It’s insane that the name of my blog is Fjords and Beaches and I’ve only just now gotten around to sharing the best beaches in Norway.
Norway is perhaps not most known for its beaches, but you may be surprised to hear that along the coastline there are a few worth seeing. With the second longest coastline in the world (after Canada), there’s plenty of room for them.
Along Norway’s coastline you’ll find fjords and inlets carved by glaciers thousands of years ago. You’ll also find steep, majestic mountains that tower over the fjord. And, at the base of some of them, you’ll even find some very stunning beaches.
If you are a beach lover, a fan of cold plunges, or even want to go surfing – don’t miss this guide to the best beaches in Norway.
Side note: Norway is famous for stunning scenery, fjords and mountains, and totally worth visiting even if you aren’t a beach person. Beaches in Norway is a very niche topic – but you’ll find some really beautiful ones here that will surprise you! For example, did you know that one of the few green beaches in the world is in Norway?
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Norwegian beaches: Know before you go
There are a few things you should know about the beaches of Norway before you go.
Firstly, the water is cold. Even with the pristine, white-sand beaches that almost look tropical, the water is cold. Much colder than it looks.
Secondly, it is not common to have a bunch of fancy facilities lining the beaches here. Most of them are far away from towns and cities (with some exceptions). So don’t expect to find changing rooms, toilets or ice cream vendors along the Norwegian beaches.
The Norwegian way of getting changed for the beach is to just hold a towel around you and do it really awkwardly. No one will judge, trust me.
Lastly, know that all beaches have their purpose. Some are perfect for photography, others for swimming, and some even for surfing! Where applicable, I’ve made a note of the main reason each beach is famous. That way, you don’t end up swimming in someone’s photos.
Just to prove my point, there are photography tours in the Lofoten isles that take you to some of these beaches to learn photography.
The 13 Best Beaches in Norway
The beaches below are not in order of best to worst, but instead I have sorted them by location. Starting in the south of Norway and working my way up north.
Therefore, if you are looking for the best beaches in towns like Kristiansand, Stavanger or even Oslo, start at the top of the list. Beaches in northern Norway, such as the Lofoten isles (where there are several), are towards the end.
#1 Bystranda, Kristiansand
In the beautiful coastal town of Kristiansand, Bystranda is the main city beach. The name literally translates to “the city beach”.
This urban beach offers white sand, great swimming areas, a volleyball setup and a closeness to the shops and restaurants of the city.
The annual festival Palmesus also happens here every summer. The beach is the perfect spot for the tropical-themed festival, popular amongst Norwegian 20- and 30-somethings.
#2 Lista Beaches, Farsund
Situated in Farsund, Lista has 10 kilometers of beaches. It is a popular destination for surfing, windsurfing and kiteboarding due to its consistent winds. Lista’s beaches also boasts sand dunes and a nearby bird sanctuary.
Beaches in Lista worth noting:
- Einarsneset (great for hiking)
- Lomsesanden (perfect for familier, as the water is very shallow)
- Husebystranden
#3 Borestranden, Jæren
Situated near Jæren in Rogaland County, Borestranden is a 3-kilometre long beach known for its impressive sand dunes and consistent waves. The beach attract surfers from all over Europe.
Borestranden beach is a stunning destination for travellers planning a trip to Norway. Located on the southwest coast of Norway, it offers spectacular views of the ocean and the surrounding landscapes.
The beach has soft sand and gentle waves, making it ideal for swimming and sunbathing, as well as surfing.
#4 Solastranden, outside Stavanger
Just outside of Stavanger lies Solastranden, with a popular spa hotel overlooking it.
Solastranden is a long stretch of sandy coastline backed by dunes, making you almost thing you’re no longer in Norway. The heather-covered hills provide an ideal spot for sunbathing in the summer months.
Guests of Sola Strand Hotel visiting in the winter usually spend their days going on long walks on the beach. And chilling in the spa, of course. It is an ideal destination for a romantic getaway.
Read next: Things to do in Stavanger, Norway
#5 Huk Beach, Oslo
Huk is the only beach in the capital city of Oslo that made the list. Of course, there are other beaches in Oslo worth mentioning, such as Paradisbukta and Katten (my sister’s favourite).
Huk is to many locals a much-needed escape from the bustling city life. This urban beach offers stunning views of the Oslofjord and the city, as it is located on the Bygdøy peninsula.
To get there, jump on one of the boats leaving the harbour at Aker Brygge, and get off at Bygdøynes. From there it is a 30 minute walk to the beach. Alternatively, you can take bus 30 all the way to the beach. It leaves the Oslo city center every 10 minutes.
During the summer, locals and tourists alike flock to Huk Beach for sunbathing, picnicking, and swimming in the refreshing water.
Fun fact: The beach has a separate section for naturists, catering to a broad spectrum of visitors. Whether you’re seeking peace, leisure or recreation, Huk Beach is a gem in the heart of Norway’s capital.
Read next: Things to do in Oslo, Norway
#6 Norway’s Green Sand Beach, Hornindalsvatnet
Green sand beaches are unique formations found on select coastlines. Their distinct colour is caused by a high concentration of olivine crystals mixed in with the sand.
There are only 4 green sand beaches in the world, and Norway is home to one of them!
Hornindalsvatnet lake is not only the deepest lake in Norway, it is also where you’ll find Norway’s green sand beach. On the southern shore of the lake you’ll find the beach.
There, you can relax, take in the magnificent views of the lake, and cross this beach off your bucket list.
#7 Refviksanden
Refviksanden is a beach near Måløy in Western Norway.
Its crescent-shaped shoreline is paralleled by cliffs and an abundant birdlife – making it an ideal place for nature lovers. The Norwegian western coastline is perfect for birdwatching.
There are toilet and shower facilities on the beach, and it is popular for swimming in the summer. There is also a space for camper vans and tents near the beach.
#8 Mjelle Beach, near Bodø
Found near Bodø, Mjelle Beach is known for its red sand! The red sand is a result of particles from garnet minerals.
From Bodø, Mjelle beach is an easy 30-minute walk, suitable for children and adults alike. The beach is scattered with unique rock formations, sea shells, and crystal-clear waters that make it an excellent spot for exploring the coastline.
#9 Rambergstranda, Lofoten
Found on Flakstadøy Island in the Lofoten archipelago, Rambergstranda offers a picturesque setting with its soft sand and surrounding mountains. It is an especially popular photo op, because of the red fisherman’s hut located by the beach (pictured below).
It is perhaps best known as a photo op, as the surrounding mountains makes for a perfect backdrop. However, Rambergstranda is a perfect place to go swimming – and the local supermarket is just a short walk away.
#10 Kvalvika Beach, Lofoten
Nestled between towering mountains on the island of Moskenesøya, Kvalvika Beach is probably the most popular beach in the Lofoten Isles. To get there, you have to hike – making it even more tempting to visit.
The beach has turquoise waters and golden sand, and looks more tropical than anywhere I’ve ever been in Norway.
How to get there: The trail is well-trodden from the roadside parking lot and up alongside the mountain to two small lakes. From there, the trail turns west and goes around Fredvanghytta before reaching Forsvatnet Lake.
At this point, stay to the left and walk past the lake until you reach the beach. There is also an optional detour available up to Ryten for stunning views of Kvalvika Beach and beyond.
Side note: Kvalvika and the other beaches of Lofoten are absolutely perfect for watching the northern lights. Since they are so remote and far away from any lights, there is no better place to watch them. So figure out the right time of year to spot them, and head up north!
#11 Haukland Beach, Lofoten
Haukland beach is another popular beach in Lofoten (most of Norway’s best beaches are found here – they are just so unique!).
Haukland Beach is actually often referred to as Norway’s most beautiful beach, featuring white sand, crystal-clear waters, and stunning mountain backdrops.
Bonus beach: Just through the tunnel from Haukland beach you will find Uttakleiv beach, one of the most photographed beaches in Norway. This is because of the way the waves roll over the soft stones there.
#12 Unstad Beach, Lofoten
Also known as the home of the Arctic surfers! This is a sandy beach, that would be lovely to swim at, if it weren’t for the constant waves coming in from the sea.
People travel from all over the world to surf on Unstad beach, and others to watch and take photos of them. The waves rolling in over Unstad beach are (apparently) great.
If you are curious, you can join surf weekends and retreats at Unstad, staying for up to a week at their surf resort in the north.
#13 Bleik Beach, Andøya
The northenmost beach on this list is Bleik Beach, on Andøya Island in northern Norway.
I love the name of this beach, because “bleik” literally means pale in Norwegian. This is appropriate considering how little sun they get in the north in the winter months.
Bleik Beach offers an extraordinary combination of white sands against a backdrop of dramatic mountains and the open sea ahead. It is especially popular amongst photographers at sunset – as the sun sets in the ocean creates beautiful colours and reflections on the beach.
When to visit Norway’s beaches
Of course, if you are planning on swimming, the best time to visit Norway is the summer months. From June to August, the water is at its most comfortable (all though not quite warm).
However, the winter months can be just as beautiful if you plan to take some great photos. The snowy backdrop and icy waters make for more dramatic photos of Norway’s beaches.
Regardless of when you visit, you’ll have an amazing time!
In conclusion, Norway is a great destination for beach-goers and has some of the best beaches in Europe (in my opinion). Lofoten is a particularly popular destination for beach-seekers due to its rugged coastal scenery and crystal clear waters – as you have seen from this list, there are lots of great beaches there.
Furthermore, those looking for some warmth should visit the south of Norway, which is known for its mild climate and sunnier days. No matter where you choose to go, you won’t be disappointed with the variety of beautiful beaches that Norway has to offer.
Beaches in Norway: FAQ
Below are the most frequently asked questions I have gotten about visiting the beautiful beaches in Norway. If your question isn’t answered below, leave it in a comment and I’ll get to it!
Yes. All though Norway is not a warm or tropical destination, there are still some beautiful beaches there.
Yes! From white sand beaches to one of the only green sand beaches in the world, you’ll find plenty of sandy beaches in Norway.
Yes, you can swim on most beaches in Norway.
Yes, there are lots of beaches along Norway’s coastline.
The south and east of Norway are the warmest areas of the country.
Some people say Mjelle beach is the best and most beautiful beach in Norway.
