The Galletly Bay Waterfront is one of West Kelowna’s most beautiful and picturesque attractions. This 2-km spanning promenade connects multiple beaches, parks, and viewpoints, making it an ideal place to walk, bike, and enjoy the beautiful Okanagan weather. Running in parallel with Gellatly road, the waterfront is easily accessible, and located only minutes from downtown West Kelowna.
The waterfront is generally broken down into four main parts: Gellatly Aquatic Park (CSN Wharf), Gellatly Dog Beach, Rotary Park,and Willow Beach. Our favourite thing to do is to park at either Willow Beach or Rotary Park and walk the beautiful waterfront path, stopping at each main beach and viewpoint along the way. The path is a mix of crushed gravel and pavement, and is flat the entire way. Maintained by the City of West Kelowna, the waterfront, parks, and beaches are all very well kept and see a lot of traffic in the summer months.
Gellatly Aquatic Park
This is perhaps the biggest draw to the area thanks to the recently rebuilt swimming docks, water zipline, diving platforms, and wooden pier. On a hot summer day, this public swimming area will be filled with locals and tourists looking to cool off in the lake and have some fun while doing it.
Equipped with benches and picnic tables, it’s a great place to take a rest as you stroll the waterfront promenade. The little cove at the start of the pier is also a perfect swimming area, accompanied by large shade trees for those extra hot days. There is a porta potty here, however no washrooms or outdoor showers. Parking is right in front of the pier – be careful pulling in and out as there is often traffic coming both ways. If you can’t find parking here, head south a few hundred meters where you’ll find more angle parking along the road.
Gellatly Dog Beach
Located just a few steps north of the aquatic park is the Dog Beach. This area is fenced in, allowing your pup to run free and cool off in the water. If you have a social dog, this is a great place for them as it’s often filled with other dogs. There are benches and picnic tables, and parking is located at Rotary Park, just east of the dog park.
Rotary Park
Rotary Park is located just a few steps east of the Gellatly Dog Park. This park contains a small grassy area equipped with picnic tables, benches, and steps leading into Okanagan Lake. The well maintained grass and pristine waterfront make it a picture perfect place for a picnic. Dogs are permitted, but must be on leash at all times. There is a parking lot here, and many people like to use this as a starting point for the 4km out-and-back stroll along the entire waterfront.
Willow Beach
This beach is located at the south end of the Gellatly Waterfront and features a sandy beach, large shade trees, and a volleyball court. There are washrooms, picnic tables, benches, and a lot of beach space, making it a perfect place for the whole family to spend the day.