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The 10 Best Beaches in Kelowna for Sun Kisses, Tan Lines and Sandy Toes!
It’s no secret that Kelowna is full of beaches—there are more than 30! Okanagan Lake runs through the city, which means beach access for locals and visitors, whether you’re searching for one near downtown or in the middle of a forest!
So, here we are, sharing with you our favourite beaches in Kelowna because we don’t gatekeep fun places. We’ve been to crowded and hidden spots, and these have been memorable for many reasons.
If you want to recharge under the sun or ride the waves, check out our list to unwind in paradise!
Boyce-Gyro Beach Park
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Address: 3400 Lakeshore Rd
Operating Hours: Monday – Sunday: 9:30 am – 6:30 pm
Amenities: Playground, zip line, rental water sports equipment, beach volleyball court, seasonal concession stand, beach wheelchair, washrooms, and walking trails
Best For: Families, couples, and groups who enjoy water activities
There’s a reason why the locals love the sandy beaches of Boyce-Gyro Beach Park. It runs along Lakeshore Road, making it easily accessible, as it’s only around 8 to 10 minutes away from the downtown area.
It’s overflowing with energy, perfect for families and outdoor enthusiasts. There’s a playground for the kiddos, a zip line that runs from the beach to the water for the fun enthusiasts, and rental equipment for wave chasers.
One of the coolest (pun intended) things about this beach? It’s accessible. Individuals with mobility challenges can use the beach wheelchair for free from Okanagan Beach Rentals.
Pro Tips:
Bringing your dog? Make sure they’re on a leash.
Also, furry companions are only allowed on the grassy and paved areas. So, bring them for a walk on the trail.
Rotary Beach Park
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Address: 3736 Lakeshore Rd #3726
Operating Hours: Monday – Sunday: 9:30 am – 6:30 pm
Amenities: Playground, picnic tables, seasonal rental equipment, beach wheelchair, and washrooms
Best For: Families, groups, couples, and individuals searching for a quiet time
When searching for a relaxing day on the lakeshore, Rotary Beach Park is where you should go! There’s plenty of room to enjoy the views, and if you’re body’s brave enough, you can take a dip in the cold water.
This Kelowna beach is an ideal spot to chill under the sun. Rental equipment is available on a seasonal basis, so it’s mostly quiet. But if you’re craving for the waves, you can go kayaking or paddleboarding by renting a board at the shop.
As a family-friendly spot, there’s a playground for the kids to play in. And in the summer, when the sun’s out, there are plenty of trees on the shores if you need shaded areas—although a little bit of tanning isn’t so bad.
Pro Tip:
If you’re visiting on weekends, arrive early to get a spot under the tree.
Kelowna City Park Beach
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Address: Kelowna City Park – 1600 Abbott St
Operating Hours: Monday – Sunday: 6 am – 11 pm
Amenities: Floating waterpark, beach volleyball court, basketball court, tennis court, playground, picnic tables, concession stands, outdoor showers, washrooms, and more
Best For: Families, groups, and individuals looking to enjoy various activities
Going to the beach in Kelowna is easy breezy. There’s a beach located inside the City Park in the downtown area, making it a popular and accessible place for locals.
And it’s not a surprise that this is a hot destination. There’s a ton of amenities for sporty individuals at this sprawling park, including a beach volleyball court, basketball court, and a skatepark.
The kids will also have the most splashing time, since there’s an inflatable waterpark near the shores of Okanagan Lake—yes, an actual floating waterpark. If the munchkins still aren’t tired, a visit to the park playground is a must.
After a rowdy time, visitors can still have a quiet moment by the dock or by walking on the paved trail.
Pro Tips:
Visiting the beach is free, but a day in the inflatable waterpark costs money. Purchase your ticket here!
If you want to avoid crowds, visit on a weekday when kids are in school.
Sarsons Beach Park
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Address: 4398 Hobson Rd
Operating Hours: Monday – Sunday: 6 am – 10 pm
Amenities: Playground, picnic tables, and washrooms
Best For: Families, groups, couples, and individuals seeking a tranquil spot
Sarsons Beach Park is a favourite because it’s serene. Sure, there aren’t a lot of amenities, like beach volleyball courts, but it’s the place for basking in the breeze without worrying about crowds flocking in.
But that doesn’t mean there isn’t anything to do. Even families can enjoy a nice time out here, since there’s a playground for the kids and picnic tables for outdoor lunches.
For those who prefer to enjoy the views without getting scorched by the sun, the trees offer shade. You can always bring your paddleboard and row through the water.
In the summer, this beach is brimming with energy! Parks Alive! hosts concerts here under the warm weather days, which are free, by the way!
Pro Tip:
Summer means more people flock to this beach. Visit on weekdays and outside of concert days to enjoy a more serene time on the shores.
Strathcona Beach Park
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Address: 2290 Abbott St
Operating Hours: Monday – Sunday: 6 am – 10 pm
Amenities: Playground and washrooms
Best For: Families and individuals who prefer a quiet time by the beach; families with kids who want to have fun at the inclusive playground
The Strathcona Beach Park is a local gem tucked away in a neighbourhood. What makes this beach in Kelowna an enticing one? It’s calm waters and ambience.
Since this is more off the radar, it’s quieter than the more popular beaches in Kelowna. Don’t get us wrong, you’ll still find families enjoying the cool tides of Okanagan Lake, but it’s more peaceful.
The amenities aren’t sprawling, but that’s one of the positive traits of this water destination if you prefer a calm environment while tanning under the sun. The kids will have a grand time at the inclusive playground, too!
Pro Tip:
Since there are no concession stands in or near the area, visit the cafe across the road if you’re feeling hungry or need a pick-me-up!
Cedar Creek Park
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Address: 5200 Lakeshore Rd
Operating Hours: Monday – Sunday: 6 am – 11 pm
Amenities: Boat launch, trails, picnic tables, and off-leash dog beach
Best For: Dogs and their two-legged companions who want to play fetch by the lake
Dogs and their humans will have an utterly woof time at Cedar Creek Park, one of Kelowna’s beaches that actually allows off-leash pups! Fun fact: it’s the biggest off-leash dog beach in the city!
Two-legged visitors will still get to enjoy this scenic destination, overlooking the mountains and Okanagan Lake. The rustic vibe makes it feel undisturbed, which may be true because this hidden gem is calm and not overrun with visitors.
The best way to enjoy this beach? Bring Fido, of course! Grab the biggest branch and get your pup to fetch it from the lake, or just let them make muddy footprints by splashing in the water and running around the grassy areas.
Pro Tip:
Bring a poo bag and scoop their poop! Remember to keep this place clean so more people and pups can enjoy it in the future!
Bear Creek Park
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Address: 107 Westside Rd
Operating Hours: Monday – Sunday: 7 am – 11 pm
Amenities: Campgrounds, campfire, electrical hookups, pit toilets, showers, drinking water, picnic areas, sani-stations, and trails
Best For: Campers and anyone who wants to be surrounded by nature
Calling all nature enthusiasts! Bear Creek Park is beckoning you to its over 400 m stretch of beaches, offering remarkable views of the mountains. It’s for the campers, lovers of the outdoors, and anyone who wants a quiet time in the middle of the canyon.
Enjoy a peaceful walk by the beach surrounded by stunning views of the canyon. This place is also ideal for individuals seeking to avoid crowded areas or anyone looking for a good workout, as your visit will include a bit of hiking.
One of the best ways to enjoy the beaches is by camping, as there are vehicle-accessible campgrounds that come with the usual amenities, including sani-stations and showers.
Pro Tips:
Summer is the peak camping season. Don’t forget to book a reservation before driving off.
Also, take note of the dates for the camping season because it’s not open year-round. The exact dates for the operating season are subject to change every year.
Bertram Creek Regional Park
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Address: 5680 Lakeshore Rd
Operating Hours: Monday – Sunday: 6 am – 11 pm
Amenities: Playground, picnic tables, washrooms, and trails
Best For: Families and individuals seeking a peaceful day at the beach
Sometimes, a peaceful beach is exactly what we need, especially after spending time in crowded areas. There’s nothing wrong with taking a drive just to find an escape from the hubbub of city life—and that’s precisely what Bertram Creek Regional Park offers.
Sure, it doesn’t have the typical soft, sandy shores, but the picturesque views of Okanagan Lake make up for it. Parts of the beach are rocky, but you’ll be fine if you bring aqua shoes.
You can bring a floatie and soak up the sun while enjoying the gentle waves. It’s mostly uninterrupted by noise, perfect for sunset viewing or lakeside lunches.
Pro Tip:
The parking lot has limited space, so try to go on weekdays or early mornings on weekends.
Bluebird Beach Park
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Address: 4006 Lakeshore Rd
Operating Hours: Monday – Sunday 6 am – 10 pm
Amenities: Picnic tables, portable restrooms
Best For: Families, couples, and individuals searching for a hidden spot not too far from downtown
Only a 10-minute drive from downtown Kelowna, Bluebird Beach Park is one of the most accessible spots for a quick dip in the water. It’s located along Lakeshore Road, so you can access the beach by cycling, which is ideal because parking is limited.
It’s small but perfect for relaxing and swimming. There are buoys in the water for safety, allowing swimmers to enjoy a couple of laps. Picnic tables are also available for a quick lunch.
There are a couple of trees for a bit of shade, but expect branches on the shores here and there. Overall, it’s still pretty hidden, allowing you to enjoy a peaceful moment by the beach without straying too far away.
Pro Tip:
Parking is limited, so visit before the evening or outside of rush hours. Once the small parking area is full, you’ll have to look for a spot along the road.
Lake Avenue Beach
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Address: 124 McTavish Ave
Operating Hours: Monday – Sunday: 6 am – 10 pm
Amenities: Off-leash dog beach
Best For: Families and individuals who want to bring their dogs to the beach
The Lake Avenue Beach is where Fido can run amok without a leash! As an off-leash dog beach, our furry companions can splash in the lake, fetch the biggest branch they can find, and enjoy outdoor time with their pawrents.
The main reason most locals go here is to give their dogs a day out at the beach. Its location on the south side of the bridge means you’re close to the city but get to relish in the beauty of nature.
Pro Tip:
We only recommend letting your dog run free if they have a strong recall. The beach isn’t fully enclosed, so rowdy dogs that get too excited might need a leash.
