Penticton is a great place to base yourself for a summer visit to the Okanagan. It’s a cute and walkable city that sits between two big lakes, making it a clear beach destination with sand, kayaking, ice cream, etc. But there’s lots more to Penticton too.

My favourite part of the visit was an easy e-bike ride up into wine country with great views. Our turn around point was an old railway tunnel, which was really cool. I was also surprised by how relaxed everything felt. No one was in a hurry to get somewhere – everyone was just chilling out at the beach, on the patio, or at a winery.

I also discovered that Penticton is a great place to base yourself for day trips to nearby towns like Naramata and Osoyoos, home of one of Canada’s desert environments.

In this post, I’ve got everything you need to know about visiting Penticton in summer. These tips work for spring and fall, too.

This post includes:

• A map of Penticton that includes all the places I mention in this post.
• Best things to do in Penticton in summer: beaches, wineries, biking, kayaking, day trips, and more.
• Where to eat in Penticton: My picks for the best restaurants and cafes
• Where to stay in Penticton: The places I stayed at and loved
• Summer in Penticton basics: How to get there? How long to spend? What’s the weather like? And lots more.

This is a sensitive wilderness area. Learn how to Leave No Trace to keep the wilderness wild. Make sure you are prepared by bringing the 10 Essentials. Get ready for adventure with this checklist of things to do before every hike.

Hey there: Thanks so much to Visit Penticton, Destination Osoyoos, and Discover Naramata for hosting some of my experiences on my trip. All opinions in this post are my own. Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, which means I earn a small commission at no cost to you. Thanks for your support. – Taryn

Map of Penticton

To help you find your way around, I made this custom Google Map of Penticton for you. It includes every place I mention in this post.

The 10 Best Things to do in Penticton in Summer

There are dozens of things to do in Penticton during the summer months. Here are my top 10 picks of things I recommend.

Hit the Beach

Penticton is sandwiched between Okanagan Lake and Skaha Lake, so it is definitely a beach town. Both lakes have sandy beaches. Since it’s a bigger lake, the water in Okanagan Lake can be a bit colder than Skaha Lake. But on a hot day, it’s wonderfully refreshing.

On the Okanagan Lake side of town, you can swim at Okanagan Beach along Lakeshore Drive. It has a roped-off swimming area, washrooms, and trees for shade. It’s within walking distance of downtown Penticton.

On the Skaha Lake side, there is a long stretch of sand at Skaha Lake Park. Like Okanagan Beach, it has a swimming area, washrooms, and shade trees. But it also has a playground and a water park, so it’s great for kids.

Stroll the Promenade

One of the first things I did when I arrived in Penticton was stroll along the Promenade on Okanagan Lake next to Lakeshore Drive. It stretches for several kilometres along the shores of Okanagan Lake from the S.S. Sicamous Museum in the west to the marina in the east.

The path is a great place to enjoy the views of the lake and the huge Penticton sign on Mount Munson. The people watching is also excellent. Be sure to stop for some ice cream at Lickity Splitz or Tickleberry’s inside the giant peach.

Continue past the pier and Penticton Lakeside Resort into Okanagan Lake Park to check out the cute Ikeda Japanese Garden. It is maintained by volunteers.

Don’t miss the yellow-bellied marmot colony in the rocks at Marina Way Park. They are so cute! These members of the groundhog family don’t typically live in cities, but these marmots didn’t get the memo. Please don’t feed them – human food is junk food for wildlife and can make them sick.

Visit Wineries and Breweries

Penticton is at the heart of the Okanagan’s wine country. There are wineries on the edge of town as well as on the Naramata Bench northeast of the city. I’m not a wine drinker, so I didn’t visit any wineries on my visit. However, friends have raved about wine tasting here.

Since the wineries are spread out along winding roads, booking a wine tasting tour can be an easy and safe way to do it. You’ll get time at several wineries and a guide to be your designated driver.

• This Naramata half day small group wine tour includes visits to four wineries. All tasting fees and a tip for your drive is included in the tour price so you don’t need to worry about getting your wallet out!
• Or book a private tour with a wine expert who will drive you in your own vehicle and help you create the perfect itineray for your group.

There is also a very strong craft brewery scene in Penticton. While the town has a population of about 37,000, it has seven craft breweries!

I only had time to visit two breweries on my trip: Cannery Brewing and Abandoned Rail Brewing.

Cannery Brewing has a huge taproom as well as a cool outdoor space called the Backyard. Be sure to try their seasonal beers. My friend loved their Darkling Oatmeal Stout.

Abandoned Rail Brewing is just outside of Penticton on the Kettle Valley Rail Trail. They have some indoor seating but the best spots are in the shade of their little orchard.

Bike the Kettle Valley Rail Trail

By far the best thing I did on my trip to Penticton was biking the Kettle Valley Rail Trail. We rented e-bikes from Pedego Penticton, which made the bike ride very low effort – I didn’t really even sweat (which is a miracle for me!)

The Kettle Valley Railway once stretched for hundreds of kilometres across southern British Columbia from Hope to Midway in the West Kootenays. After the railway was abandoned, it became a recreational trail. The section in Penticton starts near downtown and traverses the hillside wineries along the Naramata Bench.

I biked as far as Little Tunnel, which is a cool old train tunnel you can bike through. It has spectacular views overlooking Okanagan Lake. It has picnic tables so you can enjoy a lunch break – we brought sandwiches and snacks from The Bench Market, which we passed on our ride out of Penticton. We also stopped for delicious apple slushies at Abandoned Rail Brewing on the way back. It’s right next to the trail.

The ride is gently uphill all the way to Little Tunnel, but with the assist from the e-bikes, it was relatively easy. We spent about 4 hours on the trail, which included time for lots of breaks for photos, lunch at Little Tunnel, and hanging out in the shady orchard at Abandoned Rail Brewing.

Shop the Farmers’ Market

I spent a fun hour wandering around downtown Penticton to check out the booths at the market. Every Saturday in the spring, summer, and fall, several blocks of Main Street turn into a huge outdoor market. Actually, it is two markets that set up next to each other:

The Penticton Farmer’s Market focuses on fruit, veggies, baking, preserves, and crafts. Everything at the market is made, grown, or baked by locals.

The Downtown Community Market features crafts, clothing, food trucks, jewellery, antiques, and tons more.

Go Kayaking

I was excited to explore Penticton from the water. We rented kayaks at Pier Water Sports next to the Penticton Lakeside Resort. The sit-on-top kayaks were perfect for splashing around on a hot day.

It was a bit windy when we went out (which is common in the afternoon), so we stuck close to the shoreline and paddled along the beach towards the S.S. Sicamous, then past the resort to the marina. It was cool to see the city from the lake. And it was nice to get some chill time on the water.

Hike Munson Mountain

As soon as I spotted the huge white letters spelling out “Penticton” on the side of a hill Hollywood Sign-style, I knew I wanted to go up there. We made the short drive out of town to Munson Mountain Park.

It’s an easy walk from the parking lot to a great viewpoint with benches. If you’re up for it, you can follow a trail uphill to an even higher vantage point directly above the Penticton sign. The view from the top is incredible. You can see the town of Penticton to the south and Okanagan Lake stretching away to the north.

While researching this article, I found out that Munson Mountain is actually one of Canada’s Historic Places – the sign dates back to 1937.

The path to the lower viewpoint is only 200 m. The full trail up to the top viewpoint and back is about 1 km and is fairly steep in places. Allow about 30 minutes.

Float the Channel

When I told friends I had been to Penticton, a few of them asked if I had floated the channel. Unfortunately, I didn’t have time for this famous Penticton experience… but I guess that just means I’ll need to go back!

A seven-kilometre-long natural lazy-river channel connects Okanagan Lake to Skaha Lake. Locals and visitors have been floating the channel for decades. You can bring your own tube or rent one locally. Coyote Cruises offers a tube and bus combo that includes floatie rental and a ride back to the start.

Chill out in Naramata

The sleepy village of Naramata is just 20 minutes north of Penticton. The hills above the village are home to over a dozen wineries. I spent a relaxing day in Naramata, swimming at the quiet local beach, chilling out in the garden at The Village Motel, and wandering the quaint streets.

The sunset views in Naramata were incredible because it faces west across Okanagan Lake. (Penticton’s beaches face north (Okanagan Beach) or south (Skaha Beach), so the sunsets aren’t as good.)

We loved the pizza at Real Things and coffee in the morning from Just Baked.

Discover Naramata has put together some GPS-guided audio tours, which sound really cool. Unfortunately, I didn’t have time to try them on my trip. Next time, I want to try their tour that includes the hike to Naramata Falls and the garden tour in Naramata Village.

Take a Day Trip to Osoyoos

The town of Osoyoos is just one hour south of Penticton, and it’s a gorgeous drive past several lakes and through orchards and vineyards. It’s home to a unique desert environment and makes a great day trip from Penticton. If you don’t want to drive yourself, you can book a day tour to Osoyoos that hits the desert highlights.

If you’re just visiting Osoyoos for the day, there are a few key places I recommend visiting.

Osoyoos Desert Centre

The first is the Osoyoos Desert Centre. This conservation area has exhibits and a 1.5-kilometre-long walking trail that highlights the unique flora and fauna of the Okanagan Desert. I took one of their guided tours, and I definitely recommend it. I learned so much about how the plants and animals survive this harsh landscape. And speaking of a harsh landscape – bring a hat, water and sunscreen. It’s hot out there with no shade.

Spotted Lake

You also can’t miss Spotted Lake, known as kłlilx’^w to the Syilx people. It’s located on the side of Highway 3 just outside of Osoyoos. The lake evaporates in the summer, leaving behind concentrated minerals that look like spots. It’s a sacred place for the Syilx, so you can only see the lake from the roadside pullout. But that’s ok, because it has a great view.

Nk’Mip Desert Cultural Centre

Lastly, I recommend the Nk’Mip Desert Cultural Centre. It’s a great Indigenous museum just outside of Osoyoos. They have a small indoor museum with exhibits about the culture and history of the Osoyoos Indian Band. But I enjoyed the self-guided outdoor exhibits the most. Several trails wind through the desert to a reconstructed village and other hands-on displays. The trails also have great views of Osoyoos. I spotted lots of wildflowers too.

Where to Eat in Penticton

Penticton and the surrounding area have tons of restaurant options. Here are a few that I recommend.

Wayne & Freda

Wayne & Freda is a cute coffee shop located inside a former auto repair shop in downtown Penticton. They have a huge sunny patio. This is a great place to start the day: their breakfast sandwich is amazing. I also loved their spring toast. It’s an avocado toast with pesto and lots of veggies. They also have sandwiches if you’re here at lunch.

The Bench Market

Stop at the Bench Market to pick up takeout lunch on your way to bike the Kettle Valley Rail Trail. The cafe is on Vancouver Street just outside of downtown Penticton. They have great sandwiches and a well-stocked deli. Or stay and eat on their cute patio. They serve breakfast all day, too.

Cannery Brewing

Cannery Brewing in downtown Penticton has a huge taproom and a fun outdoor seating area called the Backyard. They have lots of craft beer on tap (of course). It’s easy to try a few kinds by ordering a flight. For non-beer drinkers like me, they have wine, cider, cocktails, and non-alcoholic options like craft soda and kombucha.

If you’re hungry, they have classic snacks like charcuterie boards and pretzels alongside substantial sandwiches. We had the Santa Fe nachos – they were huge and delicious.

Abandoned Rail Brewing

Head to Abandoned Rail Brewing just outside of Penticton to eat and drink in the orchard. It’s right on the Kettle Valley Rail Trail, and their huge bike rack was stuffed with dozens of bikes on my visit.

They serve craft beer, but we went for their famous apple slushies, which really hit the spot after a bike ride in the sun. While we were there, we saw lots of people ordering their wood-fired pizzas. I’ll have to go back to try them. The prosciutto blackberry brie pizza sounds incredible.

The Hooded Merganser

If you’re looking for something a bit upscale with an incredible view, eat at The Hooded Merganser. It’s right on the Okanagan Lake… actually it’s in the lake since the restaurant is built on pilings over the water in front of the Penticton Lakeside Resort. The menu features elevated classics like lamb chops, steak frites, and parmesan-crusted halibut. They also have great pasta – my mushroom cannelloni was such a delicious umami bomb.

Real Things Pizza

If you’re in Naramata, get pizza from Real Things Pizza. It’s take-out or delivery only (no eat-in), but that just means that you get to eat dinner next to the water at one of Naramata’s beaches. Or in the garden at The Village Motel, like we did. Their pizzas have lots of fun flavour combinations, many of which were developed by their staff of local teenagers. Or you can get a classic Hawaiian like I did. (Yes, I believe pineapple belongs on pizza – don’t yuck my yum.)

Just Baked

Also in Naramata, don’t miss Just Baked. It’s a tiny coffee shop and bakery in The Village Motel. They have great scones, but I couldn’t resist eating one of their decadent brownies for breakfast!

The Bear, The Fish, The Root & The Berry

If you’re looking for something different, head to The Bear, The Fish, The Root & The Berry. It is located at the Indigenous-owned Spirit Ridge Resort just outside of Osoyoos.

The upscale food is Indigenous inspired and guided by their four food chiefs: the bear, the fish (salmon), the root (bitterroot) and the berry (Saskatoon berry). I had an incredible salmon eggs Benedict made with bannock, and my friend enjoyed a bison burger. One of the best parts of the restaurant is the view of Osoyoos and the lake from the patio.

Where to Stay in Penticton

There are tons of hotels, motels, and resorts in Penticton. Here are two that I stayed at recommend.

Penticton Lakeside Resort

I spent two nights at the Penticton Lakeside Resort. We stayed in a suite in the new West Wing Tower. I couldn’t believe how huge the suite was! It had an enormous bedroom as well as a big living room and a patio. Floor-to-ceiling windows gave us views of the lake and a park.

The resort has several different room types, many with lake views. They also have a few restaurants on the property, including the Hooded Merganser.

We really enjoyed how central this hotel was. It was an easy walk to the beach, the farmer’s market, and tons of restaurants.

Check rates.

The Village Motel

I spent the final night of my trip at The Village Motel in Naramata. It’s a retro bungalow-style motel with rooms arranged around a central garden courtyard. The rooms are cute, but they are small. However, you won’t mind because you’ll want to spend all of your time in the garden.

When we arrived in the late afternoon, several of the other guests were lazing around the garden quietly reading books and drinking wine. It looked so relaxing that we joined them immediately! I loved listening to the birds in the trees. We even spotted an owl!

There is an adorable coffee shop, Just Baked, on the property. Or you can pick up pizza from Real Things just up the road – that’s what we did for dinner. The rooms have kitchenettes, too, if you want to cook.

Check rates.

Penticton Basics

In this section, I’ve got practicalities for a summer visit to Penticton. It includes getting there, getting around, weather, what to pack, and more.

How to Get to Penticton

Penticton sits along Highway 97 in BC’s Okanagan region. Like most people, I visited Penticton by car. It’s an easy drive from major centres like Vancouver (4.5 hours), Calgary (8 hours), and Kelowna (1 hour). I like to use DiscoverCars to book car rentals since the site lets you compare prices across different rental companies.

You can also fly directly to Penticton from Vancouver via Pacific Coastal Airlines and from Calgary and Edmonton via Westjet. There are even more routes into Kelowna, which is only one hour away. On my trip, my friend flew into Kelowna and I picked her up. She said it was a short and easy flight.

You can also get to Penticton via public transportation. The Ebus goes from from Vancouver to Kelowna. From there, transfer to route 70 on the Okanagan Similkameen Transit System.

Getting Around Penticton

One of Penticton’s tourism slogans is that they are “fuel free… almost”. You can get around to most places in town by walking, biking, or paddling. For most of my trip, my car stayed in my hotel’s parking garage!

While you can drive to some of the day trip destinations in this guide, like Osoyoos or Naramata, you can also take the bus instead. (BC Transit Route 40 goes from Penticton to Osoyoos and Route 10 goes to Naramata.) If you want to go wine tasting, booking a small-group or private wine tour is your best bet since you won’t have to worry about drinking and driving.

How Long to Spend in Penticton in Summer

I spent a long weekend in Penticton, and I think that’s the perfect amount of time for a visit. In three or four days, you can see the highlights without being too rushed. However, I do wish I had been able to stay longer and just chill out. A week would have been ideal.

Summer Weather in Penticton

Penticton has similar weather to other destinations in the south Okanagan.

Summers are hot and dry. The average temperature from June to September is 14°C to 30°C (56 to 87F°); however, some days can be much hotter. It also rarely rains during the summer, about twice a month. Once the sun goes down, it cools off a lot.

What to Pack for Penticton in Summer

Penticton is pretty laid back, so you don’t need to pack anything too fancy. If you plan to visit some of the nicer restaurants or wineries, pack a cute summer dress or a pair of khakis and a button-down shirt. But otherwise, casual wear is fine.

The summer sun here is no joke. Bring sunscreen and a sun hat. You should also pack a water bottle since it is easy to get dehydrated in the heat. I use a Hydro Flask bottle because it is insulated, so it keeps my water cold.

This is a lake town, so bring all your beach stuff: swimsuit, sandals, sun hat, etc. Most hotels and resorts provide beach towels.

If you plan to bike or hike, bring a small backpack, hiking shoes, and quick-dry clothing. I like to wear a long-sleeved sun hoodie since it means I don’t have to constantly reapply sunscreen. I’ve got a list of my favourite sun hoodies, but my top pick is the Mountain Hardwear Crater Lake.

Indigenous Context in Penticton

The southern Okanagan, including Penticton, Naramata, and Osoyoos, is the traditional territory of the Syilx Okangan Nation (pronounced “see-yil-th”) who speak nsyilxcən. The Nation comprises seven member communities, including the Penticton Indian Band and Osoyoos Indian Band.

The name Penticton comes from the nsyilxcən word snpintktn, which is often translated as “a place to stay forever”. However, a more accurate translation is “a place where people have always been all year long” since this area is rich in hunting, fishing, and gathering in all seasons.

Today, the Syilx still live in the southern Okanagan and continue to practice their traditions and culture. It is important to be respectful of Indigenous lands, culture, and traditions when you visit. If you want to learn more about the Syilx, visit the Nk’mip Desert Cultural Centre in Osoyoos, run by the Osoyoos Indian Band.

Final Thoughts

I was surprised by how much I liked Penticton. I think it was the laid-back atmosphere. I’d love to go back and spend more time there. On my next trip, I’ll probably do more biking, and I’d like to float the channel. But other than that, I’m looking forward to just soaking up more of the summer vibes.

Do you have questions about visiting Penticton in the summer? Ask away in the comments, and I’ll help you out.

READ NEXT:

• 30+ Things to Do in Vernon, BC
• 22 Weekend Getaways from Vancouver
• Tips for Hiking in Hot Weather
• Best Sun Hoodies for Hiking

The post 10 Things to Do in Penticton in Summer appeared first on Dawn Outdoors.

There’s something for everyone on this list from city-breaks to beach town chill-outs, to adventurous mountain towns, to foodie destinations, to luxurious glamping.

Since, I’m an outdoorsy person, most of the trips have an adventure focus, but there are lots of options for less sweaty activities too. All of these trips are a few hours away, and some of them you can do without a car.

So here are my picks for the most beautiful weekend getaways from Vancouver.

Hey there: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, which means I earn a small commission at no cost to you. Thanks for your support. -Taryn

Map of Weekend Getaways From Vancouver

Here’s a custom Google Map I made for you. It shows all of these beautiful weekend getaways from Vancouver, plus a few of the attractions, restaurants and attractions that I recommend.

Bowen Island

Tiny Bowen Island is just minutes from Vancouver but feels worlds apart. This Howe Sound island is mostly forested, with lots of small beaches, which makes it a great place for kayaking and hiking. My favourite spot is Cape Roger Curtis on the west side of the island.

The village of Snug Cove at the ferry dock has a few restaurants to choose from, but the pizza at Tuscany Restaurant is amazing. If you have a sweet tooth, check out Cocoa West Chocolatier for incredible handmade chocolates. Yoga and meditation are also really popular here, with several retreats on the island. 

My guide to Bowen Island has lots of other suggestions for great things to do.

Where to Stay on Bowen Island

Artisan Suites: This all-suite hotel is located in Artisan Square just a few minutes from the ferry terminal. It’s the in same complex as tons of cute boutiques and Cocoa West Chocolatier. Check rates.

Cabin Rentals: There are lots of really cute cabins on Bowen Island for rent. The Wildwood Cabins are gorgeously rustic and get amazing reviews. Check rates.

Squamish

For the last three years I’ve lived in Squamish, known as the adventure capital of Canada and one of the best small towns in Canada. It sits at the head of Howe Sound sandwiched between mountain ranges. It has world-class hiking, rock climbing, mountain biking, and kiteboarding.

For less heart-pumping adventures, ride the Sea to Sky Gondola up to a gorgeous mountain viewpoint, visit Shannon Falls, or swim at one of the lakes. My list of the best things to do in Squamish includes lots more recommendations.

Where to Stay in Squamish

Sunwolf Riverside Cabins: We stayed in these adorable cabins on a winter trip to Squamish. Bonus: Fergie’s Restaurant is on the property so getting the best breakfast in town is easy! Check rates.

Executive Suites Hotel: This all-suite hotel has great access to hiking and biking trails and is my number 1 pick on my list of the best hotels in Squamish. Check rates.

Alice Lake Provincial Park: This large campground is on my list of the best campgrounds in Squamish. It has a great swimming lake and lots of trails. Check availability.

READ NEXT: Sea to Sky Highway Road Trip Guide: Driving from Vancouver to Whistler

Whistler

Whistler is a great weekend trip from Vancouver at any time of year. In the summer you can ride the Peak 2 Peak Gondola up the mountain for amazing views, go swimming in the lakes, stroll through the village, or hit up the famous mountain bike trails. One of the main reasons I love Whistler is because it has some of the best hiking trails around.

In the winter you can downhill ski and snowboard of course, but there are also has plenty of beautiful snowshoeing trails. Read my guide to the best things to do in Whistler in winter for even more ideas.

READ NEXT: 80+ Things to Do in Whistler (By a Local)

Where to Stay in Whistler

The Westin Resort and Spa: If you want to splurge, this is the place. My now-husband took me here to impress me when we were first dating. Check rates.

Summit Lodge Boutique Hotel: Apartment-style suite hotels are really popular in Whistler. This one is right in the village and gets great reviews. Check rates.

Camping: My guide to camping in Whistler has details for 18 campgrounds near Whistler.

READ NEXT: 40 Cheap and Free Things To Do in Whistler

Pemberton

Pemberton often gets overshadowed by Whistler, its flashier neighbour to the south. But Pemberton makes a great weekend getaway from Vancouver. It’s a chill, small town surrounded by mountains with lots of hiking and mountain biking trails. (Nearby Joffre Lakes is gorgeous.)

But it also has a strong farming and ranching history. Head to North Arm Farm for u-pick berries, a produce stand, and a cafe. Or book a horseback ride – Pemberton has more horses per capita than any other place in BC!

Where to Stay in Pemberton

Pemberton Valley Lodge: Highly rated all-suite hotel near downtown Pemberton and an easy walk to the One Mile Lake trails. Check Rates.

Cabins: There are lots of cute cabins and tiny houses for rent near Pemberton. This cabin the woods is luxe but rustic and has a hot tub. Check Rates.

Sechelt and the South Sunshine Coast

Sechelt is located on the Sunshine Coast, a short ferry ride from Vancouver, making it the perfect weekend trip. Make sure you also check out the nearby villages of Gibsons, Roberts Creek, and Halfmoon Bay. There are tons of opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, and kayaking. But lots of people prefer to book a stay at a cabin or resort with a water view, then just chill out.

The Sechelt area is also an emerging destination for foodies and artisans with weekend farmer’s markets in Sechelt, Gibsons, and Roberts Creek. With lots of new craft breweries, distilleries, cider houses popping up, the area now has its own Sunshine Coast Ale Trail. My husband loves the beer at Persephone Brewing near the Langdale ferry terminal.

READ NEXT: The Best Things to do in Sechelt

Where to Stay in Sechelt and the South Sunshine Coast

Rockwater Secret Cove Resort: This one has is special for me since it’s where I got engaged! The luxury tent cabins are unreal and worth the splurge! Check Rates.

Cabins: There are tons of cute cabins for rent on the Sunshine Coast. This cute cabin in Madeira Park has its own private beach! Check Rates.

Powell River and the North Sunshine Coast

Sleepy Powell River is a bit more off the beaten path than Sechelt to the South. It’s a logging town with tons of outdoor adventure possibilities. The 180km-long Sunshine Coast Trail runs through the outskirts of town, making Powell River a great jumping-off point for day hikes if you don’t have time for the whole thing.

The historic downtown is home to Townsite Brewing. On my last visit, we spent a fun couple of hours there tasting beer before heading to Costa del Sol in downtown Powell River for some tasty Mexican food. Don’t miss a trip to the cute village of Lund 30 minutes north of Powell River. Head to Nancy’s Bakery on the waterfront to get one of the famous cinnamon buns.

READ NEXT: The Best Things to do on the North Sunshine Coast, BC

Where to Stay in Powell River and the North Sunshine Coast

The Magical Dome: This quirky rental cabin near Lund looks like a hobbit house. It has been on my list for a long time! Check rates.

Cabins: These glamping pods have incredible views and are right on the beach in Seal Bay. Check rates.

Harrison Hot Springs

Harrison Hot Springs is a small resort community in the Fraser Valley. The main attraction is the hot springs, which are piped into a series of pools at the Harrison Hotsprings Resort as well to a public community pool. (Did you know we have lots of other amazing hot springs in Canada?)

I also love it as a winter destination for cozy cabin time and chill hiking. But the best part about visiting in winter is the eagles – you can see hundreds of bald eagles at once in nearby Harrison Mills.

And it’s less than an hour away, making it one of the closer weekend getaways from Vancouver.

Where to Stay in Harrison Hot Springs

Sandpiper Resort: I loved my stay in the cabins at this cute riverside property in Harrison Mills. Check rates.

Harrison Hot Springs Resort and Spa: Staying at this hotel gets you exclusive entrance to their deluxe hot springs pools. Book now.

Bramblebank Cottages: Cute cabins with a hot tub, fire pit, and canoes. Check rates.

Fraser Canyon

The Fraser Canyon is a off-the-beaten-path, literally. Since the Coquihalla Highway was built in the 1980s, a tiny fraction of the traffic between Vancouver and BC’s Interior goes along Highway 1 past Hope to Lytton.

The Fraser Canyon makes a great short road trip with beautiful hikes, lots of viewpoints, historic sites, and quirky, old tourist attractions like the Hell’s Gate Airtram. My Fraser Canyon road trip guide has lots more recommendations.

Where to Stay in the Fraser Canyon

Windsor Motel: I spent two nights at this recently renovated hotel in Hope. It is basic, but super clean and affordable. The location in downtown Hope made it easy to walk to shopping and dinner. Plus, it was quiet at night. Check prices.

Kumsheen Rafting Resort: I arrived early for my river rafting trip, so I walked around their campground just outside of Lytton. They have really cute teepees and glamping tents with real beds and amazing Fraser River views. I would definitely stay here next time I’m in the area. Check prices.

Manning Park

E.C. Manning Provincial Park is one of BC’s most popular parks. In the winter it has a ski resort and lots of snowshoeing trails. In the summer it’s one of my favourite places to hike with kilometre upon kilometre of wildflower meadows.

You can also go canoeing on Lightning Lakes, walk nature trails, and spot wildlife. The ground squirrels are particularly cute. The resort has cabins and a restaurant, so you don’t have to rough it.

Where to Stay in Manning Park

Manning Park Resort: The only lodging in the heart of the park, they have cute cabins and a pool. Check rates.

Manning Provincial Park: There are four campgrounds in the park, but the nicest sites are at Lightning Lake. Check availability.

Parksville

Parksville is a beach town just north of Nanaimo on Vancouver Island. With kilometres of sandy beaches, it’s one of the best weekend getaways from Vancouver. In summer they have an incredible sandcastle competition.

And there are gorgeous waterfalls if you head inland: check out Englishman River Falls and Little Qualicum Falls. The quirky Old Country Market in Coombs is also a short drive away. (It’s the place that famously has goats on the roof!)

Where to Stay in Parksville

Tigh-Na-Mara Seaside Resort: I know people who return to this beachfront resort year after year. Their Grotto Spa also looks really cool. Check Rates.

The Beach Club Resort: Located right on the beach and an easy walk to the shops and restaurants in Parksville. Check Rates.

Tofino

Tofino on Vancouver Island’s West Coast is a popular weekend getaway from Vancouver and one of the best small towns in Canada for outdoor adventures. Explore the long sandy beaches, go for a hike in the lush rainforest, or hit the waves at Canada’s most famous surf spot.

While you might think of a beach town as a place to visit in the summer, I actually prefer visiting Tofino in winter. It’s quieter and more affordable. And the storm watching is really cool.

If you’re looking to get a bit off the beaten path, head a bit south to the neighbouring town of Ucluelet, which is much quieter and just as cute. Or take a water taxi to the old-growth trees on  Meares Island or the sandy beaches of the Wild Side Trail on Flores Island.

Don’t miss the Tacofino food truck for some of the best tacos in BC. If you’re looking for sit down dinner, head to Shelter Restaurant. My husband and I had a great dinner there for our anniversary a few years ago.

Where to Stay in Tofino

Ocean Village: These adorable gothic-arched cabins are right on the water at Mackenzie Beach. Check Rates.

Island Village at Fred Tibbs: We stayed at these waterfront condos on a recent trip. They’re right downtown Tofino so you can walk everywere. Check Rates.

Southern Gulf Islands

The Gulf Islands are a group of over 200 small islands between Vancouver Island the mainland of British Columbia. Each island has its own personality, but they all offer beautiful ocean views, beaches, forest hikes, farmer’s markets, and artisan studios.

Saltspring is the largest and most populated island, so it has the most things to do. Galiano is a bit smaller and a little more sleepy. Pender, Mayne, and Saturna have fewer shops, restaurants, and services than Saltspring and Galiano, so do a bit of research before you go to find out what’s available. 

READ NEXT: Four Outdoor Adventures on Galiano Island

Where to Stay on the Gulf Islands

Poets Cove Resort and Spa: I stayed at this waterfront resort on Pender Island once for a wedding and it’s gorgeous! Check Rates.

Cabins: Over the years we’ve stayed at some great cabins on Saltspring and Galiano Island. This log cabin on Galiano has a killer cliff top view. Check Rates.

Victoria

Victoria is British Columbia’s capital city, but it’s not a stodgy government town. It has a beautiful harbour, interesting museums, historic buildings, a foodie scene, and easy access to beaches and trails. I’ve visited Victoria countless times because I have several good friends who live there.

One of my favourite things to do in Victoria is to bike the flat, scenic, and quiet Lochside and Galloping Goose trails. I also love walking in Beacon Hill Park or along the Waterfront Trail on Dallas Road.

For indoor activities, I like the Royal British Columbia Museum and Craigdarroch Castle. Victoria’s compact downtown also is a great place to shop. I can’t go to Victoria without going to the fabulous Silk Road Tea store. If you want amazing baking, head to Fol Epi in Vic West. The croissants are sooo good.

Where to Stay in Victoria

Abbeymoore Manor: I’ve stayed at this historic B&B a few times since my friends used to live around the corner. It’s a beautiful house. And breakfast is included! Check rates.

Hotel Zed: This renovated motel has an amazing and photogenic retro vibe. It looks like an awesome place to stay on a budget. Check Rates.

Pacific Marine Circle Route

The Pacific Marine Circle Route is a 260km-long loop road trip on Southern Vancouver Island. It’s the perfect length to drive over a weekend. The route starts and finishes in Victoria.

The first half of the route travels along the coast past Sooke. You can stop for hikes in the rainforest, waterfalls, or visits to wilderness beaches. Spend the night in Port Renfrew, my favourite small town, and visit Avatar Grove, home of Canada’s tallest trees and the starting point for the famous West Coast Trail.

On the second half of the route, drive inland past more giant trees to Lake Cowichan and the farms in the Cowichan Valley. Finish the trip by heading back to Victoria along the Malahat Highway.

READ NEXT: The Ultimate Guide to the Pacific Marine Circle Route

Where to Stay on the Pacific Marine Circle Route

Wild Renfrew: We stayed at these gorgeous waterfront cabins in Port Renfrew. They even have patios with fire pits. Check Rates.

Prestige Oceanfront Resort: A luxury resort right on the water in Sooke and a short drive to lots of the sights on the southern side of the Pacific Marine Circle Route. Check rates.

Kamloops

I have family in Kamloops, so I’ve spent a lot of time in the area. It has an incredible network of hiking and mountain biking trails, many of which are right in the city. Sun Peaks Resort is also nearby, with its great hiking and mountain biking in summer and skiing in winter. The beaches along the riverfront are a great place to go for a swim or head out of town to the nearby lakes.

Kamloops has also gotten into the craft beer scene lately, with five breweries and two taphouses in town. With its sunny climate, a weekend in Kamloops can be just what you need to escape the rains in Vancouver in spring and fall. 

Where to Stay in Kamloops

Fairfield Inn and Suites: I’ve stayed at this hotel a few times recently while visiting family. It’s a newer hotel so the rooms are really nice, but the prices are quite reasonable. Plus it includes breakfast. Check Rates.

Sandman Signature Kamloops Hotel: This new hotel has a fabulous location right on the riverfront. Check rates.

The Okanagan

The Okanagan is a big region, stretching from Sicamous in the north to Osoyoos in the south. Several lakes run through the middle of the valley, perfect for boating and with great beaches. Explore some of the cute small towns like Vernon and Penticton or check out the many things to do in Kelowna.

The hot and dry climate is also ideal for orchards and vineyards. There are over 200 wineries to visit, but I like the smaller organic ones near Summerland, which are easy to visit by bike. Don’t miss everything apple at Davison Orchards – it’s one of the best things to do in Vernon.

The Kettle Valley Rail Trail runs through the Okanagan. It’s easy biking, especially on an e-bike, and has great views of the lakes and vineyards. My favourite sections are are in Penticton (there’s a tunnel!) and Vernon.

Where to Stay in the Okanagan

Penticton Lakeside Resort: Great rooms right on the lake in downtown Penticton. Walking distance to the beach, kayaking, farmer’s market, breweries, etc. Check Rates.

Predator Ridge Resort: This resort has a great ridge-top location with great hiking and mountain biking trails and restaurants on site. Check rates.

Hotel Zed: Like their sister location in Victoria, this budget motel in Kelowna has an incredible retro look. Check Rates.

Wells Gray Provincial Park

Wells Gray Provincial Park is located in British Columbia’s interior north of Kamloops near the town of Clearwater. It’s a huge park with giant lakes and lots of hiking trails. But it is famous for its waterfalls. There are 8 waterfalls easily accessible from the main park road, plus dozens more in the backcountry. Don’t miss 141m-high Helmcken Falls. It’s the 4th-tallest waterfall in Canada.

The park is in ranch country, so if you want to live like a cowboy, there are tons of lodges nearby where you can go horseback riding or have a cook-out. Wells Gray is definitely one of the best under-the-radar weekend getaways from Vancouver.

Where to Stay in Wells Gray

Nakiska Ranch: This Western-style property has great cowboy vibes since it is located on a working ranch. Check Rates.

Across the Creek Cabins: These cute cabins are nestled in the forest inside the park. Book now

Revelstoke

Revelstoke is the ultimate Canadian small town: it has world-class mountain biking, incredible hiking, skiing, and paragliding from the highest launch in North America. I liked it so much I went two years in row. It also has one of my favourite things: hot springs! There are several hot springs a near town, including the gorgeous undeveloped Halfway River Hot Springs.

Revelstoke also has a surprisingly robust culinary scene for such a small town with a little farmers markets, great restaurants, micro-breweries, and not one but TWO distilleries! Check out my guides to things to do in Revelstoke, the best hikes in Revelstoke, and the best things to do in Mount Revelstoke National Park to plan your trip. 

Where to Stay in Revelstoke

The Regent Hotel: We stayed at this somewhat upscale, family-run hotel on our first trip to Revelstoke. It was nice without being pretentious. Check Rates.

Boulder Mountain Resort: I spent two nights at these adorable cabins just outside of Revelstoke last summer. They even come with fleece robes! Check Rates.

Bellingham, Washington

Bellingham, Washington is more than a place to do some cross-border shopping or buy cheap groceries. It’s actually a cute college town on the ocean with a historic district called Fairhaven. Bellingham is also a craft beer haven with 16 micro-breweries, many of which are gastro-pubs as too.

One of the best things to do is cruise along Chuckanut Drive, a twisty road along the coast through the forest with some great views. There are also lots of hiking and mountain bike trails, quiet country roads for road biking, and kayaking in sheltered bays of Puget Sound.

Where to Stay in Bellingham, Washington

Hotel Leo: The rooms at this downtown hotel have really cool modern decor. Check Rates.

Cabins: There are lots of cute rentals in Bellingham and on Chuckanut Drive. This waterfront cottage has beach access. Check Rates.

Whidbey Island and Deception Pass, Washington

Tucked into the north end of Puget Sound, the Deception Pass area is strikingly beautiful: tiny tree-covered islands, swirling currents, and sea cliffs. I love hiking in Deception Pass State Park or enjoying the view from the famous bridge.

Long and narrow Whidbey Island has lots of other pretty spots too including Ebey’s Landing, WWII era defences at Fort Ebey and Fort Casey, wineries, farmers markets, whale watching tours, and sleepy historic towns. 

Where to Stay in Whidbey Island and Deception Pass, Washington

Captain Whidbey Inn: This historic house is now an amazing B&B right on the water near Coupeville. Check Rates.

Cabins: There are tons of vacation rentals on Whidbey Island. Lots of them are right on the water too. This beach house has a great view. Check Rates.

Seattle, Washington

Seattle is a gorgeous city, sitting between the waters of Puget Sound and the snowy peak of Mount Rainier. Pike Place Market, the Space Needle, the world’s first Starbucks, and the Museum of Pop Culture are all must-sees. Lots of visitors on a weekend getaway from Vancouver take in Seahawks football game too.

To get a bit more off-the-beaten-path, I recommend the Underground Tour, where you’ll learn a bit about the city while walking through historic underground tunnels.

This is also a great car-free getaway. It’s easy to take the bus from Vancouver to Seattle, and once you’re there, you can walk or take public transit.

Where to stay in Seattle

Ace Hotel: This hipster spot is in Belltown, a trendy neighbourhood close to downtown. Check Rates.

Vacation Rentals: Seattle can be a pricey city, but you can usually find good deals on rental apartments. This cool loft is right downtown. Check Rates.

Book a Cozy Cabin

Spend the weekend chilling out in nature at a cozy cabin. There are tons of adorable cabin rentals near Vancouver. Wake up deep in the forest, high in a treehouse, right beside the ocean, or in a luxury glamping tent.

I’ve stayed in a bunch of beautiful cabins – check them out on my list of the best cabins near Vancouver.

Go Camping

One of the cheapest ways to go on a weekend getaway from Vancouver is to go camping. There are lots of amazing camping spots fairly close to town. You can camp on a lake, by the ocean, or in the mountains. However, camping is popular so make a reservation in advance to make sure you get a spot. Below are some of my suggestions for the best campgrounds near Vancouver.

I’ve got a whole post with a big list of over 40 places to go camping near Vancouver. It includes options in the Sea to Sky, Fraser Valley, near Hope, in Washington State, and reachable via a short ferry on the Sunshine Coast, Gulf Islands, and Vancouver Island.

Final Thoughts

With over 20 weekend trips from Vancouver on this list, I’m sure you’ll find one to add to your list. What is your favourite weekend getaway from Vancouver? Tell me in the comments.

More posts you’ll like:

• Cozy Cabins near Vancouver Perfect for a Weekend Getaway
• Camping Near Vancouver, BC: 40+ Best Campgrounds
• Best Small Towns in Canada for Outdoor Adventures
• Your Guide to the Best Hot Springs in Canada
• How to Take an Epic Canadian National Parks Road Trip

The post 23 Weekend Getaways from Vancouver appeared first on Dawn Outdoors.

I’ve lived in the Vancouver area my whole life and have stayed at tons of cabins over the years. Here are my favourite cabin rentals for a weekend getaway from Vancouver. I’ve included options in the Sea to Sky, Sunshine Coast, Gulf Islands, Vancouver Island, Okanagan, and Interior. I’ve also got cabins in Washington state just over the border.

I’ve stayed at a bunch of these and the rest are definitely on my cabin vacation wish list!

Where do you want to go?

• Vancouver-area cabins
• Sea to Sky cabins
• Bowen Island and Sunshine Coast cabins
• Gulf Island cabins
• Vancouver Island cabins
• BC Interior and Okanagan cabins
• Washington cabins

Hey there: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, which means I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you if you make a purchase. Thanks for supporting my website! -Taryn

Vancouver-Area Cabins

You don’t have to go far from the city to find adorable cabins near Vancouver. You can stay on the ocean, on a lake, on a river, or in a log cabin. Here are my picks for the best Vancouver cabins.

Sandpiper Resort, Harrison

The cabins at Sandpiper Resort have incredible hygge vibes. I stayed in one of their classic rustic cabins. It had a huge stone fireplace and an incredible view of the river. During my late November stay we watched hundreds of bald eagles feast on salmon in the river.

The resort also has some newer, more modern cabins. Some of them even have Japanese-style ofuro soaking tubs on the patio.

Check availability.

Sasquatch Mountain Log Cabin, Harrison

This gorgeous log cabin is located at Sasquatch Mountain Resort. It’s a great spot for a ski vacation in the winter, but in the summer you can go hiking, enjoy the views, or just chill out. There’s a big fireplace, lots of games, and a BBQ too.

Check availability

Cabin on the Mighty Fraser River, Hope

Find this rustic cabin on the banks of the Fraser River just north of Hope. It has great views of the surrounding mountains and the owners say it’s common to see wildlife on the banks of the river including bear, deer, eagles, and otters.

Check availability

More Vancouver Area Cabins

• Deep Cove Retreat: Sunny cottage with loft in North Vancouver’s Deep Cove neighbourhood.
• The Nest Tiny Home: Beautiful scandi-style tiny home on Sumas Mountain in Abbotsford.
• Bramblebank Cottages: Adorable cluster of cottages in Harrison Hot Springs.
• Camperland Bridal Falls Resort and Cabins: Cute cabins at the campground in Bridal Falls, between Chilliwack and Hope.
• Check out my guide to the best places to camp near Vancouver.

Sea to Sky Cabins

The Sea to Sky corridor is a great place for a weekend getaway – I liked it so much I moved to Squamish three years ago! There are lots of cabins in Squamish, Whistler, and Pemberton to choose from. And the drive up there makes a great road trip from Vancouver. (Read my Sea to Sky Highway guide for full details.)

Here are my picks for the best Squamish, Whistler, and Pemberton cabins:

Porteau Cove Olympic Cabins, Lions Bay

These adorable log cabins in Porteau Cove were built as a legacy project from the 2010 Olympics. They are located next to the ocean in Porteau Cove Provincial Park. It’s a great spot to soak in the ocean views from the beach during the day or star gaze at night.

Check availability

Sunwolf Riverside Cabins, Squamish

These charming cabins in the Brackendale neighbourhood of Squamish are super cozy with fireplaces and the sound of the rushing river right outside your door. My hometown of Squamish is one of the best small towns in Canada for outdoor adventures and these cute cabins make a great base for hiking, biking, or snowshoeing adventures.

Bonus: Squamish’s best brunch spot, Fergie’s is also on site. This is definitely one of my favourite cabins near Vancouver and I have fond memories of a winter trip a few years before I moved to Squamish.

Check availability

READ NEXT: The Best Hikes in Squamish, BC (From a Local)

READ NEXT: 70+ Things to do in Squamish (By a Local)

Riverside Resort, Whistler

Riverside Resort is one of the best places to camp in Whistler. But they also have adorable log cabins and cute little yurts. The yurts are nestled in the forest right next to the rushing waters of Fitzsimmons Creek. The resort is a right on the Valley Trail, a multi-use paved trail for biking or walking that leads everywhere in Whistler.

Check availability

READ NEXT: The Best Hikes in Whistler: A Guide to All the Trails

READ NEXT: 40 Cheap and Free Things To Do in Whistler

More Sea to Sky Cabins

• West Coast Modern Cabin: Beautiful post and beam cabin with views in Britannia Beach.
• Waterfront Cottage: Three bedroom cabin on secluded Levette Lake near Squamish.
• Squamish Valley Cottage: Cute cottage on a private acreage near the Squamish River.
• Curtisy Cottage: Retro A-frame cabin near Alta Lake in Whistler.
• Check out my guides to the best places to camp near Squamish and the best places to camp near Whistler.

Bowen Island Cabins

Bowen Island is a short ferry ride away from West Vancouver, which makes it a perfect weekend cabin getaway. (Use my guide to find the best things to do on Bowen Island.) Here are my picks for the best cabins on Bowen Island:

• Evergreen Cottage: Two bedroom cabin with a view hat is walking distance from the ferry terminal.
• Hummingbird Hut: Adorable vaulted ceiling cabin with a wall of windows and nearby hiking.
• Woodlands Cabin: Cute and modern cabin with a fire table and big deck.

Sunshine Coast Cabins

The Sunshine Coast is easy to get to, but has a completely different feel than nearby Vancouver. With ocean views and a West Coast rainforest setting, staying in a cabin on the Sunshine Coast is the perfect way to spend a chill weekend. (Use my guide to find the best things to do on the Sunshine Coast).

Read on for my picks for the best cabins in the Gibsons, Sechelt, Halfmoon Bay, Pender Harbour, and Powell River areas.

Rockwater Secret Cove Cabins, Halfmoon Bay

Rockwater Secret Cove Oceanside Resort has rustic timber cabins and luxurious tent cabins linked by gorgeous wooden boardwalks through the forest. With a spa and fine dining restaurant on-site, it makes a great romantic getaway. (I should know: I got engaged there!)

Check availability

Moon Dance Cabin, Pender Harbour

The cute Moon Dance cabin is right on the water in the Madeira Park neighbourhood of Pender Harbour. The loft bedroom feels a bit like a treehouse, surrounded by forest. There’s a great soaker tub too. Enjoy great views from the deck or try out some of the nearby hikes.

Check availability

The Stonewater, Maderia Park

Tucked into the forest in the Maderia Park neighbourhood of the lower Sunshine Coast, The Stonewater has just added four adorable tiny-home style cabins to their resort. Each little A-frame has a cozy queen bed and skylights that are perfect for star gazing. They also have a spa on site with a cedar hot tub, barrel sauna, and cold plunge pool.

Check availability.

Backeddy Resort, Egmont

The Backeddy Resort is tucked away in the tiny village of Egmont, which is the starting point for the must-do hike to the rapids of Skookumchuck Narrows. The resort has a mix of accommodation options including waterfront cabins and bucketlist-worthy geodesic domes.

Check availability

Magical Dome, Lund

A stay at this unique dome house has been on my wish list for a long time. The Magical Dome in Lund is a rustic cedar dome-shaped house set in the rainforest near the Sunshine Coast Trail. The interior is full of quirky spaces, railings made of branches, and the cutest loft bedroom.

Check availability

More Sunshine Coast Cabins

• Halfmoon Haven: Beachfront cottage in Halfmoon Bay with lots of outdoor space.
• The Aerie: A modern treehouse in Halfmoon Bay with tons of windows and a hot tub.
• Frolander Bay Tiny Cottages: A cluster of tiny homes with a hot tub near the beach just outside Powell River.
• Rustic Cedar Cabin: Beautiful window-filled cedar planked cabin near Powell River.

Gulf Islands Cabins

The Gulf Islands are a handful of islands sprinkled in the Strait of Georgia between the mainland and Vancouver Island. Each has its own laid-back personality and they all make an ideal weekend getaway. With so many Gulf Islands cabins to choose from, it can be hard to pick.

But let me help you out – my favourite cabins on the Gulf Islands are below.

The Cottages on Salt Spring Island

These lakeside cottages are rustic yet luxe with cozy kitchens and big bathrooms. Each cottage has a patio with a great view of the lake. The Cottages on Salt Spring Island are just outside the town of Ganges, which makes it easy to head over to the farmers market, restaurants, and cute boutiques.

Check availability

Ocean View Cabin, Pender Island

Watch for whales from the deck of this ocean view cabin high on the cliffs above Swanson Channel on Pender Island. It has incredible views of the ocean, the mountains of Vancouver Island, and the ferries cruising past on their way to Victoria. There’s a hot tub too!

Check availability

More Gulf Islands Cabins

• Orchard Cabin: Quaint cottage with a loft near the town of Ganges on Saltspring Island.
• Cozy 2 Bedroom Cabin: Rustic cabin on North Pender Island near Gulf Islands National Park.

Vancouver Island Cabins

Vancouver Island is known around the world for its rugged beauty and gorgeous coastline. Head to the West Coast to stay in a cabin in Tofino or Ucluelet. Drive the Pacific Marine Circle Route to adorable cottages in Sooke or Port Renfrew. Or chill out at a resort cabin in Parksville with a spa on site. You’ll love each of my choices for the best cabins on Vancouver Island.

Owl’s Perch Treehouse, Sooke

This is one of the most unique cabins on Vancouver Island – it’s a treehouse! The cabin is attached to four huge trees! Sleeping in the cozy loft bedroom is like sleeping in the forest canopy. There is also a huge deck for relaxing and forest bathing without leaving the cabin.

Check availability

Wild Renfrew Seaside Cottages, Port Renfrew

I stayed at the gorgeous Wild Renfrew Seaside Cottages on my Pacific Marine Circle Route road trip. They are right on the water and have cozy fire pits that make a great place to relax after exploring nearby Avatar Grove – the old-growth cedars are giant! (The covered decks are great for rainy days.)

Check availability

Tigh-Na-Mara Seaside Spa Resort, Parksville

The cozy log cabins at Tigh-Na-Mara are set in a gorgeous forest a short walk from a beautiful sandy beach. The famous Grotto Spa is onsite for massages or a relaxing soak in the mineral pool. It’s easy to see why these are some of the most popular cabins on Vancouver Island.

Check availability

Peace Cabin, Ucluelet

Friends of mine own this Scandi-style cabin. It is nestled in the woods has seriously relaxing vibes. The window-filled space is tucked into the rainforest near Ucluelet, so it feels like you’re outside even when you’re inside.

Peace Cabin has everything you need to chill out: a full kitchen, board games, a BBQ, and a covered deck with an outdoor fireplace. But the town of Ucluelet and the trails of Pacific Rim National Park are just a few minutes away.

Check availability

Mackenzie Beach Resort, Tofino

I recently spent a long weekend staying in an adorable tiny house at Mackenzie Beach Resort in Tofino during a winter visit to Tofino – my fave time to go. The tiny house was cozy and had everything we needed. There was even a big patio with an outdoor shower, which I used after we went surfing.

They also have really cool restored vintage Airstream trailers you can stay in. The resort property was great with an on-site cafe. And it is right on Mackenzie Beach.

Check availability

Ocean Village, Tofino

Tofino is one of Canada’s best outdoor adventure small towns for surfing, beaches, hiking, and more. Ocean Village in Tofino is a group of charming beehive-shaped cabins right on Mackenzie Beach in Tofino. Built in 1976, this is Tofino’s original oceanfront resort.

The rustic cabins have modern upgrades but still have a retro vibe. They’re also committed to sustainability with on-demand hot water and recycling and composting programs. It’s a great place for a Vancouver Island cabin getaway.

Check availability

Brown’s Bay Resort, Campbell River

Brown’s Bay Resort is just north of Campbell River. It’s right on the water and has a mix of cabins, glamping tents, and campsites. It even has a floating restaurant. It’s a great location for fishing and the famous Ripple Rock hike is a few minutes away.

Check availability

More Vancouver Island Cabins

• Lakefront Cabin: Huge A-frame with tons of windows and beachfront on Lake Cowichan.
• 100-Year-Old Farm Cottage: Adorable vintage cottage near the beach near Nanaimo.
• The Cabins at Terrace Beach: Gorgeous high-end cabins in Ucluelet.
• Tofino Surf Cabin: Cute cabin with a surf theme tucked into the old growth forest.

Interior and Okanagan Cabins

BC’s Interior has many different sides. Book a cabin in the Okanagan wine country to enjoy vineyard views and lakes. Or head to a cabin Wells Gray Park or Manning Park for great hiking or snowshoeing. Mountain bikers, skiers, and hikers should book a cabin in Revelstoke – it’s my favourite BC mountain town. Here are my picks for the best cabins in the Okanagan and BC’s Interior.

Manning Park Resort, Manning Park

In the summer, hike right from your front door. When the snow falls, snowshoe or cross-country ski next to the cabin. Manning Park is a short drive from Vancouver and the Manning Park Resort has lots of cute cabins.

Check availability

Utopia Feels Botanical Glampground, Vernon

Located just outside Vernon, Utopia Feels Botanical Glampground is an incredible escape. Sleep in a luxurious glamping tent on the grounds of a sustainable micro-farm that includes lots of mature trees and farm animals.

Check availability

READ NEXT: 30+ Things to Do in Vernon, BC

Tin Poppy Cabin, Salmon Arm

Get off the grid at the Tin Poppy Cabin in the Larch Hills outside of Salmon Arm. The cabin is actually a converted travel trailer decked out in retro style and fueled by solar power. Enjoy the views from the huge screened-in porch or go mountain biking or fishing nearby.

Check availability

Cedar Haven Resort, Wells Gray Provincial Park

Stay in a cozy log cabin or a luxe glamping tent at the Cedar Haven Resort in Clearwater, BC. It’s right next to Wells Gray Provincial Park, home to some of BC’s tallest waterfalls.

If you’re into the cowboy thing, there are also several dude ranches nearby. After a day of activities, relax in the sauna or roast marshmallows around the campfire.

Check availability

Boulder Mountain Resort, Revelstoke

I stayed in an adorable cabin at Boulder Mountain Resort for a couple of nights on my most recent trip to Revelstoke, one of the best small towns in Canada. The cabins feel like a cozy wood tiny house… without the tiny. There’s a king bed, a big couch, a huge walk-in shower, and a well-stocked kitchen. There were even cute checkered bathrobes.

It’s a great place to base yourself for hikes near Revelstoke or a visit to Mount Revelstoke National Park. They have glamping tents too!

Check availability

More Okanagan and BC Interior Cabins

• Sunshine Valley Resort and Cabins: Cute mini cabins at a campground near Manning Park.
• Mid-Century Waterfront Rancher: Cute retro cottage right on the lake is Osoyoos.
• Shuswap Sky Dome: Unique geodesic dome and wood-fired hot tub with views of Shuswap Lake.

Washington Cabins

If you have a passport, Washington state is a great getaway from Vancouver. And there are lots of cute cabins in northern Washington to explore.

Gingerbread Cottage, Point Roberts

Point Roberts is a geographic anomaly – a peninsula-shaped piece of Washington State that you can only access from British Columbia. The quite border in Tsawwassen makes crossing a breeze.

Stay in this adorable Gingerbread Cottage tucked into the cedar forest. It has a solarium and a great deck. The cottage is located next to a park and a short walk from the beach and shops.

Check availability

Oceanfront A-Frame, Birch Bay

Located just across the border, Birch Bay is a great place to find cabins near Vancouver. The oceanfront A-frame has cute modern decor and incredible beach views. The loft bedroom is accessed via a fun spiral staircase.

Outside you’ll find a fire pit, grill and 400 square foot deck. Stairs lead down the bank to the beach.

Check availability

Charming Cedar Chalet, Mount Baker

The Mount Baker ski area is a short drive from Vancouver. It’s a great year-round destination with fabulous skiing and snowshoeing in winter and hiking in the summer.

You’ll find lots of cabins clustered in the nearby communities of Glacier, Warnick and Maple Falls. The Charming Cedar Chalet is an adorable shingled cabin with a sleeping loft, woodstove, and private hot tub.

Check availability

Oceanfront Cabin, Whitbey Island

Whitbey Island is one of my favourite places in Washington. I love the little towns, quiet coastline, and the drama of Deception Pass State Park.

Stay at this oceanfront cabin in Penn Cove near the town of Coupeville. It has a huge sun-drenched deck, a quiet beach location, and a retro wood paneled interior.

Check availability

More Washington Cabins

• Heron House: Three bedroom waterfront cottage on Penn Cove near Coupeville on Whidbey Island.
• Camano Cabin: Enjoy mountain and water views from this cabin on Camano Island near Mount Vernon.
• The Treehouse: Cabin perched in the forest near Lake Whatcom outside of Bellingham.

With over 60 tiny houses, glamping tents, and cottages on this list, I bet you’ll find your perfect cabin rental near Vancouver. How many of these cozy British Columbia and Washington cabins are going on your wish list? Tell me in the comments.

Read Next:

• 20+ Beautiful Weekend Getaways from Vancouver
• Camping Near Vancouver, BC: 40+ Best Campgrounds
• Best Small Towns in Canada for Outdoor Adventures
• Backcountry Huts in British Columbia and the Canadian Rockies
• Your Guide to the Best Hot Springs in Canada

The post 60 Cozy Cabins Near Vancouver for a Weekend Getaway appeared first on Dawn Outdoors.

British Columbia’s Okanagan Valley is a popular vacation destination. But it’s a huge region so it can be tough to decide where to go. Without naming names, I think that some towns in the Okanagan are a bit too touristy or get too crowded.

But as one of the oldest cities in the Okanagan, Vernon has heart. It has a cute downtown district with lots of shops and restaurants. And the surrounding hills are full of orchards, hiking trails, and viewpoints. I definitely recommend visiting in spring to see the orchards and wildflowers blooming!

And of course, the Vernon is next to both Okanagan Lake and Kalamalka Lake, so there are lots of beaches and places to get out on the water.

In this post, I’ll give you the run-down on the best things to do in Vernon, BC. It includes:

• A custom map of Vernon that shows all the key locations I mention
• A list of my personal recommendations for the best things to do in Vernon, BC
• My picks for where to stay in Vernon
• A list of the best places to eat in Vernon
• A Vernon FAQ to help you plan your visit

This is a sensitive wilderness area. Learn how to Leave No Trace to keep the wilderness wild. Make sure you are prepared by bringing the 10 Essentials. Get ready for adventure with this checklist of things to do before every hike.

Hey there: Thanks so much to Tourism Vernon for hosting me in Vernon. All opinions in this post are my own. Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, which means I earn a small commission at no cost to you. Thanks for your support! -Taryn

Vernon, BC Map

Vernon is a pretty easy city to navigate. But since it is in a rural area, some locations are a few minutes outside the city centre. I’ve put together a custom google map of Vernon for you. It shows all the locations I mention in this post. Click the map to explore.

The Best Things to Do in Vernon

Explore the Murals

Vernon’s downtown is dotted with 28 murals that depict the city’s history and culture. Most of the murals are within a few blocks of the intersection of 32nd Street and 32nd Avenue.

I found it fun to just wander around and see what murals I could find, but you can also download this Vernon mural map and guide that has the location and info for each one.

Shop on 30th Avenue

Vernon’s streets use a grid system, but confusingly, 30th Avenue is basically the town’s main street. That is where you’ll find lots of cute shops and boutiques.

I loved browsing at Expressions of Time, a bookstore with a huge selection of used books as well as crystals and other new age stuff. Stop in to Kaleco to browse sustainable clothing and gifts.

Take a Tour of the Kalamalka Indigenous Garden

Known as K’nmalka? Senqalten in the Syilx/Okanagan language, a tour of the Kalamalka Indigenous Garden at Okanagan College was one of the highlights of my visit to Vernon. Our guide, Justen Peters, showed us many of the local plants and explained how they are used for food, medicine, and more. (There is a teepee made of reeds on-site!)

For me, the most interesting part of the experience was the way that Justen wove traditional stories about the landscape, people, and plants into the tour. The views of Kalamalka Lake from the garden were also incredible.

I’m committed to contributing to reconciliation with Indigenous groups in Canada, so it is important to me to seek out Indigenous tourism experiences when I travel. I loved the personal perspective that Justen brought to the tour and the way he was open and honest about the way he is connecting with his culture.

Eat Your Way Through the Vernon Tasting Trail

Since it is surrounded by farmland and orchards, Vernon is foodie heaven. The Vernon Tasting Trail includes 27 local food and drink producers. Many of them are in the surrounding farmland, but a few have storefronts in downtown Vernon.

I recommend Ratio Coffee and Pastry, and Helmut’s Sausage Kitchen. (More on both of these in the “Where to Eat” section.) I also wanted to visit Wedge Cheesery and Kin+Pod Chocolate but didn’t have time on my visit. (Next time!)

Visit Davison Orchards Country Village

The apple trees of Davison Orchards line the hills at Vernon’s northwestern edge. But this family-run orchard offers a lot more than just apples. We had a delicious lunch at the Farmhouse Cafe, served on the patio which has an incredible view.

They also have a cute gift shop, a coffee shop, ice cream, a kids’ play area, and farm animals. Don’t miss the bakery which sells fresh-baked pies. We bought their adorable personal-sized apple pies – called “cutie pies”!

Shop at the Vernon Farmer’s Market

Vernon is home to one of the Okanagan’s largest farmer’s markets. The Vernon Farmer’s Market has been around since 1979. The market runs on Monday and Thursday mornings from mid-April to the end of October. Find it behind Kal Tire Place (the city’s biggest arena).

Look for lots of fresh produce, eggs, meat, prepared food, and crafts. On my spring visit, there were also lots of vegetable seedlings and flowers.

Visit Okanagan Spirits Craft Distillery

The award-winning Okanagan Spirits Craft Distillery uses local apples (instead of grain) as the base for many of their spirits. They were pressing apples when we visited and the whole place smelled like apple juice!

My husband was so impressed with their whiskey and fruit brandy that he bought a few bottles. Their distillery has a huge tasting room and shop right next to their enormous copper stills. In addition to tastings, they also have tours.

Drink Craft Beer at Marten Brewing Co.

Marten Brewing Co. is a craft microbrewery located in the heart of downtown Vernon. They brew all of their beer on-site, with their brewing equipment located in the centre of their pub! You can buy beer to-go or stay to sample a flight of beer.

They also have a restaurant with a full kitchen serving up pub fare like sandwiches, burgers, and wings. I had a delicious Cubano sandwich.

Sample Cider at The BX Press Cidery

If you prefer cider to beer, don’t miss a visit to The BX Press Cidery. Their on-site apple orchard produces all of the apples they use in their ciders. They make a staggering variety of apple ciders, ranging from sweet to dry, many of which have fun flavours like cherry, vanilla, and even Earl Grey tea!

On my visit they were in the middle of a big renovation to create a new restaurant and patio space, so we didn’t linger. (The restaurant opens in summer 2022.) But that didn’t stop us from buying a case of cider to take home with us! I also ducked into the orchard to enjoy the apple blossoms.

Psst! Want to visit the distillery, BX Press Cidery, and four wineries? Book the Vernon High Spirits Tour and let your guide do the driving.

Hike to BX Falls

The hike to BX Falls is short but worth it. The trail descends beside the creek before plunging down a set of well-constructed stairs to the base of the waterfall.

The 30-meter tall falls cascades through a tight canyon before emptying into a pool. On my visit, it had been raining all day so the falls were really raging.

If you want to go directly to BX Falls, you can start your hike from the parking lot on Tillicum Road. But if you want a longer hike you can follow the BX Creek Trail uphill from the trailhead on Star Road.

Explore the Grey Canal Historic Trail

The Grey Canal Historic Trail is one of the most interesting trails I have come across. Built between 1905 and 1914, the Grey Canal was a system of pipes, ditches, and flumes that supplied irrigation water to the hills around Vernon.

Today you can hike and bike sections of the 50-kilometre-long route as it curves across the hillside high above orchards and farms. That means it has incredible views. We explored the Turtle Mountain section which includes an incredible viewpoint on Rocky Ridge.

The best info and maps for the Grey Canal trail are on the Ribbons of Green Trails Society’s website – click on the Grey Canal tab on the top left.

Bike the Okanagan Rail Trail

The Okanagan Rail Trail stretches for over 50 kilometres on an old railway bed between Vernon and Kelowna. It runs along the shores of Kalamalka and Wood Lakes and is FLAT, making it a great place to go biking.

On my trip, we rented e-bikes from Kalavida Surf Shop at the start of the trail in Vernon and biked all the way to the tiny town of Oyama and back on the shores of Kalamalka Lake – a round trip of nearly 40 km. The e-bikes made what would normally be a long ride easy – we finished in just a few hours.

Along the way, we stopped a lot to admire the flowers growing beside the trail. (Our spring visit included tons of wildflowers!) We even spotted a huge hawk hunting on the top of a cliff.

The views of the lake were also incredible. The lake water changes colour with the seasons. It was a dark blue-green on my trip, but as it warms up it becomes more turquoise.

Hike at Predator Ridge and Sparkling Hill

The high ridge between Okanagan Lake and Kalamalka Lake is home to two neighbouring resorts with a big network of hiking trails: Predator Ridge Resort and Sparking Hill. The trails lead from the resorts, past a golf course and residential community, into the hills.

Many of the trails have incredible views down to Okanagan Lake and the Predator Ridge area. Some even have picnic tables or wooden yoga platforms, perfect for soaking up the views.

On my trip to Vernon, we stayed at the Predator Ridge Lodge and loved being able to go for hikes right out the front door. The Okanagan Lake Lookout is a great sunset spot (although the clouds obscured the sunset a bit on my visit.) We also loved evening bird watching at the easy Birdie Lake Trail.

There are over 35 km of trails, so I wasn’t able to explore them all – I’ll just have to go back! But I definitely recommend a spring visit as there were wildflowers everywhere.

For info on the trails, Predator Ridge has a good trail map. Some of the trails are shared with bikes and on a few access paths you may encounter golf carts, so keep your head up!

Explore Kalamalka Lake Provincial Park

This gorgeous provincial park sits on the eastern shore of Kalamalka Lake. It has a huge network of hiking and biking trails. We only had time to explore a small section but it was spectacular! First, we hiked to Jade Bay and Juniper Bay, two small beaches that are popular for swimming in the summer.

We also hiked out to a beautiful viewpoint at the end of Rattlesnake Point. From there, you can also follow another trail to a lookout on a rock outcropping at the top of Rattlesnake Point. The views were even better from up there.

It’s also a good place to admire the colourful waters of Kalamalka Lake which change from dark blue in the winter to green and turquoise in the summer.

During our spring visit, the trails were covered in wildflowers. Even though our hike was only 4 km long, it took forever since I kept stopping to take photos of the flowers. If you’re interested in flower ID, I recommend the Seek app by iNaturalist which uses your phone camera to tell which plant you are looking at.

Kalamalka Provincial Park has a huge trail system of both hiking and biking trails. Next time I visit, I want to hike to Cosens Bay. I’d also like to bring my mountain bike too!

Hit the Beach

On my spring visit, it was a bit too chilly for swimming. But we still visited several beaches in Vernon to go for a walk or have a picnic.

Kal Beach on Kalamalka Lake is just a few drive minutes from Vernon. There’s a paved multi-use path most of the way too. It’s a beautiful sandy beach with a long pier.

We also visited Kin Beach on Okanagan Lake. The sandy beach has lots of big trees for shade as well as a big grassy area.

Jade Bay and Juniper Bay in Kalamalka Lake Provincial Park also have great beaches (although they are small).

Go Golfing

While I didn’t actually go golfing in Vernon, I feel a bit like I did since we stayed at Predator Ridge. Our room looked out on the course and we watched golfers swinging clubs and zipping around on golf carts while relaxing on our patio.

The two golf courses at Predator Ridge are famous for their incredible views. There are also a few other golf courses around Vernon, including The Rise, which sits high above Okanagan Lake and also has panoramic views.

More Things To Do in Vernon

While we managed to see and do a lot during our three days in Vernon, we couldn’t see everything. Here’s what is on my list for my next trip!

More Outdoor Things To Do

• More hiking! – Vernon has dozens of hiking trails. This interactive Vernon hiking trail map from Ribbons of Green Trail Society has all the details. I’d also love to explore the alpine hiking trails at Silverstar Mountain.
• Explore Ellison Provincial Park – This park on Okanagan Lake has a campground, sandy beach, and hiking trails. It also has a huge network of mountain biking trails that connect to the Predator Ridge system up the hill.
• Go mountain biking – My mtb-loving husband spent most of the trip wishing he had brought his bike. We’ve heard there are great mountain biking trails at Ellison Provincial Park, Kalamalka Provincial Park, Silver Star Mountain, and Predator Ridge. Use the Trailforks app to find the trails.
• Go skiing and snowshoeing – Silverstar Mountain Resort is just up the hill from Vernon. I spent a winter weekend there about 15 years ago and loved the ski-in, ski-out lodging and snowshoe trails.
• Go cross-country skiing – Sovereign Lake Nordic Centre is home to a huge network of cross-country ski trails. They have snowshoe trails too.
• Wander through Polson Park – We drove past this lush city park but didn’t have time to stop. It has lots of walking paths through gardens. There is even a unique floral clock.
• Visit the Allan Brooks Nature Centre – Perched on top of a hill, this nature museum has lots of indoor and outdoor exhibits. But I mostly want to visit to see the marmot colony!
• Rent a boat – Wakeboarding, tubing, and just cruising around are popular summer activities on the lakes. There are several motorboat rental places in Vernon.
• Take a private boat cruise – Get out on the water on a pontoon boat, then anchor in a secluded bay to go swimming. This private Okanagan Lake 3-hour cruise is on my list. It comes with a captain and picks up from docks in Vernon.
• Go paddleboarding or kayaking – Paddle in Kalamalka or Okanagan Lakes. You can rent SUPs and paddleboards from a few places around Vernon. I recommend Kalavida Surf Shop – the staff are super friendly.

Extra Things To Do in Vernon

• Visit Historic O’Keefe Ranch – Founded in 1867, this historic ranch was an important stop at the end of the wagon road in the Okanagan Valley. Today it’s full of preserved buildings, museum exhibits, and farm animals.
• Visit the Okanagan Science Centre – This cute science centre looks like a great rainy day activity, especially if you are travelling with kids. It even includes a planetarium.
• Go wine tasting – There are several wineries near Vernon. It’s easiest to visit as part of a tour so you don’t have to worry about a designated driver. This Lake Country winery tour visits nearby wineries and offers pickups from Vernon hotels.
• Visit Planet Bee Honey Farm – This cute farm shop has everything honey, including mead, a wine made from honey. They also have bee-friendly gardens to explore.
• Relax at KurSpa – This huge spa has steam rooms, saunas, and an infinity pool with an incredible view. It’s located high on Predator Ridge at Sparkling Hill Resort.

Where to Stay in Vernon

Vernon has a huge variety of accommodation options from upscale to budget. If you’re visiting in prime summer season, book far in advance, especially for camping.

Hotels

Outdoor Focused Resort: We stayed at the huge Predator Ridge Resort, which has a mix of lodge suites and cottages, all with their own kitchens. There are two restaurants on-site and a small grocery store. It’s a bit of a drive outside of town, but the location is stunning with incredible views. The main attraction is golfing, but as hikers, we enjoyed exploring the huge trail system instead. Check prices.

Upscale Spa Resort: Located next to Predator Ridge, Sparkling Hill Resort is an adults-only hotel with a luxurious spa and incredible views. The place has unique architecture and is also covered in Swarovski crystals. Check prices.

Unique Hotel: The Prestige Vernon Lodge has a feature I’ve never seen anywhere else – a natural creek running through it! The hotel has a huge glass atrium with tons of plants, a swimming pool, a restaurant, and yes, a creek. Many of the rooms face the atrium and prices are reasonable. Check prices.

Reliable Chain Hotel: I’ve stayed at Fairfield Inn and Suites locations all across Canada and the US. They are consistently clean, well-equipped, newly renovated, and come with free breakfast. Check prices.

B&Bs and Vacation Rentals

There are tons of great B&Bs and vacation rentals around Vernon. Many of them have great views or locations near beaches.

Townhouse With Private Beach: Located right on Okanagan Lake, The Outback Lakeside Vacation Homes have two- and three-bedroom units with kitchens and access to both a private pool and private beach. Check prices.

Rural B&B: The Country Cottage B&B is really cute. It’s set in rolling farmland a short drive from Okanagan Lake. All the reviews mention the delicious breakfast. Check prices.

Rustic Tiny House Cabin: Step back in time while enjoying all the modern conveniences at The Little House on Pottery Road. The rustic tiny house has pioneer-era decor and a wrap-around veranda perfect for soaking up the views. Check prices.

Camping

In the summer, the Okanagan is a popular spot for camping trips. There are several great campgrounds near Vernon.

Kekuli Bay Provincial Park: We biked past Kekuli Bay Provincial Park on the Okanagan Rail Trail. The new-ish campground is on the shores of Kalamalka Lake in a rural area grassland area. You can bike or walk on the Rail Trail or swim from the small beach. Reserve with BC Parks.

Ellison Provincial Park: You’ll find Ellison Provincial Park a few minutes outside of Vernon on Okanagan Lake. In addition to the campground, it has a beach, hiking trails, and tons of mountain bike trails. Reserve with BC Parks.

Glamping: If you want something less rustic, book a stay at the Utopia Feels Glampground in nearby Coldstream. Their luxurious tent suites have comfy beds and great views. The property has gardens and a micro-farm with lots of adorable animals. Check prices.

Where to Eat in Vernon

Between the Tasting Trail, the brewery, cider press, and distillery, it felt like we were always eating and drinking something delicious in Vernon. But for a town in orchard and farm country, I guess I shouldn’t have been surprised. Here are my picks for where to eat in Vernon.

Coffee Shop: We loved Ratio Coffee so much that we went twice. It is located in the old railway station. Be sure to try the daily bakery specials and sit on their great patio.

Pizza: We had amazingly authentic pizza at Pallino’s Italian Bistro at Predator Ridge. You can eat-in, sit on the patio, or get a pizza to go. They also make their own gelato, but I was too full of pizza to try it.

Deli with Sandwiches: Helmut’s Sausage Kitchen is a quirky European deli that specializes in sausages. But they also make truly amazing hot sandwiches. They have a small eating area, but we took ours to-go and ate at the beach.

Pub: Marten Brewing Co. makes craft beer and great pub food to go along with it. If you’re looking for a burger or wings, this is where to get it. Their menu also has a few more innovative offerings like tempura bites, truffle fries, and fish tacos. We loved the house-made guac.

Cafe: I had heard lots of great things about EATology, but unfortunately we didn’t have time to visit. They are only open for breakfast and lunch, but people rave about their eggs benny.

Vernon, BC FAQ

Do you have questions about Vernon? Here are the answers to the most frequently asked questions about Vernon, BC.

Where is Vernon, BC?

Vernon is located in the Okanagan region of British Columbia’s interior. It is in the northern part of the Okanagan, about 45 minutes north of Kelowna and 1.5 hours southeast of Kamloops.

How big is Vernon, BC?

Vernon has a population of about 40,000 people. It covers an area of 96 square kilometres. It has a compact downtown core, but also includes a lot of surrounding rural land.

What is Vernon, BC known for?

Vernon is known for being the commericial hub city for the Northern Okanagan. It is surrounded by lakes (Okanagan, Kalamalka, and Swan Lakes) making it a popular place for summer recreation. Silverstar Mountain ski hill is just outside of town. The surrounding area is rural, with lots of farms, orchards, hiking trails, and golf courses.

How to get to Vernon, BC?

The easiest way to get to Vernon is to drive. It’s about 5.5 hours from Vancouver and 7.5 hours from Calgary. You can also fly into Kelowna airport. From there, you can take an airport shuttle van from Kelowna to Vernon. The ride takes about 30 minutes.

When is the best time to go to Vernon, BC?

Vernon is a year-round destination. It is most popular in the summer, but it can be incredibly hot and sunny. The winter months are a good time for skiing. If you visit in April and May, you’ll skip the crowds and enjoy gorgeous wildflowers. The months of September and October are also less busy and have beautiful fall colours as the leaves change.

What is the weather like in Vernon, BC?

In general, Vernon has cold winters (1°C/33°F) and hot summers (30°C/80°F). June, July, and August are the warmest. December, January, and February are the coldest. Compared to coastal BC, Vernon has a relatively dry climate. The spring months are the rainiest, but it still only rains a little bit. Check the Vernon weather forecast here.

How long should you spend in Vernon, BC?

There is no easy answer to this question. If you just want to see the highlights, a quick weekend trip will suffice. But if you really want to experience the best things to do in Vernon, spending a long weekend or a full week would be better. I spent three days in Vernon and managed to cram a lot in… but I left with lots of things still on my Vernon bucket list. Next time!

What is the Indigenous context of Vernon, BC?

Vernon is in the traditional territory of the Syilx (Okanagan) First Nation. Before European contact, the Syilx were semi-nomadic, living in pit houses called kekulis in the winter and teepees made of tule reeds in the summer. Their territory extended through the Okanagan Valley and down into the United States.

The area that is now Vernon was called Nintle-Moos-Chin, which means “jumping over creek” since BX Creek narrowed enough that it was possible to leap across it.

In the 1800s fur traders and miners came through the Okanagan Valley, disrupting the Syilx way of life and displacing them from their lands. Today, the Syilx continue to live and practice their culture in the Okanagan Valley.

What is the history of Vernon, BC?

The Vernon area has been the traditional home of the Syilx people since time immemorial. European fur traders and prospectors arrived in the mid-1800s. Some of the Europeans settled in the area, starting ranches.

The town of Vernon was incorporated as a city in 1892 and was named after Forbes George Vernon, a member of British Columbia’s legislative assembly. Irrigation projects and a railway made the fruit industry possible in Vernon in the early 1900s. Today Vernon is a commercial hub for the region, which still relies on ranching, farming, and orchards as its main industries.

If you haven’t been to Vernon yet, I encourage you to go, especially in the spring when the wildflowers are blooming. There are so many things to do in Vernon, BC that I wasn’t able to see everything I wanted in just one trip. I’ll definitely be back (with my mountain bike next time!)

Do you have questions about things to do in Vernon? Leave them in the comments so I can help you out.

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• 30 Cozy Cabins Near Vancouver for a Weekend Getaway

The post 30+ Things to Do in Vernon, BC appeared first on Dawn Outdoors.

Hey there: This is NOT a sponsored post. I visited Summerland on my own time and spent my own money. I just had a really good time and wanted to share it with you. Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, which means I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you if you make a purchase. Thanks for supporting my website! -Taryn

Summerland Winery Basics

The entire Okanagan valley is full of great wineries. There are so many to choose from that it can be hard to know where to start.

I love the Summerland area as it avoids the hype and crowds in favour of a more intimate experience at small family run wineries. Many of the vineyards are organic and produce niche or specialty wines you won’t find anywhere else. In the last few years a few cideries have also opened up, returning the region to its apple orchard roots. Currently there are 19 wineries, 3 cideries and one brewery in Summerland, all easy to find thanks to the city’s Bottleneck Drive signage. The region is easy to explore by car, but I think you’ll enjoy it more on a bike.

You can easily visit Summerland on a day trip if you are staying in Kelowna or Penticton, but it’s much easier base yourself in Summerland. I stayed with friends, but they recommend the Summerland Waterfront Resort if you’re looking for a hotel in the area. There are also tons of cute cabins in vineyards, as well as motels and bed and breakfasts. (Check out my list of the cutest cozy cabins in BC, including a few in the Okanagan.)

Biking in Summerland

In addition to wine, Summerland and the Okanagan region have also become a destination for cycling thanks to the Grand Fondo Alex Merckx. You don’t have to be a spandex-clad semi-pro to enjoy biking here – the quiet backroads are perfect for casual cyclists too. Exploring Summerland’s wineries by bike instead of by car lets you slow down a little bit, hear the bees, smell the flowers and really experience the rural life. Plus you won’t feel as bad about drinking all that alcohol knowing you got a bit of exercise first!

When to Go

The wineries and cideries are open from 11am until 5pm from May until September. They have more limited hours in the winter (and the weather isn’t as nice) so summer afternoons are the best time to visit Summerland’s wineries by bike.

What to bring

The wineries aren’t formal: dress in whatever you find comfortable for biking. It’s very sunny and hot in the Okanagan so don’t forget sunscreen, sunglasses and a bottle of water. Cycling makes you hungry so be sure to pack some snacks or a lunch. Most of the wineries and cideries have shaded patios where you can eat your own food. Lunessence Winery also has snacks for purchase.

Bring some cash or cards to buy wine and cider. A few places charge a tasting fee (usually $2-$5) but they will always waive it if someone in your group buys a bottle or two. You may also want to bring a backpack or pannier so you can carry your purchases with you. We knew we would buying a lot, so we asked each winery or cidery to set aside our purchases, then returned later with our car to pick them up.

Bike Riding Tips

The roads around Summerland are very quiet and safe. They are all paved, although there are a few potholes. The locals are used to cyclists and will usually give you lots of room. There are several signed cycling routes, some of which have separated bike lanes.

Be courteous to drivers by riding single file, using hand signals when turning and taking breaks off the pavement.  By law, you must wear a bike helmet in British Columbia. There’s a $100 fine if you don’t.

Self-Guided Summerland Winery Bike Tour

There are 19 wineries and 3 cideries in Summerland… too many to visit in one day. I’ve put together a loop bike route that hits the highlights: three organic wineries, two cideries and a few photo stops and a ride along the lakeshore. It also avoids unnecessary hills, long detours out of the way and all highway riding. If you’re super ambitious I’ve also included 4 optional side trips to additional wineries.

The route is good for most cyclists who can handle a few hills. (It’s ok if you walk up the steep bits!) If you want a shorter and easier route, I’ve also designed an alternate route. It cuts off 6km of distance and all of the big hills but does miss one of the cideries. Follow the blue loop on the map below for the main route and use the green shortcut line to take the alternate route.

Main Route: 25km/15.5mi loop with 200m/650ft of elevation change. Allow 3.5-5.5 hours including stops. Best for most cyclists. Starts and finishes at Peach Orchard Park.

Alternate Route: 19km/12mi loop with 50m/160ft of elevation change. Allow 3-4.5hours including stops. Best for cyclists who want a shorter route with less hills. Starts and finishes at the intersection of Prairie Valley Road and Rosedale Avenue.

Itinerary

• Peach Orchard Park
• Summergate Winery
• Saxon Estate Winery (closed)
• Dominion Cider Co.
• Bush Art Gardens
• Trout Creek Trestle
• Lunessence Winery
• Summerland Heritage Cider

PARKING: For the MAIN ROUTE, start at Peach Orchard Park on Lakeshore Drive. There is lots of parking here but be sure to arrive early on summer weekends. If you can’t find a spot, try the lots at Gordon Beggs Beach a little further south on Lakeshore Drive. You can also park on the street along Lakeshore drive in front of the Summerland Waterfront Resort. For the ALTERNATE ROUTE, skip ahead to 2.5km.

0KM: RIDE NORTH on Lakeshore Drive from Peach Orchard Park.

0.2km: TURN LEFT on Peach Orchard Road. Ride up the hill. This is the hardest climb of the whole trip but there is a wide shoulder and bike lane for the entire hill.

1.8km: GO UNDER the highway on Peach Orchard.

2.1km: GO LEFT on Rosedale Avenue at the roundabout.

2.5km: GO STRAIGHT at the second roundabout to join Prairie Valley Road. If you are following the shorter alternate route, this is where you start your ride.

3km: Go STRAIGHT on Prairie Valley road as it goes around another roundabout. As you leave the houses and transition into farmland, the road starts to climb uphill. Watch for the plume of the Kettle Valley steam train down below.

5.2km: TURN RIGHT on Morrow Avenue

5.3km: TURN LEFT into Summergate Winery.

Summergate Winery

Summergate Winery is a small estate winery focusing on sweeter white wines. Like a few other small wineries around Summerland, they are an organic winery that doesn’t use chemical pesticides, herbicides or fertilizers. I really enjoyed their 2017 Kerner. It has unique tropical notes that just taste like summer.

5.3km: TURN RIGHT  to leave Summergate and retrace your route on Morrow.

5.4km: TURN RIGHT on Prairie Valley.

5.9km: TURN LEFT onto Rutherford Avenue.

6.3km: TURN LEFT onto Dale Meadows Road.

7.6km: TURN RIGHT onto Lumsden Avenue.

7.8km: TURN LEFT into Saxon Estate Winery.

Saxon Estate Winery (Closed)

Update: Saxon Estate Winery is now closed.

Like Summergate, Saxon Estate Winery is also an organic winery. They are a small family run winery and specialize in the obscure Leon Millot Rouge grape, used in their signature reds. We really enjoyed their Drunken Knight, a strangely sparkling port created through several happy accidents of winemaking.

TURN LEFT onto the path through the grass beside the Winery. Walk your bike 100m to Dominion Cider Co.

Dominion Cider Co.

Historically Summerland was known for their orchards, but many were converted to wineries in the last few decades. Thankfully the trend seems to be reversing a little bit with new cideries like Dominion Cider Co. opening up to brew delicious cider from the local apples and pears. Dominion is housed in the cutest little quonset hut. I really enjoyed their ginger cider, created in collaboration with Dickie’s Ginger Beer of Vancouver.

8km: FOLLOW THE DRIVEWAY out on to Gould Road.

8.1km: TURN LEFT on Gould Road.

8.15km: TURN RIGHT on to Dale Meadows Road.

9.1km: TURN RIGHT on to Victoria Road. Follow Victoria Road down the hill.

11.8km: TURN RIGHT on Monro Street. Ride down on Munro, crossing the railway tracks. (Optional side trip: Stop at Estate Thurn at 12.4km, a craft winery that also makes their own vinegar.)

12.9km: TURN LEFT on Canyon View Road and descend steeply with a couple of sharp corners. There are good views from up here!

13.7km: ARRIVE AT Bush Art Gardens. It’s on your left.

Bush Art Gardens

While Bush Art Gardens is no longer fully operational, it’s still worth a stop. It’s a unique outdoor gallery of art re-purposed from junk and found objects. Be sure to check out the vintage car planters. The owners have retired and aren’t creating new art but they do have a few things for sale on the honour system inside the little shack. (Be sure to check out the inside – it’s actually a really cute 50s travel trailer.)

14.1km TURN RIGHT into the Trout Creek Trestle Parking lot. Walk your bike out along the pathway, on to the Trout Creek Trestle.

Trout Creek Trestle

The Trout Creek trestle stands 240 feet/73 meters above the steep-sided canyon. There are pedestrian walkways on either side of the tracks so be sure to walk across to enjoy the views. It is part of the historical Kettle Valley Railway, built between 1910 and 1915. The KVR originally ran from Hope to Midway in the Kootenays. It fell into disuse in the 1960s and totally closed in the 1980s. Today much of the former KVR rail bed has been converted into a hiking and biking path. However, the short section near Summerland hosts the Kettle Valley Steam Railway, a heritage train for tourists.

14.1km: TURN RIGHT out of the parking lot and continue on Canyon View Road after you visit the trestle. (Optional side trip: Stop at Summerland Sweets at 14.2km. This popular spot is known for their jams and syrups, made from local fruit. They also have ice cream, so plan to stop here on hot days. You can also sample the fruit wines from their sister business, the Sleeping Giant Fruit Winery.)

14.4km: TURN RIGHT on Hillborn Street.

14.7km: STAY LEFT as Hillborn curves and becomes Happy Valley Road.

15.4km: TURN LEFT at Gartrell road and head steeply uphill.

15.5km: TURN RIGHT to arrive at Lunessence Winery.

Lunessence Winery

Lunessence Winery goes a step further than organic: they practice biodynamic viticulture. This means that they see the vineyard as holistic entity and take into account the soil, climate, and lunar cycles, as well as the health of the vines. (That’s why they are called “lunessence”, from “lunar”). They also play classical music for their grapes as they grow and for their wine barrels as they age since they believe it exposes the wine to positive emotions. You might think this all sounds amazing OR that it sounds like hippy BS, but either way, their wine is pretty good. The view from their terrace is also spectacular. You can purchase cheese plates and other snacks to enjoy while you admire the view, or bring your own.

ALTERNATE ROUTE: If you want to take the shorter alternate route, after Lunessence head turn right and go uphill on Gartrell for one block, then turn right on Giant’s Head Road (at 15.8km). Follow Giant’s Head road back to Prairie Valley road. Turn left on Prairie Valley (at 18.7km) and go one block to your starting point.

Directions for the Main Route continue below.

15.5km: TURN LEFT from Lunessence onto Gartrell. Follow Gartrell as it descends steeply, with a few exciting hairpin corners. (Optional side trip: Stop at Silkscarf Winery (16km). You’ll pass it near the top of the hill.)

17.4km: GO STRAIGHT at the bottom of the hill Gartrell becomes Fir Avenue.

17.6km: CURVE LEFT as Fir becomes Johnson street.

17.8km: TURN RIGHT at Summerland Heritage Cider.

Summerland Heritage Cider

Summerland Heritage Cider is a craft cidery surrounded by apple orchards. Most of their ciders are made from specialized cider apples that aren’t great for eating since they have lots of tannins. This gives their ciders a distinct dry flavour. They also have a rotating seasonal cider. This summer they made a Gose-style cider that has hints of lime and salt – I think it’s the margarita of cider. It sounds weird, but trust me it’s fabulous. We loved it so much that we returned in the car to buy a case to take home with us.

17.8km: TURN RIGHT on Johnson.

18.3km: GO STRAIGHT on Johnson across the highway at the traffic light.

18.7km: TURN LEFT on Nixon Road.

19.4km: TURN RIGHT on Kirk Ave.

19.5km: TURN LEFT on Thorber Street.

19.9km: TURN RIGHT on to Landry Crescent.

21km: TURN RIGHT towards the entrance to the RV Park.

21.05km: TURN LEFT on to the separated bike path, next to the highway.

22.2km: GO STRAIGHT on Lakeshore Drive after the bike path ends.

23.3km: TURN RIGHT to stay on Lakeshore Drive. Pass by the Summerland Waterfront Resort (23.5km) and Gordon Beggs Beach (23.9km).

24.5km: TURN RIGHT to go back into the parking lot at Peach Orchard Park.

I hope you enjoyed your exploring Summerland’s wineries by bike as much as I did. Let me know which wines and ciders were your favourite in the comments.

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The post Explore Summerland’s Wineries by Bike appeared first on Dawn Outdoors.