Summary of Kelowna, BC
Kelowna is a city in south central British Columbia, about 2 hours north of the Washington, U.S. border. Situated amidst lakes, mountains, beaches, orchards, and forests, Kelowna is a gateway to numerous excursions and adventures. With a population of 115,000 (as of 2011), it is the largest city in BC’s Okanagan Valley. Its popularity as a destination for visitors and as a retirement spot has surged since the 1980s and 90s, as the city adapts to accommodate both tourists and local residents.
Despite the rapid growth, the urban center boasts a charming waterside community with an array of restaurants and shops. Kelowna serves as an excellent base for exploring the region, featuring a variety of hotels, an airport, and stunning natural scenery.
1. Where is Kelowna?
The city of Kelowna is positioned mid-way on Lake Okanagan in British Columbia’s Okanagan Valley, one of Canada’s driest and warmest locations. As the largest and most bustling city in the region, Kelowna is approximately a four-hour drive from Vancouver and about three and a half hours from the Washington state border.
2. Kelowna – Things To Do, Attractions
Imagine a day filled with vigorous hiking, followed by wine tasting and fine dining against a pristine backdrop. For sporty travelers, Kelowna offers a remarkable selection of outdoor activities like hiking, golfing, and boating, while also providing exceptional wine tasting and culinary experiences.
Moreover, Kelowna is a year-round destination. In winter, it’s conveniently close to ski hills, including Big White, one of Canada’s foremost ski resorts. The mild winter climate permits outdoor activities throughout the year, and many wineries remain open, albeit with shorter hours.
3. Kelowna Wineries
As the largest city in the Okanagan Valley, Kelowna is an ideal starting point for exploring the region’s diverse wine trails. With over 20 wineries located in Kelowna alone, you can easily spend two or three days uncovering a mix of traditional and boutique establishments, including unique options like organic meaderies that produce honey wine.
4. Kelowna Weather
Kelowna experiences long, warm summers that last about five months, alongside short, mild winters that attract tourists year-round. Summer days can be quite hot, transitioning to cooler evenings. The fall season (generally October and November) marks the harvest time for many fruits and vegetables.
Additionally, winter draws skiers from afar. Located only 40 minutes from Kelowna, Big White is recognized as one of Canada’s premier ski resorts. An average winter temperature of 0 degrees Celsius makes it advantageous for winter sports enthusiasts. Spring (March and April) introduces fragrant blossoms and is perfect for hiking, fishing, and additional outdoor pursuits.
5. Where to Stay in Kelowna – Kelowna Hotels
In Kelowna, numerous mid-range hotels cater to the casual, adventurous tourist, alongside groups and conferences. Notably, the city has some prominent chain hotels, but there are fewer luxury or boutique options. Here are several notable accommodations:
- The deluxe waterfront Delta Grand Okanagan Resort & Conference Centre.
- BEST WESTERN PLUS Kelowna Hotel & Suites, known for its spacious rooms and complimentary breakfast buffet.
- Travelodge Kelowna on the Lake, conveniently located within walking distance of the waterfront’s restaurants and shops.
- Holiday Inn Express Kelowna.
- Fairfield Inn & Suites Kelowna by Marriott, offering free breakfast and an outdoor pool with waterslide.
- Playa Del Sol Resort, a vacation rental spot outside of downtown Kelowna.
6. Getting to Kelowna, BC
By Car
The drive to Kelowna is scenic, with well-maintained four-lane highways.
From Vancouver: Take Hwy 1 East to Hope, then follow either Hwy 5 or Hwy 3 to Kelowna. Via Hwy 5, the Coquihalla Highway connects to Highway 97C – the Coquihalla Connector – leading to Highway 97 North to Kelowna (395 km / 237 miles). Alternatively, you can take the Hope-Princeton Highway connecting to Highway 97 North (471 km / 283 miles).
From Northern BC: Travel south on Hwy 97 to Kamloops, then take Hwy 5 south to Merritt, where you can connect at Highway 97C to reach Kelowna.
From Spokane: Connect via Highway 395 to Highway 3 West and then Highway 33 (408 km / 245 miles).
By Bus
Greyhound Lines of Canada provides regularly scheduled service to Kelowna from various locations across Canada and the United States.
By Air
Kelowna International Airport (YLW) is the 10th busiest airport in Canada and is located along Hwy 97, just north of downtown Kelowna. Numerous air carriers offer regular service, with daily, non-stop flights available from Vancouver, Victoria, Calgary, Edmonton, Toronto, and Seattle.
7. Kelowna International Airport (YLW)
Kelowna International Airport (YLW) serves as the primary airport for the Okanagan Valley and is the 10th busiest in Canada (as of 2011). It underwent a significant renovation in 1998 to cater to the increasing visitor numbers.
Passenger Services:
- Long-term and short-term parking.
- Baggage carts are available.
- Food and beverage services, including a White Spot restaurant, lounge, and snack bar.
Gift shop, including a wine shop selling local vintages:
- Various car rental companies have terminal kiosks.
- Public transit between downtown Kelowna and the airport is straightforward, with Google Maps providing directions.
- Multiple shuttle services are available to and from Kelowna Airport. Check with your hotel regarding shuttle options.
Taxis and limousines also service the airport:
- Taxi fare to downtown Kelowna is approximately $35 (as of 2011).
Contact Kelowna International Airport:
- Kelowna Airport, Kelowna British Columbia
Suite 1, 5533 Airport Way Kelowna V1V 1S1
Airport Administration 1-250-765-5125
