8 Kelowna, BC Public Transportation Options

No matter where Kelowna's residents live, they can enjoy the perks of having ample public transit throughout the region. This makes commuting to work and school a breeze and moving around from place to place for shopping, dining, or visiting Kelowna's most popular attractions convenient and affordable. Read on and check out all of the public transit options in Kelowna that get passengers from point A to point B.

Kelowna Regional Transit System

The Kelowna Region Transit System primarily operates under the title of BC Transit. The company owns and operates a sizable fleet consisting of more than 1,100 buses of varying duty and capacity levels. All forms of BC transit are fully accessible, and the HandyDART sector operates paratransit services for eligible Kelowna residents. Bus options currently include:

• High Capacity Buses ('Double Deckers')
• Heavy Duty Buses
• Hybrid Buses
• Medium Duty Buses
• Light Duty Shuttle Buses

Across Kelowna, residents have their choice of 28 bus routes on the regular schedule. Most of the routes run every 30 minutes and pick up from early morning until late in the evening. Riders typically arrive at their destinations in 10–45 minutes, depending on the overall distance between the stops. When travelling across the city, riders only need to transfer to a different bus line once at most.

Covered bus stops are arranged across the city, giving people a place to await the next bus on the schedule. They can check their route and plan their transfers using the map installed on the bus shelter while they wait.

When riding public transportation, residents can select between single and multi-zone passes. The multi-zone pass is only 25 cents more than the single zone, making it a great value for those travelling far across the city. They also have the option to sign up for an all-day pass. Residents may be able to acquire discount passes through their workplace or school if the organization is signed up for the applicable programs.

Operations run across the province, offering door-to-door service from small towns to larger cities and longer distances. More than 57 million passengers use BC Transit annually. Buses are equipped with bike carriers, which may be used before dark. Fares range between zones and typically cost between $2–$4 for local routes. Call 250-860-8121 or use the BC Transit app for scheduling and rates.

Popular lines include the Rapid Bus Transit system that connects multiple exchanges between the Westbank Centre community, downtown Kelowna, and South Okanagan. Since it receives priority from traffic signals and hops on all available HOV lanes, the Rapid Bus makes quick work of all trips. To provide this quick service, it also has limited stops, only arriving at a few stations along the way.

The bus stations used for the Rapid Bus routes are also streamlined for quick stops and starts. The loading platforms are aligned at the same height as the floors of the bus, allowing everyone to load and unload with ease. Even wheelchair users can get on and off without having to ask for a ramp to be deployed. Many bus shelters on these lines are equipped with heaters and additional protection from the elements. They are also upgraded with digital maps that show all the routes and any changes on the schedule in real-time.

HandyDART

Part of the BC Transit System, HandyDART is the extension of public transportation specifically for paratransit services. This dial-a-ride service is only available to eligible residents who have had an application approved concerning their inability to use regular transit services without assistance. Registering is free, and transfers from other provinces can be accepted.

The HandyDART bus line operates on a door-to-door system, providing people with rides to and from their destinations. This service runs through the daytime hours Monday through Saturday, but there is no transportation on Sundays or holidays. Riders pay a single-zone fare for each ride. They can also sign up for a monthly pass if needed.

HandyDART also provides a fixed-route service, which includes buses with low floors and ramps or lift-equipped buses on a set schedule. These buses also have securements for wheelchairs and scooters.

Attendants may ride as well, and there is no charge for their journey if the client requires more assistance than the driver can provide or the client requires assistance at their destination. Non-attendant companions are permitted so long as there's space available but must pay the fare. Clients should notify HandyDART at the time of reservation if an attendant or companion is travelling with them.

RapidBus

Residents of Kelowna can also take the RapidBus, or 97 Okanagan, to select destinations. This ultra-quick bus system travels between downtown Kelowna, Westbank Centre, and the UBC Okanagan Exchange.

Since it receives priority from traffic signals and hops on all available HOV lanes, this bus makes quick work of all trips. To provide this quick service, it also has limited stops, only arriving at a few stations along the way.

The bus stations used for these routes are also streamlined for quick stops and starts. The loading platforms are aligned at the same height as the floors of the bus, allowing everyone to load and unload with ease. Even wheelchair users can get on and off without having to ask for a ramp to be deployed.

Many bus shelters on these lines are equipped with heaters and additional protection from the elements. They are also upgraded with digital maps that show all the routes and any changes on the schedule in real-time.

Bike Rentals in Kelowna

While Kelowna locals were thrilled to have e-scooter and bikeshare services available, recent circumstances have resulted in the ceasing of these programs. However, there are several bike companies around the community, and here are two top choices.

Velo Volt Mobile E-Bike Rentals

Velo Volt Mobile E-Bike Rentals has a huge fleet of e-bikes, superior rental services, drop-off services, and they even offer tours. Bikes are equipped with helmets, bike logs, waterproof bags, phone holders, lights, and more, so exploring isn't limited by gear.

Riders simply need to make a reservation via phone, online, or with the Velo Volt App to get started exploring the best of the Kelowna region in an ecologically friendly fashion. Book a beach or vineyard tour with one of Velo Volt's guides, or request a self-guided tour map that shows the best places to ride around Kelowna.

Kelowna Bike Rentals

Conveniently located downtown, Kelowna Bike Rentals has a massive collection of cruisers, mountain bikes, adaptables, e-bikes, and tandem bikes. Regardless of the rider's size, athletic ability, or desired destination, they'll have a suitable option. As one of the most affordable bike rental companies in Kelowna, they are well worth considering for those looking to get around without public transit or private autos.

Rideshare Options in Kelowna, BC

Lucky to Go

Lucky to Go is one of the best ridesharing options in Kelowna for those who have a set destination and need reliable transportation. Drivers get riders there and back in one- and two-way travel options. Lucky to Go is app-driven, and rides can be hailed with a few clicks from a smartphone. They operate seven days a week, 24 hours a day, and even offer wine tour transportation packages.

Ridesharing.com

Ridesharing.com brings together locals who need rides and desire to be as economical and efficient as possible. There are many options for travelling, including private rideshare with a trained driver. Another option is to connect with locals heading to the same destination for a single shared ride. Many residents create a carpool for daily commutes, and this app-driven company helps those people find one another with ease.

Taxi & Car Services in Kelowna

West Cabs

There are numerous car and taxi services in Kelowna, and West Cabs is one of the easiest to use via a smartphone app. The company takes passengers across the province and offers a private car service with professional drivers. Their cars are ultra-luxury models, making them ideal for out-of-town journeys, airport transfers, and picking up visitors.

Kelowna Cabs Westside Taxi

Kelowna Cabs Westside Taxi has a huge fleet of 75 autos, and the company is currently updating their models to ensure more are ecologically mindful. They are the first cab service in town to use hybrid cars. Use the app or call direct for a pickup.

Getting Around Kelowna is Easy with Public Transit

There are many things to see and do in Kelowna. Along with an urban vibe should come urban amenities, and the vast public transit system, private cabs, bike rental services, and ridesharing options make it simple to get around Kelowna quickly and efficiently.

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.