A BC spot with glistening shores and sand was named among Canada's best places to visit

A dreamy getaway awaits you here.

Person on a beach. Right: A lake.

Someone on a beach in the Okanagan. Right: A Okanagan lake.

Editor

This spot in B.C. is all sparkling lakes, velvety sand, and dreamy vineyards stretching across hillsides. Charming small towns are dotted around, making for the perfect road trip destinations and summer getaways.

It was named among Canada's best places to visit in the summer, by Narcity readers, ideal for beach days and soaking up the sun.

The Okanagan is known for its unique warm climate, that gives way to the warmest lake in Canada (Osoyoos Lake) and the only desert in the country.

The region's also known for it's wine, and summer days here can be spent touring beautiful vineyards overlooking the breathtaking scenery.

Kelowna is the main hub here, perfect for basing a trip out of if you want lots to do, great restaurants, and a bustling feel. Even with the city feel you still get to enjoy the sparkling shoreline of the lake here, with daily swims in a trip itinerary.

The city is about four hours away from Vancouver, so if that's where you're based you can hop in the car for a road trip. There's also flight options that can get you there in an hour, ranging from around $100 to $350 round trip (depending on when you go).

@visitokanagan

Discover the breathtaking beauty of Okanagan as you drive through its stunning vineyards, crystal-clear lakes, and picturesque mountain views. Ready for an unforgettable road trip? 📽️: @sebastian.hd9 Follow @visitokanagan for your passport to paradise and hidden gems. British Columbia - Beautiful Destinations - Places to Visit - Where to Go - Things to Do - Kalmalka Lake

Kalamalka Lake Provincial Park is one of the most famous spots in the area, known for it's emerald green water and sandy beaches. If you want unbelievable views and to feel like you're on a tropical getaway, go there.

If you're all about the wine you can head to Oliver — also known as the "wine capital" of Canada.

For cute small towns you can visit Peachland, which is a laid-back spot perfect for a slow-paced summer vacation. Summerland is also just 15 minutes down the road, and is another picture-perfect little town here.

If you want a vacation full of hidden gems, beautiful nature, and wholesome vibes — head out to the Okanagan.

Before you get going, check out our Responsible Travel Guide so you can be informed, be safe, be smart, and most of all, be respectful on your adventure.

  • Editor

    Morgan Leet (she/her) is an Editor for Narcity Media Group. After graduating from Carleton University’s School of Journalism and Communication, she jumped into fulfilling her dream as a journalist, merging her passion for travelling with writing. She got her start working in the print media world on Canada’s East Coast, then joined Narcity with a move to B.C., leading the launch of West Coast coverage. Her focus now is managing a large group of freelance writers, bringing human-forward and opinion content to the site.

The best employers in Canada were named and this is why they're the top places to work

Sabbaticals for travel, extra days off, work-from-anywhere policies, and more perks! 👀

University of Toronto is hiring for these high-paying jobs with salaries up to $200,000

There are openings at the St. George, Scarborough and Mississauga campuses.

Canadian detained by ICE for 3 weeks with her child describes 'mentally torturing' treatment

Despite getting released last week, the B.C. native says she still has to wear an "illegal" ankle monitor.

18 rare Canadian coins you might have in your change that could be worth money someday

These coins are "more exclusive" than regular loonies and toonies.

Another Conservative MP just crossed the floor to join Mark Carney's Liberal government

The Liberals now have 171 seats in the House of Commons, with three more by-elections on Monday.

Canada's gas prices are surging amid the Iran war and Carney says relief could be coming

The PM says his government is looking at ways to "cushion the blow" of rising costs for Canadians.

Ontario Trillium Benefit is paying out this week and you could get hundreds of dollars

Even though it's a provincial benefit, look for a payment from the CRA.