Got Questions?

FAQ

Everything you need to know before you show up and sweat.

What to Bring & Wear

What should guests wear in the sauna?
We recommend wearing a bathing suit or natural, organic clothing like cotton, hemp, or merino wool. Please ensure you are clothed when exiting the sauna, as we are located right across from Bliss Bakery and it is a very public space.
How many towels should guests bring?
Guests should bring two towels: one to sit on inside the sauna for hygienic reasons, and one for afterwards.
Can guests bring drinks into the sauna, and if so, are there any restrictions on what types of containers or beverages are allowed?
Guests can bring water bottles and put them on the floor. We do not allow any alcoholic beverages and prefer no glass on the beach.
Can guests bring a glass water bottle into the sauna?
We prefer non-glass containers on the beach and in the sauna.
Can guests wear jewelry, glasses, or watches into the sauna?
We recommend removing all jewelry and glasses before entering. The film on glasses can get damaged in the heat, and necklaces and dangly earrings get extremely hot and can burn you. We also recommend not wearing bathing suits with metal or plastic components, as these can heat up and cause burns on your skin.
Can guests wear a nylon bathing suit in the sauna?
You can wear a nylon bathing suit in the sauna. However, we recommend natural fabrics like cotton, hemp, or merino wool when possible. If wearing a nylon suit, make sure there is no metal or plastic hardware touching your skin, as these materials can heat up quickly and cause burns.

The Sauna Experience

How hot does the wood-fired sauna get, and is it a dry sauna or does it use steam?
The sauna can get up to 105 degrees Celsius. We like to keep it around 95 to 100, and it can be a dry sauna or you can pour water on the stones to make it a steam sauna.
Is your sauna infrared, or is it wood-fired?
Our sauna is wood-fired. The remarkable thing about a traditional wood-fired sauna is that you actually do receive near-infrared light as a natural byproduct of the fire and the radiant heat from the hot stones. Traditional saunas heat the body through a combination of convection, conduction, and radiant thermal energy, giving you a broad-spectrum heat experience that also includes infrared benefits. On top of that, you get all the sensory richness of wood fire: the ambiance, the smell, the visual calm of the flame, and the option to create steam by pouring water on the stones. Sources: Wikipedia on infrared saunas, The Backyard Barrel, Dr. Ruscio.
How long should a guest typically stay in the sauna during each session?
We recommend ten to fifteen minute cycles. Guests get out, either go in the water or cool down for a few minutes, and get back in. For a fifty minute session, you can do about three different fifteen minute sauna stays and then back into the water.
Will there be other people in the sauna during a social session?
Yes. During a social session there will be other guests in the sauna. The whole point is to get to know people, meet new friends, and build community.
Are there guided or group sessions available, or is it self-led?
Social and private sauna sessions are self-led. We also offer Barre run sauna classes on Saturday mornings that are instructor-taught and led, ending with a sauna session. Additionally, we host run clubs where people get together, run a chosen distance, and then enjoy the sauna together.
Are children welcome at the sauna?
Yes. Children are welcome as long as they are accompanied by a parent or guardian at all times.

Cold Plunge

What should guests know about cold plunging?
Cold plunging is an incredible experience with real science behind it. Research published in the European Journal of Applied Physiology found that cold exposure can increase dopamine levels by up to 250% and norepinephrine by up to 530%, with those elevated levels lasting for hours after the plunge. Unlike substances that produce similar feelings, the cold plunge is not addictive and the mood-boosting effects are entirely natural. Pioneers like Wim Hof have helped bring cold therapy into mainstream wellness, and studies on his method have demonstrated that cold exposure can activate the sympathetic nervous system, reduce inflammation, and support immune function. Our approach is simple: go at your own pace. If you want to just put your shins in, that is perfectly fine. If you want to go all the way under, do what feels right for your body. We will never push you further than you are ready to go. Sources: European Journal of Applied Physiology, Wim Hof study via SBS News, Anahana.
Are there any health risks or contraindications for cold plunging?
If you are currently sick or getting over an illness, we recommend going easy on the cold plunge. Your body is already working hard to fight off whatever it is dealing with, and extreme cold is an additional stressor. For women, the luteal phase of your cycle (which begins after ovulation) is generally a good time to take a gentler approach to both the sauna and cold plunge. As always, listen to your body.
Will a cold plunge cause a heart attack?
If you have a known heart condition, please consult your doctor before cold plunging. For most healthy people, the shock of cold water is not something to be afraid of as long as you are listening to your body and easing in at your own pace.
How long should I stay in the cold plunge?
Listen to your body. That is the honest answer. As a starting point, even 30 seconds to a minute in Okanagan Lake after the sauna is enough to trigger a significant norepinephrine response and begin the benefits of contrast therapy. Many guests work up to 2–3 minutes over time. There is no medal for staying in longer than is comfortable. The goal is to step out feeling alive, not hypothermic. Start short, breathe through it, and build from there.
What is contrast therapy, and why does it work?
Contrast therapy is the practice of alternating between heat (sauna) and cold (cold plunge or cold water immersion), typically repeated for multiple rounds. The heat causes your blood vessels to dilate and your heart rate to rise. The cold causes rapid vasoconstriction: your vessels tighten, blood is pushed to your core, and your body releases a surge of norepinephrine and dopamine. Alternating between the two creates what is sometimes called a vascular pump, as your cardiovascular system is being passively trained. Over time, regular contrast therapy is associated with improved heart rate variability, better sleep, lower resting blood pressure, and significantly elevated mood. At Sweat Culture, you get the real version: a wood-fired sauna at up to 105°C followed by a cold plunge directly into Okanagan Lake. There is no manufactured substitute for that.

Health & Safety

Is it safe to use the sauna if you have a pacemaker or other cardiac devices?
We recommend that if you have heart trouble, you consult with your doctor before using the sauna. We would not recommend going in with a pacemaker if you have not talked to your doctor about it.
Can someone use the sauna if they're pregnant?
No. We do not recommend using the sauna when you're pregnant.
Is it safe to use the sauna if you're feeling sick?
If you are not feeling good, the sauna can be a real help. However, if you have active symptoms like sneezing or coughing, we recommend booking a private session rather than a social session. We want our social sauna to be a welcoming space for everyone.
Is it safe to enter the sauna if you're intoxicated or have been drinking alcohol before the session?
Definitely not safe if you're intoxicated. We highly recommend staying off alcohol before heading into the sauna. Because the sauna causes dehydration, you can feel the effects of alcohol much more quickly, meaning you can become intoxicated faster than you might expect.
Can someone smoke cannabis or weed before or during a sauna session?
No.
Can someone smoke before using the sauna?
No, we do not recommend smoking before using the sauna.
Can someone use the sauna if they are on medication?
We recommend consulting your doctor if you are on any medications before using the sauna.
Does sauna use cause dehydration, and what is the best way to stay hydrated?
Yes. Like any high-intensity activity where you are sweating heavily, sauna use can cause dehydration. That is why we recommend drinking around two liters of water with electrolytes throughout your session and continuing to hydrate throughout the rest of the day.
What should guests drink to stay hydrated during and after the sauna, and how much should they be drinking?
We recommend drinking an electrolyte drink during or right after a sauna session. Electrolytes contain key minerals like potassium, magnesium, and sodium chloride that your body loses through sweat. We suggest aiming for around two liters of water with electrolytes and continuing to drink throughout the day.
Do you require guests to sign a waiver before using the sauna?
Yes. All guests must sign a waiver before using the sauna.
Is sauna safe if I have high blood pressure?
If you have high blood pressure or any cardiovascular condition, we recommend consulting your doctor before coming in. Sauna causes your heart rate and circulation to increase significantly (similar to moderate exercise), which is generally beneficial for most healthy people but should be cleared by a physician if you have an existing condition.
Should I shower before getting into the sauna?
We recommend rinsing off before entering the sauna. It is standard sauna etiquette and keeps the space clean and enjoyable for everyone. There are public showers and washrooms just across the road from us at the beach.
Is sauna good for weight loss?
Sauna is not a weight loss tool on its own, but it does support the conditions that make weight management easier. A single sauna session can burn roughly 300–600 calories through elevated heart rate and metabolic activity, similar to a moderate cardio session. More importantly, regular sauna use supports better sleep, lower cortisol, improved insulin sensitivity, and faster recovery from exercise. All of these are foundational to long-term healthy body composition. Think of it as something that amplifies everything else you are doing: not a shortcut, but a powerful complement to an active lifestyle.

Health Benefits

What are the main health benefits of regular sauna use?
Regular sauna use supports cardiovascular health, helps detox your body of microplastics, toxins, and heavy metals, improves your skin, enhances sleep quality, and is a powerful way to cut stress and lower cortisol levels.
Does sauna use improve testosterone levels or human growth hormone production?
Research on sauna and testosterone shows mixed results. Some studies suggest a brief, temporary rise in testosterone following a sauna session, while others show no significant change. What is more consistently supported by science is sauna's effect on human growth hormone (HGH). Multiple studies, including research highlighted by neuroscientist Dr. Andrew Huberman, have shown that specific sauna protocols can increase HGH levels dramatically, in some cases up to 16-fold. HGH plays an important role in cell repair, metabolism, and muscle recovery. While sauna is not a replacement for healthy lifestyle habits, it may be a powerful complement to them. Sources: Huberman Lab, Biology Insights, Haven of Heat.
Is sauna safe for men's fertility and sexual health?
Research suggests that frequent sauna use can temporarily reduce sperm count and motility, as healthy sperm production requires a scrotal temperature slightly lower than core body temperature. One study published in the journal Human Reproduction found that men who used the sauna twice per week for fifteen minutes over three months saw a notable reduction in sperm count and motility, though these effects were found to be reversible after stopping sauna use. If you are actively trying to conceive, we recommend consulting your doctor about your sauna routine. For most healthy men not trying to conceive, moderate sauna use is generally considered safe. Sources: Human Reproduction journal via Pharmacy Times, McGill University Office for Science and Society, Haven of Heat.
Is sauna safe for women's fertility and health?
Research indicates that sauna bathing does not negatively impact female fertility and is considered safe for most healthy women. Women who are new to sauna may occasionally notice minor menstrual cycle changes, but no effects on long-term fertility have been documented. It is worth noting that the first half of your cycle (the follicular phase, from your period until ovulation) is generally considered the better time for sauna and cold plunging. During the luteal phase, after ovulation, some experts advise going easier on intense heat and cold exposure. As always, listen to your body. Sources: ScienceDirect endocrine effects study, Haven of Heat, Fyre Sauna.
Is the sauna safe for men and women in general?
Yes. Sauna is safe and recommended for both men and women. Women may want to time their sessions with their cycle as noted above. Men should be aware that protecting the genital area from prolonged extreme heat is a sensible precaution, particularly for those thinking about fertility.
Can sauna help with anxiety, depression, or mental health?
Yes, and the science here is compelling. Sauna use triggers the release of beta-endorphins, the same feel-good compounds released during exercise, and significantly increases brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), a protein essential for mood regulation and cognitive health. Studies have found that regular sauna use is associated with measurable reductions in symptoms of depression and anxiety. The cold plunge compounds this effect: cold water immersion produces a 250–300% spike in dopamine that can last for hours, without the crash associated with stimulants. Many regular Sweat Culture guests describe it as the most effective mood tool they have found. Not a replacement for professional care when needed, but a genuinely powerful complement.

Booking & Pricing

What is the price of a social sauna session, and what is the price of a private session?
A fifty minute social sauna session is $25 and a fifty minute private session is $150. Prices do not include tax.
How do guests book a sauna session online?
You can click the booking link on our website to reserve your session online.
Can guests purchase a sauna session as a gift, and do gift cards or punch passes expire?
Punch passes and gift cards do not expire. You can purchase gift cards for your favourite people and punch passes for yourself directly on our website. Punch passes can also be shared with your partner or members of your household.
Can someone purchase a sauna session now and use it at a later date?
Yes. A punch pass is the best way to do that and never expires.
What are your operating hours?
Currently our operating hours are 6 PM to 10 PM for evening sessions in the spring.
What payment methods do you accept?
We accept cash, e-transfer, and online payments.
Is there phone support if guests have questions or trouble booking?
Yes. You can call the phone number listed on our website if you have trouble booking or have any questions not covered here.
What is the difference between a social session and a private session?
A social session ($25 per person) is a shared experience where you join other guests in the sauna, around the fire pit, and at the lake. Sessions typically have 4–8 people and are the heart of what Sweat Culture is about: meeting people, building community, and sweating together. A private session ($150) gives your group exclusive access to the sauna, fire pit, and lake for the duration of your booking. Private sessions are popular for date nights, birthday celebrations, bachelorette parties, family outings, and corporate team building.
Are you open year-round?
We operate year-round, with the exception of the hottest summer months (typically June through September) when outdoor heat in the Okanagan Valley makes sauna less practical and enjoyable. Fall, winter, and spring are our favourite seasons. There is nothing quite like stepping out of a 100°C wood-fired sauna into the cold air and cold water of Okanagan Lake in October, January, or April. Check our booking platform or contact us directly for current availability.
Can I buy a gift card for Sweat Culture?
Yes, gift cards are available directly through our booking platform at sweatculture.ca. We offer gift cards for a single community session ($25), two community sessions ($50), and a full private session ($150). Gift cards never expire and make an exceptional gift for anyone in the Okanagan who values their health, wants something memorable to do, or is looking for a new community.
Can I book Sweat Culture for a bachelorette party, birthday, or group event?
Absolutely. Private sessions are perfect for group celebrations. A two-hour exclusive booking gives your group the sauna, the fire pit, and Okanagan Lake all to yourselves. Bachelorette parties, birthday groups, anniversary evenings, and friend reunions are some of our favourite bookings. Contact us at [email protected] or book a private session directly online at sweatculture.ca/sessions.
Can I book Sweat Culture for a corporate team building event?
Yes. A private sauna session is one of the most unique and effective team building experiences available in the Okanagan. Shared heat, a cold lake, a fire pit, and two hours away from screens does something to a group of colleagues that a conference room never will. Contact us directly at [email protected] or (250) 258-6290 to discuss your group size and timing.

Facilities & Location

Where are you located?
We are located at 4200 Beach Ave in Peachland, BC, V0H 1X6, right on the waterfront, directly across from the popular Bliss Bakery Café. Our spot on the beach gives guests immediate access to Okanagan Lake for cold plunging. You can find us on Google Maps by searching Sweat Culture Peachland, or by navigating to 4200 Beach Ave, Peachland, BC.
How do I find you when I arrive?
Head to 4200 Beach Ave in Peachland. We are right across the street from Bliss Bakery Café on the beach side. Look for the sauna and the changing tent; you will not miss us. Exact details are also included in your booking confirmation.
Is there a changing area and bathroom available for guests?
Yes. There is a changing tent on-site, and there is a bathroom right across the road from us as well.

Community, Events & Social Life

Can I come to Sweat Culture alone?
Absolutely, and many of our best regulars started as solo guests. A social session is specifically designed for people who may not know anyone yet. You will share the sauna with a small group, warm up at the fire pit between rounds, and very often leave with people you genuinely want to see again. Sweat Culture was built precisely for this: a place where showing up alone is not awkward, it is the point. Come solo, leave with people.
Is Sweat Culture a good date?
One of the best in the Okanagan. A sauna session strips away the performative side of a date and puts two people in a genuinely interesting situation: real heat, a cold lake, a fire, and actual conversation. No scrolling, no noise, no distractions. Many couples come regularly. Book a private session for a fully exclusive evening, or join a social session if you are adventurous. Either way, it is a date that will actually be remembered.
Tell me about the Sweat Culture Run Club.
Run Club runs on Sunday mornings and is one of the most loved things we do. The group meets, runs a set route together, and finishes with a sauna session and cold plunge. It is a perfect combination of cardio, recovery, and community all in one morning. Whether you are a seasoned runner or just getting started, the pace is inclusive and the finish line is a wood-fired sauna. Follow us on Instagram at @sweatculture_ for upcoming dates and details.
Tell me about Barre + Sauna.
Barre + Sauna is our Saturday morning session: an instructor-led Barre class followed by a sauna session. Barre is a low-impact, full-body workout that builds strength, flexibility, and control through small, controlled movements. Finishing it with time in the wood-fired sauna turns a great workout into a complete mind-body reset. It is one of the most popular ways to spend a Saturday morning in Peachland.
How do I find out about upcoming events, run clubs, and Barre sessions?
The best way to stay up to date is to follow us on Instagram at @sweatculture_ and on Facebook. We post all upcoming events, run club dates, Barre sessions, and any special programming there first. You can also contact us directly at [email protected] or (250) 258-6290.

Visiting From Across the Okanagan

How far is Sweat Culture from Kelowna?
Sweat Culture is approximately 20–25 minutes from downtown Kelowna via Highway 97. Head south through West Kelowna and follow the lakeshore into Peachland. It's a beautiful drive along Okanagan Lake. Many Kelowna guests make it a regular evening out or a weekend wellness day trip with friends.
How far is Sweat Culture from West Kelowna?
Sweat Culture is only about 10–15 minutes from West Kelowna. Just head south on Highway 97 toward Peachland and follow Beach Ave to the waterfront. For West Kelowna residents, we are genuinely in your backyard, one of the best health and wellness experiences the Okanagan has to offer, just down the road.
How far is Sweat Culture from Summerland?
Summerland is about 15–20 minutes north of us on Highway 97. Sweat Culture is right between Summerland and West Kelowna on the Okanagan Lake waterfront in Peachland. Many Summerland locals have made us a regular part of their weekly wellness routine.
How far is Sweat Culture from Penticton?
Penticton is about 35–40 minutes north of Peachland on Highway 97. Many Penticton guests make Sweat Culture a day trip. We recommend booking an evening social session, doing the sauna and cold plunge, and making a night of it in Peachland or heading home feeling completely reset. The drive along Okanagan Lake is stunning.
How far is Sweat Culture from Lake Country or Oyama?
Lake Country and Oyama are approximately 35–50 minutes north of us, depending on where you are. It's a scenic drive south along Okanagan Lake. We regularly have guests from Lake Country and Oyama who come for the experience. Most say the drive is absolutely worth it and plan to make it a regular trip.
How far is Sweat Culture from Vernon?
Vernon is about 60–70 minutes from Peachland heading south on Highway 97. While it's a longer drive, many Vernon guests make it a full day trip, especially in summer when the drive along Okanagan Lake is incredible. We recommend coming with a group of friends to make the most of it. Book a social or private session and turn it into a proper wellness day out.
Is Sweat Culture worth the drive from Kelowna, Vernon, or Penticton?
Absolutely, and our reviews will tell you the same. There is no other experience like Sweat Culture in the Okanagan. A wood-fired adventure trailer sauna, a cold plunge directly into Okanagan Lake, a fire pit, and a community of people who love to sweat together. Whether you are coming from Kelowna, West Kelowna, Penticton, Summerland, Lake Country, Oyama, or Vernon, the drive along the lake is part of the experience, and you will leave feeling better than you have in months. Make it a group trip, make it a date, or come solo and meet your people.
Is Sweat Culture a good day trip from Kelowna or West Kelowna?
Yes, it's one of the best. Book an evening social session (6pm onwards), drive down to Peachland, spend 2 hours sweating, plunging, and unwinding by the fire with great people, and head home completely reset. It's become a favourite regular outing for many Kelowna and West Kelowna locals who want something more meaningful than a typical night out.
Is Sweat Culture good for Peachland locals?
Peachland is our home and our community. For locals, Sweat Culture is in your backyard, literally steps from the beach. It's the best thing you can do for your health week in, week out. Regular sauna use (2–3 times per week) is linked to a 40% reduction in cardiovascular disease risk, better sleep, lower stress, and improved recovery. It's also one of the best ways to build real community in Peachland. Many of our regulars started as strangers and are now close friends. If you live in Peachland and haven't been yet, this is the sign.

Still Have Questions?

We're happy to help. Reach out directly or call the number on our contact page.

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