Discover Nakusp: A Quaint Lakeside Getaway

If you’ve followed my adventures for a while, you’ll know that small towns frequently find their way onto my travel list. You might wonder, with so many destinations to choose from, why do I gravitate toward these quaint little towns?

While I’m not planning to trade city life for small-town living anytime soon, there’s something incredibly refreshing about escaping the hustle and bustle to immerse myself in the charm and tranquillity of these quieter communities. Nakusp is a perfect example of why these getaways are so rewarding. You can check out some of my other favourite small towns to visit in BC here.

What makes Nakusp so great?

Nestled in the Kootenay region, Nakusp is about a 3.5-hour drive from Kelowna, making it a perfect destination for a serene weekend escape. To get into the village of Nakusp, you must take the Needles Ferry from Kelowna. It runs across Lower Arrow Lake and can take up to 30 vehicles. One of my favourite things is Nakusp’s waterfront which reminds me of Kelowna’s (probably why I love it so much). The lake, the mountains…what could be more stunning than that!

Here are a few fun facts about this charming little town:

• Nakusp is home to approximately 1,500 residents, with logging being the primary industry.
• You won’t find a single stoplight in town, adding to its small-town charm.
• They do have a Save-On-Foods, but heads up—it closes at 7 p.m., along with most other businesses in town (a lesson we learned the hard way!).
• Dining options are limited to just a handful of restaurants—a bit of a shock for a foodie like me!

Nakusp Waterfront Walkway Restaurants

Arrow Lakes Tavern in Nakusp is a lively spot where locals and visitors come together to enjoy great food, drinks, and entertainment. With its welcoming atmosphere and scenic location near the stunning Arrow Lakes, the tavern offers a menu full of hearty pub favourites, craft beer, and often live music!

Arrow & Anchor Pizza serves up artisan-style pizzas crafted with fresh, high-quality ingredients in a cozy, family-friendly atmosphere. Known for its creative toppings and perfectly baked crusts, this local favourite also offers delicious salads, appetizers, and refreshing beverages to complement your meal. Dine in or grab takeout and enjoy after a day of exploring the Arrow Lakes region.

Mountain Top Cafe is our go-to spot for the best coffee in town—they serve Oso Negro! Nestled in the heart of Nakusp, the cafe is known for its cozy ambiance and stunning views. Whether you’re stopping by for a freshly brewed coffee, a homemade breakfast, or a comforting lunch, the menu features local flavours and generous portions.

Hot Springs

If you didn’t know, Nakusp is famous for its hot springs, making it an ideal destination during the cooler months. The area boasts three unique options: Halcyon Hot Springs, Nakusp Hot Springs, and Halfway Hot Springs. You can view my blog post about some of my favourite hot springs in BC here.

Halycon Hot Springs is open 365 days a year. This is one of my all-time favourite hot springs as the pools overlook the stunning view of Upper Arrow Lake and the Monashee Mountains. Plus, you can enjoy their amazing restaurant, Alcedo, while enjoying the beautiful mountain views and nearby accommodations.

Nakusp Hot Springs are nestled within the Selkirk Mountains, just outside Nakusp offering a quiet getaway! For an extra cozy stay, you can book one of their cute cabins near the springs and enjoy hiking and biking trails around the area. If you’re into fishing, kayaking, or canoeing, you can also take advantage of the Kuskanax River and Arrow Lakes nearby!

Halfway Hot Springs is for the adventurous, perfect for those seeking a natural hot springs experience. However, during the winter, these springs are not accessible by vehicle, as they sit along a logging road. You’ll need to snowmobile, hike, cross-country ski, or snowshoe. The trek is about 1.6 km, but the scenic journey and the warm, relaxing waters at the end make it an unforgettable experience.

Accommodations

Kootenay Lakehouse is nestled along the stunning shores of Arrow Lake and everything you need for a perfect getaway.⁠ Just minutes from Nakusp for convenience, this luxury cabin features a wood-fired hot tub with breathtaking lake views and refreshing mountain air to rejuvenate the soul. You can check out my reel here from our visit.

Arrow Lakes Lodge is located in the heart of Downtown Nakusp, offering cozy accommodations and easy access to outdoor adventures. Perfect for a relaxing escape or exploring all that Nakusp has to offer!

I hope this blog post has sparked ideas for your next trip or offered some helpful tips if you’re planning to visit Nakusp. This charming, laid-back village has a special appeal—it’s not crowded, pretentious, or full of endless options. And that’s exactly why I love it. After the fast-paced energy of life in Kelowna, Nakusp’s peaceful atmosphere feels like a much-needed escape. It’s the perfect place to slow down and recharge. The stunning scenery, friendly locals, and three nearby hot springs make it a destination worth experiencing.

-Jenna xoxo