Summerland Waterfront Resort & Spa Review: My 3-Night Stay

I enjoyed staying at Summerland Waterfront Resort & Spa so much that I almost wished I hadn’t planned so many activities during my fall getaway!

I spent 3 nights in a spacious one-bedroom lakeview suite overlooking Okanagan Lake. With a full kitchen, cozy fireplace, private balcony and beautiful views of the water, I felt right at home. Even the rainy weather made me want to curl up inside and enjoy the surroundings.

If you’re wondering where to stay in Summerland, BC, I’ll share my experience at the waterfront resort, including what the suites are like, the amenities, nearby beaches and walking paths, and what you should know before booking your own stay.

Thank you to Town Hall Brands and the Summerland Waterfront Resort and Spa for hosting me during my time in Summerland.

My 3-Night Stay at Summerland Waterfront Resort

I stayed in a one-bedroom lakeview suite at Summerland Waterfront Resort & Spa in late September, when the mornings were getting cooler and the fall colours were beginning to appear around the South Okanagan.

What I appreciated most was having somewhere comfortable to return to after spending the day visiting Summerland’s attractions. And with Okanagan Lake right outside my window, I was just as happy spending time at the resort as I was heading out.

Inside My One-Bedroom Lakeview Suite

The suite felt more like a small apartment than a typical hotel room, with a separate bedroom, living area, full kitchen and private balcony overlooking Okanagan Lake.

Having that extra space made a difference during my 3-night stay. I could unpack, spread out my things and enjoy a few evenings without feeling confined to a single hotel room.

A Full Kitchen for Longer Stays

One of the biggest advantages of staying at Summerland Waterfront Resort is that the suites come with full kitchens.

I picked up groceries at the local IGA and had everything I needed to prepare meals in my suite. It was especially convenient after a full day of sightseeing when I didn’t feel like going out to a restaurant.

This is a feature I’d particularly recommend for families, travellers with specific dietary preferences or anyone planning to stay for several nights.

🍝 A full kitchen, separate living area and waterfront location mean you can enjoy more of your stay without constantly spending money on restaurant meals or driving somewhere else. Compare available suite rates.

Fireplace, Balcony and Okanagan Lake Views

The lake views were easily one of my favourite parts of the stay.

I could sit inside and look out over Okanagan Lake, or step onto the balcony for a better view of the water and surrounding mountains.

It rained during part of my visit, but I actually enjoyed that. With the fireplace on and a cozy robe to wrap myself in, I was perfectly content spending time indoors.

I honestly could have spent another few days here without needing much convincing.

🪵 Imagine waking up to Okanagan Lake outside your window, then spending the evening by the fireplace after a day out in Summerland. If that sounds like your kind of getaway, find your lakeside escape.

Resort Amenities and Things to Do

One of the best things about staying here is having Okanagan Lake right outside your door, with plenty of ways to enjoy the waterfront.

I visited at the end of September, when the summer activities were winding down. If you’re visiting during the warmer months, you’ll have even more options.

Outdoor Pool, Hot Tubs and Sauna

The resort has a seasonal heated outdoor pool, two year-round hot tubs, a sauna and a fitness centre overlooking the lake.

The hot tubs are particularly appealing on cooler evenings after a day of sightseeing.

Boat Rentals and Water Activities

During summer, SWR Boat & SUP Rentals offers several ways to get out on Okanagan Lake, including:

• Motorized boats and pontoon boats
• Stand-up paddleboards
• Kayaks

Rentals are available to resort guests and other visitors. Check seasonal availability and book ahead during busy periods.

Beaches, Walking Paths and Bikes

With beaches and waterfront pathways nearby, you don’t need to drive anywhere to enjoy the lake.

I loved being able to step outside for a short walk, take photographs or simply find somewhere to sit and enjoy the views.

The resort also provides complimentary cruiser bikes, helmets and locks for guests, subject to availability.

Spa and Wellness

The on-site iKhaya Day Spa offers massages, facials and other treatments, which can be booked separately.

It’s a convenient option if you’d like to spend an afternoon relaxing without leaving the property.

Summer Activities for Families

During the summer months, the resort may offer additional activities, including children’s programming, live music, art workshops and lakeside events.

Check the seasonal events calendar for what’s happening during your visit.

Dining at Summerland Waterfront Resort & Spa

The resort’s full kitchens make it easy to prepare your own meals, but there are also convenient places to eat nearby without getting in your car.

Breakfast and Coffee at The Bistro

The Bistro is located right on the resort property, making it convenient to grab breakfast and coffee before heading out for the day.

I ordered a vegan smoothie and a latte with soy milk. Having soy milk available was a definite plus for me, and the staff were also happy to customize a breakfast sandwich with vegan grilled cheese, onions, garlic, spinach and sun-dried tomatoes.

It was delicious and made for a good, hearty breakfast before heading out to Summerland Sweets and the Kettle Valley Steam Railway.

Website: The Bistro

Lakeside Dining at Shaughnessy’s Cove

Shaughnessy’s Cove is located next to the resort, overlooking Okanagan Lake. It offers a sit-down dining option within easy walking distance of your suite.

The waterfront location is particularly appealing during warmer weather, when you can enjoy the patio.

Website: Shaughnessy’s Cove

Location and Getting Around Summerland

One of the biggest advantages of staying at the waterfront resort is its location directly on Okanagan Lake. You’re close to beaches and lakeside walking paths, with plenty of opportunities to enjoy the scenery without getting in your car.

The resort is in Summerland’s Lower Town area, while the main downtown shopping district is farther uphill. I’d recommend having a vehicle, particularly if you want to visit the attractions included in my Summerland itinerary.

How Far Is the Resort from Local Attractions?

Most of Summerland’s main attractions are within a short drive, making the resort a convenient base for sightseeing.

Driving times are approximate and depend on traffic and road conditions.

I particularly enjoyed being able to visit a few attractions during the day and return to the resort in the afternoon without spending much time driving.

Can You Get Around Without a Car?

If you’re planning to spend most of your getaway relaxing by Okanagan Lake, you can certainly enjoy the waterfront without a vehicle.

There are beaches and walking paths nearby, along with dining options within walking distance of the resort.

However, downtown Summerland is uphill from the lakefront, and attractions such as the Kettle Valley Steam Railway and Summerland Sweets aren’t within convenient walking distance.

For a longer stay, I’d recommend having a car so you can enjoy both the waterfront and the surrounding community at your own pace.

If you’d like ideas for planning your days, I’ve put together a 3-day Summerland itinerary featuring the historic steam railway, local shops, fruit tastings and gardens.

What I Loved About Summerland Waterfront Resort

What stood out to me most was how comfortable I felt spending time at the resort. I usually have a long list of places I want to visit when travelling, but this time I found myself wanting to get back to my suite and enjoy the lake views.

Having a separate living area made such a difference. I could relax on the sofa, make something to eat in the kitchen or sit by the window watching the changing weather over Okanagan Lake.

I also appreciated having everything I needed for a longer stay. The kitchen meant I could prepare meals whenever I wanted, and the fireplace made the suite particularly cozy when it rained.

The waterfront location was another highlight. I could step outside for a short walk along the lake, take photographs or find somewhere to sit without having to drive to another attraction.

I think this resort is particularly well suited to travellers who enjoy spending time at their accommodation rather than using it simply as somewhere to sleep.

📸 After spending 3 nights here, I can absolutely say I’d happily return. I loved having somewhere comfortable to come back to after sightseeing, especially with those beautiful lake views. Choose your own lakeside getaway.

Things to Know Before Booking

There are a few things worth considering when deciding whether Summerland Waterfront Resort & Spa is right for your getaway.

• Choose your room view carefully. I stayed in a lakeview suite and loved having Okanagan Lake right outside my window. Check the available room categories when booking, as not every suite has lake views.
• You’ll want a car for sightseeing. The waterfront is easy to enjoy on foot, but downtown Summerland and attractions such as the Kettle Valley Steam Railway are a short drive away.
• Some amenities are seasonal. Boat rentals, paddleboarding, kayaking and the outdoor pool may not be available throughout the year.
• Consider a longer stay. With a full kitchen and separate living area, the suites are particularly convenient if you’re planning to spend several nights in Summerland.
• Check accessibility requirements before booking. Confirm the room layout, bathroom facilities and access to resort amenities directly with the property if you have specific mobility needs.

I’d also recommend checking what’s included in your room rate, along with parking arrangements and cancellation policies, before making a reservation.

💻 Before making your reservation, take a look at the available suite categories, current rates and cancellation policies to make sure you’re booking the right option for your trip. Review rooms and booking details.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Summerland Waterfront Resort & Spa

Is Summerland Waterfront Resort & Spa Worth It?

Absolutely, especially if you’re looking for a relaxing lakeside getaway where you’ll actually want to spend time at your accommodation.

After spending 3 nights here, I can confidently say I’d happily return. I loved having a spacious suite with a full kitchen, a fireplace and beautiful views of Okanagan Lake.

The resort is particularly appealing for couples, solo travellers and families who appreciate having more space and the flexibility to prepare their own meals. It’s also a lovely option for a fall getaway when the weather is cooler and spending an afternoon relaxing indoors sounds just as appealing as heading out.

If you’re looking for somewhere within walking distance of downtown shops, the waterfront location may be less convenient. But if lake views, comfortable accommodations and easy access to the surrounding South Okanagan are priorities, I think it’s an excellent choice.

Planning a stay in Summerland? Check current rates and availability at Summerland Waterfront Resort & Spa to find the suite that best suits your trip.

Ready to plan your own lakeside getaway? Check current availability and book your stay at Summerland Waterfront Resort & Spa.

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