8 Reasons to Move to Summerland: Lakefront Living at Its Finest

Nestled on the southwestern shores of the breathtaking Okanagan Lake lies the enchanting town of Summerland. Renowned for its beautiful waterfront views, abundant outdoor activities, and thriving wine industry, Summerland is a waterfront gem that offers both the serenity of a vacation retreat and the comfort of a hometown. Whether you're seeking a second home or a lifelong residence in the Okanagan Valley, Summerland's idyllic charm invites exploration and beckons you to stay.

8 Reasons to Live in Summerland

• Stunning Natural Beauty: Summerland is renowned for its picturesque landscapes, offering breathtaking views of Okanagan Lake and the surrounding mountains. 
• Waterfront Living: Residents can enjoy boating, fishing, swimming, paddle boarding, and more on any given day.
• Thriving Wine Industry: Summerland is part of the Okanagan Valley, one of Canada's premier wine regions. The town boasts numerous vineyards and wineries.
• Outdoor Fun Everywhere: From biking and hiking trails to winter sports like snowshoeing and cross-country skiing, Summerland caters to all outdoor enthusiasts.
• Charming Downtown: The downtown area creates a welcoming, small-town atmosphere and modern amenities that make it a delightful place to live.
• Community Spirit: With many festivals and events throughout the year, like Light Up Summerland and the Summerland Fall Fair, residents have a strong sense of community spirit and camaraderie.
• Proximity to Other Okanagan Cities: Summerland is conveniently located near some of the best Okanagan Valley cities, including Penticton, the Peachland community, and Kelowna.
• Year-Round Climate: Summerland boasts warm, dry summers and mild winters, making it an ideal location for those who enjoy both sun-soaked days and snow-capped seasons nearby. 

The Summerland Lifestyle

To live in Summerland is to live in paradise. Much of the local lifestyle is shaped by Okanagan Lake. The average warm-weather day in Summerland might start with a tranquil morning stroll along the pristine shorelines of Okanagan Lake, a refreshing morning swim, or an invigorating paddleboard session on the calm waters, all of which can be easily accessed from the spectacular waterfront homes in Summerland.

The outdoor fun doesn't stop when winter rolls around, though. With temperatures rarely dropping below freezing, November to February are perfect for exploring the region's numerous hiking trails. Those who love snowy scenery won't have to travel too far to find it, either. 

The bustling town centre is a hive of activity. Residents enjoy a mix of small-town charm and modern conveniences, with boutique stores, cafés, and restaurants offering a variety of local and global cuisines. One can spend the afternoon browsing through unique art galleries or visiting the Summerland Museum to delve into the rich local history.

Agriculture is integral to the town's identity. As a hub of Okanagan's wine country, you can explore dozens of wineries and tasting rooms in town. Meanwhile, the local restaurants serve delicious cuisine utilizing produce grown at one of Summerland's 250 farms.

Real Estate in Summerland

Boasting an abundance of beautiful real estate, homes in Summerland list from the high $200s to more than $4 million. Luxury homes in Summerland can typically be found in the $1–$4 million range. From sprawling lakefront mansions that offer panoramic views of Okanagan Lake to homes set amidst vast acreage for those seeking a bit more privacy and a closer connection to nature, the property styles in Summerland are as varied as they are attractive. 

Summerland also hosts several condo communities. These condos are often located near downtown or right on Okanagan Lake. Condos for sale in Summerland list from around $300,000 to more than $3 million and offer a chance to enjoy the best aspects of living in Summerland. 

Summerland Amenities

Summerland may be a small town, but its amenities provide the convenience you'd expect in a much larger city. The numerous local shops make it easy to run everyday errands, while the community organizations foster a sense of unity. 

Local Services

There are several community organizations in Summerland. The arts and culture organizations provide opportunities to create and appreciate various fine arts. Whether you love painting, playing music, or want to volunteer at a museum, these organizations can help make it happen. Additionally, sports organizations include baseball, soccer, hockey, and more.  

Community event spaces, like Summerland Centre Stage Theater and Memorial Park, are available to rent for any large events you may want to host. They also host fun annual events like the Good Will Shakespeare Festival. 

Shopping

Shopping is easy and fun in Summerland. Daily essentials can easily be found at stores such as IGA and Nester's Market, offering a broad array of grocery items to meet the residents' needs. McConnell's Fruit Market and Orchard is a must-visit for some of the best produce in town.

Additionally, the community holds a farmers' market every Sunday from late June to late September. It's a vibrant scene, with locals and visitors alike browsing stalls loaded with seasonal produce, baked goods, artisan crafts, and more, all while enjoying the friendly and communal atmosphere. For those seeking a more upscale shopping experience, downtown Summerland offers an array of boutique stores featuring everything from high-end fashion to unique home goods. 

Things to Do in Summerland

A delightful array of activities awaits visitors and residents alike. Whether immersing yourself in nature, indulging in world-class wines, or exploring local culture and history, the many things to do in Summerland guarantee a memorable experience.

Outdoor Activities

Outdoor enthusiasts will find no shortage of adventures in Summerland. The town is home to five inviting beaches—Kinsmen Beach, Peach Orchard Beach, Rotary Beach, Powell Beach, and Sun-Oka Beach—each offering unique charm and opportunities for water activities, sunbathing, and family picnics. The best beaches in Kelowna, West Kelowna, Peachland, and other area communities are all within day-trip distance, too.

Memorial Park and Spirit Square are popular parks among residents, offering a peaceful setting for strolling, picnicking, or simply enjoying the outdoors. For those who crave more adventure, the Summerland Centennial Trail, Summerland Rotary Trail Lakeshore Loop, and a portion of the Trans Canada Trail provide scenic hiking trails for all experience levels. These trails wind through some of the town's most beautiful landscapes, offering breathtaking views and a chance to get up close and personal with the region's stunning natural beauty.

Best Restaurants & Wineries

The local food and wine scene best expresses Summerland's deep agricultural roots. A local favourite is Peacock's Perch Pub, a cozy venue serving comfort food classics like poutine, Yorkshire pudding, and fish and chips. Country Cafe is the go-to breakfast spot for its hearty meals and friendly service. Just Delicious Japanese Bistro has an impressive menu featuring sushi, rice bowls, and other Japanese specialties.

In addition to being a quick drive away from Kelowna’s best wineries, Summerland is home to several esteemed wineries and breweries, making it a must-visit for those passionate about artisanal beverages. Back Door Winery is a popular spot, offering a range of award-winning wines that truly capture the essence of the region's optimal growing conditions. For beer lovers, Giant's Head Brewing serves up a variety of craft beers, each brewed with a dedication to quality and flavour. Alchemist Distiller adds to the town's rich beverage landscape with a selection of finely crafted apple-based spirits.

Nearby Attractions

The area surrounding Summerland is as fun as the town itself. The Okanagan Valley is world-famous for its stunning landscapes, lake activities, and charming villages. Summerland locals are conveniently located near other attractive communities, such as the city of Penticton and Peachland.

A mere 40-minute drive away is the city of Kelowna, the largest community in the Okanagan Valley. Known for its vibrant arts scene, Kelowna is a cultural hub with many attractions. With the bounty of things to do in Kelowna, it’s perfect for day trips or weekend getaways.

Employers in Summerland

The largest employer is the Okanagan-Skaha School District. The district provides numerous opportunities in teaching, administrative, and support roles. Following closely, the Summerland District government is another major employer, offering positions in a wide range of public service roles, from administration to urban planning and maintenance. 

Since Summerland is less than 50 kilometres from the larger Kelowna economy, many residents make the daily commute north. The tourism industry also contributes a wealth of employment opportunities. Jobs in this sector range from hospitality and customer service roles in hotels, restaurants, and wineries to positions in tour companies and local attractions. Summerland's active agricultural landscape also creates a host of jobs in farming, food production, and related industries. 

Schools in Summerland

A mix of public and private institutions presents a desirable range of educational options near Summerland. Summerland falls under School District 67 (Okanagan-Skaha), which serves the entire South Okanagan region, including Penticton, Kaleden, Summerland, and Naramata. The district comprises 11 elementary schools, three middle schools, and three secondary schools.

For households seeking private education, Unisus School presents a unique option. This independent boarding school caters to Kindergarten through Grade 12 students and is part of the globally recognized International Baccalaureate program. The private schools in Kelowna are also accessible, though it’s more rare for students to make the daily drive.

Are You Ready to Move to Summerland?

Summerland is an undeniably special place. Whether you're a lover of the great outdoors, a culinary enthusiast, a history buff, or someone seeking a serene place to call home, Summerland has everything you need. The magic of this community is captured not just in its spectacular landscapes but in the charming streets and vibrant lifestyle. With so much to offer, moving to Summerland is a step towards a life filled with discovery, enjoyment, and relaxation.

Thinking about moving to Summerland? 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 dream Summerland home.