British Columbia’s Best Lake Towns for a Summer Staycation (Part 2)
British Columbia‘s lakes stretch across mountains, forests and fertile valleys, creating some of Canada’s most picturesque summer destinations. While many visitors flock to larger cities, the province is also home to welcoming lakeside communities that offer quieter beaches, charming town centres and endless opportunities to enjoy the outdoors.
Whether travellers are planning a family holiday, a romantic weekend or a peaceful retreat surrounded by nature, these hidden gems showcase another side of British Columbia. From warm freshwater lakes to mountain-framed shorelines, every destination offers its own unique character.
Here are five more lake towns that deserve a place on every British Columbia summer staycation itinerary.
Harrison Hot Springs – Relaxation on the Shores of Harrison Lake
Nestled at the southern end of Harrison Lake, Harrison Hot Springs has welcomed visitors for generations. While its famous natural mineral pools remain a major attraction, the lakeside village offers far more than a relaxing soak.
The wide waterfront promenade invites leisurely walks with panoramic mountain views. During summer, visitors gather on the sandy beach to swim, paddleboard or simply enjoy the peaceful scenery. Boat rentals and guided cruises provide another way to explore the vast glacier-fed lake.
Families appreciate the playgrounds, picnic areas and open green spaces that line the waterfront, while couples often choose an evening stroll followed by dinner on a lakeside patio.
The village also hosts seasonal markets, outdoor events and artisan shops that create a welcoming atmosphere throughout the warmer months. Whether staying for a weekend or a longer holiday, Harrison Hot Springs combines natural beauty with small-town hospitality.
Christina Lake – Warm Waters and Quiet Beaches
Located in British Columbia‘s Boundary Country, Christina Lake is often described as one of the province’s best-kept secrets. It is also home to one of Canada’s warmest tree-lined freshwater lakes, making it especially popular during the summer.
Unlike many larger resort communities, Christina Lake offers a relaxed pace that encourages visitors to slow down and enjoy nature. Families spend their days swimming, building sandcastles and kayaking along the calm shoreline, while anglers head out early in search of trout and kokanee.
Several beaches provide plenty of space for picnics, and forested trails offer opportunities to spot birds and local wildlife. Cyclists can also explore nearby routes that wind through peaceful countryside.
Small cafés, family-owned restaurants and seasonal markets add to the welcoming atmosphere, making Christina Lake an excellent destination for travellers seeking a quieter escape away from busy tourist centres.
Kaslo – Historic Charm on Kootenay Lake
Tucked along the western shore of Kootenay Lake, Kaslo blends breathtaking scenery with rich history. Surrounded by the Selkirk Mountains, the village feels like a postcard come to life.
The historic downtown features beautifully preserved heritage buildings that house cafés, galleries, boutiques and local shops. Visitors can spend hours exploring the charming streets before relaxing at the nearby waterfront.
Kaslo’s marina and beaches provide easy access to kayaking, paddleboarding and boating. The calm waters are ideal for leisurely afternoons on the lake, while nearby hiking trails reward visitors with impressive views of both the mountains and shoreline.
One of Kaslo’s most recognisable attractions is the restored S.S. Moyie, the world’s oldest intact passenger sternwheeler. The historic vessel offers a fascinating glimpse into the region’s transportation history and remains a favourite stop for visitors.
With its combination of heritage, scenery and outdoor recreation, Kaslo is a rewarding destination for travellers looking to experience authentic small-town British Columbia.
Sicamous – Canada’s Houseboat Capital
Positioned between Shuswap Lake and Mara Lake, Sicamous has earned its reputation as the Houseboat Capital of Canada. The community has become one of the province’s favourite destinations for boating enthusiasts.
Summer visitors often arrive by boat, but there is plenty to enjoy on land as well. Public beaches, waterfront parks and walking trails provide opportunities for swimming, picnicking and family outings.
Renting a pontoon boat, kayak or paddleboard is one of the best ways to experience the surrounding waterways. Many visitors also choose to spend several days aboard a houseboat, exploring quiet coves and secluded beaches throughout the Shuswap region.
Downtown Sicamous offers local restaurants, ice cream shops and cafés where visitors can relax after a day on the water. The friendly atmosphere and abundance of outdoor recreation make Sicamous an excellent choice for both active families and couples seeking a memorable summer holiday.
Lake Cowichan – Vancouver Island’s Freshwater Playground
Surrounded by forests on southern Vancouver Island, Lake Cowichan offers crystal-clear water, sandy beaches and a relaxed pace that has made it a favourite summer destination for island residents.
The warm freshwater lake attracts swimmers, paddleboarders, kayakers and anglers throughout the season. Families enjoy spending long afternoons at the public beach, while adventure seekers often explore the surrounding shoreline by canoe or kayak.
One of the community’s most popular summer traditions is floating sections of the Cowichan River, where visitors gently drift downstream on inflatable tubes while taking in the scenic surroundings.
The town centre features welcoming cafés, bakeries and independent shops, giving visitors plenty of opportunities to support local businesses. Nearby hiking and cycling trails provide additional ways to experience the region’s forests and wildlife.
For travellers exploring Vancouver Island, Lake Cowichan offers the perfect combination of outdoor recreation and relaxed small-town charm.
Discover More of British Columbia This Summer
From the peaceful shores of Christina Lake to the boating paradise of Sicamous, British Columbia‘s smaller lake towns prove that unforgettable summer holidays are not limited to the province’s largest destinations. Each community offers its own blend of natural beauty, welcoming hospitality and memorable outdoor experiences.
Together with the five destinations featured in Part 1, these lakeside escapes showcase the incredible diversity of British Columbia‘s freshwater landscapes. Whether visitors are looking for family adventures, romantic weekends or quiet retreats surrounded by mountains and forests, there is a lake town waiting to be discovered.
This summer, consider taking the scenic route and exploring one of British Columbia‘s charming lake communities. The slower pace, stunning scenery and warm local welcome may become the highlight of the season.