Canada is widely known for its maple syrup, polite people, and brutally cold winters. But have you ever come across images online of its gorgeous turquoise lakes? British Columbia offers some of the most picturesque sights of mountains and lakes that the country has to offer. The best time to go to these lakes is in the summer, but they look stunning in any season. In this article, we will share with you some of the most gorgeous lakes that you surely don’t want to miss. Get your bathing suits and backpacks ready! Scroll down to read about the most beautiful lakes in British Columbia, Canada.
Tip from Content Creator
Apart from having gorgeous lakes, British Columbia is a great place to try paddle boarding. Luckily, there are plenty of perfect spots to practice (it’s really not that hard) apart from the lakes on this list. Here are my top picks (so far):
- Thetis Lake, Vancouver Island
- Locarno Beach, Vancouver
- Killarney Lake, Bowen Island
- Sunset Beach, Vancouver
- Port Moody
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1. Skaha Lake
Dip your feet in the soft and gentle sand, sit back and enjoy the view! Known for its beautiful sandy beaches and warm water, Skaha Lake will put you in a peaceful state of mind. There are lots of activities for kids and adults, such as slides in the water, fire pits, playgrounds, tennis courts, and beach volleyball areas. In addition, there is even a Water Park located in Skaha Lake Park! Do plan your stay so that you can explore as much as you can while you are there, including the historic town.
Skaha Lake
Address: Parkview Street, Penticton, British Columbia V2A 3W2, Canada
Website: Skaha Lake
2. Okanagan Lake
Okanagan Lake is regarded as a sight to see, and for the right reasons. The 135-km (84-mile) long lake can be found in the Okanagan Valley, which is about a four-hour drive from Vancouver. There are cabins for rent in British Columbia that also offer lakefront views travelers would certainly appreciate. There are over 30 gorgeous beaches in the area, so you don’t have to worry about not being satisfied with one of them as there are 29 more! You are able to paddleboard, kayak, and snorkel in the crystal clear waters surrounded by world-class wineries, fascinating First Nations communities, and a diverse, semi-desert landscape that can feel more like California than Canada. It’s a popular spot for sport boaters, kite surfers, and paddleboarders. Do note that the waters are deep, up to 232 meters (760 feet), providing a home for a variety of fish.
Okanagan Lake
Address: Kelowna, British Columbia, Canada
Website: Okanagan Lake
3. Kalamalka Lake
Located in the city of Vernon, Kalamalka Lake is the perfect weekend trip destination. During the summer months, dissolved limestone crystallizes, giving the lake its distinctive blue and green color! When the lake cools off in the winter, the limestone crystals disappear, taking the green color with it, which is why summer is the perfect time to visit this particular lake. There is plenty of wildlife and nature to kick back and admire. Do note that this lake is a five-hour drive from Vancouver.
Kalamalka Lake
Address: Vernon, British Columbia
Website: Kalamalka Lake
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4. Lake O'Hara
Lake O'Hara, located in Yoho National Park, is one of the bucket list lakes that you should take a trip to in British Columbia. This unparalleled gem has brilliantly blue waters, and the area has plenty of hiking trails and camping grounds. This road trip will take you 9 hours from Vancouver, but I promise you it’s worth the drive!
Lake O'Hara
Address: Yoho National Park, in the province of British Columbia
Website: Lake O'Hara
5. Wahleach Lake
Getting to this lake is a trip on its own, with a scenic drive up amongst breathtaking waterfalls. This lake is all about turquoise water surrounded by stunning mountain peaks. Located between Hope and Chilliwack, this beach offers excellent swimming and fishing opportunities. Do plan your trip and stay a while, since there are various camping opportunities at the lake, as well as hiking, mountain biking and backcountry exploration! There are two main campsites along Jones Lake, each with several camping pads, fire rings, toilets and picnic tables. The area provides amenities such as shops and restaurants. Moreover, its an amazing atmosphere for a picnic and perfect for some family time! If you decide to fish, there are crayfish in the lake.
Wahleach Lake
Address: Jones Creek Forest Service Road, Chilliwack, British Columbia, Canada
Website: Wahleach Lake
6. Eva Lake
Access to this beautiful, serene lake is via a trail that leads you through meadows filled with gorgeous wildflowers and dense forests. You’ll have to hike for a bit to get into Eva Lake, located inside Mount Revelstoke National Park, but once you’re there, it’ll be a sight to behold! The hike is about 14 kilometers (9 miles) and moderately difficult, but you’ll be hiking through sub-alpine terrain and the view alone is worth it, never mind the refreshing dip in the turquoise-colored waters of Eva Lake. There is even a shuttle bus available, but other than that, there isn’t much in the way of amenities available to you inside the park and along the trail. The town of Revelstoke is used to tourists and adventure-seekers, so do not worry as you’ll find hotels, motels, restaurants and stores for your convenience.
Eva Lake
Address: Mount Revelstoke National Park
Website: Eva Lake
7. Mara Lake
Mara Lake is popular with boaters, and there’s no shortage of swimming spots along the shore. Located just south of Sicamous, Mara Lake’s southeast side is in Mara Provincial Park. This is a day-use park only. Everything for your convenience is located in nearby Sicamous, such as hotels, restaurants and shops. Mara Lake Provincial Park is equipped with a boat launch, picnic areas and pit toilets.
Mara Lake
Address: Shuswap Country of the Southern Interior of British Columbia, Canada
Website: Mara Lake
8. Shuswap Lake
Shuswap Lake is a popular location, offering campsites, beaches and beautiful, clear water that’s perfect for swimming. It is only a few blocks from the town of Salmon Arm, the largest urban center in the Shuswap region. Once you’re done being a beach bum for the day, Salmon Arm has plenty to offer, such as shops, restaurants, galleries and theatres, as well as walking and hiking trails, a stunning wharf and so much more. Moreover, the lake is a popular spot for fishers, wakeboarders, houseboaters, swimmers, and paddlers of all types.
Shuswap Lake
Address: 781 Marine Park Dr NE, Salmon Arm, British Columbia V1E 2X1, Canada
Website:Shuswap Lake
9. Harrison Lake
This is the largest lake in the southern Coast Mountains of Canada. This lake stretches 60 km (37 miles) from the village of Harrison Hot Springs, north towards a backdrop of snow-capped coastal mountains. In the summer months, the spring run-off from Mount Breckenridge turns the water its azure color. Circumnavigate Eco Island by boat or head for Long Island to hide away in protected bays. To bring out the inner kid in you, check out the Wipeout-style waterpark located in the middle of the lake. Harrison is only a 2.5-hour drive away from the city.
Harrison Lake
Address: Harrison Hot Springs, British Columbia V0M 1K0, Canada
Website: Harrison Lake
Nature's beauty
From what you have read, you will experience the most beautiful lakes in British Columbia, Canada. For most of these lakes, summer is the perfect time to go. However, they look amazing at any time of the year. Take a trip of a lifetime to see places that will have your heart in British Columbia. Also, don’t forget your camera to capture these lovely moments.
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