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Kelowna, BC 250-763-5599

News + Tips

Top 5 Water Sports To Try In Kelowna This Summer

Kelowna Boat News and Tips

Get ready to get on the water with the perfect boat—whatever your dream boat is!

If you’re anything like us, when you think of summer, the first thing that comes to mind is glorious sunny days spent lakeside. At Downtown Marina, we love everything about being on the water. Adding even more fun, we offer a variety of rentals for water sports. Perfect for making memories with family and friends! We’re officially inviting you to make the gorgeous Okanagan Lake your very own aquatic playground. It’s too sweet a deal to refuse, so set a date and mark your calendars!

Okanagan Lake is home to tons of bays to explore, towering cliffsides to catch a glimpse of bald eagles, and even lakeside mega-mansions to oogle (if that’s your thing). Since there’s so much to explore, it's only fitting that we’re equipped with plenty of activities for you to enjoy while on your mini-quests. We won’t keep you in suspense much longer; here are our top five water sports to try in Kelowna this summer:


1. Blast the waves on a jet ski

If you’re looking for the ultimate thrill, jet skiing on the Okanagan Lake is your best bet. The sit-on-top watercraft offers the perfect blend of stability and agility, plus you get to be in complete control. If you’re looking for a seadoo or jetski experience, then Kelowna’s Downtown Marina has the Yamaha VX Deluxe Waverunner available to rent. They feature simple control systems and will have you speeding across the lake (and getting soaked while you’re at it) in no time! Enjoy a solo ride or double up for a wet n’ wild adventure!


2. Paddle away on a kayak

Every once in a while, it is great to take a breather, pause and really enjoy the moment. Kayaking will give you the opportunity to do just that: take in all the scenic locations that dot the Okanagan Lake, and you may just be surprised! We offer kayak rentals that are incredibly affordable at hourly rates. What’s better is that you’ll even put those arm muscles to good use. After sightseeing and doing a mini workout, you can enjoy some delicious food at carts by the Marina or any of the excellent restaurants downtown.


3. Wakeboard and jump some waves

Another popular choice for water sports in Kelowna is wakeboarding—get towed and criss-cross the waves. It’s like snowboarding on water. Catch some air if you want! Don’t have a wakeboard? At Downtown Marina, we’ve got top-of-the-line wakeboard rental options, so there’s no need to worry. Our high-end MasterCraft wakeboard boats are brilliant for creating world-class surf waves. These boats seat up to sixteen people; whether your party consists of kids who can’t contain their excitement or pros with tricks lined up, everyone gets a turn!


4. Get gliding on a paddleboard

Nothing beats the sun on your face on a standup paddleboard, so treat yourself to some vitamin D and release some tension paddleboarding down the shoreline of Okanagan Lake. We rent paddle boards in Kelowna for locals and vacationers. The lake features a 27km paddle trail from McKinley Beach to Bertram Creek Regional Park. It runs along Kelowna’s shoreline, with buoys that serve as guides. Apart from the downtown Kelowna area, you can paddle to over 20 beaches and parks, three waterfront resorts and two bird sanctuaries - if you have the stamina! Whew! Talk about a packed itinerary! Don’t forget to bring a waterproof phone cover or camera (with a floatie so it doesn’t sink if you drop it).


5. Ride a wave on a Wakesurf Board 

Similar to surfing, wake surfing lets you ride in the wave that a boat kicks up from the back of the boat. Wakesurf boats ride low and slow in the water, creating an endless small wave to ride. It’s fun to do and fun to watch. You don’t need any experience to try it, but make sure to ask the Downtown Marina staff for tips for both driver and wakesurfer. We’ve got all the equipment you need: wakesurf boats for rent, lifejackets, wake surfboards (and tubes if that’s more you’re style!)


There’s a first time for everything

If you’re a beginner but want to get out of your comfort zone and try your hand at these watersports, here are some helpful articles on getting started with jet skiing, kayaking, paddleboarding, wakeboarding and wakesurfing


Dive into summer fun at Downtown Marina on Okanagan Lake! Explore our high-grade water sports rentals in Kelowna. Your aquatic adventure with family and friends awaits! Reach out to us for more information and create unforgettable memories.