WHAT TO DO IN THE OKANAGAN
WHERE TO EAT
If you are planning to spend a little more time in the Okanagan around the time of the wedding (or at any time for that matter) here are some places I would recommend you visit during your stay.
SPROUT BREAD SHOP
A great little spot to stop for some lunch, a coffee and you can pick up a freshly baked loaf of bread or a bundle of flowers right along with it.
QUAILS GATE WINERY
A picturesque spot for lunch, dinner or just to taste some wines. They have a beautiful restaurant with a large patio, a wine tasting facility and a beautiful patch of grass with picnic tables that overlook Okanagan lake.
WATERFRONT WINES
This is the restaurant that is catering our wedding and their menu is phenomenal. It’s a small little restaurant so if you have a big group it may not be your best option but if you’re looking for a good meal either inside in their intimate restaurant or looking for a quiet spot on a patio in Kelowna, then this is the spot for you.
RICCO BAMBINO
My maid of honour Emma frequents this beautiful wine bar in downtown Kelowna and has me itching to go myself. If you’re into insta worthy decor and wine this is a must-see for you.
EARLS
It just wouldn’t be right if earls wasn't on this list. There is a location in Vernon and in Kelowna just off the seawall. They have a spectacular patio and it always delivers. Great food, options for everyone and for a good price.
WATERFRONT CAFE + CATERING
This cafe is owned by the same company that is catering our wedding. I haven’t personally been to the cafe version of their restaurant but my wedding planner Nicole of Created Lovely Events is a frequent customer and her meals always look amazing on instagram stories. It’s a great spot for lunch, coffee or to indulge in a little treat. Boston Cream donuts anyone?
day time activites
If you’re looking to get out on a hike here are some trails that my maid of honour has recommended to me. Some end in a beautiful swim in the lake and others with a breathtaking view of the okanagan valley.
HEAD TO THE BEACH
With your favourite sunhat in tow and some strong SPF head to one of the many beautiful beaches to catch some sun. Our personal favourite is Kalamalka beach in Vernon. There are also tons in Kelowna if you’d prefer to venture that way. If you are staying at Sparking Hill, I believe they have a pool available for you to use.
HIKE
Make sure you bring lots of water with you if you plan to go for a hike, or head out in the am as it will be hot during the day time. Below are some hikes in the area: Kalamalka Lake Provincial Park, Okanagan Mountain Provincial Park, Rose Valley Regional Park, Mission Creek Greenway, Bear Creek Provincial Park, Crawford Falls, Knox Mountain Park, Myra-Bellevue Provincial Park Day Use Area
FLOAT
And no, I don’t mean in tank for meditation, but you could do that in the Okanagan too if you wished to. I mean, buy a floatie from one of the many pool shops in Kelowna and vernon and venture to the beach, and float out on the lake. This is my personal favourite way to spend a hot summer day.
GOLF
The Okanagan is home to some pretty amazing golf courses. Our two favourite courses are Vernon Golf and Country Club and Predator Ridge. If you’re looking for an easier course there is Hillview in vernon. Vernon is also home to the Rise and in Kelowna you can find: Kelowna Springs Golf Club, Black Mountain Golf Club, Shadow Ridge Golf Club and many more.
RENT A BOAT
Spend a day out on the lake in a boat. You can rent one from the harbour in downtown Kelowna. You can also rent paddle boards and kayaks there if you wish.
OKANAGAN RAIL TRAIL
Rent a bike and ride along the okanagan rail trail. It’s a new addition to Kal Lake but would make for a great day riding your bike along the beautiful turquoise water.
Jillian Harris also wrote a great blog on her favourite things to do in the area if you want to check it out