Things To Do
in Summerland
Summerland, Canada is a sun-kissed town in the Okanagan Valley known for its orchards, lake views, and a relaxed, friendly vibe. It blends small-town charm with a thriving winery and farm-to-table scene set against rolling hills and bright blue skies. Visitors enjoy easygoing lakeside walks, orchard tours, and hillside hikes that offer sweeping valley panoramas.
With its four-season appeal and welcoming community, Summerland serves as a perfect base for exploring British Columbia's wine country and outdoor adventures.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Summerland and check into your charming lakeside accommodation. Take a moment to enjoy the breathtaking views of Okanagan Lake as you sip your morning coffee. After settling in, take a leisurely stroll along the beach to breathe in the fresh, crisp air.
Head to the local farmers' market to sample fresh produce and artisanal products that reflect the flavors of the region. Afterward, visit one of the local wineries for a tour and tasting of renowned BC wines. Bask in the atmosphere as you enjoy a picnic lunch on the winery grounds.
As sunset approaches, dine at a lakeside restaurant offering fresh, locally-sourced seafood. Watch the sky transition into brilliant hues of orange and pink while enjoying your meal. After dinner, take a moonlit walk along the shore to soak in the serene beauty of the lake at night.
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at a local café before setting out for a hike in the nearby Summerland-Boundary Trails. The trails offer stunning panoramas of the surrounding mountains and vineyards, making it a perfect adventure for nature lovers. Bring your camera to capture the breathtaking early morning scenery.
After your hike, cool off by renting a kayak or paddleboard on Okanagan Lake. Glide along the pristine water while soaking up the lovely summer sun, surrounded by breathtaking landscapes. After an afternoon of fun on the water, indulge in a delightful lunch at a waterfront eatery.
As the day winds down, head back to your accommodation for a little rest before dinner. Consider enjoying a wine and cheese pairing experience at one of the local wineries, where you can learn about the pairings from a sommelier. End your evening with a stargazing session on the beach, taking in the constellation-laden sky.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $3-5 |
| 🥗Lunch at mid-range restaurant | $15-25 |
| 🍷Wine by the glass | $8-15 |
| 🏠One-bedroom apartment (monthly) | $1,600-2,400 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful lake views and easy access to vineyards
- Varied outdoor activities and family-friendly attractions
- Strong farmers markets and fresh local produce
- Relaxed pace with a safe, welcoming community
- Nightlife is low-key compared to bigger cities
- Public transit options are limited outside the core areas
- Certain attractions and services may be seasonal
- Some distant sights require driving
Places to Visit in Summerland
Visit one of these nice places.
Wide lake views, docks and sailboats at golden hour create classic Okanagan photography with reflections and pastel skies.
Sweeping panoramic shots of the valley from the summit; best for sunrise or sunset light.
Charmingly preserved storefronts and colorful awnings offer quintessential small-town street photography.
Rail-trail trestles and lakeside viewpoints provide dramatic landscape photos, especially in late afternoon.
Food in Summerland
Summerland Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Seasonal peaches from local orchards baked into a warm, comforting cobbler—best with vanilla ice cream.
Must-Try!
A light, savory starter featuring locally smoked salmon with herbs and a crisp bread base.
A fragrant, floral treat often found at lavender farms and seasonal markets.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal market offering fresh fruit, vegetables, honey, baked goods, and local crafts; great for a quick bite and a picnic pack.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A friendly hello or good day with a handshake is common in casual encounters. Respect personal space and a calm, courteous demeanor in public spaces.
Stay on designated paths, carry out trash, and respect farm and winery property. Leash pets where required and clean up after them.
Be mindful of noise late at night in residential areas and accommodations.
Safety
Tipping in Summerland
Ensure a smooth experience
In Canada, 15-20% is customary for sit-down meals and good service. Smaller services like taxi rides can be rounded up or tipped 5-10%. If a service charge is included, additional tipping is not necessary.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days with blooming orchards; carry a light jacket and be prepared for rain showers. Perfect for photography among apricot and cherry blossoms and early vineyard visits.
Warm to hot days with abundant outdoor activities. Plan lakeside picnics, early morning hikes, and sunset winery visits. Stay hydrated and use sun protection.
Harvest season brings colorful vineyards and orchard picking. Cooler evenings; great for wine tastings and scenic drives through vine-covered hills.
Generally milder than other parts of Canada but with occasional snow in higher elevations. Cozy cafés and winery tasting rooms provide comfortable indoor activities.
Summerland at Night
Hiking in Summerland
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A prominent local hike offering sweeping valley views; a popular choice for sunrise and sunset treks.
Scenic rail-trail segment with lake views, gentle grades, and historic trestles.
Relaxed lakefront trails ideal for easy daytime hikes and photography along the water.
Airports
How to reach Summerland by plane.
Small regional airport offering connections to larger hubs; convenient for quick trips to and from Summerland.
Major airport with comprehensive domestic and international flights; about an hour's drive from Summerland.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many local families and visiting guests; family-friendly parks and markets are common.
A sizeable community of retirees enjoying a relaxed lifestyle amid vineyards and lakes.
Seasonal employees supporting harvests and local agriculture.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Flat lakefront routes and hilly vineyard roads popular with road and MTB riders.
Several courses in the area provide scenic layouts and wine-country surroundings.
Varied trails from lakefront strolls to summit climbs like Giants Head Mountain.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Summerland.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Look for: harvest salads, grilled vegetables, vegetarian pasta, and cheese-forward plates; many spots offer customizable veggie mains and plant-based options; ask for local produce or dairy substitutes when needed.