Paddleboarding in Vernon is more than a seasonal pastime. It's shaped by three distinctive lakes, a small group of dedicated rental businesses, and a community that plans much of its summer around time on the water. This piece looks at where to go, what to bring, who to rent from, how to stay safe, and what happens when the weather shifts and the crowds thin out.
Where to Paddleboard in Vernon
Kalamalka Lake
Kalamalka Lake draws the most attention, and for good reason. The water changes colour depending on mineral content and sun angle, sometimes appearing turquoise and other times blue-green. Kal Beach and Kekuli Bay offer reliable access, with parking and basic facilities available. Kal Beach is also located just across the road from a major rental shop, which makes it convenient for both locals and visitors. During the summer, the water is warm enough for extended paddling without a wetsuit, although winds often pick up in the afternoon.
Okanagan Lake
Okanagan Lake offers a different kind of paddleboarding experience. It's larger, deeper, and more exposed, which makes it a good option for those looking to cover more distance. Paddlewheel Park is the most common launch point on the Vernon end of the lake, with easy routes along the shoreline or across open stretches. Motorboat traffic increases in July and August, adding some complexity to paddling. The lake is also known for stories about Ogopogo, a local legend that occasionally comes up during long crossings.
Swan Lake
Swan Lake, located north of downtown, is smaller and shallower than the other two. It's well-suited for those looking for calm water without waves or wakes. The surrounding wetlands attract birds and turtles, adding a layer of interest for nature-minded paddlers. Facilities are limited, but the lake is usually quiet, making it a good place for beginners or anyone looking to focus on technique.
Paddleboard Rentals and Services
Kalavida Surf Shop
Kalavida Surf Shop, just across from Kal Beach, is one of the main rental outlets in the area. The shop offers a range of gear, from inflatables to hardboards and oversized boards for group paddling. In addition to rentals, Kalavida runs lessons and clinics throughout the summer. They also organize weekly events, including a women's-only paddle night that draws both residents and visitors. Retail gear and accessories are also available in-store.
Ed's Mobile Kayak Rental
For those who prefer convenience, Ed's Mobile Kayak Rental delivers paddleboards to various spots around Vernon, Coldstream, and Lake Country. This option suits people who want to avoid the more popular beaches or plan to paddle in quieter areas. Rentals include all required equipment such as PFDs and paddles, and bookings can be made online. Groups can reserve multiple boards, making it easier to coordinate outings.
Okanagan Beach Rentals
Okanagan Beach Rentals operates out of beach parks further south in Kelowna and West Kelowna. While the service offers a mix of paddle-powered gear—including kayaks and pedal boats—they also carry stand-up paddleboards in various sizes. It's a practical option if local rentals are fully booked, especially during peak summer weekends.
Local Paddleboarding Community
Vernon Paddling Centre
The Vernon Paddling Centre, located at Paddlewheel Park, offers regular group paddles, workshops, and adaptive paddling programs. It functions as both a training hub and a recreational space. One of its annual highlights is a screening of the Paddling Film Festival, which attracts attendees from the wider Okanagan region.
These events provide more than just structure—they keep the paddleboarding community active throughout the season and make it easier for newcomers to get involved without investing in their own gear right away.
Safety and Regulations
Stand-up paddleboards are classified as human-powered vessels by Transport Canada, which means paddlers must follow specific safety regulations. A Canadian-approved PFD is mandatory and must either be worn or carried on the board. If it's not worn, a buoyant heaving line and a sound-signalling device must also be present. For paddling at night or in low-visibility conditions, a watertight flashlight is required.
Many instructors also recommend using a leash, which keeps the board within reach if a paddler falls off. This is especially important on Okanagan Lake, where winds can quickly separate a paddler from their board. Paddling with a partner and informing someone about your planned route and return time are also basic precautions.
Conditions on the lakes can shift quickly. Afternoon winds, sudden rain, and boat wakes all present potential risks. As a result, most paddleboarders in Vernon prefer to be on the water in the early morning or evening when conditions are calmer.
Environmental Practices
British Columbia runs an inspection program to prevent the spread of invasive mussels. All watercraft, including paddleboards, are subject to inspection when crossing into the province or moving between regions. This includes inflatable boards. Inspectors look for signs of contamination and ensure that equipment is clean, drained, and dry.
Local rental shops and paddlers are encouraged to follow Leave No Trace practices. That means packing out trash, avoiding wildlife disturbance, and steering clear of sensitive nesting areas. Some shops promote biodegradable sunscreens and soaps to reduce their impact on water quality.
When to Go
The main paddleboarding season in Vernon runs from late June through early September. During these months, the lakes warm up enough for regular swims, and rental shops operate with full staff and inventory. Beaches can get crowded, and parking fills up fast, especially on weekends.
Spring and fall bring cooler temperatures and fewer people. While a wetsuit might be necessary, the lakes remain accessible, and the experience becomes more peaceful. Some rental services reduce their hours or close temporarily, so it's worth checking in advance.
Winter paddleboarding does happen, but it’s not for everyone. Kalavida Surf Shop hosts a cold-water event each year that includes a short paddle followed by hot drinks on shore. For most paddlers, winter on the lakes is something to observe rather than participate in.
In Vernon, paddleboarding changes with the season. The lakes behave differently, the crowd sizes shift, and the gear requirements vary—but the boards move on
Conclusion
Whether someone is stepping onto a board for the first time or returning for another season, Vernon offers enough variety to keep paddleboarding interesting. Each lake presents its own set of conditions and benefits, and the network of local shops and events makes it easy to get involved. The sport fits naturally into the rhythm of the area, shaped by weather, water, and people who keep coming back. As the lakes settle into different moods across the year, the activity stays consistent—a way to move, float, and experience the valley from just above the surface.
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