5 Things To Do In Summerland (Besides Golf and Wine Tours)

Discover fun and kid-friendly attractions at this gorgeous lakeside destination

As spectacular as the name implies, the town of Summerland in B.C.’s Okanagan Valley epitomizes all that a lakeside summer destination could offer: a glimmering, crystal-clear lake framed by rows of wooden docks and decorated with ski boats and paddle boards; lush green vineyards that stretch across sun-drenched acreages; and pristine golf courses that attract prestigious golf pros from around the world.

But Summerland also boasts an array of attractions that span far beyond the award-winning wineries and golf courses that draw visitors to B.C.’s interior in the warmer months. Offering a diverse range of activities fit for every age and every season, Summerland isn’t just a hot spot fit for the dog days of summer, and it isn’t a destination fit only for sun-seeking adults.

Click through for 5 things to do in Summerland…

Sample sweets

With so many vineyards and orchards in close proximity, it should come as no surprise that fruit-fuelled businesses (besides wine) would sprout from the soil of the Okanagan valley.

Skip the wine tours and satisfy your sweet tooth with a sugar-infused trek through the Okanagan. Start with a tasting of the gourmet syrups and jams at the family-owned Summerland Sweets, and then send the kids to the ice cream counter to select a cone while you sample sweet fruit wines produced by the neighbouring Sleeping Giant Fruit Winery, offering 13 table wines and 8 dessert wines, all produced using fresh fruit from the onsite orchard.

Still longing for lactose? Pop over to Tickleberry’s and browse the eclectic treasures while sampling a wide variety of fudge and unique made-in-house ice cream flavours such as Katy Berry, Espresso Flake and Lime In Da Coconut. Don’t forget to snap an Instaworthy pic of your cone in front of the colourful mural that stretches along the side of the store,

Cycle the seawall

Bring your bikes or rent a pair while you’re there. Begin your bike tour in front of the Summerland Waterfront Resort & Spa, and weave along the perfectly paved path that runs along the perimeter of the lake. For a more expansive excursion, try one of the Giro Okanagan cycling tours, and eat, drink and ride your way through town on an unforgettable guided trek to satisfy the senses.

Pig out

For world-class dining, stop in at the Local Lounge Grille, located in the centre of the Waterfront Resort & Spa, nestled on the water’s edge. Feast on globally inspired cuisine, made with locally sourced ingredients. While it is a licensed establishment, families are welcome to dine in both the lounge and on the sun-drenched patio.

Featuring sample dishes from the chefs of eight local restaurants, wine tastings from 38 wineries, live entertainment, and fun activities for kids, the annual Pig Out Festival hosted by the Oliver Osoyoos Wine Country is worth a pre-season trip on its own. Kids love bouncing on the giant outdoor jumping pillow and gazing at the grazing cattle and llamas while grown-ups enjoy strolling through the sampling tents, sipping on selected wines and noshing on a cornucopia of dishes featuring local B.C. meats.

Party poolside

Summerland Waterfront Resort & Spa is the ideal lakeside accommodation, featuring suites with fully-equipped kitchens, and a beautiful lakeside pool, perfect for cooling off and lounging in the sun after a long day of outdoor play. Bring some snacks and picnic on a poolside lounge chair, or soak your sore feet in the hot tub. A vacation isn’t complete without a jump in the pool, and this turquoise sanctuary is a sublime spot for a splash.

Hike the hoodoos

Tie on your hiking boots and embark on a guided tour of the Skaha Bluffs with Hoodoo Adventures, where you can choose from a beginner trek to an advanced scale of the vertical rocks surrounding the canyons and cliffs of the Okanagan Valley. Get your heart racing as you gaze at the breathtaking views from the top of the town.

Not sure when to book your visit or which adventures to start with first? Check out Authentically Okanagan’s custom tours and travel for a local’s take on all there is to see and do in the picturesque town of Summerland and surrounding Okanagan areas.