When people think of British Columbia, they usually think of mountains shrouded in mist, rain-soaked forests, and grey Vancouver skies. I used to think that, too—until I discovered the other side of BC. A side where the skies are almost always blue, the lakes are warm enough to swim in till September, and the sun never sets.
That place is the South Okanagan, and if you’re chasing sunshine, this is where your adventure begins.
Where Does the Sun Shine Most in BC?
It turns out BC is more diverse than we think—climate included. While the coast is cloudy and damp, the interior, especially the southern parts near the US border, is much sunnier.
According to Environment Canada data, here’s how some BC regions compare in annual sunshine:
- Osoyoos: 2,100 to 2,200 hours
- Cranbrook: up to 2,390 hours (the highest in BC)
- Kamloops: around 2,080 hours
- Penticton: approximately 2,100 hours
- Vancouver: 1,930 hours
- Victoria: about 2,200 hours
Cranbrook might have the most hours, but Osoyoos, with its desert air and lakefront, really delivers that long summer day feeling.
Osoyoos: BC’s Desert Escape
Located just north of the US border in the South Okanagan Valley, Osoyoos is often called Canada’s desert. It has semi-arid terrain, desert vegetation, and summer highs in the mid-30s.
It also has a warm-weather distinction: Osoyoos Lake is the warmest freshwater lake in Canada.
The first time I visited, I was struck by how different the landscape looked. Rust-red hills, rows of vineyards, and cactus-like vegetation—all framed by blue skies. It felt like I had driven into a different province.
Top activities in Osoyoos:
- Swim, kayak, or paddleboard on Osoyoos Lake
- Hike Anarchist Mountain for sunset views
- Explore the Nk’Mip Desert Cultural Centre
- Visit wineries like Burrowing Owl, Nk’Mip Cellars, and Moon Curser
- Relax at a lakeside resort or quiet campground
More Sunny Spots in BC’s Interior
If you’re road tripping or want to visit other sunny places, check out:
Cranbrook
In the East Kootenays, Cranbrook gets the most sunshine hours in BC. Perfect for hiking, golfing, or fishing, and a great base for the Rockies.
Kamloops
A high-desert city in the Thompson region, Kamloops is great for mountain biking, river paddling, and exploring sandstone canyons.
Kelowna and Penticton
Both are in the heart of the Okanagan Valley. Beautiful beaches, plenty of sunshine, and easy access to wineries and trails make them popular with BC travelers.
Outdoor Adventures to Soak Up the Sun
May to September is when the interior shines—literally and figuratively. Whether you’re a laid-back vacationer or a thrill-seeking outdoor enthusiast, the sunny Okanagan has something for you.
Things to do in the sun:
- Cycle the Kettle Valley Rail Trail
- Spend an afternoon at Skaha or Okanagan Lake
- Take a winery tour and taste local flights
- Visit Spotted Lake, a sacred site and geological wonder
- Camp under starry skies in one of the region’s provincial parks
When to Go and How to Plan
Best time to visit:
Late spring to early fall (May to September) is ideal for weather, swimming, and outdoor activities. July and August are the hottest months, often hitting 35°C or more.
How to get there:
- By car: Osoyoos is almost 5 hours from Vancouver.
- By air: Fly into Kelowna or Penticton and rent a car for the scenic drive south.
Where to stay:
- Boutique lakeside resorts
- Vineyard guest houses
- Well-serviced campgrounds with lake access
Staying Safe in the Sun
Interior BC summers can be intense—I learned that the hard way after forgetting to reapply sunscreen on a long hike. A few tips to make the most of your trip safely:
- Wear SPF 30 or higher and reapply every couple of hours
- Drink water on hikes and bike rides
- Bring a hat, sunglasses, and breathable clothes
- Check for fire bans and local regulations
Last Word: Your BC Sunny Escape Awaits
There’s something special about waking up to blue skies and warm air. Osoyoos and the South Okanagan is a different BC—where the pace is slower, the days are longer, and the scenery is sun-drenched and dramatic. It’s the kind of place you’ll want to stay a little longer.
If you’ve been craving warmth, adventure, or just a change of scenery, the sunniest place in BC is what you’re looking for.
