Things To Do
in Summerland

Summerland, Canada, is a picturesque community nestled along the shores of Okanagan Lake in British Columbia. Known for its stunning landscapes, lush vineyards, and warm climate, it offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventures and relaxation. The town is famous for its fruit orchards and wineries, making it a delightful destination for food and wine enthusiasts alike.

With a friendly atmosphere and a range of activities, Summerland is an ideal spot for both visitors and locals to enjoy the natural beauty of the Okanagan Valley.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Summerland
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Summerland Farmers' Market to sample local produce and artisan goods. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café.

afternoon
:

Visit the Summerland Ornamental Gardens to stroll through beautiful floral displays and take in the views of Okanagan Lake. Afterward, head to a nearby winery for a tasting session.

evening
:

Dine at a waterfront restaurant, enjoying fresh seafood and local wines while watching the sunset over the lake.

day 2
Day 2: Adventure and Relaxation
morning
:

Begin with a hike up to Giant's Head Mountain for panoramic views of the surrounding area. Pack a picnic breakfast to enjoy at the summit.

afternoon
:

Spend the afternoon at Sun-Oka Beach Provincial Park for swimming or relaxing by the water. Consider renting a kayak or paddleboard for some fun on the lake.

evening
:

Wrap up your visit with dinner at a local bistro followed by a stroll along the lakeshore to enjoy the evening ambiance.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at a restaurant$20-30
Coffee$3-5
🍷Wine tasting$10-15
🏨Hotel per night$100-200
🚌Public transport fare$2.50

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Stunning natural beauty and outdoor activities.
  • Rich agricultural heritage with excellent local food and wine.
  • Friendly community atmosphere.
  • Limited nightlife options.
  • Tourism can lead to crowded summer months.
  • Some areas may lack public transportation.

Places to Visit in Summerland

Visit one of these nice places.

Giant's Head Mountain

A must-visit for breathtaking panoramic views of Summerland and Okanagan Lake, perfect for capturing stunning landscape photos.

Summerland Ornamental Gardens

Famous for its vibrant floral displays, this garden offers beautiful settings for nature photography throughout the seasons.

Okanagan Lake

The shimmering waters of the lake provide an idyllic backdrop for sunset photography and candid shots during water activities.

Culinary Guide

Food in Summerland

Summerland boasts a vibrant food scene that highlights local produce, wines, and culinary traditions. Visitors can savor fresh fruit, artisanal cheeses, and gourmet dishes that reflect the region's agricultural bounty.

Summerland Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Okanagan Fruit Salad

A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits like peaches, cherries, and apples, often served with yogurt or granola.

Must-Try!

Naramata Bench Wines

Local wines produced from vineyards in the nearby Naramata Bench, known for their exceptional quality.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Summerland Farmers' Market

A weekly market featuring fresh produce, baked goods, and handmade crafts, perfect for sampling local flavors.

Climate Guide

Weather

Summerland experiences a semi-arid climate characterized by hot, dry summers and mild winters. Average summer temperatures can reach the low 30s °C (86-95 °F), while winter temperatures can drop to around -5 °C (23 °F) at night. Precipitation is minimal in the summer, with most rainfall occurring in late fall and early spring. Visitors should prepare for varying weather conditions throughout the year.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Nature

Keep parks and natural areas clean and follow Leave No Trace principles when enjoying outdoor activities.

Politeness

Canadians are known for their politeness; greetings and small talk are appreciated in social interactions.

Punctuality

Being on time is valued, especially for appointments and social gatherings.

Safety Guide

Safety

Summerland is generally a safe community with low crime rates. However, visitors should exercise standard precautions such as being aware of their surroundings, especially in isolated areas and while hiking. It's also advisable to follow safety guidelines for water activities and outdoor adventures.

Tipping in Summerland

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It is customary to tip around 15-20% at restaurants and bars, with rounding up for good service being appreciated.

Payment Methods

Most places accept credit/debit cards, and contactless payments are widely used; cash is still accepted but less common.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Experience blooming flowers and fruit blossoms, making it a vibrant time for outdoor activities and photography.

Summer

Expect warm weather perfect for beach outings and vineyard tours; be prepared for high tourist traffic.

Fall

Enjoy the stunning fall foliage and harvest season, ideal for wine tastings and experiencing local festivals.

Winter

While colder, Winter in Summerland offers opportunities for winter sports nearby and cozy indoor activities.

Nightlife Guide

Summerland at Night

Summerland offers a relaxed nightlife scene with a few local bars and pubs where you can enjoy live music or watch sports. The waterfront restaurants also provide a cozy atmosphere for evening dining. While not a party town, the community enjoys socializing and gatherings, particularly during the summer months when events and festivals take place.

Hiking in Summerland

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Giant's Head Mountain Trail

A moderate hike leading to the summit of Giant's Head Mountain, offering spectacular views of the valley and lake.

Kettle Valley Rail Trail

An easy, scenic trail suitable for walking and cycling, following the old railway route through beautiful landscapes.

Airports

How to reach Summerland by plane.

Penticton Regional Airport

Located about 20 minutes away from Summerland, this airport offers flights to major Canadian cities and is the closest option for travelers.

Getting Around

Walkability

Summerland is relatively walkable, especially in the downtown area where shops, restaurants, and parks are conveniently located. However, some attractions may require a car or bike to access due to the town's layout and hilly terrain. Pedestrian paths along the lake provide scenic walking routes.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Retirees

Summerland is home to a significant population of retirees drawn to the area for its natural beauty and relaxed lifestyle.

Tourists

The town attracts many tourists, especially during the summer months, drawn by its outdoor activities and wine tourism.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Hiking

A favored activity in the region, with numerous trails of varying difficulty attracting both locals and tourists.

Water Sports

With access to Okanagan Lake, activities like kayaking, sailing, and swimming are widely enjoyed.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Summerland is generally light, with peak congestion occurring during the summer tourism season. Public transportation options are limited, but the town is bike-friendly, and many visitors choose to explore on foot or by bicycle.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Summerland.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian and vegan dishes, making it easy for those with dietary restrictions to find suitable options.

Gluten-Free Choices

Several eateries provide gluten-free menu items, ensuring that guests with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity can enjoy their meals.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare services in Summerland are accessible through local clinics and hospitals in the Okanagan region. Emergency services are available, and there are pharmacies for routine medications. Visitors should have travel insurance to cover any medical expenses during their stay.

Discover Canada

Read more in our Canada 2025 Travel Guide.

Canada Travel Guide