Summerland, a small town in British Columbia's Okanagan Valley, serves as a prime destination for those seeking leisure and nature. Its array of beaches and parks cater to various interests, from beach days to adventurous mountain hikes. Here, we explore some of the top spots where you can enjoy the outdoors fully.
Sun-Oka Beach Provincial Park
Sun-Oka Beach Provincial Park stands out with its expansive sandy beach and accessible picnic areas, making it a favourite among locals and visitors. The park offers ample parking, segregated sections for cars and RVs, and easy access via a paved path to the beach, ensuring a hassle-free visit. Facilities are comprehensive, including change rooms, toilets, a concession stand, and over 90 picnic tables, some equipped with BBQ attachments and under the shade of large trees.
The beach is perfect for water sports enthusiasts. Designated areas allow boating and waterskiing, while the sandy shores invite families to relax or play. Despite its popularity, the vast space rarely feels overcrowded, providing a perfect balance of social atmosphere and personal space.
Peach Orchard Beach
Peach Orchard Beach is ideal for family outings, with its broad lawn, playground, and shaded picnic areas. The beach also features a boat launch and a fenced area for dogs, making it versatile for different types of visitors. The water here is calm, suited for swimming and paddling, and the beach's gentle curve offers stunning views of the surrounding hills.
Local conservation efforts ensure that the area remains pristine and supports a variety of wildlife, particularly birds, which can often be seen from the shore. This beach merges natural beauty with community-focused amenities, creating a welcoming environment for all ages.
Crescent Beach
For those seeking tranquillity, Crescent Beach provides a quieter alternative. This lesser-known beach is perfect for reading, sunbathing, or just enjoying peaceful water views. Its location along Lakeshore Drive offers easy access while maintaining a sense of seclusion from the more crowded tourist spots.
The beach area has two exquisite little public beaches within the neighbourhood and they both feature little to no amenities, but they both have no shortage of beauty, fine sand and great views of the lake and mountains. Crescent Beach offers peaceful, scenic spots that feel untouched by the busier pace of popular tourist areas.
Giant's Head Mountain Parks & Trails
Giant’s Head Mountain, an extinct volcano, offers a robust hiking experience with rewards that are well worth the effort. The park's trails can be accessed via a switchback road leading to a picnic area partway up, or for the more adventurous, a hike starting at the mountain's base promises a vigorous trek. Upon reaching the summit, hikers are treated to breathtaking 360-degree views of the Okanagan Lake and the valley.
This area not only caters to those looking for physical activity but also provides a historical perspective, with trails that trace the paths once used by early settlers and offering glimpses into the area’s past. Whether you're a history buff or a fitness enthusiast, Giant's Head Mountain has something to offer.
Memorial Park
Memorial Park is a community-centric space that thrives with activity. The park's central location makes it a gathering place for families and individuals alike, featuring well-maintained picnic areas, a children's playground, and ample shade provided by mature trees.
During the summer months, the park becomes a lively spot for local events and markets, showcasing the best of what Summerland's artisans and farmers have to offer. It's a integral part of the community where people come together to relax, play, and connect.
Summerland offers a rich variety of natural landscapes, from lively beaches to quiet parks and challenging hikes. Each location provides its own unique set of amenities and activities, designed to enhance the visitor experience and celebrate the natural beauty of the Okanagan Valley.
