Helsinki island escapes
Where the sea meets the city
Helsinki islands and seaside Helsinki invite you to step into a world where city life and nature flow seamlessly together.
Just a few minutes from the bustling market squares and design streets, you’ll find rocky beaches, secret picnic spots, wild green trails, and ferry rides that feel like mini adventures. With over 300 islands sprinkled across its sparkling coastline, Helsinki offers endless ways to explore the sea’s timeless pull—whether you’re sunbathing on smooth rocks, kayaking through hidden bays, or sipping coffee with seagulls overhead. Every visit promises a new story shaped by wind, waves, and Nordic wonder.
What makes Helsinki’s seaside special?
The sea is always near in Helsinki. With over 300 islands, rocky beaches, and leafy waterfronts, the city’s coastline invites you to slow down, explore, and breathe in the salty air. Whether you’re island-hopping in summer or watching ice floes drift past in winter, Helsinki’s seaside spirit is unforgettable.
How to get around: ferries, water-buses, and bridges
City ferries to Suomenlinna
The public ferry from Market Square to Suomenlinna runs all year, operated by HSL (Helsinki Region Transport). It’s part of the normal public transport system, meaning you can use a regular day ticket or travel card. Ferries leave roughly every 20–30 minutes and the trip takes about 15 minutes across beautiful open water.
See Suomenlinna ferry info Seasonal water-buses and island ferries
From May to September, private companies like JT-Line and FRS Finland run water-buses from Market Square to summer islands like Pihlajasaari, Vallisaari, Lonna, and Uunisaari. These small ferries offer more routes and open up the wilder parts of the Helsinki archipelago. It’s a perfect way to combine nature, swimming, and seaside cafés in one day.
Bridges to mainland-connected islands
Not every island needs a ferry! You can walk or bike across bridges to islands like Seurasaari, Mustikkamaa, and Korkeasaari Zoo. Most bridges are short and scenic, offering sea views and easy access for strollers, bikes, and wheelchairs.
Hop-on hop-off archipelago cruises
Some summer waterbuses offer hop-on hop-off tickets, letting you explore multiple islands like a city bus tour—only with seagulls and salty breezes. Perfect for flexible day trips.
Activities Biking and kayaking options
Feeling adventurous? Rent a bike and pedal to connected islands like Mustikkamaa, or rent a kayak and paddle your own way through Helsinki’s sheltered bays and island coves.
Top islands to visit near Helsinki
Suomenlinna A fortress island full of stories
One of Finland’s most treasured sights and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Suomenlinna offers a unique blend of history, culture, and seaside charm. Wander old tunnels, climb grassy ramparts, visit museums—or simply relax with a picnic by the sea. Suomenlinna is lively in summer, atmospheric in winter, and easy to reach all year round by ferry.
Suomenlinna Sea Fortress Pihlajasaari Helsinki’s ultimate summer beach escape
Just 10 minutes by summer ferry, Pihlajasaari feels like a different world: sandy beaches, smooth rocky shores, nature trails, and a rustic seaside restaurant. It’s the go-to spot for swimming, sunbathing, and seaside picnics. Bring your own snacks or dine on the island terrace overlooking the sea.
Pihlajasaari Island Lonna A tiny island with big character
Between the city and Suomenlinna lies Lonna, a small, laid-back island known for its relaxed atmosphere. Spend an afternoon enjoying local food, sipping coffee, or warming up in the seaside sauna. Ideal for a slow day trip just outside the city bustle.
Lonna island sauna Vallisaari Nature reclaiming history
Once closed military zones, Vallisaari and Kuninkaansaari are now wild havens of biodiversity and beauty. Stroll scenic trails surrounded by rare plants, coastal cliffs, and quiet ponds. Bring good walking shoes and a sense of adventure—these islands are perfect for hiking, bird-watching, and photography.
Vallisaari Seurasaari Open-air heritage and friendly squirrels
Connected to the mainland by a charming wooden bridge, Seurasaari is a living museum of traditional Finnish wooden houses and countryside life. It’s also a beloved nature getaway where you can feed squirrels, stroll along peaceful forest paths, and enjoy coffee at classic island cafés. Accessible year-round, magical in autumn.
Seurasaari Island Mustikkamaa A local favourite for outdoor fun
Linked to the mainland near the Helsinki Zoo, Mustikkamaa offers beaches, playgrounds, forest trails, and casual seaside cafés. It’s popular for summer picnics and kayaking, but also a lovely winter spot for brisk walks and cozy coffee breaks.
Mustikkamaa Uunisaari City escape, just a footbridge away
Right off Kaivopuisto Park, Uunisaari is the perfect urban island escape. In summer, it’s all about sandy beaches and relaxed cafés; in winter, a heated bridge and cozy seaside restaurant make it a favourite spot for locals craving sea views even in the snow.
Uunisaari What to do by the water
Beach days and sea swims
Swimming in the Baltic Sea is a way of life in Helsinki—and yes, the water is clean and safe for a refreshing dip! You’ll find sandy beaches, rocky coves, and quiet swimming spots dotted all along the coastline and islands. Head to Pihlajasaari for a classic beach escape, Hietaranta Beach (“Hietsu”) for a lively urban vibe, or the hidden shores of Uunisaari and Mustikkamaa for a more peaceful swim close to the city.
Seaside saunas
Nothing captures the spirit of Helsinki like a seaside sauna. At Löyly, Lonna, or Allas Sea Pool, you can warm up in a traditional wood-fired sauna, then cool off with a swim in the sea—or just a brave splash, depending on the season. It’s pure Helsinki wellbeing at its finest.
Seven Helsinki saunas by the seaside Island hopping and ferry adventures
Hop aboard a ferry and explore the Helsinki archipelago like a local. Spend the morning exploring Suomenlinna’s historic fortifications, the afternoon sunbathing on Pihlajasaari, and the evening watching the sunset from Lonna’s shoreline café.
7 islands in Helsinki to explore Picnics with sea views
Pick up fresh berries, rye bread, and local treats from the Market Square and set up a picnic by the sea. Favourite spots include the grassy parks of Kaivopuisto, the open lawns of Seurasaari, or the rocky ledges of Mustikkamaa overlooking the water.
7 places to see wildlife in Helsinki Kayaking, paddleboarding, and boat tours
For a different perspective on Helsinki, rent a kayak, canoe, or SUP board and glide between the islands. Guided boat tours also offer a great way to discover hidden corners of the archipelago, from wildlife reserves to historic harbours.
Kayak tour in Helsinki archipelago Fishing along the shore
Believe it or not, Helsinki is a great spot for urban fishing! Join locals trying their luck along the piers or take a fishing boat trip out into the archipelago. Just make sure to check seasonal regulations and permits.
Fishing in Helsinki Winter magic by the sea
Even when the temperatures drop, the seaside stays alive. Watch ice floes drift past at Kaivopuisto, take a bracing swim at Allas Sea Pool, or simply sip hot coffee at a waterfront café while the frozen Baltic shimmers in the low winter light.
7 Helsinki islands to visit in the winter Seasons by the sea
Summer long days, cool swims, and ferry adventures
Helsinki’s coastline comes fully alive under the midnight sun. Ferries buzz between islands, outdoor cafés fill with laughter, and beaches invite long afternoons of swimming, picnicking, and napping on sun-warmed rocks. This is the season for bare feet, island hopping, and open-air concerts by the sea.
Autumn golden light, quiet trails, and wild harvests
As the crowds thin and the forests burn gold and red, the seaside becomes a peaceful, painterly escape. Hike the trails on Vallisaari or Seurasaari, spot migrating birds, or forage for mushrooms along quiet island paths. The crisp air and low sunlight make Helsinki’s archipelago breathtakingly beautiful.
Winter frozen harbours, sauna swims, and icy wonders
Winter transforms the sea into a frozen landscape of ice floes and glittering horizons. Brave souls swim in the pools at Allas Sea Pool (both heated and not) or take sauna breaks at Löyly before rolling in the snow. Watch locals ski across frozen bays, or simply enjoy the magic of a waterfront coffee while the low winter sun casts silver light across the ice.
Spring awakening nature, returning ferries, and new energy
Spring is a season of bright beginnings as ferries resume full service and seabirds return to the islands. Snow melts, trails reappear, and cafés like Café Ursula open their sun terraces once again. It’s a time of renewal, perfect for strolls along the seaside promenades or the first brave sea swims of the year.
Plan your island adventure
Check ferry schedules and seasonal routes
Some islands like Suomenlinna are accessible all year, while others like Pihlajasaari and Vallisaari are summer-only gems. Ferry timetables can change with the season and weather, so always check the latest schedules before you go.
Dress for the sea breeze
Even in summer, the Helsinki archipelago can surprise you with fresh winds and cooler temperatures. Pack a light jacket, comfortable walking shoes, and sun protection. In winter, bundle up properly—layers, hats, and gloves are essential for seaside walks and ferry rides.
Pack a picnic or snacks
Some islands have cafés and restaurants (like Lonna or Suomenlinna), but many are rustic and perfect for DIY picnics. Stock up on pastries, sandwiches, or fresh berries from Market Square before you board.
Bring swimwear—or sauna gear
In summer, beaches and swimming spots await. Pack swimwear, a towel, and a sense of adventure.
Respect nature and leave no trace
Helsinki’s islands are pristine, and keeping them that way is part of the experience. Stay on marked trails, take all your rubbish back with you, and respect any seasonal wildlife nesting areas or restricted zones.
Travel light and stay flexible
Ferries can get busy on sunny weekends, and island weather can shift fast. A flexible attitude, some extra water, and a lightweight backpack go a long way towards an easy, memorable day.
Consider a guided tour for hidden stories
If you want to dive deeper into the archipelago’s history and nature, consider joining a guided walking or kayaking tour. Local guides can unlock hidden corners, military secrets, and nature tales you might otherwise miss.
