Thinking of Moving to Summerland, BC? Here's What Life There is Like

This charming lakeside town in the South Okanagan punches well above its weight when it comes to lifestyle, recreation, and livability. Whether you’re planning your next big move or just testing the waters, here’s what it’s really like to live in Summerland.

A Quiet Gem with Big Personality

Summerland has that rare mix of small-town charm and sophisticated character. It’s got orchards and vineyards, sure—but also art galleries, boutique shops, and some of the friendliest cafes you’ll ever visit. Locals know each other by name, and the community has a tight-knit, down-to-earth vibe that makes you feel at home fast.

Population-wise, it’s just the right size—big enough that you won’t feel isolated, but small enough that traffic lights are rare and parking is never a battle.

Outdoor Living at Its Finest

If you’re an outdoor enthusiast (or just aspire to be), Summerland will win you over in a heartbeat. The town is surrounded by nature in every direction. For hikers and bikers, the Giant’s Head Mountain Trail is a must—offering panoramic views of the lake, vineyards, and mountains. If mountain biking is more your thing, Conkle Mountain and Cartwright Mountain offer great singletrack trails with a mix of technical and flowy sections.

Lake lovers can launch a paddleboard or kayak straight from town beaches, and Okanagan Lake’s warm waters make swimming an easy summer habit. There are also several nearby boat launches and marinas if you’re into sailing or fishing.

In the winter, Apex Mountain is just over an hour away for skiing and snowboarding, and the local scenery transforms into a snowy retreat for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.

Recreation Facilities and Community Programs

Summerland is well-equipped with recreation facilities that cater to all ages. The Summerland Aquatic & Fitness Centre offers a pool, gym, and fitness classes, while the Summerland Arena hosts ice skating, hockey, and community events. There are also tennis courts, soccer fields, and baseball diamonds scattered throughout town.

Community programming is a huge plus here. From kids’ camps and seniors’ activities to yoga in the park and local festivals, there’s always something happening—and residents of all ages tend to get involved.

Family-Friendly and School-Ready

If you’re moving with kids, rest easy: Summerland is part of School District 67 and has solid options for public education. There’s Summerland Secondary School for teens and several elementary schools including Giant’s Head Elementary and Trout Creek Elementary.

For younger children, daycare and preschool options are available, and there are also nearby private school options in Penticton if you’re looking for alternatives. The town’s walkability and slower pace also make it a comforting place to raise children—think safe streets, bike rides to school, and neighbours who look out for each other.

Shopping and Day-to-Day Conveniences

While Summerland doesn’t have big box stores, it covers all the essentials. You’ll find grocery stores, a pharmacy, banks, medical clinics, and a surprisingly well-stocked library. The downtown core is adorable—filled with local shops, bakeries, coffee roasters, and a Saturday farmers’ market during the warmer months.

For anything beyond the basics, Penticton is just a 15-minute drive away, giving you access to larger shopping centres, additional dining options, and a regional hospital.

Wine, Food, and the Local Culture

Summerland is part of the Bottleneck Drive wine trail, and living here means you’re surrounded by some of BC’s best wineries and cideries. Wine touring on a sunny weekend is practically a local pastime, and the food scene is evolving too. You’ll find everything from cozy brunch spots to fine dining experiences with a view.

There’s also an emerging arts scene, and the community rallies around cultural events like Action Fest, Festival of Lights, and the Summerland Fall Fair. Whether you’re into live music, gallery walks, or heritage celebrations, there’s more going on here than you might expect from a town this size.