Don't expect a seaside vacation in Finland for a sun-kissed tan and white sandy beaches – that's what Spain, Greece, and Bulgaria are for. Finland doesn't typically offer specialized sea vacations. However, there are beaches, including those along the sea, where people enjoy their leisure time.
Beach relaxation in Finland caters to those who prefer a mild climate and cool water, avoiding the aggressive sun. The beach season spans from June to September, primarily focused on sunbathing, although some adventurous individuals may take a refreshing swim.
Finland boasts a total of 300 beaches, with 29 situated in Helsinki and 4 along the Vantaa River banks. The capital's beaches attract crowds of tourists and locals annually, meeting European standards for cleanliness and safety.
Hietaniemi Beach, centrally located in Helsinki, offers easy access by public transport, foot, or bicycle. Visitors can enjoy regular concerts, evening picnics, a summer-long outdoor terrace bar, and sports facilities for volleyball and soccer.
For the ultimate seaside vacation in Finland, head to Cape Juuteri near Pori. Stretching for kilometers, its sandy beaches feature a gentle seabed. Active enthusiasts can partake in beach volleyball, surfing, and various water sports. As summer progresses, the sea warms up to +20°C, providing ideal conditions for surfing, with lessons available for beginners. The beach is a hotspot for both professional and novice surfers during the summer.
The beaches of the Åland Islands are characterized by rocky and partly wooded landscapes, set within an archipelago of over 6500 islands, making it the largest cluster globally. Despite this, only 60 islands are inhabited, and standout beaches include Karingsand, Sandviken, and Degersand, with beautiful old villages dotting the west side.
Hanko Beach, near the village of Hanko in Uusimaa, boasts 130 km of coastline adorned with stunning sand dunes, creating an ideal setting for windsurfing.
Tampere's beaches, nestled between Näsijärvi in the north and Pyhäjärvi in the south, are popular during summer, offering shallow waters and ample forest shade.
Lappeenranta's most popular public beach is Müllusaari Beach, featuring the clear waters of Saimaa. Adjacent is the coastal sauna Müllusaari.
Municipal beaches in Finland are free to visit, providing information on sanitary conditions and water temperature during the bathing season. Alcohol consumption, picnics, and tent setups are prohibited, with designated camping sites available. Proper disposal of garbage in designated containers is mandatory.
