Finding a Hotel in Osoyoos
• A WorldWeb.com Travel Guide for Osoyoos, British Columbia.
Sprawling up from Mexico, through Arizona and Oregon and reaching into British Columbia, the Sonoran Desert is a vast, arid landscape complete with rare plants and animals. However unusual this landscape is in Canada, it seems to make the most sense that it is found in the warmth of the southern Okanagan. And amidst parched grasslands and cacti perched on otherwise bald hills sits the city of Osoyoos, rising out of the landscape like an oasis. Irrigation has created lush landscapes, feeding an abundance of vineyards and orchards, not to mention planters around town laden with flowers. The centre of it all is Canada's warmest lake; the twenty-seven-kilometre-long (17 mi) Lake Osoyoos reaches an average of 24°C (75°F) in the summer. Indeed, Osoyoos is a true haven for those in search of rest, relaxation and recreation.
The population nearly doubles in the summer, creating the need for plentiful accommodation options, which include everything from bed and breakfasts to resorts and campgrounds. Hotels are most abundant here with a wide range of options whether visitors are looking for budget stays or more lavish vacations.
LAY OF THE LAND
Osoyoos is a summer hot spot, attracting honeymooners and families alike for fun in the sun. Reach it from the east or west along the Crowsnest Highway (Highway 3), or south from Oliver on the Okanagan Highway (Highway 97). The Crowsnest cuts across Osoyoos Lake with the townsite built up on both sides but most amenities are found on the west side. Hotels are found in abundance near the lake, along the Crowsnest and downtown.
Osoyoos' popularity, especially in the summer, means that hotel prices can soar even at well-known economy chains. The most economical options are independent motels, but then standards vary. Reasons for staying in Osoyoos should be considered. For those passing through, a downtown motel near restaurants may be perfect. But for those on vacation, it may be worth the extra expense to stay near the water where luxury resorts sit alongside self-catering hotels, the latter of which may be perfect for families staying for days or even weeks at a time.
High-end hotels often have vacation packages that can include meals, golf, winery tours and other activities suited to one's reason for visiting. Package deals can make stays more economical so look out for them. Wherever visitors decide to stay, reservations are essential.
DOWNTOWN
With room rates often lower than those of waterside lodgings, downtown hotels are a popular option. And Osoyoos is small, so the water is never farther than a few minutes' drive away anyway. The benefit of staying downtown is that it places visitors within walking distance of unique shops, cafes and restaurants.
A number of hotels are situated within a block or two from the water just off Main Street on the east side of the lake, offering the best of both beach and amenities, such as the Sahara Courtyard Inn with budget rates and an outdoor pool, and the Riviera Motel. While a few blocks from the beach, the Best Western Sunrise Inn enjoys downtown amenities and family-friendly attractions, being located next door to mini-golf and go-carts. Family suites are available and, most importantly, it has an indoor pool and Jacuzzi, perfect for winter stays—especially for those skiing at nearby Mount Baldy.
Farther away from Lake Osoyoos on the western shore, located right on Main Street near Peanut Lake, sits Super 8 with its familiar chain amenities that include air conditioning, complimentary continental breakfasts and Internet access. Or choose the charm of the independently owned Avalon Inn. Also downtown, it features standard rooms as well as suites complete with kitchenettes for added convenience.
LAKE OSOYOOS
In Osoyoos, most of the hotels that are located lakeside with direct beach access are of the luxury resort variety. On the western side of the lake this is epitomized by the Watermark Beach Resort, featuring suite accommodation complemented by upscale amenities, including a marina, full-service spa, swimming pool and restaurant. The air-conditioned Desert Surfside also has spacious suites, ideal for extended family stays. Safari Beach Resort is another property suitable for families. Away from the busyness of downtown, casual accommodation comes with kitchens, barbeques, beach volleyball, boat moorage and 120 m (400 ft) of private beachfront.
On Lake Osoyoos' eastern side is the luxury property of Spirit Ridge. More of a resort than hotel, accommodation is within condo-style villas perfect for self-contained holidays. The lake is a short stroll away and the property incorporates a marina, restaurant and boat rentals. More economical stays may be arranged at the Holiday Inn on Highway 3. Located on a peninsula, it has a marina and a private beach. Nearby Sandy Beach Motel also affords beach access and well-appointed units with full kitchens, as well as amenities like a tennis court, playground and free boat use. Farther from downtown but tightly hugging the waterfront is Walnut Beach Resort in all its luxurious glory. A private beach, swanky suites and an outdoor pool terrace are simply samplings of the highlights here.
The population nearly doubles in the summer, creating the need for plentiful accommodation options, which include everything from bed and breakfasts to resorts and campgrounds. Hotels are most abundant here with a wide range of options whether visitors are looking for budget stays or more lavish vacations.
LAY OF THE LAND
Osoyoos is a summer hot spot, attracting honeymooners and families alike for fun in the sun. Reach it from the east or west along the Crowsnest Highway (Highway 3), or south from Oliver on the Okanagan Highway (Highway 97). The Crowsnest cuts across Osoyoos Lake with the townsite built up on both sides but most amenities are found on the west side. Hotels are found in abundance near the lake, along the Crowsnest and downtown.
Osoyoos' popularity, especially in the summer, means that hotel prices can soar even at well-known economy chains. The most economical options are independent motels, but then standards vary. Reasons for staying in Osoyoos should be considered. For those passing through, a downtown motel near restaurants may be perfect. But for those on vacation, it may be worth the extra expense to stay near the water where luxury resorts sit alongside self-catering hotels, the latter of which may be perfect for families staying for days or even weeks at a time.
High-end hotels often have vacation packages that can include meals, golf, winery tours and other activities suited to one's reason for visiting. Package deals can make stays more economical so look out for them. Wherever visitors decide to stay, reservations are essential.
DOWNTOWN
With room rates often lower than those of waterside lodgings, downtown hotels are a popular option. And Osoyoos is small, so the water is never farther than a few minutes' drive away anyway. The benefit of staying downtown is that it places visitors within walking distance of unique shops, cafes and restaurants.
A number of hotels are situated within a block or two from the water just off Main Street on the east side of the lake, offering the best of both beach and amenities, such as the Sahara Courtyard Inn with budget rates and an outdoor pool, and the Riviera Motel. While a few blocks from the beach, the Best Western Sunrise Inn enjoys downtown amenities and family-friendly attractions, being located next door to mini-golf and go-carts. Family suites are available and, most importantly, it has an indoor pool and Jacuzzi, perfect for winter stays—especially for those skiing at nearby Mount Baldy.
Farther away from Lake Osoyoos on the western shore, located right on Main Street near Peanut Lake, sits Super 8 with its familiar chain amenities that include air conditioning, complimentary continental breakfasts and Internet access. Or choose the charm of the independently owned Avalon Inn. Also downtown, it features standard rooms as well as suites complete with kitchenettes for added convenience.
LAKE OSOYOOS
In Osoyoos, most of the hotels that are located lakeside with direct beach access are of the luxury resort variety. On the western side of the lake this is epitomized by the Watermark Beach Resort, featuring suite accommodation complemented by upscale amenities, including a marina, full-service spa, swimming pool and restaurant. The air-conditioned Desert Surfside also has spacious suites, ideal for extended family stays. Safari Beach Resort is another property suitable for families. Away from the busyness of downtown, casual accommodation comes with kitchens, barbeques, beach volleyball, boat moorage and 120 m (400 ft) of private beachfront.
On Lake Osoyoos' eastern side is the luxury property of Spirit Ridge. More of a resort than hotel, accommodation is within condo-style villas perfect for self-contained holidays. The lake is a short stroll away and the property incorporates a marina, restaurant and boat rentals. More economical stays may be arranged at the Holiday Inn on Highway 3. Located on a peninsula, it has a marina and a private beach. Nearby Sandy Beach Motel also affords beach access and well-appointed units with full kitchens, as well as amenities like a tennis court, playground and free boat use. Farther from downtown but tightly hugging the waterfront is Walnut Beach Resort in all its luxurious glory. A private beach, swanky suites and an outdoor pool terrace are simply samplings of the highlights here.
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