While many people may not immediately associate Okanagan Lake with scuba diving (it's best known for its 40-plus world-class wineries and beaches, after all), the stunning freshwater lake in British Columbia is fantastic for cold-water dives. Spanning 135 kilometres (84 miles) in length and plunging to depths of about 232 meters (761 feet), Okanagan Lake is an impressive hidden gem—especially in the fall, when visibility is generally high and much of the summer boat traffic is long gone.
Whether you’re an experienced diver or a beginner eager to log your first dive, this guide covers everything you need to know about diving in Okanagan Lake.
Best Time to Dive
Okanagan Lake is diveable year-round, but fall is arguably among the best times to take the plunge. Water temperatures typically hover around 16-18°C in early fall, cool but still comfortable with a wetsuit. As October rolls in, temperatures dip, but again, even late fall scuba diving can be incredible with the right gear.
There are two other major advantages of diving in autumn: increased visibility of about 4.5-9 meters (15-30 feet) and reduced boat traffic (the former undoubtedly a result of the latter!).
What You Can Expect to See
Okanagan Lake's underwater world is full of surprises and loads of unique local history. Expect to find sunken artifacts ranging from boats to cars and an enormous railroad barge, sea caves, interesting rock formations including ledges and cliffs with sheer drop-offs, artificial reefs, and, of course, a tremendous range of marine life. Trout, Kokanee salmon, and huge invasive carp are common sightings, but you may even spot Ogopogo, the local 'lake monster.'
Top 10 Okanagan Lake Dive Sites
Divers are spoiled for choice on Okanagan Lake, with both shore and boat dives, and options for every experience level. Check with one of Kelowna's dive shops, Diving Dynamics, Double Arrow, and Innerspace Watersports, to inquire about certification courses, gear rental, or guided dives.
1. Paul's Tomb (Beginner)
Although you can technically hike to this dive site located in Knox Mountain Park, home to popular Kelowna activities, including mountain biking and hiking, it makes far more sense to boat to it. Who wants to tote heavy scuba gear on a hike?! Look for two small boats, as well as a statue of Ogopogo.
2. Caesars Landing (Beginner)
Caesars Landing is widely considered one of the best beginner dives in the Kelowna area, featuring a rock wall and an easy-to-reach antique sunken automobile.
3. Bertram Creek Park (Beginner)
This easy-access shore dive is known for its rock wall and gradual sloping entry, perfect for beginners or those wanting a relaxed dive to acclimate to cold water.
Courtesy of tourismkelowna.com - Matt Ferguson Photography
4. Fintry Barge (Beginner)
Resting at a depth of somewhere between 25-60 feet (7-15 meters), the Fintry Barge is an exciting shore dive. The barge is encrusted with colourful, interesting marine life and hosts other artifacts to explore, including a small boat.
Important: Fintry Provincial Park is only open seasonally, from April 1 through mid-October.
5. 'The Bridge,' AKA William R. Bennett Bridge (Advanced)
Although it's very easy to access this dive site from the water on either side of the bridge, divers should use extreme caution here. Not only is boating traffic wide open here, but there's a ton of debris in the water from the bridge's rebuild, and the bridge traffic above ground creates a lot of noise and vibration underwater.
6. The Milk Truck/Wilson's Landing (Advanced)
One of the most interesting dives in the lake and arguably one of the more famous Kelowna attractions among the diving community, the submerged milk truck at Wilson’s Landing offers an unusual experience. Even the wall down to the truck is interesting, teeming with marine life and artifacts. The truck is sunk at around 31 meters deep (100 feet), so only truly advanced divers should attempt to reach it.
7. Scruggins Reef (Advanced)
A local favourite dive site both for its high visibility and unique feature, Scruggins Reef is home to a 'propeller gravesite.' In this particularly rocky area, almost like an underwater boulder field, you'll spot countless boat props that didn't fare so well against the rocks.
8. Rattlesnake Island (Advanced)
On the lake's eastern shore across from Peachland, one of the best day trips from Kelowna, Rattlesnake Island, is accessible via boat only. The island's underwater terrain is intriguing, featuring caves and sharp drop-offs. Due to the caves, it should come as no surprise that many reported Ogopogo sightings originate here.
9. Squally Point (Advanced)
Located just south of Rattlesnake Island, Squally Point is another boat-accessible dive site best known for its extensive cave system. Only experienced cave divers should actually enter the cave, but there's plenty to explore outside its mouth, too.
10. Commando Bay (Intermediate to Advanced)
This boat-in dive site is rich in history, once used for training during World War II. Today, it’s an excellent spot for intermediate divers, offering a unique opportunity to explore military relics from the area's past.
Ready to Dive Into Kelowna?
Okanagan Lake in the fall is a diver’s dream—quiet and tranquil, yet full of exciting underwater treasures to explore. At The Royal Kelowna, our waterfront location makes us the perfect base for your diving trip. After a day spent exploring the depths of the take, come back to The Royal to warm up and relax in our luxurious suites and take advantage of our premium amenities, including a beautiful rooftop terrace with hot tubs and fire pits.
If you want to venture out again, we’re lucky to be situated right on the edge of Kelowna's Cultural District and right next door to Playtime Casino Kelowna.
Book your unforgettable stay today and discover why fall in the Okanagan is the ideal time for your next scuba diving trip!
