Your Best Penticton Vacation: Where to Stay, Eat, & Explore

If you’re planning a Penticton vacation, you’re in for a treat. Tucked in the heart of the Okanagan Valley, this sunny city sits between Okanagan Lake and Skaha Lake, giving you the best of lake life, delicious food, and plenty of ways to explore outdoors. Whether you like relaxing or chasing outdoor adventure, Penticton has options to match. Here’s your guide to places to stay, great places to eat, and things to do, so you make the most of your stay.

Places to Stay

Here are some of the top choices for lodging in Penticton, from luxury resort vibes to cozy and convenient stays.

• Penticton Lakeside Resort & Conference Centre & Hotel: If you want a downtown resort where you can wake up to lake views, this is it. It has its own licensed beach, boat rentals, restaurants on site, and views of Okanagan Lake.
• Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Penticton: Modern, reliable, and well located. It is between Skaha and Okanagan Lakes, so you are close to water, shops, and trails. Amenities include free breakfast, Wi-Fi, and a fitness centre.
• Coast Penticton Hotel: Comfortable rooms, pet-friendly options, and kitchenettes. A solid choice if you want something more budget friendly but still central.
• Balcomo, a Ramada by Wyndham and Best Western Inn at Penticton: Good mid range hotels with decent reviews, useful amenities, and proximity to downtown.

If you prefer something more unique, there are bed and breakfasts, guesthouses, and lakeshore camping options.

Explore Penticton’s Arts and Culture

Beyond the lakes and trails, Penticton has a vibrant arts community. The Penticton Art Gallery hosts rotating exhibits that showcase local and national talent, while the Penticton Museum and Archives shares the region’s history in an accessible way. Downtown, you will find murals and public art, along with local shops and cafés that highlight the city’s creative energy.

Places to Eat

Penticton’s food scene has grown a lot. You’ll find everything from fine dining to casual lakeside patios.

• Socialē on Lake Shore: Tapas and small plates with local ingredients and wines. Perfect for a relaxed evening with a view.
• Hillside Winery & Bistro: Seasonal menus, local produce, and a wine list that shows off the Okanagan.
• Kin & Folk: Modern and adventurous, offering Asian fusion and creative plates.
• Hooded Merganser at Penticton Lakeside Resort: Mediterranean influences, great views, and a calm atmosphere.
• Salty’s Beach House: A lively waterfront spot serving global inspired dishes with a view.

Things to Do

Penticton is packed with options, especially if you like getting outside. Relaxing is always available too, but here are things you should not skip.

• Beaches on Skaha Lake and Okanagan Lake: Skaha Lake Park is family friendly and Okanagan Beach offers sand, water, and a scenic promenade.
• Kettle Valley Rail Trail: Walk or bike along this trail for beautiful views and a taste of local history. It is one of the top picks for outdoor adventure.
• Munson Mountain: A short but rewarding hike with sweeping views over Penticton and both lakes.
• Float or paddle the Penticton Channel: A warm weather favourite that is relaxing and fun.
• Local wineries and craft breweries: Penticton is surrounded by vineyards and tasting rooms, plus several local breweries.
• South Okanagan Events Centre: Concerts, shows, and hockey games give you plenty of indoor entertainment options.

Sample Itinerary

Here’s an idea of how you could structure a 3 day Penticton vacation.

Day 1: Arrive, check in, stroll Okanagan Beach, and enjoy dinner at Hooded Merganser.

Day 2: Morning hike up Munson Mountain, lunch at Socialē, an afternoon winery visit or paddleboard session, then dinner at Hillside Winery & Bistro.

Day 3: Shop or explore galleries in the morning, spend the afternoon at Skaha Lake Park, and wrap up with a lakeside dinner and sunset views.

Why Penticton Belongs on Your List

Penticton is more than just pretty views. The mix of lakes, trails, good food, vineyards, and a relaxed pace makes it special. If you enjoy time outdoors, Penticton delivers with hiking, biking, paddling, and beaches. If comfort and convenience matter most, there are modern resorts, cozy hotels, and plenty of restaurants to choose from.

From Vacation to Lifestyle

If you are looking for a Penticton vacation that blends outdoor adventure with lakeside relaxation, this city truly has it all.

After experiencing Penticton as a visitor, it is easy to see why so many people choose to make it home. Skaha Hills offers modern homes, vineyard surroundings, and panoramic views of Skaha Lake. If you are ready to turn your vacation dreams into everyday living, explore the Skaha Hills community and see what life in the South Okanagan can look like.

Learn more about Skaha Hills homes here.