Most summer days in Oslo are comfortable rather than hot. But every now and then, the temperature climbs above 30°C. If you have arrived from another warm country, you might think the water will also be warm. It usually is not.
Whether you choose the Oslofjord or a forest lake, the water is often much colder than beaches around the Mediterranean. That can be a welcome relief after walking around the city in the sun. If you are unsure what weather to expect during your visit, have a look at our guide to Oslo’s weather.
The places below are all easy to reach without a car. If you are unfamiliar with the local transport system, our guide to public transportation in Oslo explains how to use the metro, trams, buses and ferries.
Should you choose the sea or a lake?
The Oslofjord offers salt water, small beaches, rocks for sunbathing and plenty of space along the shoreline. Forest lakes are surrounded by trees, often feel quieter, and the fresh water is popular with families. Neither the sea nor the lakes become very warm, even after several hot days. If you jump straight in, expect the first few seconds to feel surprisingly cold.
Huk Beach on Bygdøy
Huk is one of Oslo’s best-known places for swimming in the fjord. You will find both sandy areas and smooth rocks where people spread out towels. On very hot weekends it gets busy, so arriving before midday gives you a better chance of finding a comfortable spot.
How do I get there?
Take bus 30 towards Bygdøy and get off at Huk. The journey from the city centre takes around 20–30 minutes, depending on traffic. During the summer season you can also use the passenger ferry to Bygdøy and walk from the pier, although the walk takes around 20 minutes.
There are toilets, seasonal kiosks selling ice cream and drinks, and mobile phone coverage is good. Bring water, as queues at the kiosk can become long on the hottest days.
Sørenga Seawater Pool
If you are already in the city centre, Sørenga is the easiest place to cool down. It is a modern waterfront area with swimming ladders, floating platforms and a protected seawater pool. There is very little natural shade, so sunscreen and a hat are useful if you plan to stay for several hours.
How do I get there?
Walk about 15 minutes from Oslo Central Station, or take a bus to the Bjørvika area. The water is clean, but the area can become extremely crowded on hot afternoons. If you prefer a quieter place, choose one of the forest lakes instead.
There are public toilets nearby, several cafés and grocery shops within walking distance, and drinking water is available.
Sognsvann
Sognsvann is a large freshwater lake surrounded by forest, making it a popular escape when the city feels too hot. The atmosphere is relaxed, and there is plenty of space even when many people visit.
How do I get there?
Take Metro line 5 to Sognsvann. The lake is only a couple of minutes’ walk from the station, making it one of the easiest natural swimming areas to reach by public transport.
There are toilets near the entrance to the recreation area. You can walk all the way around the lake on a wide gravel path of about 3 kilometres if you feel like stretching your legs after your swim. Bring your own food if you plan to stay, as there are limited places to buy refreshments.
Nøklevann
If you would rather avoid the biggest crowds, Nøklevann in eastern Oslo is a good alternative. The lake has several swimming spots, including small beaches and rocky areas. The surrounding forest makes it feel much further from the city than it really is.
How do I get there?
Take Metro line 3 to Bogerud or Metro line 1 to Ulsrud. From either station, expect a walk of around 15–20 minutes through residential streets and forest paths before reaching the water. Wear comfortable shoes rather than flip-flops for the walk.
Facilities are more limited than at central beaches, so bring water, snacks and anything else you need for the afternoon. Mobile coverage is generally good.
What should you bring?
Even on Oslo’s hottest days, it is worth packing a light towel, swimwear, sunscreen, drinking water and something warm to put on afterwards. After swimming in cold water, especially if there is a breeze, you may cool down faster than expected.
If you are only visiting Oslo for a few days and happen to experience one of those rare 30°C afternoons, joining the locals at the beach or a forest lake is one of the simplest ways to stay comfortable. Just don’t expect tropical water temperatures. The cool water is exactly why these places are so popular when the city heats up.
