It’s no secret that Kelowna boasts some of the most stunning beaches in the Okanagan. With so many to choose from, what one should you pick? We’ve done the ground work to uncover the top 5 beaches in the city, so keep reading to explore what will be best for you!
Table of Contents
1. Hot Sands Beach
Commonly known as “City Park” by the locals, this is the quintessential Kelowna beach. Located downtown, Hot Sands will be one of the first attractions you notice when driving over the bridge into the city. With a long-spanning sandy beachfront, a playground, sports courts & fields, and public washrooms, it becomes a busy spot in the summertime. If you’re looking to experience Kelowna’s lively summer scene, Hot Sands Beach is the place to do so. Dogs are not permitted on this beach, however are allowed on the nearby boardwalk.
Amenities here include:
- Public washrooms open year-round
- Tennis courts, basketball courts, soccer field, volleyball courts
- Kelowna Wibit
- Waterpark, skatepark
- Restaurants, cafes, and shops nearby
- Picnic tables, benches, grassy area
- Dogs not permitted
2. Tugboat Bay
Situated along the waterfront boardwalk on the northern part of downtown, Tugboat Bay is another that draws the crowds on hot summer days. Get your toes in the sand, rent a kayak, SUP, or water bike from Okanagan Beach Rentals, and enjoy everything this beautiful beach has to offer. During the summer, you can grab takeout at a food truck on-site, as well as at the many restaurants within walking distance.
Be sure to check out the Rotary Marsh Bird Sanctuary located just north of the beach, as well as live music at the scenic Island Stage nearby. Dogs are allowed on the nearby boardwalk, but not permitted on the beach.
Amenities here include:
- Public washrooms with outdoor showers
- Non-motorized watercraft rentals
- Boardwalk
- Large grassy space
- Dogs not permitted
3. Boyce-Gyro Beach
A beach that gives Hot Sands a run for its money in terms of popularity is Gyro. Located in the lower mission just 10 minutes from downtown, Gyro Beach has everything you need to enjoy a full day in the sun. This large, well-maintained beach is home to another Okanagan Beach Rentals kiosk, a snack shack, volleyball courts, a rope swing, ping pong tables, and brand-new wheelchair-accessible washrooms. Dogs are allowed but must be on a leash. It’s hard to compare Gyro with nearby beaches due to its prime location and abundance of well-maintained amenities.
Amenities here include:
- Wheelchair accessible washrooms & outdoor showers
- Concession stand & restaurants across the street
- Non-motorized watercraft rentals
- Large grassy area
- Ping pong tables, volleyball courts
- Playground on beach with rope swing into the lake
- Dogs permitted on leash
4. Rotary Beach Park
A beautiful waterfront park where a large grassy area meets clean sand and crystal-clear water. Rotary Beach is a popular place for group picnics and families who want access to proper amenities without having to deal with the large crowds downtown. Rotary offers a large swimming area, plenty of shade, rental options from Okanagan Beach Rentals, and access to Surf Side California Street Food. On a windy day, you’ll notice the windsurf and kitesurfing enthusiasts flocking here to put on a show for the whole beach to enjoy! Dogs are not permitted on this beach.
Amenities here include:
- Washrooms
- Picnic tables in shaded areas
- Non-motorized watercraft rentals
- Marked off swimming area
- Large grassy space
- Dogs not permitted
5. Sarsons Beach Park
Located in Kelowna’s Mission area is the hidden gem known as Sarsons Beach. This beach provides an excellent opportunity for families to relish the beauty of Okanagan Lake. Unlike other bustling beaches along the lakeshore, it offers a serene and tranquil atmosphere, perfect for those looking for some peace and quiet. Along with small grassy patches, the park has an array of amenities including a playground, picnic tables, and washrooms.
Amenities here include:
- Public washrooms
- Large grassy area
- Picnic tables
- Playground
- Dogs not permitted