Splash-tastic water activities in Oulu

There are beaches in Oulu for many tastes. The most popular one – and the number one destination for families – is the Nallikari recreation area and tourist resort with its pearly beaches. You can get to the beach from the city centre even by foot or bike through Pikisaari Island or catch a ride on a local transport bus. The Nallikari beach is almost a kilometre long and a true family favourite.

The beaches of Tuira and Värttö along the Oulu River provide excellent opportunities for swimming or enjoying the heat of a sauna raft with appropriate refreshments to complete the experience. Riding rentable jet skis at Värttö beach is a fun activity.

In the wintertime, Tuira beach attracts winter swimmers to take a dip in the freezing cold water. Winter swimming is possible also at Värttö sauna raft, with the added opportunity for having a sauna in between.

In the summertime, you can try more active sports, for the facilities offered in Linnansaari Island next to the city centre include kayaks, canoes, and SUP boards as well as a floating adventure course. At the northern end of Toppilansaari Island, you will find a sandy beach and breakwater favoured by kitesurfers speeding on the waves.

Water games in Oulu are not a matter of weather. You can splash about in Oulu’s Raatti and Raksila swimming pools all year round. In addition to traditional pools, the Raksila swimming pool offers a wading pool for kids, a diving tower, a pool slide, and a multi-function pool with massage spots.