Kelowna British Columbia, Canada Travel Guide
Kelowna International Airport (YLW) serves Kelowna and the Okanagan Valley. Located just north of the city, about a 15-minute drive from downtown, YLW handles domestic and international flights, mainly within Canada and the United States.
YLW has no direct flights from major global hubs outside North America. International travelers typically connect via larger Canadian airports.
Flight frequency and prices to YLW increase significantly during peak tourist seasons (summer and winter ski season).
YLW offers car rental agencies, taxi services, ride-sharing pick-ups, dining options, retail stores, and free Wi-Fi.
Taxis, Uber/Lyft, Kelowna Airporter shuttles, and BC Transit Route 23 connect the airport to the city.
Find great flight deals using resources like Dollar Flight Club for alerts on cheap fares or Skyscanner for comparing prices.
Compare prices and find competitive rates for car rentals at DiscoverCars.com. Book in advance for better selection.
Passengers receive up to €600 in compensation for delayed or canceled flights via AirHelp if eligible.
Several major border crossings lead to Canada. The most common for Kelowna include Osoyoos (from Washington State) and Sumas/Abbotsford (near Vancouver).
Direct passenger train service does not connect to Kelowna. Riders Express offers intercity bus service to/from Vancouver, Calgary, and other BC/Alberta cities. BC Transit offers regional bus routes within Okanagan Valley.
Self-driving has the most freedom for exploring Kelowna and the Okanagan. Kelowna accesses mainly via Highway 97. From east/west, Highway 1 connects to Highway 97.
Driving times: Vancouver (4-5 hours), Calgary (6-7 hours). Roads are generally well-maintained but conditions change seasonally. Watch for wildfire smoke in summer; snow and ice in winter.
Direct sea or river arrivals for commercial passenger transport are not applicable. Kelowna is an inland city on Okanagan Lake, not connected to major oceans or navigable rivers for large vessels. Therefore, ferry services or cruise ports do not serve the city directly.
River transportation options within the Okanagan are limited to small recreational boats on the lake. Boat tours and rentals are immensely popular on Okanagan Lake.
Charter private boats or join group tours for scenic cruises on Okanagan Lake.
Public and private marinas around the lake provide launch points and docking facilities.
Always wear life jackets. Be aware of boat traffic. Cold water shock possible, even in summer.
Several restaurants and coffee shops for meals or snacks before your flight.
Liquor store for local wines (check liquid restrictions) and souvenir shops.
Free Wi-Fi throughout the airport terminal.
