Penticton

The City of Penticton

For us Penticton is where we call home, and we're awfully fond of life here. It is the hub of the South Okanagan and a somewhat central spot for people looking to experience the whole valley. Sandwiched between two lakes we couldn't be more blessed with our choices of beaches and outdoor get-a-ways. This is a place we are lucky to live, where many others come to visit and enjoy what we have to offer all summer and winter long. Things to do here vary from a mountain bike ride, to a wine tour, a lazy day at the beach, or a float down our famous river channel. It's a visually beautiful area with a mild winter climate and a hot and sunny summer that is truly enviable. If you haven't already done so, come check it out!

So, you want to get outdoors? Here are some of our favorite places to have some fun in the sun around Penticton. First, whether you want to go for a nice walk with a beautiful view, like to run or jog, want to bike to some wineries, or you want take your pup for some fresh air, take a walk towards Naramata on the KVR trail. This is the old Kettle Valley Railway route, and now is a well kept crushed gravel path that winds its way to Naramata through stunning vistas of vineyards and Okanagan Lake. Penticton is a very active area and a long time triathlon town.

If you're a road biker you will find many groups heading in every direction in draft lines down the side of the roads. Head South out of Penticton towards OK Falls to go around Skaha Lake, head North out to Naramata and back, or map your own route here. After a good bike, head down to one of our many beaches. Or maybe you're a climber and want to check out the world renowned Skaha Bluffs. You won't be disappointed by the amazing climbing, stunning views, and awesome community of local climbers you will find here. If it is beaches and water you're after, you're in luck. We have so many lovely beaches for you to explore. Spend a little time at each and find your favourite, or get a tan at one of our following recommendations. Marina Way Beach is on Okanagan Lake right next to the boat marina, it is smaller, has a dock to swim too and a coffee shop nearby. Okanagan beach is a long time fave of ours and has just had a boardwalk upgrade from top to bottom. Take a stroll to the SS Sicamous for a little local history, then grab a bite or drink at Salty's Beachhouse when you're done with the sand for the day.

Skaha Beach is another beauty and in the summer is packed with people and goings on. Another must do in Penticton during summer is a float down our famous river channel. Pick up a floating raft of any kind and put in near Okanagan beach. Bring some snacks and beverages and float with friends down to Skaha Lake, you won't get an experience like this anywhere else. If you want to get out on the lakes you'll find a marina on both Skaha and Okanagan Lake, and plenty of places to put in a boat or rent one. If you are a golfer you have many options around town, but check out Penticton Golf and Country club. It's a beautiful course at the North end of town and has a great club house and membership of locals. If it's winter time in Penticton, then take the short drive up to Apex Mountain Resort. This is where we spend our free time in the winters. You can downhill ski or snowboard like Philip and Diane do, take a snow shoe on one of the endless trails like Len enjoys, take in some beautiful trails for cross country skiing, or just relax in the winter wonderland by a fire or in a hot tub. We count ourselves lucky to have this challenging, quiet, and totally stunning local mountain so close, and with affordable real estate for those looking to snag their winter cabin.

After you have exhausted your energy outdoors you'll want to take some time to relax and maybe take in some food and fun in the town. One of the best things about spring to fall in Penticton is our farmers market. Not only is it a great way to support local farmers and artisans, but it has entertainment, great food, and the best produce around. Our lovely downtown shuts down for the market every Saturday until around 1. While you're down there take in the shops. We have some amazing, local, one-of-a-kind shops that can easily occupy and interest your days. If you're looking for a great place for lunch or dinner, almost every local will agree that Theo's Restaurant is the place to go. A long time staple at the top of Main Street, this Greek family restaurant is must, it's a long time family favourite of ours. Another of our favourite places is a new addition to Main Street. For a great laid back vibe, friendly staff and amazing food, stop by Brodo Kitchen and you won't be disappointed. Now if it's a stunning view you're after and a high-end delicious meal, you can't beat Poplar Grove Winery and the Vanilla Pod Restaurant. Located in Penticton at the base of Munson Mountain, this stunning winery building is a commanding and high quality start to our famous bench of vineyards and wine. Go for a tasting, and if you have time stay for dinner. Of course what is wine without cheese? Well we have you covered there. Upper Bench Winery and Creamery has some of the most delicious cheeses around. Go in, take some to go, and maybe sign up for the wine and cheese club. It makes a great gift for a local friend, or to take home for the out-of-towner.

Another local favourite of ours for lunch and dinner is The Bench Artisan Market. You're likely to run into Len or Diane here grabbing a morning coffee or one of the tasty lunches. If you're downtown in the evenings and looking for a cool place to have a casual beer and catch some live music and local talent, then you will enjoy the Elite After 6. Located in the Elite diner that has been there since the 40's, they now have a late night culture that's very enjoyable. Another thing we love about Penticton is that we have a large community of artists. There are many little galleries downtown worth checking out, also there's the Penticton Art Gallery located right on the lake next to the Japanese Gardens (part of our Sister Cities Project). The old original building of the High School has been turned into the Shatford Center and School of the Arts. And, our old movie theatre The Penmar is now getting a facelift and over haul to become the new home of the Penticton Community Arts Society, and we couldn't be more excited for what the future here will bring.

We could go on and on about all the amazing things here in our home town. But mostly we want you to try it out and find your own local favourites. If you're new to the area these are the places to start. Life in a small town means making connections everywhere you go, being a "regular" at the coffee shop, and always seeing friendly faces at any function. It's an affordable place to live surrounded by natural beauty and things to do, and we wouldn't trade that for anything.