Kelowna Family Travel: 3-Week Itinerary with Kids, Beaches, and Cherries
When we first planned our Kelowna family travel, I never imagined it would become one of our most memorable trips within Canada. We spent a full three weeks in West Kelowna, escaping the busy city life of Montreal, and found ourselves surrounded by sunshine, majestic mountains, clear lakes—and delicious cherries! From peaceful nature walks to surprising kangaroo sightings, this family trip to Kelowna truly had everything both kids and parents needed to recharge.
✈️ How We Got There
We flew from Montreal to Kelowna, transferring through Toronto on the way there, and via Vancouver on the way back. Although we stayed within the same country, the 3-hour time difference made the kids a bit cranky at first. But once we landed, the gorgeous views of Okanagan Lake and the dry, sunny weather made up for the exhaustion.
Fun fact? I always thought the Okanagan was a river—but it’s actually a lake! And yes, there’s even a local lake monster legend called the Ogopogo. We didn’t spot it, but it made beach days more exciting for the kids.
☀️ Weather & First Impressions
Compared to humid Montreal, Kelowna’s dry heat and intense sunlight really surprised us. We had to be extra careful with sun protection, especially during our morning outings. One thing that stood out? The roads near the mountains were full of pickup trucks. So many!
🏖️ Best Beaches for Families
Our favourite was Summerland Beach—a more relaxed, local vibe with fewer tourists. If you want a sandy, family-friendly spot, this is it.
Closer to downtown, City Front Park also had clean water and easy access to cafes and washrooms, making it a solid half-day destination with kids.
🍒 Cherry Picking Fun (and Peach Dreams)
We visited two cherry orchards during our stay. In Québec, we never get the chance to pick cherries, so this was new for the whole family. Our kids really wanted to pick peaches too—but we were a little early in the season. Because of the strong sun, we planned these activities early in the morning, and it worked out great.
🍷Wine Tasting (with Kids!) at Off the Grid Organic Winery
You might not immediately think “wine tasting” when planning Kelowna family travel, but it’s surprisingly possible! We visited Off the Grid Organic Winery in West Kelowna specifically because it’s known for being family-friendly. While we enjoyed some lovely Kelowna wine tasting, the kids were busy having their own fun. They happily sipped on milkshakes and even got to buy feed for the farm animals on site. Honestly? The cost of their milkshakes and animal feed ended up being more than our actual wine tasting fees, haha! It was a fun surprise and totally worth it for a relaxed visit that kept everyone happy.
🦘 Kangaroo Creek Farm
Yes, kangaroos! This family-run farm was surprisingly fun. Besides kangaroos, there were other animals like capybaras, sugar gliders, and parrots. Kangaroo Creek Farm is walkable and great for all ages.
🤠 A Bit of History: Okanagan Heritage Museum
We dropped by the Okanagan Heritage Museum in Kelowna and stumbled into an exhibit about Canadian cowboys. It was small but interactive, and just the right size for a visit with young children. Bonus: it’s air-conditioned!
🍦 Favourite Food Stops
You can’t have a great Kelowna family travel experience without some delicious food! Here were our top picks:
- Parlour Ice Cream: Absolutely worth the hype. Creamy, delicious, and not overly sweet—a perfect treat after a day in the sun.
- Sprout Bread: Their sourdough is truly amazing! We tried the egg Benedict too, which wasn’t life-changing, but the bread alone makes it worth a visit.
- Nummerland Ice Cream: If you love fruity, refreshing sorbets, do not skip this spot! Perfect for a hot Kelowna day.
- Two Donkeys Bakery: A great local bakery that became our go-to for grabbing fresh snacks before heading to parks or beaches.
🌳 Nature Walks & Surprises
Behind our accommodation was Shannon Lake, and it became one of our daily spots. The kids loved the walking trail—and to our surprise, local children were fishing! My cousin told us it’s actually taught in schools as part of their outdoor education. Amazing, right?
🛝 Where the Kids Played
- Julia’s Junction: A beautiful, inclusive playground designed for all abilities.
- City Front Park: Clean sand, calm water, and great picnic spots.
📝 Family Travel Tips
Planning your own family trip to Kelowna? Here are a few must-know tips from our experience:
- Sun Protection is Key: Bring plenty of sunscreen, wide-brimmed hats, and refillable water bottles—the sun is significantly stronger here than in Québec’s humidity.
- Early Bird Fruit Picking: Always plan fruit-picking activities early in the day to avoid the intense midday heat.
- Check Orchard Websites: Before visiting any farm or orchard, always check their websites. They often share crucial updates on what’s currently in season and operating hours.
💬 FAQ
Q1. Is Kelowna good for family travel?
Absolutely! Kelowna is a fantastic destination for family travel. There are beautiful beaches with calm waters, numerous nature parks, and fun farms, making it ideal for both toddlers and older kids.
Q2. What’s the best time for cherry picking?
Late June to mid-July is usually peak cherry season in Kelowna. To make the most of it, always plan your visit early in the morning, especially if you’re with kids.
Q3. How do I get around Kelowna?
A rental car is a must for Kelowna family travel. Many of the fun spots and attractions are spread out, and public transit isn’t as frequent or convenient in the smaller towns around Okanagan Lake.
🧭 Final Thoughts
Whether you’re chasing sunshine, fresh cherries, or just a refreshing change of pace, Kelowna is truly a hidden gem for Canadian family travel. The landscapes are stunning, the experiences are unique, and most importantly, the memories made with your loved ones are absolutely priceless.
If you’re considering a longer summer break with your kids, I’d wholeheartedly say: give Kelowna a try. Just don’t forget your sunglasses—and maybe keep an eye out for an Ogopogo sighting while you’re there!
