Places along the coast

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Discover the coast near Umeå

Along the coast outside Umeå, there are several places where it’s easy to get close to the sea. Here you’ll find beaches, excursion spots and cycling routes for both short outings and full-day trips. Several seaside bathing spots are located close to the city, often in natural settings with piers, sandy beaches and summer cafés. Cycling routes take you through sea views, forests and small coastal communities – with opportunities to stop for food, an overnight stay or a break by the water.

 

Ratan – coastal idyll with a history

Rataskärs nature reserve –The nature reserve is located on an island just off the village of Ratan, where you’ll find cultural remains such as medieval labyrinths, hut foundations, a pilot station, a lighthouse, and stunning sea views. Rataskär can be reached by boat, which is available to rent

Ekobutiken Malin i Ratan –The eco shop Malin i Ratan sells handmade organic soaps and accessories. There is also a small café here.

Hantverk i Ratan – here you’ll find beautiful crafts such as knives, blacksmithing, woodwork, and much more.

Obbola – one of Umeå’s oldest villages

Salteriet  – processes fish and has a farm shop selling wild-caught fish to enjoy on site or take away. In the same building, there is also a fishing museum with historical artefacts.

SCA Arena  – Do you enjoy cycling? For those interested in biking, SCA Arena offers MTB and trail running routes with varying levels of difficulty.
 

Rovägern Harbour – seafood restaurant and accommodation

Kvarkenfisk – the popular seafood restaurant, serves locally processed and fresh fish.
Need somewhere to stay? You can book a seaside cottage, and if you’re travelling by motorhome, there are parking pitches available.

 

Järnäshalvön – Fishing village

Here you can walk along the cliffs, enjoy sweeping sea views and spot lighthouses on the horizon. Fancy a great dinner and an overnight stay?

Lotsens Hamnkrog  – located at the far end of Storklubben in Järnäs. Here, you can dine with stunning views of the sea, either outdoors or indoors. Hedvig and Fredrik run the restaurant with a focus on local ingredients and a true passion for food.

Lotsstugan  – with accommodation for up to six guests and offers three rooms with fantastic sea views. The house and pilot station, dating back to the 18th century, are located just a stone’s throw from the sea. It can also be booked via Swedish Tourist Association (STF).

 

Islands to visit

There’s something special about islands—especially in the summer, when even the boat journey becomes an experience in itself. Near Umeå, Norrbyskär awaits with its unique history, the island’s museum, and Lilla Norrbyskär for families with children. On Holmön, you’re greeted by magnificent nature best explored from a bicycle saddle. The exhibition at Holmön’s Boat Museum depicts the hard work aboard fishing boats, the seal hunt, and the tough life of the families.
 

A day trip to Holmön

Experiences and activities

Culture and activities at Norrbyskär

Tips!

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Popular beaches in Umeå

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Summer in Umeå

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