Discover the Best Family-Friendly Activities and Venues in Kelowna and the Okanagan
Being a Kelowna-based photographer has its perks! They don’t call it “Kelownafornia” for nothing. The Okanagan Valley provides an incredible backdrop for photo sessions, with its gorgeous landscapes, serene beaches, and vibrant community. Whether you’re a local or visiting with your family, this region offers countless opportunities for fun and relaxation.
As an Okanagan family photographer, I not only specialize in documentary family photography in Kelowna and the surrounding areas but also offer on-location vacation photo sessions for visiting families. To help families plan their adventures, I’ve compiled an updated list of my favorite family-friendly activities and venues across the Okanagan. Some are perfect for photography, while others are simply great for spending quality time together.
Okanagan Beaches
The Okanagan is famous for its beautiful beaches, and they make for stunning family photo backdrops. Some of the top beaches in Kelowna include:
- Hot Sands Beach
- Gyro Beach Park
- Bertram Creek Regional Park
For quieter, more intimate settings, consider:
- Kinsmen Park
- Strathcona Park
- Francis Avenue Beach Access
- Royal Avenue Beach Access
Each beach offers unique scenery and opportunities for relaxation or play.
Fruit Orchards and Farms
No trip to the Okanagan is complete without visiting its famous orchards and farms. These locations are perfect for family outings, and some even make for beautiful photo session backdrops.
- Paynter’s Fruit Market (West Kelowna) – Enjoy fresh produce and a charming farm experience.
- Davison Orchards (Vernon) – A family favorite with you-pick options, a playground, and a café.
- Hillcrest Farm Market (Kelowna) – Browse fresh fruits and delicious treats in a scenic setting.
- Gambell Farms (Lake Country) – You-pick fruits and homemade goodies.
Family-Friendly Attractions
Kelowna and the Okanagan offer plenty of fun activities for kids of all ages. These spots are perfect for family days out:
- Kangaroo Creek Farm (Lake Country) – Interact with kangaroos, wallabies, and more!
- Planet Bee Honey Farm (Vernon) – Explore the world of bees with tastings and presentations.
- Scandia (Kelowna) – Mini-golf, arcade games, and go-karts.
- Energyplex (Kelowna) – A high-energy play space with trampolines, rock climbing, and more.
- Wildplay Kelowna – Outdoor obstacle courses, ziplines, and thrilling adventures.
Seasonal Festivals and Events
The Okanagan hosts an array of seasonal festivals that families can enjoy year-round.
- Rutland May Days (Kelowna) – Carnival rides, games, and family entertainment.
- Fat Cat Children’s Festival (Kelowna) – A waterfront celebration with parades, live performances, and crafts.
- Interior Provincial Exhibition (Armstrong) – Animals, carnival rides, and a rodeo.
Summer Outdoor Fun
Make the most of summer with these outdoor activities:
- Wibit Sports (Kelowna) – A floating water park with slides and trampolines.
- Myra Canyon Adventure Park (Kelowna) – Ziplining and ropes courses.
- Penticton Channel – Float down this iconic summer destination.
Winter Activities
When the snow falls, the Okanagan transforms into a winter wonderland with plenty of family-friendly options:
- Big White Ski Resort (Kelowna) – Skiing, tubing, skating, and dining options for the whole family.
- SilverStar Mountain Resort (Vernon) – Fairy tale outdoor skating, skiing, and snowshoeing.
- Stuart Park Skating (Kelowna) – Enjoy free outdoor skating in the heart of Kelowna.
Let’s Create Your Family Memories
Kelowna and the Okanagan Valley offer endless opportunities for family fun and connection. Whether you’re exploring the region’s beaches, orchards, or attractions, these moments deserve to be captured. As an experienced family photographer, I specialize in creating natural, documentary-style images that reflect the love and joy shared between families.
Contact me to book your family photo session and preserve these cherished memories for a lifetime.