s Wine Capital, Oliver is where the wine magic happens. Rolling vineyards, warm breezes, and the kind of hospitality that feels like a hug. Take your time here—it’s designed for lingering.

Charlotte Tip: Book a wine-and-dine experience at sunset—pure Soft Mum fantasy.

7. Summerland

This place feels like summer was bottled and sprinkled everywhere. Orchards, hikes, and lake adventures await. You’ll find vintage trains, lavender fields, and slow-paced charm in every corner.

Don’t miss: The Kettle Valley Steam Railway—perfect for little ones and nostalgic grown-ups alike.

8. Naramata

Quaint, calm, and curated—Naramata is where you go to fall in love with life again. Cycle along the Naramata Bench, pop into tucked-away wineries, and breathe in those mountain-meets-lake views.

Charlotte Tip: Visit a winery café and journal between sips—romanticising your routines starts here.

9. Sapphire Beach

Tucked away and still a secret to most tourists, Sapphire Beach is the quiet escape you didn’t know you needed. It’s all turquoise water, swaying trees, and soft sand underfoot.

Bring: A good book, a fruit-filled picnic, and zero plans.

10. The Okanagan Wine Trail

If wine is your love language, this trail is your happy place. Meandering through the entire valley, it connects winery after winery with rolling hills and breathtaking vistas. It’s a journey you’ll want to take slow.

Charlotte Tip: Create your own DIY wine passport. Add stickers, tasting notes, and little moments from each stop.

Travel Tips for Visiting the Okanagan Valley

• Closest Airport: Fly into Kelowna International Airport (YLW)—centrally located and well-connected. Perfect for a private jet vibes.
• 🚗 Best Way to Get Around: Rent a car for freedom to explore wineries, beaches, and trails at your own pace.
• 🍇 Best Time to Visit: Late spring through early autumn (May–October) offers the best weather, wine events, and lake days.
• 📸 Instagram-Worthy Stops: Knox Mountain lookout, Naramata Bench, Okanagan Lavender Farm, and Davison Orchards.
• 🍷 Wine Lover Musts: Book a guided wine tour or try the Scenic Sip, Bottleneck Drive, or Naramata Bench routes.
• 🛶 Outdoor Faves: Kayak on Okanagan Lake, float down the Penticton Channel, or hike through Myra Canyon Trestles.
• 🧺 Pack This: Lightweight layers, sunhat, reusable water bottle, wine tote, and walking shoes for spontaneous adventures.
• 🌸 Soft Girl Essentials: Linen dress, journal, rose-tinted sunnies, mini skincare kit—because yes, you’re romanticising this trip.

Before You Go

If you’ve ever wanted to romanticise your summer, sip your way through sun-drenched vineyards, or press pause on busy mum life to breathe in something just for you—the Okanagan Valley is waiting. Every stop on this list is more than just a location—it’s a feeling, a memory in the making, and a reminder that you deserve soft adventures and dreamy views.

Whether you’re pinning your next trip or just need a mental getaway, save this post and let the wanderlust do the rest.

Save this post on Pinterest and share with your travel bestie—because beautiful places are better when shared.