Ok so here’s the thing – Saturday and Sunday morning dates are the BEST. Why? Because there’s less pressure. There’s no trying to book the hottest spot in town on a Friday night, there’s sunshine, you can wear sunglasses, and that hangover from the night before? It’s ok because you know you’re NOT alone (unlike those Tuesday morning hangovers when you feel like the whole world is staring at you – servers and bartenders, I’m looking at you)! Early bird non-drinker? These activities were made for you.
Best of all, the Central Okanagan has a LOT to offer for those of us that wake up at 8am on weekends in an annoyingly good mood.
This Little Piggy Went to the Market
Farmer’s markets are super convenient because you can buy a piece of fruit to make yourself feel healthy, grab a coffee to wake yourself up, walk outside to air out that hangover, and grab some fresh, local goodies to support your community. Kelowna Farmer’s Market is right next to Orchard park and open from 8am to 1pm on Saturdays. Park at the mall and hop across the street. If you’re looking for eggs or strawberries, you better be one of the first on site! If you’re looking for a drive alongside the lake, hop on over to Penticton Farmer’s Market, also open from 8:30pm to 1:00pm (pro tip: go early and spend a couple hours in Naramata tasting wine while you’re there). East Kelowna Market happens on Sundays from 10 to 2:30pm and gets you out to the rolling hills of East Kelowna. Grab a bite at Mcculluch Station afterwards!
Brunch-a-lunch:
If you’re craving brunch there are no shortage of options here: Try Sunday morning hip-hop brunch at Krafty Kitchen, the World famous A-Boh-Cado at the Bohemian Café, or the best breakfast sandwich you’ve ever had at Penticton’s Wayne & Freda. The Kelownut Donut at Bright Jenny pairs well with a coffee and a walk down the Rail Trail, and The Jammery is a time-honoured institution you absolutely can’t mix. Rosalinda’s and Ratio Coffee House keep Vernon-nites well-fed for great value, while Quail’s Gate, Summerhill Winery and The Naramata Inn cater gourmet food to the wino’s and fancy-o’s.
Tell ‘em to Take a Hike:
With no shortage of views, cardio, and excitement, the Central Okanagan offers plenty of hikes within walking distance, plus some nice walks. From Knox Mountain to Carrot Mountain and in-between, there’s a little something for everyone (and every skill level). Not feeling hiking but want to get out for a nice walk? The Mission Creek Greenway and the Myra Canyon Trestles are amazing, easy, flat, and breathtaking. Check out our article on amazing local hikes here.
Beach, please.
From downtown Kelowna to Vernon to Penticton, there’s a beachin’ view for all tastes and transportation modes. Kelowna boasts beaches all up and down the city center – from Gyro Beach, to City Park Beach, to Tugboat beach. All are reachable by bike, walk, and car! Paul’s Tomb is a nice hike through Knox Mountain. You absolutely should not miss Kalamalka Lake’s main beach just outside of Vernon, or Sun-Oka Beach in Peachland. For the warmest waters in Canada, head over to Haynes Point Provincial Park in Osoyoos and make a day trip out of it. You can pop by Penticton’s Okanagan Lake or Skaha Lake Beaches on the way. And for the brave, Three Mile Beach is a Nude Beach – get naked!
This is literally the tip of the iceberg for fun in the Okanagan – whether you want to visit a farm, take a drive on a self-powered party bike, or hit the greens, it’s all here. If you’re not convinced that Saturday and Sunday morning dates are the BEST, head on over to hear more about our top 5 Winery Dinners in the Okanagan!
