Hietaniemi beach
Hietaniemi Beach stands as one of Finland's most beloved destinations for holidaymakers. Its allure is heightened by its prime location in the heart of Helsinki, nestled within the Töölö district, and complemented by an expansive sandy shore that is easily accessible. Intriguingly, this beach is an artificial creation, dating back to the early 20th century, where it emerged from the sands once deposited by barges. Today, it has transformed into a cherished holiday spot, affectionately dubbed 'Hietsu' by the Finns, a term that translates to "fine sand."
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Beach description
Hietaniemi Beach, the longest sandy beach in Helsinki, beckons both families and young people with its vibrant atmosphere. Often referred to as the "Helsinki Copacabana" due to its bustling cafes, bars, and special popularity, it's a hotspot for those seeking a lively beach experience.
- The beach serves as an idyllic spot for lounging on the shore. However, even during the summer months, the water remains quite cool, rarely exceeding +20°C, which may be refreshing for some.
- With its gentle slope and soft sandy bottom, Hietaniemi Beach offers a comfortable swimming experience, devoid of high waves, for those undeterred by the cooler water temperatures.
- The coast maintains a high level of cleanliness, providing a range of amenities for an enjoyable visit, including sports facilities and shaded swings.
- Accessibility is a breeze with city buses servicing the area. Despite the summer crowds, the extensive length of the beach ensures that visitors can always find a spot to unwind.
Since 1995, the beach has been the proud host of an annual beach volleyball tournament, drawing both enthusiasts of active recreation and sports fans alike. Nearby, an island blanketed in lush vegetation serves as a sanctuary for seabirds. Adventurous visitors can even swim across to explore this natural haven.
When is the Best Time to Visit?
Finland may not be the first destination that comes to mind for a beach vacation, but during the right time of year, it offers beautiful coastlines and pleasant weather. The best time to visit Finland for a beach holiday is during the summer months, particularly from late June to August.
- Late June to Early July: This period is ideal as it coincides with the Finnish Midsummer celebrations, and you can enjoy the famous white nights when the sun barely sets.
- July: July is the warmest month, with temperatures often reaching up to 25°C (77°F), making it perfect for swimming and sunbathing.
- Early August: The weather is still warm enough for beach activities, and the water temperatures are at their highest, offering a more comfortable swimming experience.
Keep in mind that while these months offer the best beach weather, they are also the most popular among tourists and locals alike. Therefore, it's advisable to book accommodations in advance and be prepared for more crowded beaches, especially in popular spots like the Yyteri Beach in Pori or the Hietaniemi Beach in Helsinki.
Video: Beach Hietaniemi
Infrastructure
On the city beach of Töölö, you'll discover numerous amenities for a comfortable stay.
- Vacationers can change in the convenient changing cabins situated near the beach. Complimentary toilets are also available along the shore. During the high season, from May to September, lifeguards vigilantly monitor the beach for safety.
- For all your beach holiday essentials, from swimwear to accessories, special kiosks and shops are dotted near the coastline. Additionally, the Kamppi shopping center is a short distance away, offering a wider selection of goods.
- The beach boasts excellent volleyball courts and a tennis center for sports enthusiasts. There is also a mini-golf playground and a dedicated recreation area for children, ensuring fun for the entire family.
During the summer, a variety of cafes along the coast serve refreshing drinks and delectable local snacks. Beach bars with dance floors come alive with parties that last from sunset to midnight, often featuring performances by well-known DJs.
Accommodations are plentiful in the center of Helsinki. For instance, Töölö Towers is conveniently located just 800 meters from the beach and within 550-650 meters from the region's main attractions.
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Two significant sights of these places are worth visiting in the vicinity of the beach:
- Sibelius Park with a monument to the famous Finnish composer;
- a church in a rock with an external dome made of copper and glass - Temppeliaukio, which impresses not only with its design, but also with its unique acoustics
Also near the beach is the Hietaniemi Cemetery, which is of interest because in terms of the number of celebrities buried here it is inferior only to the Paris Pere Lachaise. Therefore, everyone who wants to get acquainted with the famous names of Finland and immerses themselves in the history of this country should take a walk in this place with many ancient crypts, tombstones, and monuments. Here you can visit the tombstone Moomin trolls creator and see the memorial to the 8th Finnish president - Kekkonen.