6 Best Lakes in the Okanagan Valley: Enjoy the Water

Wondering where to swim, fish, or relax in the beautiful Okanagan Valley? With so many lakes to choose from around here, it can be tough to narrow down the list of must-see spots, especially if you have a particular activity in mind. 

After previewing the top Okanagan Valley lakes, you’re sure to find the perfect spot for your next day out or vacation.

Quick Okanagan Valley Lake Guide

• Okanagan Lake: Region’s biggest lake with tons to do (and home to Ogopogo, the lake monster!)
• Kalamalka Lake: Waters that change colour with beautiful kid-friendly beaches
• Skaha Lake: Sandy beaches with gentle slopes—perfect for families
• Sugar Lake: Hidden gem in the north for when you need to escape crowds
• Osoyoos Lake: Canada's warmest lake—like bathwater in summer!
• Mabel Lake: Paradise for fishing and wildlife spotting

Okanagan Lake: The Valley's Giant

Okanagan Lake, one of the best lakes in British Columbia, is HUGE: 135 kilometres long, with depths reaching 232 meters in certain spots. It's the valley's crown jewel, with 351 square kilometres of crystal-clear water.

Want city access? Kelowna sits right on the lake with busy waterfront parks and restaurants. Looking for better beaches? Try West Kelowna for a more relaxed vibe. Need perfect sand? Head to the south end near Penticton.

Love water sports? The lake has it all:

• Swimming in the clear waters feels amazing on hot summer days
• Tons of boat launches make getting on the water easy
• Fishing here is fantastic—people catch rainbow trout over 20 pounds!

And don't forget Ogopogo! This famous lake monster supposedly lives in the deep parts of the lake. People have reported seeing strange things in these waters for generations. Real or not, it adds some fun mystery to your lake day. Try the lookout points on both sides of the lake if you want to monster-hunt.

Kalamalka Lake: Nature's Mood Ring

Ever seen a lake change colours? Kalamalka Lake shifts between amazing blues and greens as the weather changes. This happens because of tiny calcium crystals in the water that reflect light differently. It's stunning!

Located just south of Vernon and a short drive north of Lake Country, Kal Lake has much to offer, including one of the best beaches near Kelowna. The water stays crystal clear, making swimming here a real treat. Look for the buoys that mark safe swimming areas.

Bring your kayak or canoe—the shoreline has quiet spots perfect for paddling and picnics. And yes, you can bring your dog to the pet-friendly areas!

The beaches have coarse sand, and Cosens Bay is a favourite sunbathing spot. Whether you're in the water or just soaking up the views, Kalamalka delivers big-time beauty. No wonder both locals and tourists keep coming back!

Skaha Lake: Family Fun Central

Got kids? Skaha Lake makes lake days easy. Just south of the scenic Penticton community, this lake checks all the child-friendly boxes: clean bathrooms, picnic tables, and a playground the kids will love.

The water stays calm here, making it safe for swimming. The shoreline slopes gently, so little ones can wade without hitting deep water too fast. Most importantly—the sand is perfect for castle building!

Homes on Skaha Lake are popular for year-round living, vacation homes, and investment properties. You can splash in the water, enjoy a picnic with great views, or try windsurfing if you're feeling adventurous. With beaches on both the east and west sides, you can always find a good spot, even on busy days.

Bonus tip: Visit nearby Okanagan Falls while in the area for a full-day trip.

Sugar Lake: Your Secret Escape

Hate crowds? Sugar Lake hides in the mountains in the northern Okanagan. Though it’s nearly 130 km from Downtown Kelowna, it’s located only 80 kilometres east of Vernon—close enough for a weekend getaway.

The crystal clear water and surrounding wilderness create the perfect peaceful vibe. There's a nice campground where you can stay overnight and really enjoy the natural beauty.

Cool fact: The lake has two small islands, including one with ruins of old pioneer cabins. History and beautiful scenery in one spot!

Fishing fans love the abundant rainbow trout. The lake also has a couple of boat launches if you want to explore by water. Rather hike? Trails lead from several points around the lake into the surrounding provincial parks.

Osoyoos Lake: The Warm One (No Kidding!)

Did you know Osoyoos Lake is the warmest freshwater lake in Canada? Summer water temperatures hit about 24°C—that might as well be bathwater! When other lakes still feel chilly, this one's perfect for swimming.

The lake straddles the Canada–U.S. border, and the Osoyoos community is a quaint area on its shores. It’s a popular destination for residents in Oliver (25 km north) and even Summerland (80 km).

The warm water makes tubing, water skiing, and wakeboarding extra fun. Boating is super popular here, with several boat launches providing easy access. You'll find beaches and parks all around the lake for sunbathing and picnics.

Osoyoos Lake sits in Canada's only desert region, so you'll see unique landscapes you won't find elsewhere in BC. The clear water lets you sometimes spot rainbow trout swimming near the shore.

Don't want to drive a boat yourself? Boat tours offer sightseeing trips and special events. Between the warm water and endless activities, this lake should top your summer must-visit list!

Mabel Lake: Wildlife Paradise

Love animals and nature? Head to Mabel Lake in the northern Okanagan. Bird watchers come here to spot eagles, osprey, and dozens of other species. The quiet setting makes it perfect for watching wildlife without scaring them away.

Mabel Lake is more remote than most other popular area lakes, but this only adds to its charm. While the Enderby community is the closest town as the crow flies, there’s no direct roadway, so Vernon and Coldstream residents have the shortest drives.

Fishing is fantastic here. The lake is full of rainbow trout, lake trout, and Chinook salmon. In winter, ice fishing brings dedicated anglers looking for their next big catch.

Provincial recreation sites like Cascade Falls and Cottonwood Beach surround Mabel Lake, so you can easily hit nearby hiking trails with amazing views. These paths take you through some of the most beautiful natural settings in the valley. The east side has excellent trail access.

Mabel Lake is less crowded than lakes in the south. Whether you're fishing, spotting birds, or hiking, this lake delivers for nature lovers. It's also pet-friendly, with plenty of space for dogs to enjoy.

Okanagan Valley Lakes for Every Mood

The Okanagan Valley is lake country at its best. Each lake has its own personality and charm. Whether you're fishing for trophy trout, hiking through provincial parks, or just relaxing on sandy beaches, these six lakes all deliver experiences worth remembering.

So grab your beach gear, pack some snacks, and discover your new favourite lake in the Okanagan. 

If you're dreaming of living in the Okanagan Valley, call the agents at KelownaHomes.ca at 250-999-9844 to get in touch with a local real estate agent who can help you find your perfect Okanagan Valley home.