FAQs

About Shelter

  • Shelter is a floating wellness sanctuary, offering a dry sauna experience that floats on Okanagan Lake in Penticton, BC. It combines the calming experience of traditional sauna heat with the natural beauty of the surrounding water and mountain views, providing a unique way to relax, rejuvenate, and connect with nature.

  • The Shelter Cycle is a ritual of contrast, offering a mindful journey between heat, cold, and rest that awakens your senses, strengthens your body, and clears your mind.

    Step 1: Heat

    Settle into the warmth of red cedar walls and feel tension melt away. Stay for 10–15 minutes or until you feel deeply heated.

    Step 2: Cold

    Take a refreshing plunge in Okanagan Lake to stimulate circulation and boost endorphins. Stay submerged for 30 seconds to 3 minutes, depending on your comfort.

    Step 3: Rest

    Float, breathe, and reset in stillness. Take a few minutes to rest and enjoy the stillness before beginning the cycle again.

    Step 4: Repeat

    Repeat for deeper calm, focus, and rejuvenation. The more you flow through the cycle, the more you’ll feel the transformation.

    Experience The Shelter Cycle →

  • Our sessions are booked for 70 minutes. If you are looking for a longer session time, you can book two sessions back to back, or look into our private booking options.

  • Our floating sauna accommodates up to 8 people in a social session and up to 10 people in a private session. You can book as an individual, a small group, or reserve the entire sauna for a private gathering.

Health & Safety

  • Saunas and cold plunges are generally safe for most healthy adults. However, if you’re pregnant, have heart conditions, respiratory issues, high or low blood pressure, or other health concerns, please consult your doctor before booking. Always enter and exit each stage of the cycle slowly, and take breaks as needed.

  • Shelter Floating Sauna is open to individuals 18 years of age or older.

    In private sessions guests 16 years of age or older may join.

  • Yes, we provide a clean and private space for changing. We do not offer shower facilities. Please check your booking details for more information.

Before Your Session

    • A swimsuit

    • 2 towels (1 to sit on, 1 to dry off with)

    • A water bottle to stay hydrated (we provide refreshments)

    • Flip-flops or easy slip-on shoes

    • Optional: a robe or hat for comfort in the cooler winter months

    We’ll provide everything else you’ll need for a relaxing session.

  • The sauna is heated to around 80–100°C (175–215°F), depending on your preference. The plunge lake water temperature varies seasonally, typically ranging from 3–12°C (39–54°F).

  • Our sessions are self-guided, so you can choose how your time at Shelter looks. However, alternating between hot and cold is the classic way to enjoy the experience. Start with 10–15 minutes in the sauna, then take a quick dip (or full plunge) into the cold water, and repeat as you like. Always listen to your body and take breaks as needed.

  • Please plan to arrive at your session time. You can park in Lakeside Resort’s guest parking lot located at 21 Lakeshore Drive West. Make sure to follow the parking directions listed in the area you park in.

    Make your way through the Lakeside Resort’s main lobby to the marina, located through the rear lobby entrance. Follow the signage to Shelter Floating Sauna.

Visiting Us

  • No. Shelter operates from October 1st until mid-May.

  • Shelter is available for bookings 7 days a week, from 8AM - 9PM.

  • We are located at The Marina at The Lakeside Resort and Conference Center. You can find us at: 21 Lakeshore Drive West, Penticton, BC. Click Here to access on Google Maps.

Bookings & Policies

  • You can easily book online through our booking page, where you will select your preferred date, time, and group size. We recommend booking in advance, especially on weekends and holidays. Alternatively you can book by emailing us at hello@sheltersauna.com or giving us a call at 778-622-4698.

  • Reservations are highly recommended as we cannot guarantee a spot for walk-ins. Booking is available online here.

  • 48+ Hours Before Session: Cancellations made more than 48 hours in advance will receive a full refund to the original payment method. Alternatively, guests can reschedule their visit via their client portal.

    24-48 Hours Before Session: Cancellations requested within this window will be refunded minus a 30% cancellation fee. As an alternative, guests can opt for a one-time free reschedule in the form of store credit.

    Within 24 Hours of Session: Unfortunately, no refunds or reschedules will be offered for cancellations made within 24 hours of a session. We appreciate your understanding and cooperation, as these policies ensure we can best serve our community.

  • Yes! You can reserve the sauna for private sessions, wellness retreats, corporate events, birthdays, or special celebrations. Custom packages are available, please reach out to our team at hello@sheltersauna.com or by phone at 778-622-4698 for more information.

  • Water is encouraged! We do provide water and tea to our guests, but for safety and hygiene purposes we ask guests to avoid bringing glass water bottles, alcohol, or any food. Some private sessions allow light refreshments — please contact us to confirm before your visit.

  • No. Punch Passes can only be used for sessions booked and attended by the person who purchased the punch passes.

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A man and woman are relaxing inside a wooden sauna; at Shelter Floating Sauna in Penticton, BC.
A woman with glasses, relaxing in a cold plunge in Okanagan Lake, looking upward with a smile.