Mt. Boucherie Family Estate Winery

New to Kelowna

The West Kelowna Visitor Centre operates year-round out of the Westbank & District Chamber of Commerce and provides information services to thousands of visitors annually.

Adapted from West Kelowna and Westbank Tourism Information.

West Kelowna and Westbank, commonly referred to as 'the West Side' by locals, is a tale of two communities, both relatively new and distinct from one another. These communities are located on the west side of Okanagan Lake, opposite of the City of Kelowna. The area has become a popular tourist destination, home to well-known attractions and the West Side Wine Trail. It is located along Highway 97 as is the first community reached when travelling east to the Okanagan via the Coquihalla Highway and Okanagan Connector.

There's a wealth of modern amenities in Westbank including big box retail stores featuring major North American brands as well as residential neighbourhoods of all sizes. This community is governed by Westbank First Nation which became the first self-governing First Nation community in Canada in 2005. Subtle cultural reminders can be seen throughout this bustling community of more than 9,000 aboriginal and non-aboriginal residents. Keep an eye out for street signs that include the Syilix language of the Okanagan Nation as well as visual art and symbols incorporated into signage throughout the area.

West Kelowna is the larger of the two communities and it is home to more than 32,000 residents. The landscape features a mix of residential neighbourhoods, rolling hills of orchards and vineyards, small store shopping and services and some light industry. Although West Kelowna has a rich history in agriculture and forestry it is actually a very new community. In 2007, the area incorporated into a District Municipality and ever since then has been making a name for itself.

West Kelowna and Westbank have formed a seamless community to visitors that transcends borders. Visitors are taken in by scenic vistas, the beautiful lake views and the warm and welcoming hospitality.