Enterprise Car Hire
Kelowna

The car rental counters at Kelowna International Airport are conveniently located directly inside the main terminal building. After you collect your luggage from the baggage claim carousels, you simply walk across the arrivals hall to find the service desks. The rental vehicles are parked just a short walk away in a dedicated lot right outside the terminal. This streamlined setup means you can go from your flight to your car with minimal hassle and without needing to take a shuttle bus.

Airport car rental agencies typically align their operating hours with the final scheduled flight arrivals of the day. While the terminal will be quieter, the counters should be staffed to assist passengers with existing reservations from late-landing flights. To ensure a smooth process, it's always a good practice to include your flight number in your rental booking. This helps the staff anticipate your arrival and prepare your vehicle, allowing you to complete the paperwork and get on your way efficiently.

From the moment your plane touches down, it's wise to budget approximately 60 to 90 minutes before you're driving away. This includes time for deplaning, collecting your baggage, and completing the rental process at the counter. In summer, the drive to downtown Kelowna takes about 20–30 minutes, though it can be longer with peak season traffic. In winter, while the rental process is the same, you should add extra time for the drive itself to account for potentially slower road conditions and more cautious driving.

The most straightforward route from Kelowna's airport to the downtown waterfront is to follow Highway 97 South. As you exit the airport, signs will clearly direct you toward the highway. This main arterial road will take you directly into the city core, with the journey taking approximately 20–30 minutes depending on traffic. Using a sat‑nav or navigation app is highly recommended, as it will provide simple turn‑by‑turn directions to your specific hotel or destination near the lake.

The primary route from the airport to West Kelowna is via Highway 97 South, which takes you through Kelowna and across Okanagan Lake. The main congestion point on this journey is the William R. Bennett Bridge. To minimise stress, try to avoid crossing the bridge during peak commuter hours, which are typically eastbound into Kelowna in the morning and westbound toward West Kelowna in the late afternoon. Travelling during midday or later in the evening will generally provide a much smoother drive.

The William R. Bennett Bridge is the essential link between Kelowna and West Kelowna, making it a hub of activity. During morning and evening rush hours on weekdays, traffic can become very congested, leading to significant slowdowns. To avoid the worst of it, plan your crossings for off‑peak times, such as mid‑morning, early afternoon, or after 6 p.m. If you must travel during a busy period, simply build extra time into your schedule and expect a slower pace.

Highway 97, also known as Harvey Avenue through the city, experiences the most significant slowdowns in a few key areas. The approach to the William R. Bennett Bridge on both sides is a primary bottleneck, especially during commuter hours. Additionally, the stretch between the bridge and Orchard Park Shopping Centre can be very busy with traffic lights and commercial activity. For the most pleasant driving experience, visitors will find the highway much easier to navigate during weekday middays or on weekend mornings.

A smart strategy for exploring the Westside Wine Trail is to plan your route geographically to minimise driving time. You could start at the wineries furthest south, near Peachland, and work your way north back toward the bridge, or do the reverse. Many visitors find it helpful to pick up a wine trail map or use an online planner to visualise the locations. Grouping three or four wineries that are clustered together allows for a more relaxed pace and less time spent crisscrossing busy roads.

Driving along Lakeshore Road to visit the wineries in south‑east Kelowna is a beautiful and scenic experience. However, it's important to be aware that the road is narrower and more winding than the main highway. You should anticipate frequent stops and turns as other visitors enter and exit winery driveways. The area is also popular with cyclists, so it's crucial to share the road and maintain a safe, leisurely pace to fully enjoy the journey and the views.

Arriving at Kelowna's popular waterfront parks, like City Park or Gyro Beach, during a peak season midday can be challenging for parking. Most areas use a pay‑by‑plate system for both on‑street parking and dedicated lots, which can be managed via meters or mobile apps. To secure a spot more easily, consider arriving earlier in the morning or later in the afternoon. Alternatively, you can use one of the larger downtown car parks, which are often just a short, pleasant walk from the main waterfront areas.

The most direct route to Big White Ski Resort is by taking Highway 33 east from Kelowna and then turning onto Big White Road for the final ascent. While the route is well signed, first‑time winter drivers are often surprised by how quickly road conditions can change as they gain elevation. Even if the roads in Kelowna are clear, the mountain pass can have compact snow or slushy sections. It's essential to drive at a speed appropriate for the conditions and be prepared for a genuine mountain driving experience.

To enjoy the least stressful drive up to Big White for a day of skiing or snowboarding, it's best to leave Kelowna early in the morning. Aim to be on the road by 7:30 a.m. at the latest. This allows you to get ahead of the main wave of traffic that typically builds after 8:00 a.m. An early start not only means a quieter, quicker drive up the mountain but also gives you a better chance of securing a good parking spot closer to the village.

The drive to SilverStar is generally straightforward, following Highway 97 north to Vernon before taking the dedicated Silver Star Road up the mountain. This final approach is a well‑maintained, paved mountain road that is ploughed regularly in winter. However, it is a continuous climb with several switchbacks, so attentive driving is required. Be sure to watch your speed, especially on bends, and be aware of changing weather conditions as you increase in elevation.

The drive along Highway 33 heading east from Kelowna is a pleasant, scenic route on a well‑paved, two‑lane highway. The road winds through rolling hills and forested areas, offering a relaxed driving experience. The main thing to be aware of is that the actual turn‑offs for the Myra Canyon trestles will lead you onto unpaved forest service roads. While the highway portion is easy, the final leg of the journey requires more caution and slower speeds.

To access the famous Myra Canyon trestles, visitors drive up the Myra Forest Service Road, which is an unpaved gravel road. This final stretch can be bumpy and dusty in summer, so it's important to drive slowly and carefully. At the top, you will find a large designated car park that provides direct access to the trailhead. From this lot, it's just a very short walk or cycle to the first of the historic trestle bridges.

Knox Mountain Park offers stunning views, and the paved road to the first lookout is a popular drive. The road is narrow and features several sharp bends, so it's essential to drive slowly and be mindful of cyclists and pedestrians who also use the route. The small car park at the upper viewpoint fills up very quickly, especially on weekends and evenings around sunset. The park also has seasonal road closures, so it's a good idea to check its status before you go.

If your focus is on exploring the immediate downtown core, the waterfront, and the cultural district, it is absolutely easier to park your car at the hotel and walk. This area is very pedestrian‑friendly and compact, making a car unnecessary for short distances. However, you will definitely want your vehicle for visiting attractions outside of the downtown area, such as wineries, orchards, regional parks, or beaches in other neighbourhoods.

For events at Prospera Place, the most convenient options are the large public car parks located nearby, such as the Library Parkade or the Chapman Parkade on Lawrence Avenue. These are just a few blocks away and offer ample space. When the event ends, be prepared for significant traffic congestion as everyone attempts to exit the area simultaneously. A little patience is key, or you might consider enjoying a post‑event coffee or snack downtown to let the initial rush subside.

During the summer, wildfire conditions can significantly impact driving plans in the Okanagan. It is crucial for travellers to stay informed about the current situation before embarking on any day trip. Wildfires can lead to unexpected highway closures or heavy smoke that dramatically reduces visibility. Always check the official DriveBC website for the most up‑to‑date road advisories and be prepared to alter your route or destination on short notice for safety.

Sometimes, when smoke from wildfires settles in the Okanagan Valley, driving to a higher elevation can offer clearer air and better views. Routes like the one toward Big White Ski Resort or the Okanagan Connector (Highway 97C) can occasionally lift you above the thickest layer of smoke. However, this is highly dependent on wind patterns and atmospheric conditions, so there is no guarantee of improved visibility. It's always a good idea to check webcams for current conditions before you head out.

The drive south from Kelowna to Osoyoos along Highway 97 is packed with scenic stops that are easy to access. Consider a brief pause in Peachland to walk along its charming waterfront or a stop in Summerland to see the views from Giant's Head Mountain. Further south, there are numerous pull‑outs overlooking Skaha Lake and Vaseux Lake that offer fantastic photo opportunities. These stops are all directly on or just moments off the main highway, making for a relaxing and beautiful journey.

The drive between Kelowna and Penticton is one of the most scenic in the Okanagan, with beautiful views of the lake for much of the way. During the summer, especially on weekends, traffic can become congested as it passes through the lakeside towns of Peachland and Summerland. These areas have lower speed limits and more pedestrian activity, which naturally slows the flow of traffic. Plan for a leisurely pace and enjoy the scenery rather than trying to rush.

For easy access to Peachland's beautiful waterfront walkway, the most convenient option is the angled street parking directly along Beach Avenue. This allows you to park right across from the lake and the main shops and cafés. If these spots are full, especially on a busy summer day, you can usually find additional parking on the side streets just one block up from the main avenue. This requires only a very short walk back down to the waterfront.

To ensure a smooth and traffic‑free drive from Kelowna to Vernon for a day trip, it's best to avoid the morning commuter rush. Plan to leave Kelowna either before 7:30 a.m. or after 9:00 a.m. on a weekday. The drive itself is quite pleasant and takes about 45–50 minutes in clear conditions. By timing your departure outside of that peak window, you'll have a much more relaxed start to your day's adventure.

The standard and most comfortable route to Revelstoke is to take Highway 97 North to Sicamous, then head east on the Trans‑Canada Highway (Highway 1). This is a major, well‑maintained highway, but it involves driving through significant mountain terrain, including Rogers Pass. First‑time mountain drivers should be prepared for changing weather at any time of year and check DriveBC for road conditions before departing. Plan for a longer drive than the distance might suggest to allow for a safe and comfortable pace.

A great midway point for a break when driving from Kelowna to Kamloops is the area around Monte Creek. The Monte Creek Winery is located right off Highway 97, making it an incredibly convenient stop without requiring a major detour. It offers a beautiful setting for stretching your legs, grabbing a bite to eat at their bistro, and enjoying the scenery. This easy access makes it an ideal and relaxing place to pause on your journey.

Driving to the Lake Country and Oyama area from Kelowna is very straightforward, as you simply follow Highway 97 North. The main challenge for visitors is identifying the correct local turnoff for their specific destination, whether it's Wood Lake or Kalamalka Lake. The signs can come up quickly, so it's highly advisable to use a sat‑nav or navigation app. This will help ensure you don't miss your turn and can easily navigate the smaller roads leading down to the beaches.

The area around Kelowna's airport and the UBC Okanagan campus can become significantly more congested during specific times of the year. During student move‑in and move‑out periods, typically in late August and late April, you should expect much heavier traffic on the surrounding roads. The main roundabout connecting the airport, the university, and Highway 97 can be particularly slow. It's wise to allow plenty of extra travel time if you're driving in this area during those peak university events.

For drivers unfamiliar with Kelowna, some of the multi‑lane roundabouts can be a bit confusing at first. It's important to choose your lane before entering and yield to traffic already in the circle. Additionally, the major intersection of Highway 97 (Harvey Avenue) and Spall Road can be very busy with complex turning lanes. Paying close attention to signage and using a navigation aid can help you navigate these areas with confidence.

When driving in Kelowna, it's crucial to be vigilant for school and playground zone signs, as speed limits are strictly enforced. School zones are typically in effect on school days from morning until late afternoon, and the reduced speed limit will be clearly posted. The best approach is to be extra observant of the bright, fluorescent signs indicating these zones and reduce your speed accordingly. Remember that all speeds are posted in kilometres per hour (km/h), not miles per hour.

For families travelling with children, several Kelowna attractions offer very convenient parking. The H2O Adventure + Fitness Centre and the adjacent Mission Creek Greenway have large, dedicated lots that make unloading pushchairs and gear easy. Similarly, major city beaches like Gyro Beach and Boyce‑Gyro Park feature ample parking right next to the playgrounds and sand. These locations are ideal for minimising hassle and getting straight to the fun.

Popular family attractions like Kangaroo Creek Farm are well prepared for crowds but can get very busy on summer afternoons. They typically have large, dedicated parking areas, which are often on grass or gravel fields. During peak hours, you may be directed to an overflow lot that requires a slightly longer walk to the entrance. To avoid the biggest crowds and ensure the easiest parking, planning your visit for a weekday morning is an excellent strategy.

After picking up your rental vehicle at the airport, the best place to organise bulky gear is in the short‑term parking lot. Pull into a spot there to give yourself ample time and space to load skis, snowboards, or bikes without feeling rushed. This avoids holding up traffic in the immediate pickup lanes. Taking a few extra minutes in the lot ensures your equipment is secure and you're fully prepared before hitting the highway.

The most efficient way to combine a beach day with a downtown evening is to park once in a central location. Choose one of the main downtown car parks, such as the Library or Chapman Parkade, as your base for the day. From there, it's an easy and pleasant walk to waterfront areas like Hot Sands Beach in City Park. Your car can remain in the same spot while you enjoy the beach and then explore downtown's restaurants and shops in the evening.

When approaching a roundabout in Kelowna, the key is to slow down, yield to any traffic already circulating, and choose your lane based on your intended exit. Signs will typically indicate which lane to use for turning left, going straight, or turning right. For multi‑lane turns at standard intersections, be sure to stay within your designated lane markings throughout the entire turn. Paying close attention to road signs and markings is the best way to navigate these intersections smoothly.

During winter in Kelowna, bridge decks like the William R. Bennett Bridge are often the most hazardous spots as they can freeze over before other road surfaces, creating black ice. Shaded sections of roads and hills that don't receive direct sunlight can also remain icy long after other areas have cleared. While highways are a priority for clearing, the on‑ramps and off‑ramps can sometimes accumulate slush, so it's important to reduce speed when transitioning on and off the main roadway.

After a snowfall, road crews prioritise clearing the city's major arterial routes first. For getting back to the airport (YLW), your most reliable option will be Highway 97. This is the main thoroughfare through the region and receives the highest level of service for snow and ice removal. Sticking to this primary highway will provide the safest and most predictable driving conditions for your return trip to the airport.

During peak travel times like summer weekends or holidays, it's a smart idea to add extra time for your rental car return at Kelowna's airport. Plan to arrive at the airport at least 30 minutes earlier than you normally would for a flight. This buffer accounts for potential lines at the car return area, the vehicle inspection process, and the walk back to the terminal. Having this extra time helps ensure a stress‑free end to your trip.

The most direct route from downtown Kelowna to the airport is to take Highway 97 North. However, this route can experience significant congestion during the morning commute, typically between 7:30 a.m. and 9:00 a.m. If you must travel during this window, be sure to allow at least 15–20 minutes of extra driving time to account for the slowdowns. Following the clear signage for YLW Airport will guide you directly to the terminal and car rental return area.

The drive from Kelowna to Banff or Calgary is a spectacular journey through the mountains on the Trans‑Canada Highway. You should plan for this to be a full day of driving, as it involves crossing major mountain passes like Rogers Pass. It's essential to check road conditions on DriveBC before you leave, as weather can change quickly at high elevations, even in summer. Ensure your vehicle has a full tank of fuel when leaving Revelstoke, as services can be sparse through the national parks.