Pihlajasaari

Islands Recreational island park near Helsinki

An island off Helsinki’s south coast, Pihlajasaari has sandy beaches, picnic areas and summer cafés. Finns and visitors take ferries from the city for swimming, sunbathing and seaside walks during warm months.

Pihlajasaari is a recreational island complex in the Helsinki archipelago, Uusimaa, used primarily for swimming, picnics and seaside recreation. It is a well-known municipal leisure destination for residents and visitors.

The islands have been used for coastal leisure since the early 20th century as Helsinki’s bathing culture developed; municipal management has maintained the area for public recreation. Facilities have evolved to serve seasonal visitor demand but the islands have remained car-free and primarily day-use.

Located in the Gulf of Finland about 4 km southwest of central Helsinki, Pihlajasaari sits among the city’s southern archipelago and is accessed by short ferry trips from several city piers.

Distance and access: Approximately 4 kilometres southwest of Helsinki city centre and reachable by small passenger ferries in summer from city harbours.
Island layout: Comprised of two linked islets with car-free paths, popular for day trips, swimming and picnics in summer months.

What to See #

Beaches: Several sandy swimming beaches and rocky shorelines on the larger islet are the main recreation spots, used in summer for swimming and sunbathing.
Sauna and services: A public sauna and a seasonal restaurant operate on the island during the warmer months, serving visitors who arrive by boat.

How to Get to Pihlajasaari #

Ferries run from central Helsinki harbours (check Kaivopuisto/Hietalahdenranta departure points) in summer months. Services are frequent in July and August and much reduced outside this period.

Tips for Visiting Pihlajasaari #

Catch the public ferry from Kaivopuisto or Hietalahti in summer; times are limited outside peak months.
Bring a towel and a small picnic-the island has beaches but few food services.
Walk the peninsula to find both family‑friendly beaches and quieter rocky coves preferred by locals.