The ultimate itinerary for a 36-hour Kelowna trip

You can’t really replicate the beauty of Kelowna’s vineyards, the shores of its famous lake, or the activities that keep visitors coming back for more. Besides that, Kelowna is known as one of the most liveable places in Canada.

We’ve compiled a 36-hour itinerary that will take you through the land of the Ogopogo. All you’ll have to do is pack your bags and throw on your sunglasses.

Friday

3 pm

Skimming the surface at Okanagan Beach Rentals. Image: ta_payne

Want to experience Kelowna in the best way possible? Copy the locals. Paddle-boarding is a big thing in the city, especially at Rotary Beach. Rent a board from Okanagan Beach Rentals for just $25 an hour and glide over the sparkling surface of Okanagan Lake.

6 pm

Located a few blocks away from the Downtown Marina, Yamas Greek Restaurant features authentic Mediterranean dishes that will transport you from the shores of Okanagan Lake to the Greek islands. Sample their tapas, which include jumbo prawns pan-fried in white wine and garlic or pita and fresh cucumber tzatziki, before enjoying a signature souvlaki dinner.

9:30 pm

A DJ plays a late night set at Level Nightclub. Image: skywalker_anniekin

Level Nightclub has a reputation for hosting some pretty amazing shows. The venue has brought in the likes of Paul Oakenfold, Benny Benassi, LMFAO, and Skrillex, to name a few.

It also features some of Kelowna’s best resident DJs. Catch DJ Kush, Roberto Stylz, and many more playing hip hop, top 40, house, remixes — anything you could ever want. Explore two massive dance floors and get lost on the club’s three sprawling levels.

Saturday

8:30 am

After a late night on the town, it’s time to roll out of bed at Lakeshore Bed & Breakfast, one of Kelowna’s luxury B&Bs, and start your day with owner Louise’s famous breakfast. The meal comes with a hot entrée, locally sourced fruits and yogurt, and a home-baked treat with fresh jam or jelly, all of which can be enjoyed as you gaze out over the lake’s placid surface.

11 am

Vineyard Terrace Restaurant. Image: cedarcreekwine

You haven’t experienced this city until you’ve visited some of the wineries and their beautiful vineyards. Make the 15-minute drive to Vineyard Terrace Restaurant at Cedar Creek Estate Winery, where you can enjoy lunch overlooking the lake and vineyards. After indulging in a decadent meal, enjoy an educational seated tasting paired perfectly with cheese and charcuterie. A tour is also optional.

3 pm

Wakey wakey! You’re probably feeling a little sleepy after sipping that wine, so it’s time to visit trendy Pulp Fiction Coffee House. Its delicious coffee is served in a quaint, friendly café in downtown Kelowna – complete with attached antique and curio shop.

Lobster and shrimp dinner at the Bonfire Restaurant. Image: yadayda_olaf.ulbrecht

7 pm

Visit the historic Gellatly Nut Farm for a waterfront stroll before making your way to the Cove Lakeside Resort for dinner. Their onsite Bonfire Restaurant is known for serving locally-inspired food in true farm-to-table fashion. Grab a seat on the outdoor patio and enjoy a dish perfectly paired with an Okanagan wine while you take in the lake and mountain views.

10 pm

Described as Kelowna’s premium karaoke entertainment centre, this is the perfect (and probably funniest) way to polish off your last night in the city. HQ49 offers a variety of karaoke rooms. After singing your lungs out, you can enjoy darts, pool, and board games while sipping on bubble tea.

Sunday

10:30 am

Sunday brunch down by the bay has its perks. Image: jhuxley

It’s the last day of your vacation, so spoil yourself with massive Sunday brunch at Smack DAB in the Manteo Resort. The lakefront restaurant earned its name from being “smack dab” in the centre of the resort, the town, and the waterfront. Their chef attends the breakfast buffet, so feel free to quiz him on the blueberry flapjacks with maple syrup, breakfast pizza, or seasonal fruit offerings.

Noon

Now that you’re filled with energy from brunch (or maybe just from the multiple cups of coffee), make the trek out to Knox Mountain Park, located just a five-minute drive north of the city centre. Walk, run, hike, or ride your bike on Paul’s Tomb Trail, which will lead you just along the water’s edge and down to a gorgeous beach. For more adventurous travellers, challenge yourself with a detour up the Ogopogo Trail and burn off some extra brunch calories.

3 pm

A selection of dresses at The Wardrobe Boutique. Image: thewardrobeboutique

Finish off your trip in style by shopping at spots you won’t find at home. Visit the popular Lakehouse Home Store to spruce up your living space with unique home décor pieces. Then, browse The Wardrobe Boutique for the latest trends as well as vintage finds — stuff you’ll be hard-pressed to find elsewhere.

If you haven’t found a gift to bring home to your family, swing by Funktional, an eclectic downtown establishment filled with novelty items, home decorations, jewelry, and more. Finally, browse for a new bathing suit at Surf Culture Clothing, a specialty store that offers everything you need for summer beach days.

And just like that, 36 hours have flown by. Even though it’s time to go home, you’re always welcome back for another adventure!