A Road Trip from Vancouver to Penticton: Lakes, Wineries, & Stunning Views

If you’re dreaming of an unforgettable road trip, look no further than the scenic drive from Vancouver to Penticton. This route promises stunning views, charming towns, and endless opportunities to stop and explore.

But is it worth rushing the trip in one day, or should you take your time and make a full adventure out of it?

Let’s dive into why this drive is one you won’t want to miss and how to make the most of your time along the way.

Why Take a Vancouver to Penticton Road Trip

Penticton sits between two warm lakes, surrounded by vineyards and low, rolling mountains. It’s where summer really feels like summer—lazy, golden, and a little bit sun-drunk.

People fall hard for its slow rhythm, clear skies, and the way days stretch long into patio-lit nights.

People who visit love it for:
✅ Wine tasting with a view: Sip small-batch pinot while looking out over Okanagan Lake.
✅ The Penticton Channel Float: Sun, friends, and a gentle current pulling you through a desert oasis.
✅ Skaha Beach vibes: Warm water, soft sand, and a family-friendly buzz.
✅ Picking fresh fruit: Juicy peaches, cherries, and apricots—right off the tree. You’ll see fruit stands everywhere.
✅ Easy access to other Okanagan gems: Naramata, Summerland, Osoyoos, and even Kelowna—just a short cruise away.

This spot’s perfect for chill seekers, wine lovers, and anyone who’d rather be in flip-flops than hiking boots.

If there’s one drawback? It’s that the heat can really cook you mid-day in July… but that’s what beach umbrellas and floaties are for, right?

🧳 Looking for another option? Check out our Vancouver to Kelowna road trip guide.

💯 Penticton: The Must-Sees

Wine Tasting on the Naramata Bench

Dozens of boutique wineries line this narrow road above the lake—many run by small families and passionate winemakers.

I spent one hot afternoon sipping crisp whites under a canopy of vines, and I swear, the view made everything taste better. Some spots felt like a backyard BBQ, others like a Pinterest dream.

I love that it’s not flashy—just good wine and good people. Couples will adore it, but honestly, I’ve had just as much fun going solo. A guided Naramata Bench Wine Tour is also a great way to learn the ropes.

✨ Don’t leave without: Taking a Naramata Bench Wine Tour—leave the keys at home and enjoy the tastings to the max.

🍷 Still thirsty? Have a look at our Kelowna Wine Tasting guide for more info on Okanagan wines.

The Channel Float

This lazy river ride was once an irrigation channel—now it’s one of Canada’s chillest summer traditions. You’ll on your inflatable and float along the Okanagan River between Skaha and Okanagan Lakes.

I grabbed a floaty, tied up with friends, and let the slow-moving water take us past reeds, birds, and laughing strangers. There’s zero effort involved, and that’s the whole point. It’s part water park, part social hour, part sun-soaked nap.

Great for groups, families, students, or anyone looking for the ultimate in summer fun.

✨ Don’t leave without: A waterproof speaker and a cold drink (just remember to pack out your cans).

Okanagan Wine Tours

Uncork the Okanagan: Book Your Wine Tasting Today from $150.

Discover Your New Favourite Wine

Skaha Beach

This south-end beach is known for its warmer water compared to Okanagan Lake to the north, and a softer, more relaxed atmosphere.

I love Skaha because it’s less showy than Okanagan Beach but still has everything—sandy stretches, rental shops, volleyball courts.

Last time I went, I grabbed a gelato and watched a kid build a sand empire while paddleboarders cruised by in the distance. Perfect for families, couples, or solo travellers with a beach read.

✨ Don’t leave without: Renting a paddleboard for a golden hour cruise.

Why Should I Drive to Penticton

While flying might seem like the faster option, it doesn’t come close to the road trip experience.

The joy of a road trip lies in the journey itself — the side trips, the stunning vistas you encounter, and the unexpected stops along the way.

So, if you’re looking to make the most of your time and enjoy the ride, here’s why this road trip should be on your bucket list:

• 🚿 Firstly, you’ll have the freedom to stop whenever you want, whether for a photo op, a snack or to stretch your legs.
• 🏞️ Moreover, from majestic mountains to lakes and vineyards, the route offers a mix of natural beauty and local charm, all just a short detour from the main highway.
• 🎧 Additionally, whether you’re driving solo or with friends, this trip is perfect for listening to your favourite tunes or catching up on your latest podcast.
• ✈️ Furthermore, it’s typically more affordable than a flight, and much more memorable.

No matter how many times you take this route, it always offers something new. The changing seasons bring different views, and there’s always a new spot to discover.

🚗 Need to rent a car? You’ll get the best price guaranteed with Rentalcars:

How Much Time Do You Need for a Vancouver to Penticton Road Trip

If you’re in a rush, the drive from Vancouver to Penticton typically takes 4 to 5 hours. Usually, Vancouverites or visitors from Alberta will treat the area as a quick summer escape or a long weekend getaway.

However, if you want to savour the trip, take your time and explore Penticton as part of a broader Okanagan road trip. I highly recommend spreading the trip over at least 5-7 days if you’ve got the time.

This will give you the chance to enjoy the lakes, try some wine tasting, sample the local food, and truly take in the views. Not to mention, you can spend a few days soaking up the sun in Osoyoos or enjoying Kelowna’s many attractions.

• • 🛑 In fact, the more time you give yourself, the more you’ll be able to relax and enjoy the experience.

• • 📸 Some of the best memories come from spontaneous detours, so don’t rush through the drive.

• • 🧘‍♂️ Ultimately, the whole point is to enjoy the journey, not just the destination.

⏱️ Don’t have time for the Okanagan? Check out our guide to the Top 15 Day Trips from Vancouver.

How to Get to Penticton from Vancouver

Let’s take a look at what the road from Vancouver to Penticton has in store. You’ll be covering approximately 400 km (250 miles), so it should take around 4-5 hours.

You have the option of two routes: The Coquihalla and Highway 97, or the Crow’s Nest and Highway 3. Most people opt for Highway 97, as it offers access to Kelowna, Peachland, and Okanagan Lake.

The Crow’s Nest Highway travels through the southernmost stretch of the province and is great if you’re looking to visit Osoyoos or Oliver. 

Here’s what to expect along the way:

• • 📍 Distance: About 400 km / 250 miles

• • 🕓 Drive Time: 4–5 hours (non-stop)

• • 🌞 Best Time to Go: May to October — the weather is perfect, and the roads are clear

• • 🧳 Ideal Trip Length: 3-4 days for maximum enjoyment

• • 🛣️ Main Route: Highway 1 → Highway 97 into Penticton (alternate route via Highway 3)

👀 Looking for alternatives? Check out our guide on how to get from Vancouver to Kelowna.

Suggested Vancouver to Penticton Road Trip Stops

Before you start, it’s best to have a flexible map ready.

While the main route will take you to Penticton, the beauty of this trip lies in the many hidden gems and alternate stops just off the highway.

Here’s where you’ll want to make those detours 👇

• Summerland: Known for its orchards, wineries, and the Kettle Valley Steam Railway, which offers scenic train tours.
• Peachland: A charming lakeside town with a beautiful waterfront, wineries, and access to hiking trails.
• Okanagan Falls: Home to Skaha Lake, wineries, and the Okanagan River, with opportunities for swimming, kayaking, and hiking.
• Oliver/Osoyoos: Located in the southern Okanagan, this area is known for its hot, dry climate, desert landscape, extensive wineries and orchards, and access to Osoyoos Lake.
• Kelowna: The largest city in the Okanagan Valley, Kelowna is a hub for wine touring, water sports on Okanagan Lake, and exploring parks and trails.

Where to Stay on Your Penticton to Vancouver Road Trip

If you’re planning to break up your road trip, here are a few great places to rest and recharge:

Penticton
💸 Budget: Valley Star Motel
💰 Mid-range: Penticton Lakeside Resort
🏨 Luxury: Fairfield Inn & Suites

Kelowna
🏨 Central: Hotel Zed Kelowna
🏨 Quiet: Hillcrest Farm Market B&B
🏨 Boutique: The Royal Kelowna

Campsites Between Vancouver and Penticton

Looking to save some cash? Or maybe you’d prefer to sleep under the stars. For the camping enthusiast, here are some must-visit campsites in the area:

• • 🏕️ Okanagan Falls Provincial Park: Located on the southern tip of Skaha Lake, this park offers riverfront camping and is known for its scenic beauty.

• • 🏕️ Okanagan Lake Provincial Park: Located between Peachland and Summerland, this park offers beachfront camping with amazing views of Okanagan Mountain Park. It’s very popular for good reason, so book in advance!

• • 🏕️ Skaha Bluffs Provincial Park: Known for its world-class rock climbing, this park also offers camping. It’s located near Skaha Lake and provides access to hiking and other outdoor activities. Keep in mind that reservations are essential here, especially during peak season.

Things to Know Before Your Road Trip to Penticton

Here are a few things you’ll want to keep in mind before hitting the road:

• ⛽ Make sure to fill up your gas tank in Hope — the next station is quite a stretch.
• 🗺️ Download offline maps, as cell service can be spotty in some areas.
• 🧥 Bring layers — the weather can change quickly, especially in the mountains.</li
• 🧾 During the summer months, it’s a good idea to book your campsites or accommodations in advance.
• 💵 Cash comes in handy for fruit stands and small shops along the route.

Vancouver to Penticton Road Trip Essentials

Here are some items that should always be in your car for a smooth journey:

• ⛽ Full tank of gas + windshield washer fluid
• 🔌 Phone charger + backup battery
• 🥤 Snacks, water, and gum
• 🕶️ Sunglasses, light jacket, sunscreen
• 🔦 Flashlight, jumper cables, and wet wipes
• 🎧 Pre-downloaded playlists or podcasts

Tips for a Smooth Drive

Here’s how to keep your drive smooth and enjoyable:

• 🌅 Firstly, leave early to avoid traffic and enjoy the morning light.
• 🔁 Additionally, switch drivers every couple of hours to keep things fresh and focused.
• 🧍 Stop for breaks every 2–3 hours to stretch your legs and stay alert.
• 🧭 Trust your curiosity — sometimes, the best spots are just a quick detour off the main road.
• 📸 Always have your camera ready — the best views come fast and unexpectedly.

Final Thoughts: Is the Road Trip from Vancouver to Penticton Worth It?

Absolutely!

The road trip from Vancouver to Penticton is the ultimate summer getaway for leaving work behind.

You can relax on the golden sand of Skaha and Okanagan Lakes, taste your way through the Naramata Bench, or hike and bike your way around the scenic Kettle Valley Railway Trail.

But the trip is also about the adventure, the roadside stops, fruit stands, and breathtaking views.

By the time you reach Penticton, you’ll have already experienced the charm of this beautiful part of the country — and you’ll be thinking about your next trip before you even leave.

Road Trip from Vancouver to Penticton FAQ

How long does the road trip from Vancouver to Penticton take?

It takes about 4–5 hours without stopping, but you’ll definitely want to stretch it out and enjoy the ride.

How long should a road trip from Vancouver to Penticton take?

Many people heading on a Vancouver to Penticton road trip stay for the weekend. However, to truly enjoy the experience or visit a few other Okanagan destinations, 4-5 days is preferable.

Is the road trip from Vancouver to Penticton possible in winter?

It is, but make sure to check road conditions and equip your car with winter tires.

Are there EV chargers available along the road trip from Vancouver to Penticton?

Yes, there are plenty of charging stations in cities like Hope, Merritt, and Penticton.