Skaha Beach
A pristine sandy beach on Skaha Lake, offering calm, clear waters, family fun, and a peaceful escape with free parking and ample shade.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peaceful and less crowded
Skaha Beach
Best Time
Peaceful and less crowded
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A pristine sandy beach on Skaha Lake, offering calm, clear waters, family fun, and a peaceful escape with free parking and ample shade.
"Great place! The sand is very nice, the water is crystal clear, and there is no mud or plants in the water."
🚗 Free Parking Available
Plenty of free parking lots are conveniently located near the beach. :car:
☀️ Seek Shade Under Trees
Tall trees offer natural shade, perfect for escaping the sun. :palm_tree:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Sandy Shores & Clear Waters
Main beach area
Enjoy a wide, clean sandy beach with crystal-clear, calm lake waters perfect for swimming.
Family Playground Fun
Near the beach
Kids will love the dedicated playground and a unique water slide for splashing good times.
Lakeside Relaxation
Throughout the beach
Find shade under tall trees, relax on benches, or simply enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
Water Sports Adventures
Rental kiosks
Rent kayaks and SUP boards for a fun day out on the calm, bathtub-warm Skaha Lake .
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds & Geese
Summer Fun Essentials
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Free Parking Available
Plenty of free parking lots are conveniently located near the beach. :car:
☀️ Seek Shade Under Trees
Tall trees offer natural shade, perfect for escaping the sun. :palm_tree:
🦢 Watch for Geese
Geese are common, especially in spring. Be aware of potential beach closures due to E. coli. :bird:
🛶 Rent Water Gear
Kayaks and SUP boards are available for rent for lake adventures. :kayak:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Free Parking Available
Plenty of free parking lots are conveniently located near the beach. :car:
☀️ Seek Shade Under Trees
Tall trees offer natural shade, perfect for escaping the sun. :palm_tree:
🦢 Watch for Geese
Geese are common, especially in spring. Be aware of potential beach closures due to E. coli. :bird:
🛶 Rent Water Gear
Kayaks and SUP boards are available for rent for lake adventures. :kayak:
🏐 Beach Volleyball Fun
Multiple volleyball nets are set up for active beachgoers. :volleyball:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Skaha Beach's clean, sandy shores and crystal-clear, calm waters, making it perfect for swimming and family fun. The free parking, ample shade, and family-friendly amenities like a playground and water slide are frequently praised. While dining options are limited to a kiosk, the peaceful atmosphere and beautiful lake views make it a highly recommended spot.
"Great place👍👍👍. We visited it for the first time today. The sand is very nice, the water is crystal clear, there is no mud or plants in the water. Wide beach strip🌞. Free parking🚗🚙🛻. There is a slide for children right into the water. There are tall trees on the beach and you can hide from the sun in their shade.There is a kiosk selling drinks and coffee. There is kayaks and SUP boards for rent. We are really like this place🎉🎉🎉🎉"
Наталья Высоцкая
"Spend a relaxing afternoon here. Barely any people on a weekday mid-September. Clean beach, clear water, enjoyed swimming in the lake. Lots of space. Some shade from trees if you need it. Free parking. Quiet and peaceful. Two ducks came to visit us!
There's multiple volleyball nets next to the beach if you wanna add some activity."
Juliet D
"Tad colder than Okanogan Lake but it is generally less windy and less busy. My kids loved the playground. I love the pond that always has a turtle or two sitting on a log."
Matt Thomson
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Skaha Beach is located in Penticton, BC. It's easily accessible by car, with ample free parking available. Public transit options may also be available; check local Penticton transit schedules for routes serving the beach area.
Yes, there are multiple free parking lots conveniently located near the beach, making it easy to access for visitors.
Penticton has a network of bike paths. You can likely cycle to Skaha Beach, and there may be bike racks available for securing your bicycle.
While the beach itself is sandy, pathways leading to the beach and amenities like restrooms are generally designed for accessibility. It's always a good idea to check with local authorities for the most up-to-date accessibility information.
Driving is the most straightforward. It's a short drive south from downtown Penticton. You can also consider a taxi or rideshare service.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Skaha Beach is a public beach and does not have an entrance fee. Enjoy the amenities and natural beauty for free.
Skaha Beach is generally open from dawn until dusk, allowing visitors to enjoy the space throughout the day. Specific facility hours (like restrooms or kiosks) may vary.
For private events like beach baptisms, you would typically need to contact the local municipality or event organizers for permits and arrangements. Skaha Beach itself doesn't require booking for general public use.
During certain times, especially in spring, Skaha Beach may have temporary swimming advisories or closures due to E. coli concerns related to geese. Always check local advisories before visiting.
Yes, rentals for kayaks and SUP boards are available on-site and require payment. Prices will vary based on the rental duration and type of equipment.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can swim, sunbathe, build sandcastles, play beach volleyball, rent kayaks or SUP boards, and enjoy the playground. It's also a great spot for a relaxing picnic.
Absolutely! Skaha Beach is very family-friendly with a dedicated playground and a water slide. The calm, clear water is also ideal for children.
Yes, public restrooms are available at Skaha Beach for visitor convenience.
Yes, Skaha Beach is a perfect spot for a picnic. There are benches and plenty of space, and you can find shade under the trees.
Skaha Beach can get busy during peak summer weekends. Weekdays and the shoulder seasons (spring and fall) are generally much less crowded.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There is a kiosk selling drinks and coffee at Skaha Beach. For a wider selection of dining options, you'll find more restaurants and cafes in downtown Penticton.
Yes, bringing your own food and drinks is highly recommended, especially if you plan to spend a full day. It's a great spot for a picnic.
While not explicitly mentioned, some public beaches offer BBQ pits. It's best to check with the City of Penticton for current facilities.
The kiosk typically offers basic refreshments like drinks and coffee. For more substantial meals, plan to bring your own or dine elsewhere.
Alcohol consumption rules can vary by location and time. It's advisable to check the City of Penticton's bylaws regarding alcohol in public parks and beaches.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture stunning shots of the lake and mountains, especially during sunrise or sunset. The S.S. Sicamous offers a unique historical backdrop.
Drone usage is subject to local regulations. Always check with the City of Penticton and Transport Canada for rules regarding drone operation in public spaces.
The 'golden hours' – early morning and late afternoon – offer beautiful soft light for photography. Midday can be harsh, but the clear water is always photogenic.
The contrast of the sandy beach against the clear blue lake and surrounding hills is picturesque. The historic S.S. Sicamous is also a great subject.
As long as you are respectful of the participants and their privacy, taking photos of public events is generally permissible. Be mindful of the sacred nature of some ceremonies.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
🧘♀️ Relaxation Seekers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Skaha Lake: A Water Lover's Paradise
However, visitors should be aware of potential seasonal issues. In the spring, the presence of geese can sometimes lead to temporary beach closures due to elevated E. coli levels. While this is a natural occurrence, it's always wise to check local advisories before planning a swim. Despite this, the overall water quality is excellent, offering a refreshing escape during the hot Okanagan summers. The lake's beauty is further enhanced by the surrounding rolling hills and vineyards, providing a picturesque backdrop for any waterside activity.
Family Fun at Skaha Beach
Beyond the dedicated play areas, the beach offers ample space for families to spread out and relax. Tall trees provide natural shade, a welcome respite on sunny days, and benches are scattered throughout for parents to supervise or simply enjoy the view. The convenience of free parking close to the beach and readily available public restrooms further enhances the family-friendly experience, minimizing logistical headaches for those with young children. The overall atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming, making Skaha Beach a go-to spot for a stress-free family outing.
Beyond the Beach: Local Charm and Activities
Penticton itself is known for its wineries and orchards, making it a great base for exploring the South Okanagan wine region. The city also features a vibrant downtown area with shops and restaurants. For a different perspective, consider a visit to the Skaha Bluffs Provincial Park, known for its world-class rock climbing and hiking trails, offering panoramic views of the valley and lakes. The proximity of Skaha Beach to these diverse activities makes it a well-rounded destination for various interests.

Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit