The Best Open-Air Swimming in the Helsinki Area

There are many pools and beaches in the Helsinki region, where you can do open-air swimming and enjoy the Finnish summer to the fullest. From pristine lakes with beaches to heated pools, this article will guide you through a selection of refreshing pools and beaches. Some of these places are suitable for winter swimming, too.

Open-Air Pools in the Helsinki Area

Allas Pool

Allas Pool is a popular attraction in the heart of Helsinki, a few steps away from Helsinki Cathedral. It offers visitors a unique experience of swimming and relaxation in a stunning outdoor setting, no matter the outside temperature. The pool and saunas float on the sea, providing swimmers with breathtaking views of the sea and the South Harbour area.

Allas Pool has a heated pool, perfect for leisurely swimming and water exercise, and a non-heated sea pool. Additionally, several saunas are available for visitors to enjoy, providing a traditional Finnish sauna experience. The pool area also features sun decks where people can soak up the sun and unwind. The majority of the saunas are unisex, so males and females can enter the same sauna. Wearing a swimsuit is mandatory in these saunas.

Besides swimming, Allas Pool hosts various events and activities in the summer, including concerts, yoga classes, and cultural festivals. It is a fantastic place for locals and tourists to socialize, rejuvenate, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.

Allas Pool is easy to reach because it is in Helsinki Centre. The pool is open all year round. However, refreshing is not cheap, as an entrance ticket costs about 20 euros.

Although Allas is an open-air pool, it is often considered one of Helsinki’s many spas.

Swimming Stadium

Swimming Stadium, located almost in Helsinki Centre, is a renowned sports venue known for its traditional swimming facilities. As the largest outdoor swimming stadium in the country, it offers a range of pools and amenities for recreational swimmers and professional athletes. The stadium’s Olympic-sized pool attracts visitors from around the world. With its beautiful architecture and historical significance, Swimming Stadium offers visitors a unique and memorable experience. Whether for training, relaxation, or watching thrilling swimming competitions, the stadium remains a popular destination for water enthusiasts and sports lovers.

Since the Swimming Stadium was built for the Helsinki Olympics in 1952, it is no longer the most modern place. However, it is still in good condition. There are lockable lockers and traditional saunas for both males and females. The pools are heated. The area also hosts a cafe, and the atmosphere is surprisingly relaxing. As the city-owned swimming place, a ticket costs only about 5 euros, so the stadium is the best place for budget visitors. The pool can be reached from Helsinki Centre on foot in 30 minutes.

The Swimming Stadium is open only in the summertime.

Kumpula Open-Air Pool

Kumpula Open-Air Pool is a popular recreational spot in the Kumpula district of Helsinki, Finland. It was built for the Helsinki Olympics in 1952 and offers a unique swimming experience in a natural setting surrounded by lush greenery.

The Kumpula Open-air Pool perfectly escapes the summer heat, allowing visitors to cool off and relax in a serene environment. The pool also includes sunbathing areas, picnic spots, and a children’s pool, making it an ideal destination for families. Naturally, there are also Finnish saunas.

In addition to swimming, visitors can indulge in various water activities such as diving and water slides. The pool area is well-maintained and offers showers, changing rooms, and a café where visitors can grab a snack or a refreshing drink.

As a city owner pool, a ticket costs only about 5 euros. Kumpula Open-air Pool can easily be reached by public transport from Helsinki Centre. The pools are heated.

The Kumpula open-air pool is open only in the summer.

Leppävaara Open-Air Pool

Leppävaara Open-air pool, located in the Leppävaara district of Espoo, is a serene oasis for swimmers and sun-seekers alike. This pool offers a refreshing escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, surrounded by lush greenery trees. Its clear waters and well-maintained modern facilities provide a delightful experience for visitors of all ages.

The heated pool boasts a large swimming area, perfect for leisurely laps and playful splashing. The shallow pool is ideal for families with young children, ensuring a safe and enjoyable environment. Sunbathers can relax on the spacious sun deck, soaking up the warm rays and embracing the peaceful ambience.

Leppävaara’s open-air pool also offers convenient amenities, including showers, changing rooms, and a cafe that serves snacks and refreshments. Lifeguards are always on duty, ensuring the safety of all swimmers. If the weather happens to be cold, it is always possible to warm up in a traditional Finnish sauna. Both males and females have saunas.

Leppävaara Open-Air Pool is located in Espoo. You must take a commuter train to Leppävaara station and walk 15 minutes more to the pool. Even though Leppävaara is in Espoo, Zones AB are enough for public transport tickets. We think the Leppävaara Open-air Pool is the best summer pool in the Helsinki region, and the price is only about 5 euros.

Leppävaara’s open-air pool is open only in the summer.

The Best Beaches in the Helsinki Area

Hietaniemi Beach

Hietaniemi Beach, nestled in Helsinki, is a slice of paradise on the Baltic Sea. With its golden sand stretching for over a kilometre, it’s an idyllic spot for sun-seekers and nature enthusiasts. The beach, also known as Hietsu, offers a vibrant atmosphere with a blend of locals and tourists enjoying the summer vibes.

Dip in the refreshing waters, play beach volleyball, or relax on a beach towel, soaking up the Finnish sun. The surrounding parkland adds a touch of greenery, perfect for picnics and strolls. Hietaniemi Beach is not just a place to sunbathe; it’s a social hub. Experience the unique charm of Hietaniemi Beach, where the beauty of nature meets the vibrant spirit of Helsinki.

As a public beach, Hietsu is free for anyone. The water may be a little cold even in the summer, but it seldom exceeds 20 degrees Celcius. The beach is only a 15-minute walk from Helsinki Centre.

Palettilampi

Palettilampi is a new artificial pond in the Kuninkaantammi area of North Helsinki. It was built on the site of an old water treatment plant and is filled with water from Lake Päijänne. The tap water in Helsinki comes from the same lake. The beach is shallow, less than two meters deep, which makes it ideal for swimming. However, it is still important to supervise your children carefully.

Palettilampi can be reached by public transport, but depending on your starting point, you may need to transfer. Consult Google Maps for the optimal route. It is also possible to arrive by car, but few free parking spots are nearby. Avoid illegal parking to avoid getting fined.

Kuusijärvi

Kuusijärvi is a picturesque lake located in Vantaa. Surrounded by lush greenery and tall pine trees, it is a paradise for nature lovers and an ideal escape from the hectic city life. The warm waters of Kuusijärvi invite visitors to take a refreshing swim during hot summer days or indulge in activities like canoeing and paddleboarding. The sandy beach offers a perfect spot for sunbathing and relaxation, while the nearby nature trails provide hiking and bird-watching opportunities. In winter, the frozen lake transforms into a magical wonderland.

Kuusijärvi is also known for its traditional Finnish sauna culture, where visitors can experience authentic Finnish smoke saunas followed by a refreshing dip in warm or icy waters. With its natural beauty and tranquil atmosphere, Kuusijärvi is a hidden gem that offers a delightful retreat for locals and tourists alike. Using the beach is free. Saunas cost money; you can buy drinks and food from the restaurant.

Kuusijärvi is in Vantaa, but it can reached by bus in 50 minutes. You need Zones ABC to visit Kuusijärvi.

Matinkylä Beach

Matinkylä Beach is a beautiful coastal area located in Espoo. This sandy beach is a popular spot for locals and tourists, offering a peaceful and relaxing atmosphere.

The beach is well-maintained and offers various amenities for visitors to enjoy. There are picnic areas with tables and benches, perfect for a family outing or a cosy gathering with friends. The beach also has changing rooms and toilets available for the convenience of beachgoers.

Matinkylä Beach is a place to sunbathe and swim and a hub for various water sports activities. Visitors can indulge in kayaking, paddleboarding, and sailing, making the beach an ideal destination for adventure enthusiasts.

Surrounded by lush greenery and scenic landscapes, Matinkylä Beach provides a serene and picturesque setting for those seeking tranquillity. Whether you want to stroll along the shoreline, picnic by the water, or relax and soak up the sun, Matinkylä Beach has something for everyone.

We recommend Matinkylä Beach to people who are staying in Espoo. Because the beach is quite far from Helsinki, it does not make sense to travel there. Using the beach is free, but the services are costly.

Lakes in Nuuksio

Swimming in Nuuksio National Park offers a refreshing and enchanting experience amidst the pristine natural surroundings. With its clear and calm lakes and tranquil waters, Nuuksio has become an idyllic destination for nature enthusiasts. The park boasts numerous swimming spots that cater to every preference and skill level. Whether taking a leisurely dip or embarking on a thrilling swim across the lake, Nuuksio offers something for everyone.

Take a break from hiking or exploring the park’s trails and savour the joy of swimming in these serene natural pools. Enjoy the invigorating sensation of the water against your skin, and let the beauty of Nuuksio National Park embrace you as you indulge in this extraordinary aquatic experience.

Swimming in Nuuksio suits hikers who wish to rest now and then. The lakes are calm,m but there are no lifeguards on duty. It is important not to swim and hike alone in the Nuuksio area.

Open-Air Swimming in Winter in the Helsinki area

It is possible to swim outside in the wintertime even though the temperature may fall below 20 degrees Celsius. Some outdoor swimming places are heated, but most are cold, so you swim in 0-degree water.

These winter swimming spots are also ideal for a visit in the summer.

Allas Pool

The previously listed Allas Pool is open in the wintertime. The main pool is heated, and there are saunas to warm up in. You can also dip into the cold water in the non-heated sea pool.

Aurinkolahti Beach

Eastern Helsinki offers a fresh winter swimming spot. Located at Aurinkolahti Beach, you can take a dip in the sea for a small fee every Saturday from 12 pm to 4 pm. Before heading to Aurinkolahti Beach in the winter, we advise confirming from Cafe Biitsi that the swimming spot is open in the current season.

Löyly

Löyly is a public modern sauna. It includes traditional wood saunas, an exquisite restaurant, and a lounge area featuring a breathtaking fireplace. It is also possible to swim in the cold sea. Its unique staircase leads to the sea, allowing adventurous individuals to try invigorating winter swimming.

Löyly is practically located near the city centre, but it’s pricey. The sauna and swimming in the sea cost about 25 euros.

Sompasauna

Sompasauna is a self-service public sauna operated by a dedicated team of volunteers. The sauna, heated by wood, offers visitors the opportunity to indulge in a relaxing sauna session and take a refreshing swim in the sea. However, it’s important to note that visitors assume their responsibility as no lifeguards or staff are present.

Kulttuurisauna

Kultuurisauna is one of the most serene destinations in Helsinki. It offers separate saunas for men and women and a charming courtyard with stairs leading to the sea for invigorating swims.

The sauna and swimming in the sea cost about 20 euros.

Kuusijärvi

Kuusijärvi is also open in the winter. Swimming in the frozen lake is free, but you need to pay to visit saunas. The prices are moderate, costing less than 8 euros.

Bottom Line

Helsinki has numerous outdoor swimming places. Allas is the easiest choice but also the most expensive one. Someone could even say it is a tourist spot. City-owned open-air pools are cheaper but are good value for the money. Unfortunately, they are not open in the wintertime. Swimming in the sea and lakes is free, but the water may be colder.

Allas is the only heated outdoor pool in the wintertime. In the summertime, the Helsinki region offers hundreds of natural places to dip in the water and a few heated pools. Helsinki is a paradise for summer swimmers who are not afraid of calm waters.

Leppävaara Open-air pool is our favourite. Visit also Hietsu, which is maybe the most crowded beach in Helsinki, making it a hectic social hub.