Sandy Beach Motel in Osoyoos was recognized by a major travel website as one of the top 25 family accommodations in Canada.
TripAdvisor last week awarded the local business one of 25 Canadian Traveler’s Choice Awards in its “family” category, placing it 12th nationwide.
The awards are based on online reviews by travellers.
Awards were also presented in the categories of Top Hotels, Bargain, B&B and Inns, Luxury, Romance and Small Hotels.
None of the other Travelers’ Choice winners are in Osoyoos.
Sandy Beach Motel has been owned and operated by Brent and Sherry Martin since 2009, but this is the first year it has won a Traveler’s Choice award, said Brent Martin.
The motel, however, has won other excellence awards in the past, he said.
The layout of the motel grounds is especially suited to families, Martin said. The large property has a grassy area and all rooms on the lake face this grassy area.
Sherry and Brent Martin, owners of the Sandy Beach Motel, recently received a Travelers’ Choice award from TripAdvisor. They were chosen as 12th best family accommodation in Canada. (Richard McGuire photo)
“It just lends itself to families,” Martin said. “The kids play out front and the kids play on the beach. There’s a playground, a tennis court and a volleyball court and there’s a family gathering area. There are three or four barbecues there and picnic tables so people can have their family gatherings there.”
The motel also offers a canoe and kayak and things for children to play with.
During the summer, the Martins try to get to know the families and plan activities for them such as a beach scavenger hunt, he said.
RICHARD McGUIRE
Osoyoos Times
