Oulu's best beaches - find the perfect place to spend a summer day

Oulu has plenty of summer swimming spots to suit all tastes - long sandy beaches, sheltered lakes and idyllic nature spots. Here we present Oulu's most popular beaches - choose your favourite and head out for a refreshing swim!

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1. Nallikari - Oulu's own Riviera

Nallikari is Oulu's best-known and largest sandy beach, with a shallow bottom and spacious beach area, making it ideal for families with children. The beach, which is about a kilometre long, offers plenty of space for sunbathers and is also accessible: a carpeted grating leads to the beach for easy access, and a special mountain bike chair can be borrowed from the lifeguards for safe access to the water. Facilities include daily lifeguarding from 11am to 7pm (around 15 June to 15 August), several changing rooms, public toilets and showers (open from 9am to 9pm), barbecue facilities (wood from your own backyard or available for purchase from the resort), fitness equipment, beach volleyball courts and a playground. The beach area is accessible and the Hietasaari nature trail is nearby.

Lake Valkiaisjärvi - a peaceful oasis for hikers

Located on the east side of the Lake Valkiaisjärvi is a favourite with locals seeking peace and quiet - the clear waters of the lake and the surrounding woodland offer a relaxing alternative to busy seashores. Often warmer than the sea, the lake is particularly attractive to those who appreciate the quiet and unhurried atmosphere of nature. The sandy shore, changing rooms and rubbish bins make it easily accessible, while the area's varied nature trails make Lake Valkiais an excellent destination for those who want to combine swimming and nature walks.

Värtön beach

Värtön beach is located right in the centre of Oulu, amidst the lush nature and park-like landscape of the Hupisaarten. This small, sheltered swimming spot is perfect for a quick dip or a relaxing summer's day. Next to the beach you will find a cosy Koivuranta Café and Koivuranta ferry, where you can take a sauna for a small fee. The sauna ferry offers a unique way to combine relaxation and swimming directly in the Oulu River.

Tuira beach - riverside oasis near the centre

Tuira beach is located along the Oulu River just a few kilometres from the city centre and offers a versatile environment for spending a summer day. The sandy beach, extensive grassy areas and beach volleyball courts make the place popular for both relaxation and activity. The beach has changing rooms, toilets and a summer café. In winter, the area becomes a popular spot for open water swimmers.

Inkonnokka - a hidden gem in Haukiputa

Located in Haukiputaa, in the northern part of Oulu, the Inkonnokka is a peaceful and natural swimming spot that can be called a real hidden gem. The natural sandy beach, nestled in the forest, is the perfect place for those who want peace and quiet and scenery. Inkonnokka is ideal for hikers and nature lovers - there are trails, bird-watching spots and campfires for picnics. The beach is small and intimate, but that's why it's a secret favourite of many locals.

Kiviniemi Beach - a seaside swimming spot near the fishing harbour

Located in Kellon Kiviniemi, in the northern part of Oulu, the Kiviniemi Beach is an idyllic and peaceful swimming spot next to a traditional fishing harbour. The sandy beach opens onto a sheltered cove, perfect for swimming for adults and children alike. The area's atmosphere is enriched by the boating life and traditions of the fishing village, and while swimming you can enjoy a true island atmosphere - only about a 20-minute drive from the centre of Oulu.

See also the best beaches around Oulu!

Beaches on the North Sea ring road