Okanagan Summer: To-Do List Part 1
For the next three weeks on the McKinley Beach Facebook page, we’re going to be asking you the question ‘Would You Rather’. By commenting on the contest post, participants will be entered into a draw for gift certificates from local businesses with prize draws happening on Wednesdays and Fridays.
Making the choice between which exciting activity you want to take part in this summer can be a difficult decision to make but this week’s blog post is here to help you decide.
This week’s question is Would You Rather enjoy a relaxing day on the sunny beach or hit the Okanagan hiking trails with friends? So far the results on the McKinley Beach Facebook Page show the majority of people want to hike and then relax on a beach. What this tells us is that people want it all!
BEACH LIFE!
There are nine public beaches that populate the waterfront in the Kelowna area. Here are a few of our favorite sandy escapes and how you can make the best of your beach time:
Hot Sands Beach – City Park (Abbott St) – Easily the largest beach in Kelowna, Hot Sands stretches from the WAC Bennett Bridge to the downtown core. In addition to a wide expanse of sandy beach area, it also features volleyball and basketball courts, a boardwalk populated with food and craft vendors, washrooms, changing rooms, a waterpark, skatepark, and a live music stage.
Tug Boat Bay – Waterfront Park (Water St) – Located by the Delta Grand Hotel, Tug Boat Bay is a beautiful spot to hang out during the summer months and features paddle boat rentals, boat launches, and the Island Music Stage. To the south, the boardwalk connects the area to the downtown core and nature enthusiasts can enjoy the diverse wildlife population at the Rotary Marshes located at the north end of the beach.
Rotary Park Beach (Lakeshore Rd) – Equipped with change rooms, playgrounds, and a picnic area, the Rotary Park Beach, located in the Mission Area, is perfect for families. The beach is also a favorite spot for water sports enthusiasts who can often be seen kiteboarding and windsurfing in the area.
A HIKER’S PARADISE
If you prefer to hit the hiking trails rather than the beaches, you’re in luck! With Kelowna being situated in a valley, there are numerous hiking trails for all levels located around the outskirts of the city. Here are a few of our favorite spots to explore:
Knox Mountain – One of the most popular hiking spots in Kelowna due to it being ideally located near the downtown core, Knox Mountain features 1-5 kilometers of moderate to difficult trails, beautiful views of the city and lake, and steep inclines for a great workout.
Dilworth Mountain – Located in the Glenmore area, Dilworth mountain can be seen from almost anywhere in Kelowna. It features 1-3 kilometers of easy to moderate hiking trails and provides the best views of the city.
Mission Creek Regional Park – The Mission Creek Park is an expansive area with moderate to difficult trails that are perfect for jogging, running, walking, and biking. There are a total of 16 kilometers of trails for you to explore and dogs are allowed as long as they’re kept on a leash.
Fortunately, at the new McKinley Beach community you can do all this and more! The new development comes with a full kilometer of sunny beachfront where you can catch some rays or swim in the lake. The area also hosts a comprehensive trail network; whether you’re looking for a casual stroll or want to work up a sweat, the area is ideal for hikers of all levels.
Learn more about McKinley Beach by visiting the official website at www.McKinleyBeach.ca or drop by the Discovery Centre, at 1508 Water Street, and let Michel and Rebekah give you a virtual guided tour of the community.