By Sean Phillips, REALTOR®, Strand resident ·
Short answer: Vernon is surrounded by three lakes: Okanagan, Kalamalka and Swan. The most popular beaches include Kalamalka Beach, Paddlewheel Park in Okanagan Landing, Kin Beach, Ellison Provincial Park and Kekuli Bay. There are shallow family beaches, dog-friendly spots, boat launches and quiet coves you reach by trail.
One of the best parts of living in Vernon is having a beach within a few minutes of home. Here's a local guide.
Okanagan Lake beaches
- Paddlewheel Park (Okanagan Landing): a sandy beach with a boat launch, sports courts, a playground and picnic shelters
- Kin Park and Canoe Beach: shallow water and a playground, great for young kids
- Hurlburt Park: a pet-friendly beach with a dock and swimming platform
- Ellison Provincial Park: three beaches, trails and western Canada's only freshwater dive park at Otter Bay
Kalamalka Lake beaches
Kalamalka Lake is famous for its changing shades of blue and green.
- Kalamalka (Kal) Beach and Rotary Pier: Vernon's busiest summer beach and a favourite paddleboard launch
- Kirkland Beach: family-friendly, with a playground and lots of shade
- Pumphouse Beach: a small sandy beach that turns to rocky shallows
- Cosens Bay: a quieter beach reached by trail, bike or boat
- Kekuli Bay Provincial Park: calm water, a campground and a boat ramp
Swan Lake
Swan Lake is quiet and shallow, surrounded by wetlands, and is best known for birdwatching rather than swimming.
Living on the water instead of driving to it
Some Vernon condo complexes have their own beaches. At The Strand Lakeside in Okanagan Landing, owners have a groomed private beach with a protected swimming area, plus a pool and marina. See what it's like to live at The Strand.
Frequently asked questions
What is the most popular beach in Vernon?
Kalamalka Beach is Vernon's busiest summer beach. On Okanagan Lake, Paddlewheel Park in Okanagan Landing and Kin Beach are local favourites.
Are there dog-friendly beaches in Vernon?
Yes. Hurlburt Park on Okanagan Lake is pet-friendly, and Ellison Provincial Park's Sandy Beach allows leashed pets. Always check current signage before you go.
Which Vernon beach is best for young children?
Kin Park and Canoe Beach has shallow water and a playground, and Kirkland Beach on Kalamalka Lake has a playground and lots of shade.
More guides to Okanagan Landing and The Strand
- Okanagan Landing, Vernon: A Neighbourhood Guide for Home Buyers
- Kalamalka Lake vs. Okanagan Lake: Which Should You Live Near?
- Paddleboarding and Kayaking Around Vernon and Okanagan Landing
- The Strand Lakeside FAQ: 50 questions answered
Have a question about waterfront living in Vernon?
I'm Sean Phillips, a REALTOR® with Coldwell Banker Executives Realty. I live at The Strand in Okanagan Landing and specialise in Vernon-area waterfront condos. For current listings and recent sales, visit 7343okanaganlanding.ca.
Text Sean: 778-363-0542
Call or text Sarah, my 24/7 info line: 604-227-4810
This article is general information as of fall 2026, not legal, tax or financial advice. Rules, fees and conditions change, so always confirm details with the appropriate professional or authority before making a decision.
General information only, not legal, tax or financial advice. Confirm details for your situation with the appropriate professional.
