With gas, groceries and almost everything else seemingly on the rise, many travellers are looking to monitor their spending while on vacation.
Luckily, here in Osoyoos — especially in the summer — there are many ways to save while still maximizing your time in the South Okanagan.
Whether you are travelling solo, with friends or with the whole family, we’ve got some tips on how to keep your costs low and your enjoyment levels high.
THINGS TO DO WITHOUT NEEDING YOUR WALLET
Visit the public beaches
Osoyoos boasts the warmest lake in Canada and guess what? It is absolutely free to enjoy!
Finding one of the public beaches around the lake is a must for anyone looking to enjoy the area without spending a dime. From Gyro Park to Lions Park to Cottonwood Park to sẁiẁs Provincial Park (Haynes Point), there are plenty of options to soak up the sun from the sand or dip your toes in the water.
Explore the murals in town
Osoyoos has no shortage of beautiful attractions and iconic art pieces to enjoy while exploring the area. But a new art scene has been emerging as of late, adding an even brighter splash of colour while capturing the lively character and history of Osoyoos.
Many murals are located right in the heart of town and within walking distance from most hotels. It is a nice way to explore the town on foot at the same time.
Click here for a guide to the beautiful murals of Osoyoos and where to find them!
Go for a hike
There is a multitude of trails around Osoyoos that provide sweeping views and a unique perspective of the South Okanagan valley — offering arguably the best desert hiking trails in all of Canada.
With most trailheads located within a 15 to 30-minute drive from the heart of Osoyoos, this is a great way to spend a day without worrying about spending money.
Due to the climate and the heat that Osoyoos experiences, it is advised to hike in the morning before the temperatures rise. Also, keep an eye out for snakes on the trail!
Ride your bike
Similarly to hiking, there are trails galore for cyclists to enjoy, both flat and leisurely as well as off-road and more intense.
Whether you brought a cruiser, an e-bike, a road bike or a mountain bike, there are trails for every type of rider! The Irrigation Canal Walkway, Oxbows Trail, and International Hike and Bike Trail are just naming a few.
More information on hiking and biking trails in the area can be found online here.
Take in a live concert at Music in the Park
This free concert series runs all summer long at Gyro Park in Osoyoos. Every Friday during the summer months, live bands will take to the Osoyoos Gyro Bandshell and give free performances for anyone looking to bring a lawn chair or beach blanket and watch the sunset.
From jazz to indie rock and everything in between, there is music that will appeal to all ages and tastes.
Take in the natural views
Two of the most popular places to stop in Osoyoos are also both free!
Spotted Lake can be seen from the side of Highway 3 and is a sacred place of healing for the Syilx people, the First Nations of the Okanagan. Its 365 separate pools contain one of the world’s highest concentrations of Epsom salts, calcium, sodium sulphates, and other minerals.
On the eastern side of town, visitors will find the Anarchist Mountain Viewpoint, also on the side of Highway 3. This pullout is only about a 10-minute drive from downtown and offers one of the most incredible views of Osoyoos Lake and the town itself.
OTHER WAYS TO EXTEND YOUR BUDGET
Book your stay in the spring or fall
If you have a flexible work schedule or if you are able to schedule vacation time during the shoulder seasons, booking your accommodations during the spring or fall can help extend your budget as you aren’t paying premium prices for accommodations. Many resorts and hotels also offer discounts during these time periods as well that can help you save even more.
Osoyoos is quieter during these times, but still offers a lot to do and the scenery is stunning. During the spring, blossoms cover the valley and in the fall, you are treated to the changing colours of the season on the trees and in the vineyards.
Try the campgrounds
Instead of shelling out for a resort or hotel, why not pack up a tent and sleeping bag and try one of the many campgrounds located in the Osoyoos area? Campgrounds and RV Parks are scattered throughout the region, offering guests sandy beaches, lakeside views and towering shady trees.
Bringing your camping gear, planning your meals and paying less for your accommodation is another great way to stretch your dollar.
Bring your own picnic
What better way to enjoy the sunshine and the great outdoors in Osoyoos than with your own picnic?
Anyone hoping to head out for a lunch alfresco should go ahead and pack up a basket, grab a blanket, and visit one of the local fruit stands, markets or grocery stores.
The parks are always an option but if you are hoping to visit some vineyards for tastings, several wineries — including Bartier Bros pictured above — encourage visitors to bring their own picnic.
This also goes for the North Basin Brewing Co. in town as guests are allowed to bring their own food.
