Spring in Kelowna is a magical time. Truthfully, all four seasons are special here, but there's just something extra magical about springtime, as the weather warms up and Mother Nature re-awakens. During this bustling, colourful season, there's no shortage of exciting things to do in Kelowna. Whether you're a wine enthusiast, or outdoor adventurer, have an appreciation for culture, or you're looking for the perfect getaway for a girls' weekend, the unofficial capital city of the Okanagan Valley has something for everyone.
As an added perk, springtime is considered a shoulder season in Kelowna, sandwiched between winter holidays (ski season) and the busy summer. Not only are crowds at their lowest of the year, but you'll also find that just about everything in the valley is a bit more wallet-friendly. Accommodation, rental cars, and even tours all have low-season pricing. Speaking of tours, let's dive into some of the best Kelowna spring activities.
8 Can't-Miss Kelowna Spring Activities
1. Wine Tours
Of all the fun things to do in Kelowna, visiting wineries is arguably the most widely known. Kelowna is the official birthplace of BC winemaking, and there are well over 40 wineries in the city. For multiple reasons, spring is the perfect time to explore them. Many local wineries unveil highly anticipated seasonal releases in the spring (white varietals are the most buzzed about here), and it's one of the few times all year that you can walk in without advance reservations and enjoy a tasting or tour.
Can't decide where to start? Guests of The Royal Kelowna resort can take advantage of a 20% partner discount on wine tours with Kelowna Concierge. Experience 4–5 wineries and have all the transportation logistics handled for you, so you can quite literally sit back, relax, and enjoy the ride (and wine!).
2. Hit the Greens
For golf enthusiasts, there’s no question about what to do in Kelowna come springtime. This is the best time of year to enjoy the city’s impressive selection of 19 golf courses, each one offering diverse terrain and challenges for players of all skill levels. Staying true to its roots—very literally—many Kelowna courses offer views of orchards or vineyards, in addition, of course, to the lake.
3. Take a Hike
Courtesy of tourismkelowna.com - Hiking Addiction
For many people, spring means hiking season. Specifically, it's prime time for chasing waterfalls as snow steadily melts all around the valley. Kelowna's picturesque trails vary significantly, so you'll find the perfect hike whether you're looking for a challenging all-day trek or something more kid-friendly. Right in town, you can check out Knox Mountain and Dilworth Mountain Park. To find raging waterfalls, head to Fintry Provincial Park, Hardy Falls, or Canyon Falls Park, all a short drive from downtown.
4. Go Biking
Experience Kelowna's stunning scenery from a different perspective: on two wheels. Hotel guests can borrow a complimentary bike from The Royal Kelowna, then pedal their way through one of several local trails.
The Rail Trail is easily one of the most popular Kelowna attractions, a route spanning 50 kilometres and traversing most of the city. Don't worry, you don't have to do the entire trail in one shot. Instead, do a section or two, stopping for a glass of wine or craft beer along the way.
5. Take a Helicopter Tour
Prefer to explore from higher up? For a truly unforgettable experience, take to the skies on a thrilling helicopter tour. Spring is one of the best seasons for this bucket list-worthy adventure because you'll get a bird’s-eye view of blooming orchards, snow-capped mountains, and shimmering valley lakes. Local outfitter Valhalla Helicopters even offers heli-wine tours, where you arrive in style at a few wineries of your choice.
6. Spring Festivals
Spring is the unofficial start of festival season in Kelowna, with events catering to every imaginable interest. Some of the most intriguing annual festivals include Amuse, a celebration of fine food and drink; KFX (Kelowna Fan Experience), the valley's version of Comic Con; the Kelowna Maple Festival; Kelowna Beer Festival; and the Knox Mountain Hill Climb.
7. Kasugai Japanese Gardens
Courtesy of tourismkelowna.com - Matt Ferguson Photography
Escape the hustle and bustle of the city by heading to the tranquil Kasugai Japanese Gardens. Stroll through lush greenery, a koi pond, and waterfalls in this traditional Japanese garden. Starting in April, rhododendron blooms start to burst open, adding pops of pink and purple to the greenery.
Even outside the gardens, Kelowna comes alive with colourful blooms in the spring. Fruit trees blanket orchards throughout town, covering the region in pink and white flowers reminiscent of cherry blossoms.
8. Enjoy the Water
Courtesy of tourismkelowna.com - Karen Miller, District of Lake Country
It may not be ideal beach weather quite yet, but you can still enjoy the lake in the springtime. The mild weather and lack of summer crowds create calm conditions, perfect for paddling around. Several local companies surrounding the Royal have kayaks and paddleboards available for rent, including the Kelowna Yacht Club.
Experience Spring Magic at The Royal Kelowna
In the heart of downtown, The Royal Kelowna offers all-suite accommodations right on Okanagan Lake. It's the perfect basecamp for exploring the valley, ready to welcome you back at the end of busy days with amenities, including a rooftop terrace with an infinity pool, hot tubs, fire pits, and BBQ grills. Get a jump start on the day in the fitness centre or with a steam shower, and try your luck in the onsite Playtime Casino Kelowna.
Hotel guests also enjoy exclusive perks through our Stay® | Well amenities program, including complimentary rentals of bicycles, beach gear, umbrellas, and yoga mats, and preferred rates with local partners. Whether you're seeking adventure or relaxation, The Royal is the perfect retreat for your spring getaway. Book your stay today!
