Overview
Osoyoos is a small town of about 5,100 permanent residents in British Columbia's Okanagan Valley that draws visitors primarily for its summer recreation and wine culture. The area has a semi-arid desert climate that produces Canada's hottest temperatures and the country's warmest freshwater lake, making it ideal for beachgoers and water sports from May through September.
Beach · Day Trips · Festivals · Nature
Before you go
Health
The nearest hospital is in Oliver. Osoyoos Lake has the warmest fresh water in Canada, excellent for swimming from May-September.
Safety
Desert environment means precautions for sun exposure and dehydration. Rattlesnakes present in desert areas around town.
Transport
Osoyoos is primarily accessible by car; 400 km east of Vancouver on Highway 97. BC Transit route 40 connects to Penticton (Mon-Fri). Mountain Man Mike's bus runs twice weekly between Kaslo and Vancouver with Osoyoos stops.
Weather
Semi-arid desert climate with hot, very dry summers averaging 30°C in July-August; just over 300mm annual precipitation. Winters short and cold with January lows around -3°C.
Wine
The Okanagan has over 30 wineries in the southern section; Spring and Fall Wine Festivals are prime times to visit. Nk'Mip Cellars is North America's first Indigenous-owned winery.