What to do in Helsinki

The best beaches in and around Helsinki: 

relaxation, nature and sunbathing under the Finnish sky

Helsinki, the elegant capital of Finland, fascinates in every season, but it is during the summer that it reveals its brightest and most surprising face. The days lengthen until they merge with the night, enveloped in the golden light of the midnight sun, creating a suspended atmosphere where time seems to dilate to infinity and never end. In this unique setting, the Nordic lifestyle is at its best: between parks, outdoor cafes, promenades and nature trails, the city invites you to slow down and enjoy the beauty of the essentials.

It's the ideal season to discover the seaside side of Helsinki: sandy beaches, hidden coves, crystal clear lakes and verdant islands become perfect places for swimming, sunbathing or simply relaxing. Here, even a swim at midnight becomes a truly magical experience, under a clear sky that knows no darkness.

Hietaranta
One of the most popular places to relax in the sun in Helsinki is undoubtedly Hietaranta, one of the busiest sandy shores in the Finnish capital. In the morning it offers a quiet and regenerating atmosphere, while in the central hours of the day it comes alive with families, sportsmen and bathers, thanks to the numerous services available. 

The area offers basketball and beach volleyball courts, outdoor fitness equipment, a children's playground and everything you need to enjoy the day: showers, toilets, changing rooms and the presence of lifeguards throughout the summer until mid-August. 

To make the stop even more pleasant, there is the Badenbaden summer terrace bar, ideal for a quick snack or a drink overlooking the bay. A few steps from the shore are also the Taivallahti Tennis Centre and a mini golf course, perfect for completing a day outdoors between sport and relaxation.

Aurinkolahti 
Aurinkolahti Beach, located in the lively Vuosaari district, winds gently for about 700 meters along the coast, with elegant curves that make it particularly scenic. It's the perfect place to enjoy a real beach holiday without leaving Helsinki. 

Characterized by fine sand and shallow waters, it is ideal for families with children, who can play and swim safely here. A few steps from the shore there are several sports and leisure facilities: a basketball court, an outdoor fitness area and the possibility to rent a SUP board to venture out on the water. 

The beach is equipped with a bar, changing rooms and lifeguard service active throughout the summer season, offering everything you need for a day of relaxation and fun between sea and sun.

Mustikkamaa 
The island of Mustikkamaa is a green oasis a few kilometers from the center of Helsinki, located south of Kulosaari and easily accessible on foot thanks to a pedestrian bridge. Here you will find a sandy and shallow beach, set in a fascinating natural setting, ideal for a regenerating swim or relaxing in the sun. Smooth granite rocks, perfect for sunbathing, alternate with intimate secluded areas that offer tranquility and beautiful sea views. 

Mustikkamaa is very popular with both young people and families with children, thanks to the many services available: changing rooms, showers, lifeguard supervision, fitness areas, an open-air theater and fields for football, basketball and tennis. 

Crossing the island you can also easily reach Korkeasaari, home to the famous Helsinki Zoo, one of the most popular destinations during the summer season.

Mustasaari
The picturesque Mustasaari beach is located on the island of the same name, and is considered one of the most charming in Helsinki. Owned by the Helsinki Parish Union, the island is open to the public and easily accessible in about 15 minutes by ferry from the city center. Surrounded by the sea and protected from the strongest waves thanks to the nearby island of Hevossaari, the beach is ideal for those seeking tranquility in a natural environment. 

Among the services available: cabins, showers, a playground for the little ones and a cozy bar where you can enjoy the classic korvapuusti, the famous Finnish cinnamon rolls. Mustasaari is also a popular destination for summer camps, organized by the Helsinki Parish Union. Dogs, however, are not allowed on the island.

Myllyjärvi
In the same region of Helsinki, the municipality of Espoo is home to two picturesque lakes surrounded by wild nature . Among these, Lake Myllyjärvi stands out, famous for its clear waters and serene atmosphere, perfect for those looking for a rejuvenating break away from the city rhythm. Located within a nature reserve, the lake can be reached by taking an uphill path of about one hundred meters through a verdant landscape. 

Located within a nature reserve, the lake can be reached by taking an uphill path of about one hundred meters through a verdant landscape. 

The small beach that runs along it is equipped with huts and picnic areas, making it ideal for a day outdoors: between a refreshing dip in the crystal clear waters and a break in the trees, Myllyjärvi is the perfect place to savor Finnish nature in total tranquility.

Pihlajasaari
A favorite among Helsinki residents, Pihlajasaari Island is a perfect summer destination just a ten-minute ferry ride from the city center. Ideal for those who want to spend a day at the beach surrounded by nature, the island offers sandy beaches, sunny rocks, large lawns and a small forest frequented by numerous species of birds. 

In addition to bathing, Pihlajasaari offers a nature trail of about two kilometers, equipped picnic areas, a camping area, a port for pleasure boats and a restaurant overlooking the sea. 

In summer, it is easily accessible by seasonal ferries departing from Ruoholahti or from the piers of Merisatama, in the district of Ullanlinna. 

Lauttasaari 
Lauttasaari, known as the "island of happiness", is a green and maritime corner just ten minutes by metro from the heart of Helsinki. Kasinoranta Beach, or "Casino Beach" for locals, is the hub of summer life, perfect for those who love outdoor activities: beach volleyball and basketball courts, kite surfing, padel, gyms, dance and yoga studios, as well as a well-equipped skatepark. 

A striking panorama opens up along the shore and, during low tide, you can walk to Sisä-Hattu, a small rocky island ideal for picnics in peace. The area also offers bars and restaurants where you can relax at sunset, admiring the coast of Lauttasaari. The experience is completed by panoramic paths and green areas perfect for walks and moments of peace surrounded by nature.

Edited by Enzo Cuppatri

Avion Tourism Magazine

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Where to stay in Helsinki

Helsinki offers different and special features of hotels and apartments. 

To find the ideal hotel and the best offers, you can search by stars but also by neighborhoods or places of interest.

Helsinki canal cruise

Scenic cruise along the Helsinki Canal with audio commentary and panorama of city highlights such as the historic Suomenlinna Sea Fortress and Helsinki Zoo on Korkeasaari Island. Duration 1.5 hours. Free cancellation. Information and reservations: Helsinki Canal Cruise.

Excursion from Helsinki to Sipoonkorpi National Park with sauna

Guided hike in Sipoonkorpi National Park in the Finnish taiga forest. Walk in the forest paths, a barbecue and Finnish sauna. Round-trip transportation from Helsinki. Duration 6.5 hours. Free cancellation. Information and reservations: Excursion from Helsinki to Sipoonkorpi National Park with sauna.