British Columbia, Canada, is known for its stunning natural landscapes and diverse mountain ranges. For outdoor enthusiasts, there is no better destination to add to your BC adventure than in Kelowna.
Located on the Eastern shores of the Okanagan Valley, Kelowna is home to jaw-dropping provincial parks, lush forests, a varied food scene, and of course, world-class vineyards.
One of the most unique things about Kelowna, in my opinion, is that you can sunbathe on the beaches of the Okanagan Lake in the summer, and experience fantastic skiing in the mountains in the winter – making it the perfect vacation spot all year round.
Because of its semi-remote location away from the big cities, it makes for a great place to escape the usual touristy crowds and get some peace and serenity. And if hikes and long walks make your soul sing, you’ll be spoilt for choice in Kelowna.
While it’s becoming a more popular destination to visit in British Columbia, when it comes to places to stay it can be difficult to find somewhere that ticks all the boxes.
That’s where I will help you, my friend.
In this guide, I have put together my top 20 vacation rentals in Kelowna that will meet the needs of almost any traveller, whether you’re travelling with friends, family, as a couple, or solo, we’ve got options for you.
Let’s take a look.
Quick Answer: These are the Top 5 Vacation Rentals in Kelowna
A 4BR Bohemian Home
- > $$
- > 8 Guests
- > Rated Kelowna’s number one stay of 2019
- > Located in South Central
Cute and Private Guest Suite
- > $
- > 2 Guests
- > Guest suite with private, separate entrance
- > Located in in Lower Mission
Getaway Close to Lake Idabel
- > $
- > 4 Guests
- > Beautiful views of the lake
- > Located on a hillside above Idabel Lake
5 Br Home with a Big Backyard
- > $
- > 10 Guests
- > Affordable home with heaps of activities for kids
- > Located close to Kelowna Golf and Country Club
1915 sq. ft Townhouse with Hot Tub
- > $$$
- > 8 Guests
- > Great location with modern furnishings
- > Close to Tugboat Bay
Looking for other types of accommodation? Check out our guide to Where to Stay in Kelowna!
Types of Accommodation in Kelowna
Before we get into my top 20 picks for vacation rentals in Kelowna, here’s a quick lowdown on the most common types of accommodation you’ll find in this city.
Because we all have different needs and budgets, it’s a good idea to familiarise yourself with the kind of holiday rentals available so you can figure out which is best suited to you.
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Apartments and Condos
Kelowna has a plethora of apartments and condos to choose from. Quite a large percentage of these apartment buildings are also accessible and a good fit for wheelchair users or families with strollers, as they have elevators within them and are often designed with more spacious hallways.
I would say that apartments make up a large percentage of the holiday rentals in Kelowna, and most of them are in Downtown Kelowna. Because there is a high density of apartments, there is more competition so you’ll likely find one that is easier on the pocket.
Many of these apartments offer stunning lake views and shared modern amenities like pools and gyms. Downtown Kelowna is also where you’ll find the most nightlife in the form of lively bars and top-rated restaurants.
Lakefront Houses and Bungalows
When it comes to lakefront properties in Kelowna, you’ll find many of these vacation rentals in South Pandosy, or next to Gyro Beach and Tugboat Beach. Some of these even have access to little private beaches that are perfect for those lazy vacation sunbathing days.
While these types of rentals are some of the most luxurious properties in Kelowna but they often provide you with more privacy and space – perfect for groups and families.
Because they are more luxurious they are more expensive but split between a group of four or more it can work out to be quite a good deal.
Cottages and Cabins
If you love yourself a little log cabin, tucked away in a forest or at the base of a mountain, Kelowna has some fantastic options that will be like chicken soup for your soul!
Be warned that during winters, snow is common and it might get tricky to drive up to such cabins and cottages without a 4×4 vehicle.
Many of these cottages and cabins are on the outskirts of town, but because of the relative size of Kelowna, Downtown Kelowna is only a short drive away.
I would recommend a cottage for a couple or small group of friends looking for some seclusion and quality time together.
The Top 20 Vacation Rentals in Kelowna
There is truly a wide variety of vacation rentals in Kelowna, no matter what your budget may be. Here you will find a variety of accommodation options for any type of traveller, so you’ll be sure to find where to stay in Kelowna in this list.
So, when you’re ready, take a look!
Most Charming Vacation Rental in Kelowna | 4BR Bohemian Home
With sparkling clean interiors, this four-bedroom home close to downtown Kelowna is perfect for friends or two couples travelling together. This vacation rental in Kelowna is spacious and well designed with contemporary furnishings and modern appliances, plus there are two full bathrooms.
The house has a beautiful outdoor space with enough cozy seating and lights strung across for those evenings of memorable conversations. There’s a small fire pit and a covered gazebo to make colder nights even cosier. The kitchen is spotless and equipped with all modern gadgets.
Best Pet Friendly Vacation Rental in Kelowna | 4BR Home W/ Yard
If you want to travel with your pet to Kelowna, you’ll be pleased to know that over 30% of vacation rentals in Kelowna are happy to accommodate a pet, albeit at an extra cost.
I love this holiday home because the outdoor space is fenced off, which makes it perfect for your pet to run around in without a leash, while you and your group enjoy the hot tub.
There are heaps of beds and spaces to kick back and relax in this home, especially because the house has an open plan basement area that can be used too.
Best Vacation Rental in Kelowna for a Big Family | 5 BR Home W/ Pool
This vacation rental in Kelowna is well suited for a family because of several reasons. First, it has enough open space to fit a family without bumping into each other.
Secondly, the 1100 square feet outdoor area is very well-designed with a multi-level deck. There is a heated pool, six-person hot tub, two pergolas, a BBQ grill, and more than enough seating arrangements to enjoy meals outside.
If you’ve got a big family, you can each find your own little nook to entertain yourself in or come together and enjoy family time.
In case you aren’t hiring a car in Kelowna, there’s a bus stop conveniently located right outside the house.
Best Vacation Rental in Kelowna for a Budget Couple | 1BR Suite
While this is a guest suite that is attached to the main house, you will still have more than enough privacy with your own private entrance.
There’s a little patio that has a small fire pit and comfortable lounge chairs, perfect for you and your partner to cuddle up in while you enjoy some time away.
There is a full bathroom and a modern, fully-equipped kitchen for you to use. The beach is only 250 metres away and makes for a nice walk in the evenings. There are also several bars and restaurants within walking distance if you don’t feel like cooking.
Budget Tip: Dorms in Kelowna start from $10USD per bed. They’re the cheapest accommodation in the city. Search for hostels in the area!
Best Holiday Rental in Kelowna for a Weekend | 3 BR Lake View Home
This multi-level house has stunning views of the lake that are pretty hard to beat. Kitted out with modern interiors and huge windows that let in heaps of natural light, the whole house has a very welcoming and airy vibe.
The kitchen is fully stocked and would make any chef happy. The three bedrooms have a mix of king and queen beds. There is a pool and hot tub too, to make your weekend getaway extra relaxing.
Best Value Holiday Rental in Kelowna | 3BR Waterfront Condo
Being part of the huge Lake Okanagan Resort, this private three-bedroom condominium offers access to 300 acres of the Okanagan Valley.
The resort itself is home to 17 premier golf courses, over 100 wineries (yes, there’s really that many), hiking and biking trails, skiing, and multiple water sports on the lake. If you are travelling with children, there are also two tennis courts, a basketball court, a playground, and outdoor pools, depending on the season.
The villa itself is modern and has all the facilities one may expect from a luxury holiday home. All these come at an unbelievably affordable price, making this one of the best value-for-money vacation rentals in Kelowna.
Most Modern Vacation Rental in Kelowna | 4 BR Home W/ Lake Views
Can you imagine watching the sunrise over the lake while you enjoy your morning coffee from your private balcony? Well, this dream could be a reality in this stunning four-bedroom home.
With heaps of natural light and a well-designed outdoor space, this vacation rental in Kelowna is well suited for a group holiday with friends.
The pool outside can be heated and is accessible all year around. The kitchen is fully equipped and has everything you may need to cook a meal from scratch. The house itself is modern and well-styled for those who like their homely comforts.
Best Waterfront Holiday Rental in Kelowna | 4BR Spanish Home
If you’re looking for a vacation rental that is super close to the water, while offering a comfortable and relaxing base, you should be pretty happy with this recommendation. You will get expansive water views from your private deck and seating area.
While the rental is located on the upper floor of the house, with the owner and their family living on the ground level, you have your own entrance giving you plenty of privacy.
You will also have access to a private beach that is only about 140 steps away. However, this path includes stairs and so is unsuitable for people with mobility issues.
Best Holiday Rental in Kelowna for Friends | 3BR Condo in Resort
As with one of my previous recommendations, this rental is also part of the Lake Okanagan Resort, which means that you get access to all the facilities offered by the resort while having your own private space.
The three-bedroom condo has beautiful views of the lake, with the stunning living room getting lots of sunlight and a cool breeze. The bedrooms are super spacious and two of them have their own ensuites.
The resort has some great facilities like a basketball court, tennis courts, water sports, outdoor pools etc.
Best Vacation Rental in Kelowna for Groups | 6 BR Home W/ Pool
Located in a quiet neighborhood in Southeast Kelowna, this six-bedroom house has all the space a large group might need. With a beautiful, large pool that leads directly into a very private play park, this house would be suitable large families or even for an extended family reunion.
The house has two full kitchens and common living areas, one on each level. The house is about an hour’s drive to the Big White if you are planning a winter vacay and want to experience some of the best skiing in Canada while you are in Kelowna.
Best Vacation Rental in Kelowna for a Budget Family | 5 BR Home
Travelling with a large family can get expensive. If you want to save some money on accommodation but still want a vacation rental in Kelowna that is comfortable and modern, this holiday home should tick all the boxes.
With two king beds on the main floor and three queen beds in the basement, there’s enough room for everyone to get a good night’s sleep.
There’s a movie room, as well as air hockey, foosball, and toys in the basement to keep the kids occupied. Pets are also welcome and can roam around the fenced backyard without a leash.
Centrally Located Vacation Rental in Kelowna | 3 BR Townhouse
This contemporary vacation rental in Kelowna is a great base to explore all that the city has to offer, including the waterfront and its various shops and eateries, and of course the surrounding wineries such as Tantalus Vineyard.
Tastefully decorated in muted whites and pastels, the interiors are very minimalistic chic. There’s a fully-equipped kitchen as well as adequate dining space.
The living area has a TV with most streaming services available for your use, and a fireplace for those colder nights. In case you have an electric vehicle, there’s an EV charger in the garage.
Vacation Rental in Kelowna with the Best Pool | 3BR Home W/ Pool
Situated on an expansive estate on a quiet cul-de-sac, this huge vacation rental in Kelowna has a custom-made pool that needs to be seen to be believed! With a waterslide, cave, cliff jump zones and a hot tub, this pool will be enjoyed by kids and adults alike.
The three bedrooms of the house are located in the basement suite. The suite has a kitchenette, while the main kitchen is upstairs and is shared with the owner and family. The house has stunning views of the surrounding mountains and there are many hiking paths are close by.
Most Beautiful Holiday Rental in Kelowna | 3BR Lakefront Home
Located on a quiet street, this three-bedroom home is a combination of modern amenities and rustic glam. The living and dining space and the master bedroom have 14 feet high ceilings, giving the entire house a very spacious feel.
The kitchen is well-stocked with all the basic appliances and cooking utensils.
The house has a private shallow sandy beach that is safe for children. There are also two docks for your exclusive use. A small park next door is great for children to play in.
Affordable Luxurious Vacation Rental in Kelowna | 3BR Condo
While located in a gated community with shared amenities like outdoor and indoor pools, a hot tub, and a gym, this 3 bedroom home has an old-school glamourous feel to it.
With marble floors, granite counters and hardwood floors throughout the condo, the place feels luxurious without being heavy on the pocket.
The house also comes with a parking spot in case you’ve rented a car or have driven down to Kelowna. There is an outdoor BBQ grill on the patio that overlooks the lagoon.
Best Holiday Rental in Kelowna with Views | 2BR Lakefront Guest Suite
This two-bedroom lakefront unit is a great option for a small family or even two couples holidaying together. The entire house is decorated in a very coastal beachy aesthetic and has a calming vibe.
This vacation rental in Kelowna is one of my favourites because of the little details that make all the difference, including the amenities in the kitchen.
The master bedroom has direct access to the patio and has comfortable chairs to sit and enjoy the view. The patio also has a BBQ grill. There are children’s books and toys in case you are travelling with kids. Included in the nightly rate are beach essentials like towels, an umbrella, beach blankets, and snorkelling gear.
Best Offbeat Holiday Rental in Kelowna | 1BR Lakefront Cottage
If you are the kind of traveller who likes to get away from the hustle and bustle and enjoys some quiet and solitude, this little cottage on Lake Idabel will be right up your alley. It should be noted that although it is private, this is not a standalone cottage and is part of a larger resort.
This one-bedroom chalet-style cottage can easily sleep five and has a decent-sized kitchen as well as a private balcony with expansive views of the lake.
The cottage is in an isolated location with no restaurants and eateries nearby. Therefore, guests must bring food and water with them, but there is a fully equipped kitchen you can use. There is also no cell service or internet here, so you’ll have to make do with each other’s company instead of Netflix, sounds horrible, right? Just kidding.
Most Luxurious Vacation Rental in Kelowna | 3BR Townhouse W/ Hot Tub
What makes this vacation rental in Kelowna luxurious is its modern amenities and amazing location. You can begin your day in Kelowna watching the sunrise over the lake from the comfort of your private balcony and end your day by relaxing in the living area and then getting a good night’s sleep in the super comfortable beds.
The second floor of the house has easy access to the outdoor pool. Guests may also use the hot tub and indoor pool in the apart-hotel complex.
The house has been refurbished very tastefully and many former visitors say how this townhouse is better in reality than in pictures.
Most Accessible Vacation Rental in Kelowna | 3BR Resort Style Home
With amenities and features such as a huge, landscaped yard, a pool, an outdoor BBQ grill, and an outdoor fire pit, this three-bedroom home is almost a complete getaway in itself.
However, you might be tempted to step outside because it is also located close to golf courses, wineries, and all three lakes in the Kelowna area. If you want to get some skiing action in, the Big White is a 45-minute drive away.
The house itself is spacious and is easy to navigate for wheelchair users. Guest entrances to the house and the inside bedrooms are wider than 32 inches making this property very accessible for people with mobility issues.
Romantic Vacation Rental in Kelowna | 2BR Cabin on Lake Idabel
While this cute cottage is technically part of the Idabel Lake Resort, the term “resort” here is slightly misleading as the cottages here are all privately owned.
There are some shared facilities and amenities that guests may enjoy, such as the beach, boats & canoes, the firepit, and games room.
Inside the cabin, both bedrooms have premium quality linen as well as luxuriously comfortable beds. The cabin has a private balcony with stunning views of the surrounding mountains and of course, of the lake itself.
It is important to note that there are no supermarkets or shops nearby and hence, guests must bring food and water with them.
Final Thoughts
Whether you want to take advantage of the beautiful hikes and trails surrounding Kelowna, or you want to go on a wine-tasting tour of the multiple wineries and vineyards nearby, Kelowna is a great base for your holiday in the picturesque British Columbia region of Canada.
If you’re travelling through Kelowna on a road trip from Vancouver, it makes for a great pitstop to relax and unwind for a few days before hitting out on the road again.
For those visiting in the summer, be sure to check out the beautiful lakefront boardwalk, as well as the gorgeous lakeside beaches. For winter travellers, try out the neighbouring ski fields, especially the Big White Ski resort that is famous for its 2,765 acres of skiable ground.
I hope this list of vacation rentals in Kelowna has convinced you that your BC holiday is long overdue! Till next time…
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