Located near the border of Washington state, Osoyoos, British Columbia, has a population of just over 5,000 people. But crowds descend on Osoyoos in the summer months, since the area is a major tourist destination for outdoor activity. European settlers first explored the area as fur traders working under the Pacific Fur Company. Once the fur trade solidified in the region, the Okanagan Valley became a major trade and supply route. When the railroad arrived, Osoyoos was officially incorporated as a village in 1946 and then a town in the 1980s.
Today, tourism is the town's biggest contributor to the local economy. Osoyoos Lake is considered the warmest freshwater lake in Canada and is surrounded by public and private beaches. The region also offers two centers dedicated to preserving the Okanagan Desert: The Desert Centre Osoyoos and Nk'Mip Desert Cultural Centre.
Whatever your reason for visiting Osoyoos, it's important to find the right accommodation that allows you to explore everything this beautiful region has to offer.
What time of year is best to visit Osoyoos, BC?
The best time to visit Osoyoos is from May through September when temperature averages are comfortable enough for outdoor recreation. Osoyoos summers are hot and dry, so dress accordingly.
One thing to keep in mind is that tourism peaks in Osoyoos in July and August, causing an increase in flights and hotel rates. If you want to enjoy an affordable stay during peak season, try to book your room several months in advance during seasonal sales.
If you want to avoid the crowds altogether, plan your trip for September. Tourists are less likely to visit Osoyoos in September after school-aged children are back in classes, so you'll enjoy warm weather without the extra competition.
Spring is the second busiest season for tourism but expect some humidity in March and April. The weather can feel quite cool, so you'll want to pack a light jacket and wear layers.
Tourism is slowest during fall and winter as temperatures drop and make it more difficult to get out and enjoy nature. If you don't mind unexpected wintry mixes and snowfall, visit in the offseason to enjoy unbeatable hotel rates.
Below is a chart of the current pricing seasonality of hotels and motels in Osoyoos, BC:
Osoyoos, BC: Prices by Star Rating Class
Below are 3 charts illustrating avg. nightly cost trends by star rating class in Osoyoos, BC. Browse these illustrations to evaluate the cheapest seasons to stay in Osoyoos for upcoming travels.
What are the Osoyoos, BC luxury hotels?
4 Star Average Prices: $160.00
If you'd prefer a more upscale accommodation in Osoyoos, you're in luck.
Watermark Beach Resort is a centrally located four-star hotel close to British Columbia Visitor Centre and Pioneer Walkway. The resort boasts dog-friendly suites, picturesque views, condo-style resort amenities, and a 24-hour guest services team. Choose from well-appointed studios, penthouse suites, or beachfront townhomes to customize your ideal stay. All rooms and suites are nonsmoking with privacy blinds, 43-inch Telus Optik televisions, and exclusive toiletries. Suites offer private balconies, iPod docking stations, DVD players, dining rooms, and gourmet kitchens with cookware, glassware, and flatware. Suites also include free high-speed internet access, free local calls, and secure underground parking.
The Watermark Beach Resort also features a guest-use barbecue area, a pool deck, an on-site spa, a state-of-the-art fitness facility, and multiple dining options. The Restaurant at Watermark boasts fine wines, tasting plates, and flavorful dishes in a communal-style dining room that's perfect for sharing and socializing.
Another great option is Walnut Beach Resort, a designer hotel with 104 well-appointed suites and all the luxurious comforts you'd expect from a four-star stay. Enjoy a delicious meal at the on-site grill and wine bar, relax in the hot tub or in the sauna, cool off in the pool, or take advantage of the hotel's boat launch. Guest suites include fully equipped designer kitchens, contemporary finishes, DVD and MP3 players, and flat-screen TVs. The pet-free property is allergy-friendly and offers a guest barbecue area, a pool terrace, a workout studio, and a conference center.
What options are in Osoyoos, BC for the most affordable hotels?
3 Star Average Prices: $106.74
Finding an affordable hotel in Osoyoos is easy if you're willing to be flexible.
Super 8 by Wyndham Osoyoos is conveniently located on Main Street just off Highways 3 and 97, providing easy access to nearby golf courses, spas, and recreational activities. The hotel offers a 24-hour reception desk, free breakfast, car and large-vehicle parking, and a seasonal outdoor pool. There's also 400 square feet of event space for conferences or special events. Rooms are straightforward but modern with microwaves, mini refrigerators, alarm clock radios, hypoallergenic pillows, and small sitting areas. Upgrade to a king or a three-queen room for extra room to spread out.
If you don't mind staying farther away from Osoyoos, Coast Penticton Hotel is the perfect launching point for nearby biking, skiing, hiking, and exploring. This newly renovated, budget-friendly hotel features complimentary Wi-Fi access, gas grills for guest use, an outdoor pool, an indoor pool, and an enclosed grass recreational area for picnics and games.
The on-site Bears Den Restaurant boasts the best breakfast in Penticton with family-style dining, including a famous stack of waffles topped with seasonal fruit. Each guest room features modern decor with two queen beds, a work desk, a minifridge, an MP3 alarm clock, a hair dryer, and ironing facilities.