To some, summer is unofficially known as picnic season.
With the warmer weather most certainly having arrived in Osoyoos, locals and visitors alike have been eager to get outside and soak up that vitamin D. And what better way to do that than with a picnic, because — as mentioned above — ’tis unofficially the season!
Anyone hoping to head out for a lunch alfresco should go ahead and pack up a basket, grab a blanket, bring some sunscreen, then head to one of these seven worthy spots around Osoyoos for the perfect picnic lunch. You will certainly relish how Gouda they are.
Lions Park
Lions Park is one of the best spots for a picnic lunch in Osoyoos and is perfect for the whole family.
The park has a copious amount of picnic tables, both with shade and sun options.
The park offers plenty of trees including some weeping willows that add to the scenic surrounding.
Add in a sandy beach with a swimming area, public restrooms and a playground for the kids and you’ve got all the fixings for a top-notch picnic!
Bartier Bros. Vineyard & Winery
For picnic-goers who are venturing away from Osoyoos Lake and into the vineyards, then circle Bartier Bros Estate Winery as a must.
The winery boasts a beautiful patio area with umbrellas and shade from canopy overhangs and the Vineyard encourages groups to bring their own picnic when they come to taste their vibrant, fresh wines.
Situated off Ryegrass Road, the property offers stunning 360-degree views of the South Okanagan valley and even has its own bocce playing area for those picnic game lovers.
sẁiẁs Provincial Park (Haynes Point)
This park, proudly managed and operated by the Osoyoos Indian Band, is a great picnic option for those looking to get out of the bustle of Main Street downtown.
sẁiẁs (Haynes Point) is a provincial park on a peninsula that extends out 1 km into Osoyoos Lake. The main loop trail is fully paved, so it acts as an outstanding option to bike to from locations in town with your basket and blanket.
The park is open for day use to the public, offering options for swimming or picnicking along the rocky shores.
Day trippers have access to the park’s facilities including parking, picnic tables, washrooms, and change house.
Adega on 45th Estate Winery
Adega is another fantastic winery for those seeking a nice vineyard to picnic.
Located closer to the heart of Osoyoos than Bartier Bros, Adega’s patio offers views of the lake instead of the surrounding valley.
Tables come fitted with umbrellas for shade and visitors can either bring their own picnic or purchase something from the winery’s deli cooler on site!
Pioneer Walkway
Pioneer Walkway, which runs along Highway 3, is a nice option for anyone staying along the main hotel strip in Osoyoos.
Just by crossing the street, families can find a string of picnic tables right along the water that can be a lovely place to seat and eat an outdoor lunch in the sunshine!
Watch the boats, bikes and walkers go by and, if you are lucky, you might be able to snag a seat in the gazebo!
Cottonwood Park
While Cottonwood Park may not have as many options for tables and seating as far as picnic benches go, the ones that are on site are worthwhile.
Follow the short pathway beyond the public washrooms to the shady, quiet point to enjoy your lunch or afternoon snack away from foot traffic.
Those not wanting to pack their own picnic can even order takeout food from the Sage Pub right across the street and bring it out to the point at Cottonwood Park for a delicious option.
Goodman Park
Goodman Park is located along Lakeshore Drive, another spot slightly off the main path for foot traffic.
Benches, picnic tables, and full-service washrooms are located on-site while offering a spot for swimmers looking to take a dip as part of their lunch.
The south-facing park offers great views of sẁiẁs (Haynes Point) across the water and gets direct sun, beginning early in the day and lasting through the afternoon.
For families, the park is located a short jaunt away from Rattlesnake Canyon, a great entertainment park to package a day with a picnic lunch. Picnic, mini golf and bumper boats in one day? Sign me up!
