FIND SUMMER SOLACE IN THE TRI-LAKES
The Okanagan serves Canadian recreational boaters well. Whether you enjoy days on Okanagan Lake or any of the other scenic bodies of water in the region, you’re bound to find solace as the shoreline meets the mountains, and vast blue skies reign over it all. Inclement conditions do kick up, but even bad weather is tolerable here.
The area is often referred to as the Tri-Lakes region as three main lakes dominate the Okanagan, which all provide a haven for recreational boaters. Spanning 135 km (84 mi) long, 4 to 5 km (2.5 to 3.1 mi) wide with a surface area of approximately 348 sq km (134 sq mi ) is Lake Okanagan. It hugs the shores of centrally-located Kelowna, Penticton to the south, and Vernon to the north, plus many rural communities, secluded islands, and provincial parks in between.
It’s also deep at more than 200 m (650 ft) in some areas, affording the opportunity to enjoy many water-based activities in various styles of boats – be it sail or power. A bustle of activity is common during peak season as there are many shoreside restaurants, resorts, and marinas to visit while sand beaches and ‘boat only’ campgrounds are other great destinations.
But if a smaller lake is more your style, Skaha Lake in Penticton caters to boaters and water enthusiasts as well. Those with a boat in tow can easily make the 65 km (40 mi) drive southbound on Hwy 97 from Kelowna to Penticton, and right to its scenic shoreline. There’s a boat launch at the local marina yet the real draw is Skaha Beach. It has more than 8.5 ha (21 ac) of parkland with easy water access where waterskiing, kayaking, paddle boarding, and fishing are always popular.
To the north, about 40 km (25 mi) from Kelowna and 11 km (7 mi) south of Vernon, is captivating Kalamalka Lake with its turquoise-green waters. Escaping to an isolated location is easy here. The lake has two provincial parks – Kalamalka and Kekuli Bay – and if you have a boat in tow, launch ramps are easily accessible to discover quiet anchorages in the many bays and coves – you won’t regret it.
Regardless of the lake you do choose to visit this season, we always advise that you navigate with current charts and/or the latest mapping software. For quick reference, the pages of our 2021 SunCruiser-Okanagan Edition highlights detailed maps, available services, hazards, even marked (and unmarked) obstructions below the water’s surface in full detail. This way you can get a clear idea of where to go and what to do in order to take full advantage of your summer on the water in the Okanagan.
The Tri-Lakes region is a multi-faceted destination. From the award-winning wineries and excellent hiking/biking trails to first-class camping opportunities, the area is certainly a destination to experience where you’ll find new adventures with every visit.
*Ed Note: Always travel safe and adhere to public health advice and the appropriate safety Covid-19 measures according to provincial regulations. It’s also advisable to check for modified operating hours of parks or local businesses before your departure.