Things to Do in Kelowna for First-Time Visitors (2025 Guide)

If you are visiting Kelowna for the first time, this guide will help you experience the city’s highlights: Okanagan Lake, wineries, viewpoints, outdoor activities, and vibrant food and beverage options. Kelowna is known for its four seasons, warm summers, and lakeside mountain scenery.

This guide covers the essential things to do for first-time visitors in Kelowna, West Kelowna, Lake Country, and nearby areas.

If you do not have a vehicle or prefer not to drive, WestCabs provides transportation across the Central Okanagan.

Call or text: 778-754-8888

WestCabs App available on iOS and Android

1. Walk the Downtown Kelowna Waterfront

The downtown waterfront is one of the best starting points for first-time visitors.

Highlights include:

• Waterfront Boardwalk and marina

• City Park and Hot Sands Beach

• Tugboat Bay Beach

• public art and waterfront restaurants

City of Kelowna parks and waterfront info:https://www.kelowna.ca/parks-recreation/parks-beaches

2. Visit Local Wineries

Wine touring is one of Kelowna’s signature experiences.

Top regions for first-time visitors:

• West Kelowna — Westside Wine Trail

• Lake Country — Scenic Sip Wine Trail

• Kelowna South/East Kelowna wineries

Please do not drink and drive. Arrange safe transportation if wine tasting.

3. Go to Okanagan Lake Beaches

Popular first-visit beaches include:

• Gyro Beach

• Rotary Beach

• Hot Sands Beach (City Park)

• Tugboat Bay

• Willow Beach (West Kelowna)

Beach popularity is highest in July and August.

4. Explore Knox Mountain

Knox Mountain Park offers one of the best viewpoints close to downtown.

Activities:

• hiking trails

• Apex Lookout

• city and lake views

Official park page:https://www.kelowna.ca/parks-recreation/parks-beaches/knox-mountain-park

5. Experience Myra Canyon Trestles

The Myra Canyon trestles are a unique local attraction along a section of the historic Kettle Valley Railway.

You can:

• walk the trestles

• cycle the trail

• enjoy canyon viewpoints

BC Parks page:https://bcparks.ca/myra-bellevue

6. Visit Kangaroo Creek Farm (near Airport)

A memorable option especially for families and first-time travellers.

You may see:

• kangaroos and wallabies

• capybaras

• emus and birds

Located near Kelowna International Airport (YLW).Official site: https://www.kangaroocreekfarm.com

7. Explore Downtown Kelowna and Bernard Avenue

Downtown offers:

• restaurants and cafés

• boutique shopping

• ice cream shops

• nightlife options

Summer months often include street events and patios.

8. Take a Wine-Country or Lake-View Photo Tour

First-time visitors often prioritize:

• lakeside viewpoints

• vineyard and barrel-room photos

• sunset shots from Knox Mountain or West Kelowna lookouts

Respect private property and stay in designated public areas.

9. Day Trip to Big White (Seasonal)

Depending on the season:

Winter:

• skiing and snowboarding

• tubing and skating

• alpine village atmosphere

Summer:

• hiking

• mountain biking

• chairlift sightseeing

Official site: https://www.bigwhite.com

Tips for First-Time Visitors

• book wineries and restaurants in advance during summer

• hydrate and plan for heat in July–August

• winter road conditions can occur from November–March

• parking fills quickly in peak season; taxis can be easier

• always check seasonal conditions for lakes and trails

Transportation for First-Time Visitors Without a Car

WestCabs can provide transportation to:

• Kelowna International Airport (YLW)

• hotels and resorts

• wineries and restaurants

• beaches and waterfronts

• Big White connections

• trailheads and viewpoints

Call or text: 778-754-8888

Download the WestCabs App on iOS and Android

Available 24/7, year-round.