Penticton, BC: Lakeside Living in the Heart of Wine Country

Tucked between two glittering lakes in British Columbia’s Okanagan Valley, Penticton is one of those places that feels like summer even when it’s snowing somewhere else in Canada. With sandy beaches, world-class wineries, and a relaxed small-city vibe, it’s become a favourite destination for vacationers, retirees, and families alike.

Penticton sits about halfway between Kelowna and Osoyoos in the South Okanagan, roughly a 4.5-hour drive east of Vancouver. What makes it especially unique is its location between Okanagan Lake to the north and Skaha Lake to the south, giving the city easy access to beaches on both sides.

The region enjoys a semi-arid climate, meaning hot, dry summers and relatively mild winters compared with much of Canada—perfect for vineyards, orchards, and outdoor living.

Wine, Cider, and Craft Beer Heaven

Penticton has quietly become one of Canada’s top spots for wine and craft beverages.

Wineries & Vineyards

Within about a 20-minute drive, you’ll find dozens of wineries spread along the Naramata Bench, Skaha Bench, and surrounding hillsides. Popular names include Poplar Grove, La Frenz, Pentâge, Painted Rock, and many more, each offering tasting rooms, patios, and incredible lake views.

Wine styles range from crisp whites and rosés to bold reds and sparkling wines, all shaped by the region’s warm days, cool nights, and unique terroir.

Cider & Craft Beer

Surrounded by orchards, Penticton has also embraced cider making, with local cideries crafting drinks from apples, pears, and other fruits grown in the valley.

On top of that, the city has one of the highest concentrations of craft breweries per capita in Canada, earning it recognition as a Canadian craft beer hot spot. Visitors can easily create a “beer walk,” sampling unique brews within a compact area of town.

Outdoor Fun: Beaches, Trails, and Views

If you love being outside, Penticton will keep you busy spring through fall.

Beaches on Two Lakes

  • Okanagan Lake Beach: Long sandy shoreline, swimming areas, a waterfront promenade, the famous SS Sicamous historic sternwheeler, and the quirky Giant Peach snack stand.

  • Skaha Lake Park & Beach: Often praised as one of the top lakeside parks in the region, with a wide beach, playgrounds, tennis and volleyball courts, and shady picnic areas.

Kettle Valley Railway (KVR) Trail

The old Kettle Valley Railway line has been transformed into a multi-use trail that winds along the hillsides above the city and out toward Naramata. The gentle grade makes it ideal for walking, cycling, and family outings, with show-stopping viewpoints over Okanagan Lake.

Further along the trail, you’ll find the Little Tunnel, a short rock tunnel high above the lake that offers panoramic views of vineyards and water below.

Markets, Food, and Local Flavour

Penticton isn’t just about scenery; it’s very much a food town.

  • Penticton Farmers’ Market: Running on Saturdays in the warmer months along Main Street, this market is known for its “Make it, Bake it, Grow it” motto—meaning what you see is made or grown locally. You’ll find fresh produce, baked goods, artisan products, and food trucks.

  • Restaurants & Cafés: From casual lakefront patios to farm-to-table dining and winery restaurants, there’s a strong focus on seasonal ingredients and local wines.

Add in the annual Peach Festival, celebrating the region’s fruit-growing heritage with parades, live music, and family events, and you get a city that genuinely celebrates what it grows.

Events and Festivals: Throughout the year, Penticton hosts:

  • Wine festivals and tasting events

  • Craft beer celebrations

  • Summer concerts and beachside events

  • Sporting events like triathlons and cycling races

These gatherings draw visitors from across BC and beyond, reinforcing Penticton’s reputation as a lively, community-focused city.

Why People Love Living in Penticton

Many visitors eventually decide to call Penticton home. Here’s why:

  • Lifestyle: Easy access to lakes, trails, golf courses, and ski hills within a short drive.

  • Climate: Long, warm summers and relatively mild winters for Canada.

  • Community Feel: A mid-sized population with a friendly, small-town atmosphere, active local arts scene, and strong volunteer spirit.

  • Food & Wine Culture: It’s hard to beat having award-winning wineries, cideries, and breweries practically in your backyard.

If you’re thinking about a trip to Penticton:

  • Best time to visit: Late spring through early fall for beaches, patios, markets, and wineries.

  • How long to stay: A weekend is enough for a taste, but 4–5 days lets you explore wineries, hit both lakes, ride the KVR Trail, and enjoy the downtown.

  • Must-do highlights:

    • Relax on Okanagan and Skaha Lake beaches

    • Tour wineries on the Naramata and Skaha benches

    • Walk or bike a section of the KVR Trail

    • Browse the Saturday Farmers’ Market (in season)

    • Sample local cider and craft beer