Whenever I travel, the question of where to stay always feels more than practical—it feels deeply personal. A hotel is never just four walls and a bed. It’s the place where mornings begin with coffee and anticipation, where evenings end with tired laughter and the comfort of soft sheets, where memories take shape not just in what you see outside but in how you feel inside.
Kelowna, nestled in the heart of British Columbia’s Okanagan Valley, is no exception. Known for its vineyards, lake views, and nearby ski resorts, it offers travelers a wide range of places to stay—from luxury hotels overlooking Okanagan Lake to cozy boutique inns tucked into the hills. Over several visits, I’ve stayed in different corners of the city, each offering its own unique experience. Some places charmed me with elegance, others with simplicity, and a few surprised me with hidden gems I didn’t expect.
In this guide, I’ll share not just the facts but my own impressions of Kelowna’s most popular and beloved hotels. I’ll tell you where they’re located, what makes them special, what fellow travelers say, how much to expect to spend, and which booking platforms are most reliable. Along the way, I’ll also share booking tips I’ve learned—those little tricks that make the difference between a good deal and an amazing stay.
So, if you’re planning a trip to Kelowna and wondering where to stay, let me walk you through my favorite recommendations.
Hotel Recommendation #1: The Royal Kelowna — Bellstar Hotels & Resorts
Location & Atmosphere
Located at 1288 Water Street, right on the waterfront, The Royal Kelowna feels like the definition of indulgence. From the moment I stepped into the lobby, I felt cocooned in luxury—dark wood accents, expansive windows with views of Okanagan Lake, and staff who greeted me with genuine warmth rather than rehearsed politeness.
The location is unbeatable: steps away from the boardwalk, a short walk to Kelowna’s vibrant downtown, and just far enough from the bustle to feel private.
Features & Highlights
The suites are what truly set The Royal apart. Instead of standard hotel rooms, this property offers full condominium-style suites with kitchens, fireplaces, and balconies. I remember waking up early one morning, brewing fresh coffee in the kitchen, and stepping out onto the balcony to watch the sunrise over the lake. The water shimmered like glass, and I felt as if I had the entire valley to myself.
The rooftop infinity pool was another highlight. Floating in steaming water while gazing at the snow-dusted hills felt surreal—luxury and nature blending in perfect harmony.
Reviews & Impressions
Travelers rave about the spaciousness and comfort of the suites. Many reviews highlight the “home away from home” feeling, combined with hotel-level service. Some note that it’s pricier than average, but almost everyone agrees the experience is worth the cost.
Costs & Booking Tips
- Price Range: Around \$300–450 CAD per night in high season; winter rates can dip lower.
- Best Platforms: I found competitive rates on Booking.com and Expedia.ca. Occasionally, the official Bellstar Resorts website offers bundled promotions.
- Booking Tip: Book early for summer. For winter, check last-minute deals—you might snag a suite for under \$250.
Hotel Recommendation #2: Delta Hotels by Marriott Grand Okanagan Resort
Location & Atmosphere
Also located on Water Street, the Delta Grand Okanagan Resort sits at the heart of Kelowna’s waterfront. When I first walked into its expansive lobby, decorated with modern art and sleek design, it felt lively yet polished—a place where business travelers, families, and couples all converge.
It’s directly connected to the lakefront promenade, and in December, holiday lights reflected beautifully on the icy lake. Stepping outside in the evening, I felt like I was part of the city’s festive heartbeat.
Features & Highlights
The resort offers a spa, multiple dining options, and a large indoor pool. My favorite spot was the Vines Lounge, where I sipped local Okanagan wine by the fire after a long day of exploring.
Rooms here are modern and comfortable, though not as spacious as The Royal Kelowna. What makes this place shine is its energy—staying here feels like being part of the city itself.
Reviews & Impressions
Guests consistently mention the unbeatable location. Some reviews highlight the attentive staff and the atmosphere of activity, while others note that prices climb steeply in summer. Overall, it’s considered one of Kelowna’s most reliable and vibrant hotels.
Costs & Booking Tips
- Price Range: \$250–400 CAD per night, with summer at the higher end.
- Best Platforms: Marriott.com often has loyalty-member rates. Otherwise, Hotels.ca and Expedia.ca are solid options.
- Booking Tip: If you’re a Marriott Bonvoy member, you can often redeem points for excellent value here.
Hotel Recommendation #3: Hotel Eldorado at Eldorado Resort
Location & Atmosphere
Set at 500 Cook Road, directly on Okanagan Lake’s shoreline, the Hotel Eldorado carries a heritage charm. Founded in 1926, it blends history with luxury in a way that feels timeless.
The first time I entered the lobby, I noticed vintage photographs lining the walls and a warmth that felt more like a grand lakeside home than a hotel. It was elegant, yes, but also personal.
Features & Highlights
The rooms are bright, many with balconies overlooking the marina. The Lakeside Dining Room is a highlight—imagine enjoying fresh seafood with panoramic lake views while the winter sun sets outside. On one December evening, I watched the water shimmer pink and orange as I ate, and it remains one of my most cherished dining memories.
Reviews & Impressions
Guests often describe the hotel as “romantic” and “classic.” Many appreciate the sense of history combined with modern amenities. Some reviews mention that certain rooms show signs of age, but most agree that the character more than compensates.
Costs & Booking Tips
- Price Range: \$220–350 CAD per night, depending on season.
- Best Platforms: Booking.com and Expedia.ca frequently list discounts. Direct booking at eldoradoresort.ca sometimes includes dining credits.
- Booking Tip: Request a lake-view room—worth the small premium.
Hotel Recommendation #4: Manteo at Eldorado Resort
Location & Atmosphere
Adjacent to Hotel Eldorado, Manteo is the more modern counterpart of the Eldorado Resort. It sits at 3762 Lakeshore Road, sharing the same lakefront location but offering contemporary style and family-friendly amenities.
When I stayed here, the design felt airy and refreshing. Big windows filled the lobby with light, and the rooms carried a crisp, modern feel compared to Eldorado’s heritage vibe.
Features & Highlights
The highlight here is space. Suites include kitchens and living areas, making it ideal for longer stays or family trips. The heated indoor pool and outdoor hot tubs made for relaxing evenings, and I loved walking straight from the property to the lakefront pathway in the mornings.
Reviews & Impressions
Travelers appreciate the balance of comfort and value. Families especially praise the spacious layouts, while couples enjoy the quiet elegance. Reviews often highlight the resort’s location as one of the best in Kelowna.
Costs & Booking Tips
- Price Range: \$200–320 CAD per night.
- Best Platforms: Hotels.ca often has bundled discounts; Booking.com is consistently reliable.
- Booking Tip: If you want both modern convenience and access to Eldorado’s historic charm, book Manteo but dine at Hotel Eldorado’s Lakeside Dining Room.
Hotel Recommendation #5: Prestige Beach House
Location & Atmosphere
Located at 1675 Abbott Street, directly across from City Park and Okanagan Lake, the Prestige Beach House combines casual comfort with an excellent location.
I remember walking out the door one crisp December morning and being just steps from the frozen lakeshore and a downtown café. The convenience made it feel like Kelowna was at my fingertips.
Features & Highlights
The hotel isn’t flashy, but it’s practical. Rooms are clean and modern, with some offering balconies. There’s also an indoor pool and fitness center. For me, the biggest draw was simply the walkability—perfect for exploring Kelowna without a car.
Reviews & Impressions
Guests often describe it as “affordable yet central.” Some reviews mention that it can be noisy in peak summer due to its location, but in December, it felt peaceful and calm.
Costs & Booking Tips
- Price Range: \$150–220 CAD per night.
- Best Platforms: Expedia.ca and Booking.com frequently offer sales.
- Booking Tip: Book during off-season (December–March) for the best deals—you’ll find prices that drop under \$140.
Hotel Recommendation #6: The Royal Anne Hotel
Location & Atmosphere
At 348 Bernard Avenue, right in downtown Kelowna, the Royal Anne Hotel offers something rare: affordability without sacrificing charm.
When I stayed here, I was struck by the friendliness of the staff. They handed me a map, pointed out their favorite local coffee shops, and genuinely seemed invested in making my stay enjoyable.
Features & Highlights
Rooms are simple but spacious, many with balconies overlooking the city. A complimentary breakfast is included, which felt like a generous touch. Being downtown, everything—from restaurants to boutique shops—was within walking distance.
Reviews & Impressions
Reviews often describe it as a “hidden gem” downtown. Guests appreciate the value, location, and warmth of the service. Some note that the style feels slightly dated, but most agree it offers far more than expected at its price point.
Costs & Booking Tips
- Price Range: \$130–180 CAD per night.
- Best Platforms: Booking.com is excellent for this property.
- Booking Tip: Book directly on the hotel’s website for perks like free parking.
Platforms I Trust for Booking Hotels in Canada
Through trial and error, I’ve come to trust a handful of platforms for booking accommodations across Canada:
- Booking.com — Best for user-friendly interface and flexible cancellation.
- Expedia.ca — Great for bundling flights and hotels for extra savings.
- Hotels.ca — Useful for its rewards program (stay 10 nights, get 1 free).
- Airbnb.ca — Perfect for cabins, suites, and unique stays in Kelowna’s wine country.
- Official Hotel Websites — Sometimes offer loyalty perks, dining credits, or room upgrades.
Booking Tips for Kelowna Hotels
- Season Matters: Summer rates can be nearly double those in winter. December through March offers better deals, especially if you don’t mind the snow.
- Weekdays vs. Weekends: Weekday stays are usually cheaper, especially downtown.
- Book Early for Summer: Kelowna is one of Canada’s most popular summer destinations—rooms sell out months in advance.
- Consider Location: If wine tours are your focus, a lakeshore or West Kelowna stay is ideal. For nightlife and dining, downtown is best.
- Check for Parking Fees: Some hotels charge \$10–20 CAD per night, while others include it free.
Where to Stay Becomes Part of the Journey
Looking back at my stays in Kelowna, I realize that each hotel shaped my experience in a different way. The Royal Kelowna gave me luxury and solitude; the Delta Grand plugged me into the city’s energy; Hotel Eldorado wrapped me in history; Manteo offered space and modern comfort; Prestige Beach House gave me convenience; and the Royal Anne surprised me with value and warmth.
Choosing where to stay in Kelowna isn’t just a matter of price or stars—it’s about matching the atmosphere to your journey. Do you want luxury and romance, or practicality and ease? Do you want to wake up to lake views, or step outside into downtown energy?
For me, the joy of traveling to Kelowna lies in knowing that no matter what kind of experience I’m looking for, there’s a place waiting to welcome me. And in December, when snow falls softly on the vineyards and the lake glitters in the cold light, those hotel rooms feel not just like a stopover—but like home.
