Okanagan Wineries

The Okanagan Valley: Lakes, Vineyards, and Laid-Back Vibes

The Okanagan Valley in British Columbia is one of those places that has something for everyone — warm weather, beautiful scenery, and lots to see and do. It’s known for its long, sunny summers, clear blue lakes, and rows upon rows of vineyards and orchards.

The towns like Kelowna, Penticton, and Naramata each have their own personality, but they all share that same easygoing vibe. Whether you’re wine tasting, hitting the beach, walking a trail, or just driving through the rolling hills, it’s the kind of place where you can slow down and enjoy the moment.

Kangaroo Creek Farm: A Fun and Unexpected Stop in the Okanagan

One of the more unique stops we made in the Okanagan was the Kangaroo Creek Farm in Lake Country, just north of Kelowna. It’s not every day you get to say you hung out with kangaroos in British Columbia!

The farm is home to a variety of animals, not just kangaroos, but also wallabies, capybaras, emus, parrots, and even a sugar glider or two. It’s a hands-on kind of place, where you can walk right into the enclosures and interact with the animals up close. It’s well-run, very family-friendly, and clearly focused on animal care and education.

We weren’t sure what to expect, but it turned out to be a really fun and memorable experience. Whether you’re travelling with kids or just want to do something different between wine tastings and lake time, this place is worth a visit.

Wine Tasting in West Kelowna: Small Sips, Big Views

West Kelowna was one of our favourite stops in the Okanagan, laid-back, scenic, and home to some seriously great wineries. The best part? Each one we visited had its own vibe, which made the day feel more like an adventure than just a wine tour.

Our first stop was The Hatch, which was quirky and fun, definitely not your average winery. It has a relaxed, almost rebellious feel to it, with unique artwork and a cheeky personality that comes through in both the space and the wine. It felt more like hanging out with friends than being at a tasting room.

Next, we stopped in at Frind Estate Beachfront Winery, and yes, it really is right on the beach! You can sip wine with your toes in the sand and a lake breeze in your hair. It’s a beautiful spot, perfect for a sunny afternoon, and the views alone are worth the visit.

Our final stop was Off the Grid Organic Winery, which felt like a peaceful retreat tucked into the hillside. With goats on the grass roof, solar panels, and an earthy, sustainable approach to winemaking, it felt honest and grounded and the wine was lovely, too.

Each winery offered something a little different, and together they made for a perfect West Kelowna day: good wine, great views, and a relaxed pace that let us enjoy it all without rushing.

Penticton & the Naramata Bench: Wine, Views, and a Bit of Local Flavour

Penticton was one of those places that made us instantly feel at home. It has that small-town feel but with lots going on, especially if you’re into wine, food, and beautiful lake views.

We spent a day exploring the Naramata Bench, just a short drive from town, and it’s honestly one of the prettiest wine regions we’ve ever visited. Rolling vineyards stretch out above Okanagan Lake, and there’s a calm, peaceful vibe everywhere you go. The wineries here are mostly small and family-run, which makes for a more personal experience. Each stop felt relaxed and unpretentious, with stunning patio views and friendly staff happy to chat about their wines.

Back in Penticton, we also made time for the Saturday Farmers’ Market, which turned out to be one of the best we’ve ever been to. There were fresh fruits and veggies, local honey and jams, handmade crafts, and even live music. The whole downtown comes alive with locals and visitors and it’s a great spot to grab a coffee and just wander.

Between the wine, the market, and the easy pace of life here, we left feeling like we’d tapped into something special. Penticton and the Naramata Bench are definitely spots we’d come back to, maybe with a little extra room in the car for wine next time.