Welcome to Naramata
Nestled on the eastern shores of Okanagan Lake, just minutes north of Penticton is Naramata, BC. Known primarily for its abundance of world-class wineries along the “Naramata Bench”, this small town has no shortage of friendly locals, culture, and activities.
With a small population of just under 2,000 people, life in Naramata is peaceful, calm, and connected to nature. The town is located 15 minutes north of Penticton, 5 hours east of Vancouver, and 8 hours west of Calgary. The Kelowna International Airport is just over an hour north, and the Penticton Regional Airport is 25 minutes south.
Travellers enjoy vacationing in Naramata for its abundance of lake activities and easy access to wineries. The road connecting Naramata and Penticton is filled with wineries of all sorts – making it Canada’s premier wine destination. Hiking, biking, and boating are all popular activities here, the Kettle Valley Railway trail is a popular path where you’ll often see locals and tourists walking, biking, or running along it.
If you’re planning a trip to Naramata, you’re in luck. We’ve outlined the best things to do, places to stay, and food & drink options below. Keep reading to see why Naramata is an ideal vacation destination for you and your family!
Things to Do
Naramata is known for spending hot summer days at the beach, exploring the many incredible wineries that scatter the Bench, and enjoying the picture book town with cute shops and cafes. With endless trails to explore, Naramata has the perfect balance of adventure and relaxation, allowing you to appreciate the best of both worlds.
Outdoor Activities
Naramata shares hiking & biking trail systems with nearby Penticton. Three Blind Mice offers a variety of trail difficulties for all mountain biker’s abilities, as well as a full disc golf course. Another popular adventure is the hike up to the Little Tunnel along the Kettle Valley Railway Trail, something easily accessible for any age and ability.
Wine
There are over 40 wineries scattered along the Naramata Bench, allowing you to taste some of the best wine in Canada all within a 15-minute drive. Taste your way along the bench and learn the history behind each winery you stop in at. During the warmer months, the wineries are typically offering tastings every day between 10 am – 5 pm, but we recommend checking the website before visiting to make reservations!
Beaches
Manitou Park Beach is a popular spot on the hot summer days for both locals and travellers alike. Located right in town, this sandy beach is great for swimming, beach games, or simply relaxing under the many shade trees. If you’re searching for a dock to practice your swan dives, head to Wharf Park – the old train dock site now turned into a popular swimming spot!
Family Fun
There’s more than wine touring in this quaint little town. Bring the kids to C.C. Orchards where they can pick their own bucket of cherries right off the tree and learn about farming these fine fruits. For more adventure, check out the Naramata Creek Falls, an easy route that winds through lush forest, or head to Manitou Beach Park for a fun-filled afternoon at the beach.
Water Sports
Naramata is a lakeside town, allowing for unlimited opportunities for fun in the water. Relax on the pristine beaches, jump off the docks at Wharf Park, or rent a stand-up paddleboard to explore the lake! New to SUPing? No worries, Sun N’ Sup offers lessons to get you comfortable on the water.
Golf
Although there are no golf courses directly in Naramata, within an hour’s drive you will have a variety of courses to choose from. From the challenging and world-class courses of Kelowna to the breathtaking views of the Summerland and Penticton courses, the Okanagan is known for its long golf season and abundance of courses for all skill levels.
Arts & Culture
For a small town, Naramata has an impressive arts & culture scene. Visit the Victoria Clayworks Gallery to see the talented James Hibbert’s pottery masterpieces, stop in at Art of Marina to check out incredible art paintings, or head to the Naramata Museum to learn about the unique history of this cool little town.
Shopping & Markets
The Naramata Farmers Market is held every Wednesday from 4-7 p.m. from June to September. Here you’ll find local produce, farm products, and homemade goods. Two other cute local shops are Forest Green Man Lavender and Playlist Lavender Shop – both offering finely crafted Lavender products from locally sourced ingredients.
Health & Wellness
The wellness centers and day spas in Naramata perfectly complement the laid-back and slow-paced way of life. Treat yourself to a relaxing massage after a day of hiking and exploration. If you’re looking for a specific treatment that you can’t find here, Penticton is a short 15-minute drive away and gives access to more treatment options.
Events
Enjoy a weekly yoga class every Wednesday at 3:30 p.m., a perfect way to connect with the community and move your body. November sees the annual Naramata Inn Light Up and the Winter Market. These events do a great job of bringing the people of Naramata together for a celebration of this close-knit community.
Winter Activities
There’s no shortage of fun here in the winter. Many of your favourite summer activities are also possible when the snow falls! Rent a fat bike and ride the Kettle Valley Rail Trail, snowshoe up Campbell Mountain, or get your skiing & snowboarding fix at Apex Mountain Resort. Although the town itself quiets down, that doesn’t mean you need to!
Places to Stay
Escape the busy city life for a few nights to enjoy the solace of Naramata living. With a wide selection of vacation rentals and B&Bs to choose from, you’ll find one that fits your needs. A lakefront home? A European-inspired private suite? Find them here in Naramata.
Hotels & Motels in Naramata
Naramata Inn is a historically popular hotel in Naramata. Originally built in 1908, this Inn has been welcoming guests and making them feel at home for over a century. The newly renovated rooms offer the utmost comfort and relaxation. Feel the charm and rich history of this place the moment you walk in – oh ya, be sure to enjoy a meal at the amazing on-site restaurant.
Naramata Courtyard Suites is the ideal place to stay for an Okanagan adventure. Located in the heart of town, you’ll have easy access to the local beaches and cafes. The variety of suite options can accommodate groups of all sizes, from studio rooms with a queen bed to full guest house rentals.
Therapy Vineyards & Inn is designed to provide guests with the utmost relaxation possible. King-size beds, jacuzzi tubs, breathtaking views, and a large common area are just a few key features of this top-quality Inn. Located on the vineyard property, guests have access to a variety of wineries and hiking trails very close by.
Village Motel provides easy access to dozens of wineries, beaches, and hiking trails. Equipped with all the amenities required for a comfortable stay, this quaint motel is ideal for those travelling on a budget. The central location combined with a relaxing atmosphere make the Village an ideal place to stay in Naramata.
Vacation Rentals in Naramata
Sandy Beach Lodge is home to a variety of beautiful lodge rentals that sit on the shores of Okanagan Lake. This summer haven has everything you and your family need for a relaxing and fun vacation. Sandy Beach accommodates groups of all sizes with both Lodge Guestrooms and entire Cottages available for rent, but be sure to book far in advance as they fill up quickly!
Bench D’Or Naramata is a luxurious guesthouse set in the beautiful vineyards and rolling hills of Naramata. Close to many wineries, hiking trails, and beaches, it’s an ideal place to rest after long days of Okanagan exploration. Enjoy the saltwater pool, steam rooms, hot tub, Lakeview gazebos, and more at this relaxing stay!
Chute Lake Lodge is located far out of the city amongst the tall pines, calm lake, and lush forest. If you’re looking for a rustic cabin feel, adventure in a remote area, and a stay like no other, we highly recommend this place. The accommodation options range from full cabins to yurts, individual lodge rooms, and glam camping. Get out of the city and connect with nature at this truly unique and amazing lodge!
Bed & Breakfasts in Naramata
Naramata Suite Dreams B&B sits in front of gorgeous views of Okanagan Lake and the Naramata Marina. This cozy suite is equipped with two comfortable bedrooms, a living room, a kitchenette, and private bathroom. The friendly hosts Charmaine, Ken, and Caedra are happy to share local tips to ensure you have the best vacation possible!
Forgotten Hill B&B has four comfortable rooms to choose from on this well-kept, centrally located property. With easy access to Naramata’s amenities and wineries, it’s an ideal place to explore. Enjoy your private patio, a relaxing courtyard, and outstanding breakfasts at this popular B&B.
Sutherland Blueberry B&B overlooks the beautiful Mill Bay and Naramata Village in a welcoming, cozy house. This award-winning B&B always has guests returning thanks to their attention to detail, welcoming hosts, and great prices. Sutherland Blueberry combines the spaciousness of a vacation rental with the convenience of a bed & breakfast, something that isn’t easy to find anywhere else!
Camping in Naramata
Naramata Campground is Naramata’s best, and only campground. Situated just steps away from Okanagan Lake, this well-kept secret is an ideal campground to enjoy this area. With a mix of fully serviced lots, tent sites, and pet-friendly sites you’ve got options. Enjoy the nearby beach, the cute cafes in the village, and an abundance of wineries within a short drive.
Chute Lake Lodge is located far out of the city amongst the tall pines, calm lake, and lush forest. With both cabin rentals and camping options, it’s the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of city life for the weekend. Enjoy fishing, biking, swimming, paddling, and more at this secluded gem.
Eat & Drink
Sourcing locally is the essence of dining and drinking in Naramata. The select restaurants that grace the area and complemented by an abundance of wineries and a handful of cute cafes. Start your day with a freshly baked good and coffee, grab lunch on the go, and enjoy a delectable dinner at one of the many winery restaurants nearby.
Restaurants in Naramata
The Restaurant at Naramata Inn, simply put, is an incredible dining experience. Led by Okanagan-born head chef Ned Bell, this “French Naramation” inspired restaurant prides itself on farm-to-table dining. The beautiful atmosphere, friendly staff, and extensive wine list make this a must-visit when you’re in Naramata.
Real Things Pizza stays true to its name. Fresh ingredients, unique toppings, and excellent service are what make this place so great. A place where the dough is as tasty and noticeable as the toppings, Real Things serves a wide variety of pizzas that we can almost be sure you haven’t tried before. Want to get it delivered to the beach for a sunset feast? They can make that happen.
Naramata Pub & Grill is the ideal place for large portions, hearty food, and friendly service. With a variety of dishes ranging from salads to burgers, to fish and chips, this menu accommodates every craving. Enjoy monthly live music performances, weekly wing nites, and most importantly karaoke on Saturdays!
Cafés in Naramata
Grape Leaf Cafe is the best place to fuel up with a hearty breakfast or a tasty soup and sandwich. This cozy breakfast nook fits perfectly in Naramata thanks to its homey feel, kind staff, and delicious food. You will be satisfied with the large portions and wide variety of menu choices!
Chabendo Gelato is a family-owned and operated small-batch gelato shop. On those hot summer days, there’s a high chance you’ll be craving a cool treat like this. Enjoy a variety of flavours in a classic cup or cone, a gelato flight, or even a gelato sandwich! Come taste the freshness and passion that goes into each batch at this cute little gelateria.
Just Baked: Naramata Street Coffee embraces the simplicity of village life in Naramata. Enjoy a variety of tasty espresso drinks, exotic steeped teas and organic coffee. As the name suggests, you can also find freshly made baked goods to pair perfectly with your morning coffee. This is a popular spot in Naramata and is a must-visit on our list!
Wineries in Naramata
Bench 1775 is named after their address that sits along the stunning Naramata Bench. Their wine is produced from grapes grown up and down the Okanagan Valley allowing for a wide range of tastes and varieties. Enjoy a tasting in their beautiful waterfront tasting room and enjoy the breathtaking views of Okanagan Lake. Be sure to reserve a tasting online, as this is a popular place!
Black Widow Winery is built into a steep hillside on the Naramata Bench. This family-owned and operated winery opened in 2005 and has been proudly producing world-class wine since then. Watch the production process while you enjoy a tasting in their European-inspired building, complemented by friendly staff and a welcoming atmosphere.
Elephant Island Winery embraces life in nature and amongst the various forms of life. With a wide range of wines to choose from, customers have their pick at three tasting experiences. Whether you’re in for a quick tasting or want to get an in-depth tour of the winery, you’ll be impressed with the staff’s high level of care and attention to detail.
Cideries in Naramata
Naramata Cider Co. was made to represent the community-oriented, hard-working, close-knit village of Naramata. Enjoy a similar tasting experience to Elephant Island Winery thanks to the fact it is owned and operated by the same team! Our favourite way to enjoy these ciders is with a Picnic To Go amongst their endless rows of orchards and vineyards on this gorgeous Okanagan property.
