Things to Do in Penticton: 15 Best Activities for Visitors in 2026
Looking for the best things to do in Penticton? Discover 15 must-try Penticton attractions, including TiKi Water Bikes, Skaha Beach, wineries, outdoor adventures, and family-friendly activities.
6/16/20264 min read
Looking for the best things to do in Penticton during your visit? Whether you're planning a summer vacation, a weekend getaway, or a day trip to the Okanagan, Penticton offers a perfect mix of lake activities, outdoor adventures, wineries, beaches, and family-friendly attractions.
From exploring beautiful Skaha Lake to discovering local wineries and scenic viewpoints, there is something for every type of traveler. In this guide, you'll discover the top Penticton attractions and experiences you won't want to miss in 2026.
What Are the Best Things to Do in Penticton?
The best things to do in Penticton combine everything that makes the Okanagan special: lakes, sunshine, outdoor recreation, wineries, and stunning scenery. Visitors often choose activities that allow them to experience the water while enjoying the relaxed atmosphere that Penticton is known for.
If you're visiting for the first time, start with Skaha Lake and build your itinerary from there.
1. Explore Skaha Lake with TiKi Water Bikes
One of the most unique things to do in Penticton is riding a water bike on Skaha Lake.
Unlike kayaking or paddleboarding, water bikes are stable, beginner-friendly, and easy to ride. Within minutes, you'll be cruising across the lake while enjoying panoramic views of the shoreline and surrounding mountains.
TiKi Water Bikes offers a fun experience for:
Families
Couples
Friend groups
First-time visitors
For travelers looking for a memorable outdoor activity, this is one of the most enjoyable Penticton attractions during the summer months.
2. Relax at Skaha Beach
Skaha Beach is one of the most popular destinations in Penticton.
The beach features soft sand, warm water, picnic areas, and beautiful views. It's the perfect place to spend an afternoon swimming, relaxing, or enjoying a lakeside picnic.
Many visitors combine a morning water bike ride with an afternoon at the beach.
3. Visit Okanagan Lake Beach
Okanagan Lake Beach offers a different atmosphere from Skaha Beach.
The downtown location provides easy access to restaurants, cafes, and local shops while still delivering beautiful lake views and a relaxing waterfront experience.
4. Explore Penticton's Wineries
The Okanagan Valley is famous for wine.
Visitors can spend a day exploring local wineries and tasting award-winning wines while enjoying vineyard views. Many wineries offer tours, tasting rooms, and outdoor patios during the summer season.
5. Walk the Penticton Waterfront
A waterfront walk is one of the easiest ways to experience Penticton.
The paths along the lakeshore offer excellent opportunities for sightseeing, photography, and enjoying the city's relaxed atmosphere.
6. Watch the Sunset at Skaha Lake
Sunset is one of the best times to visit Skaha Lake.
As the sun sets behind the hills, the lake reflects beautiful shades of orange, pink, and gold, creating one of the most photogenic views in the Okanagan.
7. Discover Local Restaurants and Patios
Penticton has a growing food scene.
Visitors can enjoy everything from casual beachside dining to local farm-to-table restaurants featuring fresh Okanagan ingredients.
8. Visit Local Farmers Markets
Farmers markets are a great way to experience local culture.
You'll find fresh produce, baked goods, handmade products, and local vendors offering a taste of the Okanagan lifestyle.
9. Enjoy Family-Friendly Activities
Families visiting Penticton have plenty of options.
Popular choices include beach days, water biking, playgrounds, ice cream shops, and outdoor parks that are suitable for children of all ages.
10. Go Paddleboarding on the Lake
Paddleboarding remains one of the most popular lake activities in Penticton.
Morning and evening are often the best times for beginners because the water is typically calmer.
11. Rent a Kayak
Kayaking offers another great way to explore the shoreline.
It's a peaceful activity that allows visitors to enjoy the scenery while spending time on the water.
12. Explore Nearby Hiking Trails
Outdoor enthusiasts will find several hiking opportunities around Penticton.
Many trails offer panoramic views of the lakes, vineyards, and surrounding mountains.
13. Take Scenic Photos Around the City
Penticton is filled with photo-worthy locations.
Between the beaches, vineyards, lakes, and mountain scenery, photographers will have no shortage of beautiful subjects.
14. Spend a Day Exploring Downtown Penticton
Downtown Penticton offers shopping, restaurants, coffee shops, and local businesses that provide a glimpse into the city's unique character.
15. Experience a Summer Festival or Community Event
Throughout the summer, Penticton hosts a variety of festivals, sporting events, markets, and community gatherings that attract visitors from across British Columbia.
Why TiKi Water Bikes Should Be on Your Penticton Itinerary
Many Penticton attractions are enjoyable, but few provide the combination of sightseeing, outdoor recreation, and family-friendly fun that water biking offers.
TiKi Water Bikes allows visitors to experience Skaha Lake from a completely different perspective while creating memorable moments with family and friends.
Whether you're visiting Penticton for a weekend or a full vacation, a water bike ride is an activity worth adding to your plans.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most popular things to do in Penticton?
Popular activities include visiting Skaha Beach, riding with TiKi Water Bikes, exploring wineries, paddleboarding, kayaking, and enjoying the city's waterfront areas.
Is Penticton worth visiting in the summer?
Yes. Summer is one of the best times to visit Penticton thanks to warm weather, lake activities, wineries, beaches, and outdoor recreation opportunities.
What family activities are available in Penticton?
Families can enjoy water biking, swimming, beach days, playgrounds, farmers markets, and a variety of outdoor activities suitable for all ages.
What makes Skaha Lake special?
Skaha Lake offers warm water, beautiful scenery, family-friendly beaches, and unique experiences such as water biking with TiKi Water Bikes.
Final Thoughts
There are countless things to do in Penticton, but the best experiences combine the region's natural beauty with memorable outdoor activities.
Whether you're relaxing on the beach, exploring local wineries, or riding across Skaha Lake with TiKi Water Bikes, Penticton offers something for every visitor.
If you're planning a trip in 2026, make sure to include a few of these Penticton attractions on your itinerary and experience why so many people return year after year.