Summer has a way of moving a little too quickly, especially when there are lakes to swim in, patios to visit and trails to explore. If you are thinking about planning a last-minute getaway, or simply looking to squeeze a little more Penticton fun into the season, there is still plenty of time to make a few more summer memories.
From sunset walks and beach days to outdoor markets and lively festivals, add these eight experiences to your Penticton bucket list before the season wraps up.
1. Paddle Your Way Along the Shore
With Okanagan Lake at one end of the city and Skaha Lake at the other, you are never far from an opportunity to get on the water. Rent a kayak or stand-up paddleboard and explore at your own pace, staying close to shore, taking in the mountain views and enjoying a few refreshing swims along the way.
Local operators including Hoodoo Adventures, Pier Water Sports and Sun n’ Sup can help get you set up with the equipment you need.
For something a little different, climb aboard a Tiki Water Bike and pedal your way along the Skaha Lake waterfront. These floating bikes are stable, easy to operate and a fun option for couples, families or anyone who wants to get on the lake without picking up a paddle.
2. Patio Hop Along the Penticton Beer Blocks
Penticton is home to seven craft breweries, each bringing something different to the table. Craft beer fans know – Penticton is making a name for itself in the industry- even being coined as Canada’s Craft Beer Capital by Lonely Planet in 2020. Make an afternoon of exploring the Penticton Beer Blocks, stopping for a flight, a snack or some patio time along the way.
The seven Penticton breweries are:
- Abandoned Rail Brewing Co.
- Barley Mill Brew Pub
- Cannery Brewing
- Highway 97 Brewery
- Neighbourhood Brewing
- Tin Whistle Brewing Co.
- Yellow Dog Brewing
Many are only a few blocks apart, making it easy to explore on foot or by bike. You will find everything from laid-back patios and historic buildings to full food menus, live music and creative seasonal releases. Choose a couple that catch your eye, or spread all seven across a weekend. If you plan to sample, leave the driving to someone else.
3. Float the Penticton Channel
Few activities say “Penticton summer” quite like floating the River Channel between Okanagan and Skaha lakes. Bring your own float or book with Coyote Cruises, which offers tube and party-island rentals along with shuttle transportation back to the starting point.
The float is an easygoing way to cool off and spend a few hours outside with family or friends. Pack sunscreen, water and a secure dry bag for your belongings, and always check current conditions and shuttle times before setting out.
*Coyote Cruises’ final scheduled day of the 2026 season is Monday, September 7, so do not leave this Penticton-must too late!
4. Enjoy a Classic Beach Day
Sometimes the best summer plan is the simplest one: pack a towel, bring a good book and spend the day beside the lake.
Okanagan Beach puts you close to downtown restaurants, shops and the waterfront promenade, while Skaha Beach offers plenty of green space and family-friendly amenities. Nearby Sudbury Beach has a broad stretch of sand and shallow water.
A short drive from Penticton opens up even more options. Visit Sun-Oka Beach Provincial Park in Summerland for a tree-lined shoreline on Okanagan Lake, or head to Manitou Park in Naramata for a swim followed by a stroll through the Naramata village.
Whether your ideal beach day includes a morning swim, a picnic under the trees or a simply soaking in the sun, there is a stretch of shoreline with your name on it.
5. Shop the Outdoor Markets
Make room in your weekend for fresh fruit, local food, handmade goods and a little treasure hunting. On Saturday mornings, downtown Penticton comes alive with both the Penticton Farmers’ Market (Last Outdoor Date: October 31, 2026) and the Penticton Downtown Community Market (Last Date: September 5, 2026), filling several blocks with growers, makers, food vendors and live entertainment.
There are more markets to explore throughout the week, too. Browse the Penticton Night Market (Last Date: September 17, 2026) at Gyro Park on Thursday evenings, visit the Naramata Community Market (Last Date: September 30, 2026) at Manitou Park on Wednesdays. Take a short drive to enjoy the Summerland Rotary Market (Last Date: September 27, 2026) held downtown Summerlnad every Sundays, or the Summerland District Market (Last Date: September 29, 2026) located in Summerland’s Memorial Park on Tuesdays.
Bring a reusable bag, arrive hungry and leave a little extra room in the car for whatever catches your eye.
6. Take in a Late-Summer Festival
Summer festival season is not over yet. On August 29, the first True Rhythm Festival takes over Okanagan Lake Park for a full day of music beside the water, with a lineup spanning hip-hop, reggae and Canadian alternative music.
Then, on September 12 & 13, the Penticton Dragon Boat Festival brings two lively days of racing to Skaha Lake. Teams from across the region take to the water while spectators cheer from the beach, making it an energetic event to watch even if you are not holding a paddle.
For a full list of upcoming Penticton festivals and events, visit out events page.
7. Turn Up the Adventure on the Lake
Ready to move beyond the shoreline? Rent a boat and spend the day cruising or try a splashy Sea-Doo or water sport.
Penticton Boat Rentals offers surf boats, ski boats, pontoons and WaveRunners with locations on both Okanagan and Skaha Lake. Pier Water Sports also offers a wide range of ways to get out on Okanagan Lake, including Sea-Doo and boat rentals, banana-boat rides, water-sport lessons and it’s popular 42-foot party barge.
Whether you want an easy family cruise or something with a little more speed, book ahead, review the rental requirements and choose the best experience for your crew.
8. Catch the Sunset from Munson Mountain
Finish the day with a walk up Munson Mountain, home to Penticton’s iconic hillside “PENTICTON” sign and some of the best views in the city.
Follow the half-kilometre packed-gravel trail to the summit, or take the shorter paved, accessible pathway to the gazebo lookout. Both routes offer impressive vantage points over Okanagan Lake, the city and the surrounding hills. Arrive shortly before sunset and watch the valley shift into shades of gold, pink and purple as the sun drops behind the mountains.
The walk is short, but there is plenty to take in, so leave yourself time to slow down, enjoy the view and snap a few photos.
Make the Most of your Summer in Penticton
There’s still plenty of summer left to enjoy, and no shortage of ways to make the most of it in Penticton. Now is the time to start checking off that bucket list. Be sure to confirm current hours, availability and event details directly with each operator, as seasonal schedules may change. Which experience has your name written all over it?
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