Find your oasis
Activities and Things To Do in Osoyoos
Things to do in Osoyoos are as diverse as its stunning landscapes, making this charming town a premier destination in British Columbia’s Okanagan Valley. Renowned for its warm climate and unique desert environment, Osoyoos offers a captivating blend of outdoor adventure, cultural experiences, and culinary delights. From hiking and exploring Canada’s only desert to enjoying the pristine shores of Osoyoos Lake, there’s something for everyone. Indulge in award-winning wines at local vineyards or discover family-friendly attractions that cater to all ages. Whether you’re seeking thrilling outdoor activities or a serene wellness retreat, Osoyoos invites you to explore the best of the South Okanagan, ensuring an unforgettable getaway for adventurers, and families.
South Okanagan Adventures
Art Shows, Exhibitions & Artisan Markets
Discover a variety of art shows and exhibitions that highlight the talents of artists of the Okanagan. Visit art galleries, or check out the Summer Artisan Market from June to September, providing a platform for local artists to display and sell their work.
Bird Watching
Osoyoos is for the birds! Watermark is a popular destination for birders, as our unique desert ecosystem and warm temperatures make the surrounding area a haven for birds of all types. Here you can find Ospreys, Great Horned Owls, hummingbirds, California quail, red-tailed hawks, and other exquisite specimens. To learn more about birds in the area, check out the BC Bird Trail.
Cycling
One of the best ways to tour the region is on two weeks and the South Okanagan is a widely popular destination for road cyclists, mountain bikers and everyone in between. Bring your bike or own a bike and experience the numerous roadways and trail networks in Osoyoos.
Bike Rentals:
Dining & Restaurants
Dining in Osoyoos offers a rich variety of experiences, from lakeside patios to fine dining establishments featuring locally sourced ingredients. Many restaurants showcase Okanagan wines, enhancing the region’s farm-to-table ethos. Whether you’re craving international cuisine or classic Canadian dishes, Osoyoos provides a delightful culinary journey in a scenic setting.
Golf In Osoyoos
Golf in Osoyoos and enjoy the longest golf season in the BC Interior. With long, dry summer days and mild winters with minimal snow, golf enthusiasts can almost play year-round. Golfers can choose from a variety of courses that feature desert landscapes, lush vineyards, and nearby orchards. The rolling hills and Osoyoos Lake create a picturesque backdrop for the region.
Hiking
Osoyoos has a number of fantastic hiking trails for you to enjoy. Whether it is a climb through the mountains, a peaceful walk along the canal or through the many orchards surrounding the valley, there is a path that suits every age and every skill level. Explore these great local hikes on your next visit.
Heritage & Culture
Osoyoos is a hub of rich history and vibrant culture, offering a range of activities that blend the region’s Indigenous heritage and settler history. Cultural experiences like art galleries, music festivals, wine tours, and local markets complement the historical journey, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the diverse heritage and creative spirit of the community.
Nk’Mip Desert Cultural Centre
Osoyoos Museum
Spotted Lake
The Grist Mill and Gardens
Horseback Riding
Experience the beauty of Osoyoos on a guided horseback ride through desert landscapes and along scenic mountain trails, where you can take in breathtaking views, explore the countryside, and even enjoy a refreshing swim in Canada’s warmest lake. Family-friendly options, including children’s rides, are also available.
Parks, Adventure & Amusement
Osoyoos boasts a variety of parks and adventure activities, offering scenic spaces for outdoor relaxation alongside thrilling experiences. Popular spots like Gyro Beach Park and sẁiẁs (Haynes Point) Park provide opportunities for swimming, kayaking, and nature walks, while adventure parks such as Rattlesnake Canyon offer family-friendly attractions like mini-golf, go-karts, and a giant maze.
Relaxation & Rejuvenation
Osoyoos offers a wide range of luxurious spa and beauty treatments designed for relaxation and rejuvenation. Visitors can indulge in soothing massages, facials, and body treatments at high-end spas, often featuring natural products in serene settings. Beauty therapies such as manicures, pedicures, and skincare treatments complement wellness offerings like yoga and meditation, creating a perfect blend of pampering and restoration in a peaceful, scenic setting. Levia Wellness Spa is located within Watermark Beach Resort.
Shopping
There’s something special about exploring a street of local shops with a cup of coffee or a hot chocolate in hand. Start your day with a walk down the trail of local boutiques and cafes of Osoyoos, finding all sorts of interesting treasures, artifacts, and gifts along the way. Some local favourite shops are Elvis Fine Jewelry & Music Room, Kettle Candy Co., Shoe Biz, The Curator, The Lake Village Bakery and Wander Cafe, Clothing & Gifts and Home Hardware Osoyoos.
Skiing & Snowboarding
Experience the thrill of skiing or snowboarding down the slopes of Mt. Baldy, the third highest elevation ski area in British Columbia. The incredible scenery of snow-dusted trees, the rising West Kootenays, and the brilliant blue sky make the ideal environment for winter fun. Cross-country trails and slopes for all experience levels mean there’s something for everyone here.
Stargazing
With restrictions placed on upward-facing lights in Osoyoos, the night skies are some of the clearest and beautiful in Canada. See the majesty of our galaxy above by visiting Mount Kobau, the site that was tested and determined to be the best possible location for the Queen herself!
Water Sports
Not only does Osoyoos Lake play a very important role as a focal point to our scenic backdrop, it’s also an important player in all there is to do here at Watermark and in Osoyoos. Pack your swimsuit and take to the lake this summer at these great destinations.
Wakepilot
Osoyoos Sailing Club
Splash BC Wibit Waterpark
Jack Shaw Gardens
Wine Tours & Tastings
The South Okanagan wine region spans mountains, sage flats, lakes, and creeks, offering the perfect landscape for winemaking. Local wineries leverage this diverse terrain to produce award-winning wines, all set against stunning panoramic vistas. Winemaking is a way of life, and wine touring in Osoyoos is an unforgettable experience that’s not to be missed.
Explore & Experience Osoyoos From Watermark
A Popular Osoyoos Hotel and Resort
Whether you seek relaxation, adventure, or something in between, stay at one of Osoyoos’ top hotels, Watermark Beach Resort. The resort has been officially recognized for Tripadvisor’s Travellers’ Choice Award in 2024 for outstanding reviews and ratings submitted by guests.
With comfortable accommodations, an outdoor pool and hot tub, and direct access to the beach, Watermark Beach Resort is perfectly situated for enjoying the South Okanagan’s year-round attractions. After a day of visiting local wineries, hiking scenic trails, or exploring family-friendly spots, you can unwind in your suite. Discover a range of leisure options and activities, where every moment highlights the charm of this destination.
