Swim Warm Water and Explore Penticton with Your Family
Why Rent On Skaha Lake
Skaha Lake forms the southern boundary of Penticton in BC’s Okanagan Valley, a 25-kilometre lake flanked by the charming community of Okanagan Falls to the south and the lakeside neighbourhood of Kaleden to the west. It is the quieter sibling to the famous Okanagan Lake to the north, slightly warmer, slightly less crowded, and consistently underappreciated by visitors who do not know to look for it. The silt and clay cliffs above the lake’s southern reaches, shaped by glacial processes over thousands of years, give the landscape an unusual and striking character. Waterfront vacation homes, cozy lakeside cabins, and pet-friendly rentals around Skaha Lake comfortably sleep four to ten guests with lake views, private docks where available, and access to the kind of Okanagan summer that is about slow mornings and warm water rather than resort schedules.
Skaha Bluffs, Water Sports, and the Vineyard Country South of Town
Skaha Bluffs Provincial Park is a world-class sport climbing destination immediately above the lake’s eastern shore, drawing climbers from across North America to its 400-plus routes on sun-warmed granite, and a worthwhile spectator experience even for non-climbers who walk the access trail. Skaha Lake Marina provides boat rentals, launches, and paddleboard access for families who want to be on the water rather than beside it. Swimming is excellent throughout the summer, with warm temperatures and several public beach access points around the lake. The South Okanagan wine country, centred on Okanagan Falls and Oliver, begins essentially where the lake ends, and a wine tour afternoon is a natural addition to any family stay that includes adult members who appreciate the region’s excellent output.
Why a Rental Beats a Hotel Here
Penticton’s hotels are concentrated around Okanagan Lake’s main beach and on the strip between the two lakes. A vacation home on Skaha Lake gives your family direct lake access, a private outdoor space, and a slightly different experience of the Okanagan than the busier north end of town provides. Families who discover Skaha Lake tend to return specifically for it rather than treating it as overflow from the more famous lake nearby.
What To Know
Skaha Lake rarely freezes completely, and winter swimming is not viable here. The winter season in this part of the Okanagan is mild by Canadian standards but still cool, and the primary winter activities are hiking the nearby trails and visiting the wine region rather than water-based recreation. Spring and fall are excellent for fishing, and summer is the clear peak season for everything on and around the water.
- Surface area (km)
- 19.6
- Max depth (m)
- 56.7
- Elevation (m)
- 339
- Shoreline length (km)
- 30.7
Popular activities
- Swimming
- Boating
- Waterskiing
- Wakeboarding
- Kayaking
- Canoeing
- Fishing
- Jet Skiing
Information not accurate?
Help us improve by making a suggestion.
Marinas on Skaha Lake
Nearby lakes
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what Skaha Lake has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
-
Yes, there are health concerns and precautions to take when swimming in Skaha Lake. Avoid swallowing the lake water and do not swim with open cuts or wounds. Also, avoid swimming for 24 hours after significant rainfall.
-
Skaha Lake is a popular destination because it offers a variety of recreational activities. Visitors can enjoy swimming, boating, water skiing, and watching wind surfers and parasailers. The park also features a sandy beach, playgrounds, and ball courts, making it a great spot for families and outdoor enthusiasts.
-
In Skaha Lake, British Columbia, the daily catch limit for trout and char species combined is 5, but not more than 1 over 50 cm. You cannot retain bull trout (Dolly Varden) from the lake. Other species have specific limits, such as 20 crappie, 2 burbot, and 15 whitefish of all species combined.
-
Skaha Beach at Skaha Lake Park is best for families. It has a long, sandy beach with shallow waters ideal for little swimmers and plenty of space for beach games and picnics. The area also includes sports courts, picnic tables, and shade trees for relaxation.
-
Towns near Skaha Lake that offer amenities for visitors include Penticton, Kaleden, and Okanagan Falls. Penticton has a wide sandy beach, walking paths, and various restaurants. Okanagan Falls is popular for swimming, water sports, and wine tasting, with nearby Okanagan Provincial Park for nature activities. Kaleden offers lakefront living and community spirit.
