Top Paddleboarding Spots in Penticton

Penticton is perfectly placed between two beautiful lakes, making it a top destination for anyone who enjoys paddleboarding or kayaking. Whether you’re looking for calm morning water, scenic views, or a peaceful place to paddle, this area has a lot to offer. Skaha Lake, Okanagan Lake, and nearby Naramata all provide excellent options for a day out on the water. In this guide, we’ll cover the best paddleboarding spots in Penticton, share tips for a safe and fun experience, and provide some local rental shops that can help you get started.

Skaha Lake

Skaha Lake sits on the south side of Penticton and is well known for its warm, calm waters. It’s a great option for beginners and families, with plenty of accessible beaches and launch points.

Top spots on Skaha Lake:

• Skaha Beach is one of the most popular areas for stand up paddleboarding. It has soft sand, clear shallow water, and a large beach park with public washrooms, picnic tables, and a marina. It’s easy to launch from here and ideal for those who want a relaxed paddle close to town.
  
• Sudbury Beach is just a few minutes away and offers a quieter option with the same beautiful lake access. With fewer crowds, it’s a great spot for those who prefer calm waters and a slower pace.
  
• Skaha Lake Marina has easy access and on-site rentals, making it convenient if you want to rent gear right at the water.

Skaha Lake is usually calmest in the morning. Local paddlers recommend going early when the wind is light and the water is glassy. Winds often come from the north, which helps keep conditions smooth in the southern parts of the lake.

Okanagan Lake

Okanagan Lake is much larger and offers more open water to explore. On a calm day, it’s a great place for longer paddles, with amazing views of the surrounding mountains and vineyards.

Top paddleboarding spots on Okanagan Lake:

• Okanagan Beach runs along Lakeshore Drive in Penticton and is a great launch point for paddleboards and kayaks. The water is typically calm in the early morning, and the area has washrooms, restaurants, and free public beach space.
  
• Marina Way Beach is just a short walk away and often a little quieter. It’s a nice spot for a peaceful paddle with easy parking and shallow entry to the lake.
  
• Three Mile Beach is a bit farther north on Naramata Road. It has two distinct areas: one side is sandy and perfect for paddleboarding, while the other is for moorage boating. It’s a little more off the beaten path and has fewer people, especially during weekdays.

Because Okanagan Lake is so large, the conditions can change quickly. Stick close to the shoreline if you’re just starting out, and always check the weather before heading out.

Naramata

Naramata is a short drive from Penticton and offers some of the most scenic paddleboarding spots in the area. Tucked away along the eastern edge of Okanagan Lake, this peaceful area is known for its quiet beaches and stunning views.

Recommended spots in Naramata:

• Manitou Park is a well-maintained public beach with soft sand, washrooms, and shaded grassy areas. It’s a popular launch point for both stand up paddleboards and kayaks, with easy access to calm water.
  
• Wharf Park and Centre Beach are two nearby options that are quieter and provide protection from both north and south winds. These areas are perfect if you’re looking to enjoy a relaxed paddle without too much boat traffic.

Naramata also offers great wildlife viewing. Keep an eye out for osprey, eagles, and even the occasional deer along the shoreline. The views of Summerland across the lake and the surrounding vineyards make this area feel a bit more secluded and special.

Tips for Paddleboarding in Penticton

To make the most of your day on the water, keep these simple tips in mind:

• Go early in the day when the water is calm and the sun isn’t too strong
  
• Check weather and wind conditions before heading out.
  
• Wear a life jacket and use a board leash for safety.
  
• Stay close to shore if you’re new or unsure of the conditions.
  
• Bring water, sunscreen, and a hat to protect yourself from the sun.
  
• Rent a stable board if it’s your first time paddleboarding.
  
• Tell someone your plan if you’re going out alone.

Most of the beaches in Penticton have free parking and access to washrooms, which makes planning your trip a lot easier. Some areas may be busier in the afternoon, especially on hot summer days, so plan ahead if you want a quieter experience.

Local Paddleboard Rentals and Kayak Rentals

If you don’t have your own gear, there are plenty of rental options in and around Penticton. These local businesses make it easy to try paddleboarding without the need to buy equipment.

• Sun n’ Sup (located in Naramata) is a well-known shop offering paddleboard and kayak rentals, group paddles, and private lessons. They offer equipment for all skill levels and provide helpful advice if you’re new to the sport.
  
• Glow SUP Adventures operates at Sudbury Beach on Skaha Lake. They offer rentals, short lessons, and stable boards perfect for beginners. Their friendly team is great for helping first-timers feel confident on the water.
  
• Skaha Marina Rentals at Skaha Lake provides both paddleboards and kayaks, making it easy to rent and launch in the same place.
  
• Okanagan Beach Rentals also has locations in Summerland and Kelowna, so they’re a good option if you’re exploring different parts of the valley.

Many of these businesses offer hourly, daily, or multi-day rentals, along with accessories like dry bags and waterproof phone cases.

Plan Your Next Paddle

Penticton is an ideal place for paddleboarding and kayaking, whether you’re a beginner looking for calm, shallow water or a seasoned paddler ready to explore more of the Okanagan. Skaha Lake offers warm, sheltered water that’s perfect for casual paddling, while Okanagan Lake and Naramata provide beautiful scenery and more space to roam. With so many rental options and launch points nearby, it’s easy to get out on the water and enjoy the natural beauty of this region.

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