A Day in West Kelowna: Your Perfect One-Day Itinerary

West Kelowna is a vibrant city that incorporated in 2007 and quickly became the go-to destination for those looking for a more laid-back country vibe. It maybe laid-back but you won’t be without anything on the westside of the lake as it truly has everything you need in one convenient location. It's surrounded by natural beauty, forests, mountains, Okanagan Lake, and iconic wineries that helped place the Okanagan Valley on the world wine map back in the 90s. It's a great community to explore, and they say the Westside is the “Best Side”!

Morning Café: Start Your Day with Some Culture

Kick off your day at Kekuli Café, known for their signature Bannock, a traditional bread echoing the culinary traditions of North America's Indigenous peoples. Enjoy their Traditional Yeye (fried) or try one of their delicious rotating options that are baked and flavored to perfection! If you’re like me and could use a little sweetening up in the morning, treat yourself to the Skor Latte! If you’re sweet enough, Bannock Tacos, Sandwiches, Harvest Bowls, Smoothies, and so much more await you.

Attraction: Take in the Natural Surrounding Beauty

Gellatly Bay offers a stunning stretch of waterside paths perfect for peaceful walks. If you’re into history, you might appreciate the reconstructed Wharf that’s now a great lookout point. It was originally the docking point for the SS Sicamous and other steam-powered vessels that originally were used to transport both people and goods across Lake Okanagan. Another historical spot along the way is the Gellatly Nut Farm, where you’re surrounded by nut tree groves on the water's edge. Here you can expect to see deer, squirrels and depending on the time of year, you can purchase a bag of roasted nuts from the farm.

Lunch: Not Everything Has To Be Modest

The Modest Butcher is a crowd-pleaser, offering views of vineyards, the lake, and mountains. Soak up the sun and enjoy a glass of wine on their wrap-around patio. You can expect modern vibes with a welcoming, laid-back atmosphere. Lots of great menu options to choose from including their Signature Tomahawk, Butcher Burger, Glazed Pork Belly, Fried Brussels – endless options!

Afternoon Activity: Water Adventures!

With a 134km stretch of glistening lake calling your name, dipping a toe in the water is a must! With so many options available, you can’t not spend an afternoon exploring the water. No boat? No problem! Plan and book with MSurf to experience the lake with the best wake surf boat around. Myles offers his guests an opportunity to surf the wake and live like a local. He takes care of the driving, offers instruction if wanted, and has all the toys/gear you’ll need for an epic experience. If boating isn’t in the cards, you can still enjoy the water by Kayak, SUP, or simply swimming. Check out LakeSurf Okanagan conveniently located at the Cove Lakeside Resort on the water. You can park or end your walk here and get right into the water.

Dinner: It’s All About the View!

Dining at the Old Vines Restaurant at Quails' Gate Winery is nothing short of a romantic experience. The tables overlook the vineyard, with surrounding views of the mountains and Lake Okanagan. What more could you want? How about high-end, sustainable, seasonal farm-to-table food, freshly prepared by a talented chef. They offer 4-season dining with each season offering a glimpse of their ever-changing and beautiful landscape.

The Terrace Restaurant at the iconic Mission Hill Estate Winery offers guests a seasonal outdoor dining experience to be remembered. If you enjoy a wine-paired menu, this is the spot for you. Meticulously selected wine pairings and seasonally sourced cuisine set to impress. This is usually a 2-3 course menu, and you can add share plates to further enhance your dining experience.

Accommodations: Best Spot in Town

The Cove Lakeside Resort has the best location on the Westside! Great for small or large parties, the resort is designed to cater to everyone. With a fabulous family owned spa, 2 pools, hot tub, and an onsite restaurant, you won’t even need or want to leave the property. Here, you’re surrounded by the captivating beauty that is West Kelowna, country setting in the heart of the city. Located on the water, you have access to lakeside walking, the Gellatly Nut Farm, hiking at Goats Peak Mountain, views of horse acreages, and anything you could possibly want to do on the water right at your door.

Extend Your Adventure: Keep Exploring West Kelowna

If you have more time, consider booking a Private Custom West Kelowna Wine Tour with Lust 4 Luxury Tours. This service allows you to explore without having to plan, drive, or arrange anything yourself. Simply book your tour and everything will be taken care of for you. West Kelowna continues to be a guest favorite and for good reason. The Westside Wine Trail has some legends waiting for you to explore. Mission Hill Winery, Quails' Gate Winery, and Mt. Boucherie Winery have all been instrumental in shaping the Okanagan’s wine scene from the beginning. It isn’t just the old guys that are making a splash on the Westside; several creatives are here to make your experience second to none. Frind Winery, Crown & Thieves, Black Swift Vineyard, Off The Grid Winery, Volcanic Hills Winery, Niche Co Winery, Ciao Bella Winery, The Gallery Winery, The Hatch, Beaumont Winery, Rollingdale Winery, Kala Winery, and Little Straw Vineyards.

West Kelowna offers its visitors an opportunity to unwind, relax, and enjoy the moment. While you won’t find much of a nightlife in the area, you will be mesmerized by its natural beauty, the variety of high-end culinary options, and unique experiences. Whether you have just one day or an entire weekend, this Okanagan destination is sure to leave you with unforgettable memories and the desire to return year after year.

Start planning your visit today!