Living in McKinley Landing Kelowna: Embrace the Lakeside Life

Posted by Dave Kotler on Monday, June 12th, 2023 at 12:52pm.

What it's Like to Live in McKinley Landing

Poised on the picturesque shores of Okanagan Lake in British Columbia, McKinley Landing is a charming community that offers a tranquil and luxurious living experience. Boasting breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and pristine waters, this idyllic location is a haven for those moving to Kelowna seeking a serene retreat. With its pristine beaches, world-class wineries, and abundant recreational opportunities, McKinley Landing presents an exquisite lifestyle. Whether enjoying a leisurely stroll along the waterfront or indulging in the region's renowned wine culture, McKinley Landing epitomizes refined living in a breathtaking natural setting.

10 Reasons to Love Living in McKinley Landing

  • McKinley Beach
  • Private marina and beach rentals
  • Outdoor paradise with hiking, rock climbing & lake recreation
  • Downtown Kelowna shopping & dining
  • Beautiful lakeside boardwalk
  • 15 minutes from Kelowna International Airport
  • Thriving technology sector
  • University of British Columbia Okanagan
  • Knox Mountain Park
  • Heart of Canada's wine country

McKinley Community Lifestyle

McKinley Landing is a newer subdivision located north of Knox Mountain and Downtown Kelowna in British Columbia. The small neighbourhood has about a half-dozen beach access points, and Okanagan Lake is a significant part of living here. McKinley Beach has its own private marina with 92 boat slips in it, and many residents own a boat and spend time fishing out on the lake or enjoying other activities like water skiing.

The area at McKinley Landing was first settled in 1896 but has only come under development in recent years. The neighbourhood is just a few minutes north of Downtown Kelowna, where residents can meet all of their shopping, dining, entertainment and nightlife needs. Active residents and nature enthusiasts enjoy this neighbourhood because of the great Kelowna hiking trails, green spaces, and parks that are close by. Much of the land surrounding McKinley Landing has been permanently set aside for public recreation.

Types of Homes in McKinley Landing

McKinley Landing is primarily a community of waterfront homes along Okanagan Lake and luxury homes built into the hillside above the lake. The predominant architectural style among these newer homes is modern, with many forward-facing windows to take advantage of the spectacular lake views. There are also some luxury townhomes and low-rise condos in the neighbourhood. With empty lots for sale, it means that future residents have the opportunity to build the new construction home of their dreams. The median price for homes in McKinley Landing is about $1,350,000, with the most expensive homes costing more than $2 million.

Things to Do in McKinley Landing

Activities in McKinley LAnding

Part of the reason why the area around Kelowna is so popular with visitors is the local climate. The geography of the lake and the local mountains means that Kelowna has some of the mildest winters in Canada. The town has all the modern amenities, dining, nightlife and activities anyone could wish for. Here is a closer look at the many things to do in Kelowna and McKinley Landing.

Restaurants, Breweries & Bars

From Kelowna's best wineries to lively bars and pubs, there's plenty of opportunity to eat and drink near McKinley Landing. One of the most fantastic dining experiences in the area is about 25 kilometres north of McKinley Landing, in Cedar Grove. BLOCK ONE Restaurant at the 50th Parallel Winery has to be seen to be believed. The building is an architectural wonder, and the food is exquisite.

Krafty Kitchen + Bar is a fun place for dinner and drinks, with tunes from the 1980s and '90s playing in the background. The menu is an exciting fusion of Canadian and Asian favourites.

The Cactus Club Cafe at the Kelowna Yacht Club is a great waterfront dining experience, with plenty of indoor and outdoor seating. The menu includes casual fare, burgers and fine-dining entrees.

Shore Line Brewing in Kelowna is a micro-brewery with interesting creations on tap and light pub fare to enjoy.

Nearby Attractions

Kelowna's best golf courses, which represent a share of the 14 total courses in the area, are located in and around the city and McKinley Landing with the exception of two courses across the lake in West Kelowna. The closest course to McKinley Landing is the Okanagan Golf Club.

The Stephens Coyote Ridge Regional Park represents McKinley Landing's backyard to the east. The park has hiking trails that reach a viewpoint at the top, and leashed dogs are welcome on the trails. The entrance to the park is at the North Glenmore Dog Park, a 5.25-hectare open space for dogs to run around off-leash.

The Big White Ski Resort is located about 70 kilometres to the southeast of McKinley Landing for significant skiing and snowboarding fun. The Crystal Mountain Ski Resort is a closer option, 45 kilometres away in West Kelowna, and it also has a golf course open during the summer months.

Believe it or not, one of the largest kangaroo farms outside of Australia is located just a few minutes east of McKinley Landing! The Kangaroo Creek Farm can be visited seven days a week between May and early October.

Employers Near McKinley Landing

Similar to the economy in Kelowna, manufacturing, technology, agriculture, health care and tourism are the top industries anchoring the economy near McKinley Landing. KF Aerospace is the single largest employer in Kelowna. The company provides maintenance and engineering for civilian and military aircraft and has about 1,000 employees.

Approximately one of every four jobs in the valley is believed to be in the healthcare sector. BC Fruits and Sun-Rype Products employ more than 400 people in the agriculture sector. Other large employers include the University of British Columbia, BC Hydro, Reidco Metal Industries, and Campion Marine.

Schools Near McKinley Landing

Schools Near McKinley LAnding

No matter the age of McKinley Landing students, they'll attend schools in Kelowna or North Glenmore. Elementary students in McKinley Landing attend North Glenmore Elementary School, while junior high students attend Dr. Knox Middle School, which has a French Immersion program for students starting in Grade 7. High school students attend Kelowna Secondary School, where they can continue with French Immersion courses.

For higher education, Okanagan College in South Kelowna offers several baccalaureate degrees, associate degrees, and certificates. The University of British Columbia - Okanagan Campus is a public research university near McKinley Landing. The school has more than 10,000 undergraduates and more than 1,000 graduate students. It has 62 bachelor's degree programs and 19 post-graduate programs for students.

Lakeside Living in McKinley Landing

McKinley Landing is a testament to the allure of luxury living in the stunning Okanagan Valley region of British Columbia. Its unparalleled beauty, from the shimmering waters of Okanagan Lake to the majestic mountains that frame the landscape, creates an enchanting backdrop for an exquisite lifestyle. Whether engaging in water sports, golfing at nearby courses, or simply savouring the region's dining delights, McKinley Landing presents a harmonious blend of natural beauty and sophisticated living that captivates any individual seeking an extraordinary lifestyle.

If the opportunities in Kelowna excite you, contact the agents at KelownaHomes.ca at 250-999-9844 to get in touch with a local real estate agent who can help you find the perfect home in Kelowna today.

Dave Kotler

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