Caban vs Aqua vs Playa del Sol

Caban vs Aqua vs Playa del Sol: Which Lower Mission Condo Is Right for You? (2026 Guide)

If you’re comparing condos in Kelowna’s Lower Mission, three names come up again and again: Caban, Aqua, and Playa del Sol.

They’re close on a map — but very different in lifestyle, investment risk, and long-term value.

This guide breaks it down in plain English so you can decide which building actually fits your goals in 2026 and beyond.

The Quick Comparison 

Overview of Each Building

🏢 Caban

Caban is a boutique, low-rise luxury condo designed for people who want peace, quality, and walkability — without living in a tower.

Why buyers choose Caban

• Quiet construction

• Larger patios and better layouts

• Higher owner-occupier ratio

• Lower turnover

Best for:
Professionals, downsizers, and buyers who want long-term value over hype.

🌊 Aqua Waterfront Village

Aqua is a large, master-planned waterfront community built by Mission Group.

It offers a modern feel, new construction, and a strong lifestyle focus — but also more density.

Why buyers choose Aqua

• Brand-new buildings

• Waterfront location

• Big-project amenities

• Modern finishes

Trade-off:
More units = more turnover, more noise, and more resale competition.

Best for:
Buyers who want new construction and community-style living.

🏖️ Playa del Sol

Playa del Sol is a resort-style condo complex near Cook Road, known for its pool and vacation vibe.

It has been popular with lifestyle buyers for years — but regulations have changed the math.

Why buyers choose Playa del Sol

• Pool and resort amenities

• Fun summer energy

• Lower entry price (sometimes)

Reality check (2026):
Short-term rentals are restricted, which removes the old Airbnb advantage.

Best for:
Lifestyle owners who want amenities and accept higher seasonal activity.

Short-Term Rentals: The 2026 Reality (Important)

This matters more than anything right now.

In 2026, Kelowna follows BC’s Short-Term Rental rules, which generally mean:

• STRs are limited to principal residences

• Most condos cannot be used as full-time Airbnbs

• Strata bylaws still apply on top of provincial rules

What This Means by Building

• Caban: Not an STR play

• Aqua: Same rules apply

• Playa del Sol: Resort feel, but rules still apply

If someone is selling you one of these as a “guaranteed Airbnb,” that’s a red flag.

Investor Perspective: Which One Makes Sense?

Caban – ⭐ Best for Stability

• Strong long-term tenants

• Lower risk

• Better resale protection

Aqua – ⚖️ Lifestyle + New Build

• New construction appeal

• Depends heavily on strata rules and pricing

• More supply risk

Playa del Sol – ⚠️ Lifestyle First

• Fun to use

• Weaker investment thesis without STR income

• Higher wear and tear

Bottom line:
In 2026, condos win when they’re easy to live in, not easy to flip.

15-Minute Walk Lifestyle (All Three Win)

All three buildings share the Lower Mission advantage:

• Okanagan Lake beaches

• Cafés and restaurants

• Grocery stores and services

• Mission Creek Greenway

• Transit access to Downtown Kelowna

This is one of the most livable areas in the city — which is why demand stays strong.

Final Verdict: Which Should You Choose?

• Choose Caban if you want quiet luxury and long-term confidence

• Choose Aqua if you want new construction and community living

• Choose Playa del Sol if lifestyle and amenities matter more than returns

There’s no “best” building — only the best fit for your goals.

Mark Coons, BBA, CE
Team Lead, Selling Okanagan Group
REALTOR® | eXp Realty Kelowna
Relocated to Kelowna in 2018

📞 778-744-0872
📧 [email protected]