How to Spend One Day in Penticton [Local Recommendations]

Have just one day to explore Penticton, British Columbia? That’s a tight schedule but I have some great ideas for you! I’ve lived in this lakeside city for almost a decade and I’m excited to share all of my favourite spots, to help you create the perfect one day Penticton itinerary.

Whether you’re visiting to taste wine, enjoy the beaches, bike the trails or just relax, there’s something for everyone in this guide. I’ll share my top picks for places to eat, where to get coffee and a few must-visit spots to make the most of your time.

I’ve designed this itinerary primarily for summer visits (mid June to September) but most of the activities would still work outside of these months. I’d perhaps skip the swim in the lake!

Overhead shot of colourful vegan Eggs Benny and Mexican Fiesta dishes at Stillfood Bistro with two coffees on either side with knives and forks — Brunch at Stillfood Bistro

Morning

Rise and shine with a coffee at Wayne & Freda or the Bench Market. Both are very popular with locals and also offer some excellent breakfast options, with patio space for al fresco dining. Wayne & Freda, in particular, can get very busy on weekends so be prepared to wait.

If you’re more of a coffee-and-pastry person, I’d suggest heading to either Stillfood Bistro or Petrosek Artisan Bakery. The selection of sweet and savoury treats at these locations are sure to satisfy any craving.

Petrosek has the best croissants (the almond one is my fave), while Stillfood’s cinnamon buns are legendary. Everything at Stillfood, by the way, is vegan and they also make excellent brunch dishes.

Street view of Saturday Farmers' Market in Penticton, with small stalls on both sides of the road, pedestrians walking inbetween — Penticton Farmers’ Market

If it’s a Saturday, your next stop should be the Penticton Farmers’ Market. It runs from 8.30 to 1pm every Saturday morning from April to October on Main Street. During the summer months, the Downtown Community Market takes place on the next two blocks as well. Fruit, crafts, baked goods – it’s all here!

Otherwise, I’d recommend heading up to the Kettle Valley Rail Trail (KVR) for a walk or cycle. Summer days in Penticton get hot, so it’s best to hit the trails earlier rather than later.

The Vancouver Place to McCulloch Trestle is my favourite short walk – it’s 5km return, mostly flat, with amazing views of the lake, vineyards and the Penticton sign. If you can, start from downtown or Vancouver Avenue as parking can be difficult on Vancouver Place.
Another good option is the Little Tunnel in Naramata. At 8.8km return, it’s a bit longer (allow 2 to 3 hours if walking) and also flat but the views are spectacular and the Little Tunnel itself really neat to explore. More details in our Little Tunnel guide
If cycling, I have more two suggestions. Start in Penticton and bike all the way to the Little Tunnel (36km) via the McCulloch Trestle. Alternatively, start at Smethurst Road and then bike to the Little Tunnel and then the Adra Tunnel (50km return). More details in our Adra Tunnel guide

A cyclist is riding away from the camera on the downhill dirt KVR path, with fencing on both sides and vineyards beyond. In the background, a calm lake is visible as well as mountainous terrain on the other side — KVR Trail between Vancouver Place and McCulloch Trestle (this is the only hilly part)

Lunch and afternoon

After a hike, few things beat a charcuterie board or picnic for lunch! You can pack it along the trail or, for a more leisurely option, enjoy it at one of the local wineries with a glass or bottle of wine.

Many of them welcome picnics or have charcuterie boards (and other snacks) available for purchase. I really love Ruby Blues’ picnic area (bring your own), Three Sisters’ toasted sandwiches and D’Angelo’s Italian food truck. Check our winery picnic guide for more information.

Alternatively, head to one of the winery restaurants located along the Naramata Bench. For me, Hillside is a highlight. Most have fantastic lake views. There are some great lunch restaurants downtown as well.

Picnic area views at Ruby Blues Winery with wooden picnic table in front of sloping vineyard with Okanagan Lake visible behind — Ruby Blues’ picnic area

Continue your afternoon visiting more wonderful local wineries or head to one of the local beaches for a swim and siesta. Other fun things to do include floating the Penticton Channel or paddling on the lake (rental SUPs and kayaks available).

A must do is a stop at Munson Mountain. Home to the famous Penticton sign, Munson offers the best view of the city. It’s an easy activity to fit in when driving back to Penticton from the Naramata Bench after exploring the KVR or wine tasting.

If you like the idea of a cool afternoon drink but aren’t keen on wine, Penticton has seven different local breweries. Abandoned Rail is a great choice for families, while Cannery Brewing hosts my favourite downtown patio (the dog friendly Backyard).

Side view of Okanagan Lake Beach with manicured sand, calm lake and a children's slide visible — Okanagan Lake Beach in summer

Evening

There’s no shortage of great places to eat dinner in Penticton. I’d be careful to make reservations in the summer months, especially on weekends (or when dining as a group). Some of my top picks are:

Kin & Folk – Elegant and creative Asian inspired dishes served with an excellent cocktail menu
Elma – Upscale lakefront restaurant with modern Middle Eastern menu designed for sharing
The Restaurant at Poplar Grove Winery – Gorgeous views and refined dishes made with local ingredients, paired with wine
Cannery Brewing – Casual vibes with the best nachos in town, wide choice of beers
Sushi Heaven – One of the best sushi restaurants in town, go early to secure a spot
Penticton Indian Cuisine – My favourite downtown Indian restaurant, go for the dinner for one combination
Neighbourhood Brewing – Huge range of beers, Mexican inspired bar food with four different house hot sauces