I concur with the other reviewers here: this is a great beach! But WHY, you ask? Why is it great?
Let me count the ways!
This long stretch of beachfront is in the city core, so there are restaurants right across the street, along with an ice cream shop (that's open late, too!), and lots of beach-centric kiosks on the sidewalk, selling beach-y things (think: sunglasses, beaded bracelets, swim wraps, etc).
There is lots of free 2-hour parking (perhaps longer periods on certain days or at certain times).
Being a longer beach, it doesn't get crazy crowded. People and families can spread out. (We were there for 2.5 days in July. It was hot during the days we were there. And we were pleasantly surprised that it wasn't crazy crowded).
The beach is super well-maintained. The sand is pristine. There are well-marked trash and recycle cans everywhere - and they are all used. We saw no trash on the ground. Zero.
There are small slides in the water by the shoreline for the little kids, and ample lifeguards about.
I loved all the public artwork on the sidewalk along the stretch of beachfront. Some were whimsical, some were more abstract and thought-provoking. (I love when cities make art a priority).
On one end of the beach is the S.S. Sicamous steamship museum and Riverside Park, with its picnic tables and kiddie amusement park (LocoLanding) and youth skate park. (See my review for Riverside Park). At the far other end of the beachfront is the Lakeside Hotel and, adjacent to that is the place we rented our kayak from (Pier Water Sports), a lovely gazebo and pathway along the lakefront, with picturesque sculptures and benches.
In this part of Penticton, one could spend a whole day, just doing nothing and relaxing on the beach, or swimming in the beautiful lake, or having the kids play in the various parks, or kayaking or paddle boarding, or eating at casual bistros or fancier restaurants, or just going for ice cream. There is something for everyone, from families with young kids, teens, history buffs, beach-goers, water sports enthusiasts, folks who like to check out public art installations, or folks who like to dine out. This long, beautiful beach anchors it all. read more