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The Hidden Gems of Kokkola´s Coast

Welcome to the stunning coastline of Kokkola, where the sound of the sea and the beauty of nature meet a wide range of services and activities.
On this page, we present the best seaside destinations that will make your visit truly memorable. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing day at the beach, an adventure-filled water experience, or a restaurant serving delicious seafood, you’ll find the top tips and recommendations here.
Dive in and discover the hidden gems of Kokkola’s coast!

Cafés and Restaurants

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    Welcome to Café Bryggan, the popular dock café and guest harbor in Öja archipelago village, Kokkola! At Café Bryggan, you can enjoy a unique atmosphere and stunning views while indulging in local delicacies.

    Our café offers not only delicious drinks and pastries but also an opportunity to relax and enjoy the sea breeze. Additionally, you can explore the history and culture of the Fishing Village by participating in a guided tour, where local residents share fascinating stories from the past and traditions.

    And once you’ve had your dose of history, you can head to the boat shed, where the legendary fisherman’s soup of the Fishing Village awaits. So come and spend an unforgettable day with us at Café Bryggan – we look forward to your visit!

    Contact details

    p.+358503377522

    info@cafebryggan.fi

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    Villa Elba’s kitchen professionally prepares delicious meals and dining times are flexibly adapted to fit your day’s schedule. Our varied and tasty buffet meals are based on sustainably produced, high quality and healthy organic and local food. For us, adding vegetarian options is important and a fully vegan wedding menu option is available, for example.

    Lunch is available Monday to Friday from 11am to 1pm. We welcome advance bookings for larger groups.

    Our café is open Monday to Friday 9am to 3pm, and by appointment at other times.

    Enjoy delicious offerings in a seaside setting.

    Contact details

    p.+358503294547

    sales.elba@villaelba.fi

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    Café Tankar attends the people visiting the island of Tankar. We serve coffee, tea, sweat and salty pastries, soft drinks, bear, wine, ice cream, creamy salmon soup for lunch and daily chancing dinner. Island of Tankar in located on the sea, about 17 kms outside the city of Kokkola. You can reach the island by m/s Jenny or by own boat.

    Contact details

    p.+358415453432

    tankarinkahvila@gmail.com

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    Kahvila Saha is located in Ykspihlaja, Kokkola, in the old Saha shore area. It is a cultural gem of the legendary port district, where music and theater play a significant role.

    In the courtyard of the café, there is an event tent, a summer theater, a public sauna, and Matkustajakoti Ykspihlaja, a former port office that was moved in its entirety from the harbor.

    Kahvila Saha is part of the Ykspihlaja heritage quarter, and the Ykspihlaja Cultural Week in July revolves around it. The events at Kahvila Saha can be found on Kahvila Saha’s Facebook page.

    Contact details

    p.0407022604

    airolaouti@gmail.com

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    Summer restaurant Mustakari is located by the sea, approximately three kilometres from the market square. The summer restaurant Mustakari is known for its food, which is organic and locally produced. In addition, its maritime location creates a wonderful setting for meetings and experiences.
    On the Mustakari terrace, you will enjoy your stay until late in the evening, experience the best moments of summer and see the most beautiful sunsets. Mustakari is open from the beginning of May until the end of August.

    Contact details

    p.+358207808940

    sales.kokkola@sokoshotels.fi

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    Kokkola Camping Meripuisto is a year-around holiday village and camping site situated in the vicinity of the city-centre, the distance to the city-centre is about 2.5 kilometres. By walking along the shore of the city-strait you can reach the city-centre in under 30 minutes.

    The holiday village is a part of the Sea-park entity, which on a whole creates provides an awesome framework for an unforgettable holiday.

    You are most welcome to visit Kokkola and we hope to see you as our guest during your visit.

    Contact details

    p.+358 44 778 0792

    kokkola@suomicamping.fi

Lodging

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    The Fest and Meeting Center Amor offers accommodation in peaceful cabins right by the sea. Four idyllic rooms are located next to the main building. You can choose our 4-person room Fregatti, which includes a double bed and a bunk bed, as well as a refrigerator, coffee maker, kettle, capsule machine, microwave, and a toilet. In addition, accommodation is available in three 2-person rooms with 120cm wide beds. Two of these have their own toilet.

    Experience something more by relaxing in the beach sauna and hot tub upon request. The main building also hosts various events and dining opportunities.

    Contact details

    p.+358400564226

    juhlakeskusamor@gmail.com

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    Karikämppä offer a unique environment in the outer archipelago, as close to the sea as possible by car. The cottage is centrally located on Ohtakari Island, surrounded by several fisherman’s cottages, at the tip of Vattajanniemi. The island features a historical old fishing village. A few steps away from the cottage is the Ohtakari Fishing Museum, where you can explore the island’s history, as well as Pooki, from whose upper platform you can enjoy stunning views of the sea. In Ohtakari, the sea is close on every side.

    Contact details

    p.0449728210

    juhani.nissila@hotmail.fi

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    Karitupa offers a unique environment in the outer archipelago, as close to the sea as possible by car. The cottage is centrally located on Ohtakari Island, surrounded by several fisherman’s cottages, at the tip of Vattajanniemi. The island features a historical old fishing village. A few steps away from the cottage is the Ohtakari Fishing Museum, where you can explore the island’s history, as well as Pooki, from whose upper platform you can enjoy stunning views of the sea. In Ohtakari, the sea is close on every side.

    Contact details

    p.0449728210

    juhani.nissila@hotmail.fi

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    Holiday homes with sauna up to 6 people and holiday cottages for 4 or 6 people. All cottages have bedrooms and a kitchen/living room, tv and toilet with shower. The kitchen is equipped with a basic set of dishes, a coffee maker, an electric kettle, a toaster, a microwave oven, a stove, an oven and a fridge with a small freezer. Holiday homes have also dishwasher. All the cottages has own terrace heading to the Meripuisto park area.

    In the camping you can relax summer time by playing minigolf or enjoying warm or cold drinks at the restaurant.

    The holiday village is a part of the Sea-park entity, which on a whole creates provides an awesome framework for an unforgettable holiday. In Meripuisto area you can find a big sandy beach if you feel like a dip in the sea. Meripuisto also features beach volleyball courts, a skate park, a disc golf course, an outdoor gym and an padel court. Children will have fun in the Meripuisto playground, which is built around a great ship with climbing tracks and even has a small planetarium.

    Contact details

    p.+358447780792

    kokkola@suomicamping.fi

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    Camping cottages are available in summertime. There are all together a total of 9 basic camping cottages:

    2 cottages which are suitable for 2 persons
    7 cottages which are suitable for 4 persons

    The cottages for 2 persons are all equipped with the following: 2 beds, a table, a refrigerator and a radio.

    The cottages for 4 persons are all equipped with the following: 1 bunk bed, 1 couch which can be brooded , out-spread. The cottages are also equipped with a table, a set of chairs, a refrigerator and a radio.

    Furthermore the cottages are also equipped with electric heating.
    Toilets, showers and kitchen facilities are located in the maintenance building near by.

    Contact details

    p.+358447780792

    kokkola@suomicamping.fi

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    There are totally 70 supply-points for electricity within the caravan-area. The supply-points are situated on a grass-, gravel- or asphalt base.

    Toilets, showers and kitchen facilities are located in the maintenance building in the middle of the caravan area. Caravan area is open year round, outside summer season pre-reservation is needed, also high season it’s recommended.

    The holiday village is a part of the Sea-park entity, which on a whole creates provides an awesome framework for an unforgettable holiday. In Meripuisto area you can find a big sandy beach if you feel like a dip in the sea. Meripuisto also features beach volleyball courts, a skate park, a disc golf course, an outdoor gym and an padel court. Children will have fun in the Meripuisto playground, which is built around a great ship with climbing tracks and even has a small planetarium.

    Contact details

    p.+358447780792

    kokkola@suomicamping.fi

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    Guesthouse Ykspihlaja is located in an old port office building in the historic working-class district (also) called Ykspihlaja. The unique, personal and peaceful environment nourishes the traveler’s body and soul. A warm welcome to Ykspihlaja!

    Contact details

    p.+358 40 833 4865

    myynti@ykspihlaja.fi

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    Meriaitat offers accommodation inside the National Urban Park in Kokkola. More closer to the sea is hard to get. High-quality furnished cottages are suitable for vacations but also for business trips. Kokkolan Meriaitat locates just beside the Meripuisto area and near the services.

    Contact details

    p.+3585055738840

    info@meriaitat.fi

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    The hostel is located at the pilot station and has eight double rooms (single from 78€/ night, double from 98€/ night). Shared showers, toilet, kitchen and living room. A sauna at the guests’ disposal.

    The tower room at the pilot station can also be rented for accommodation (from 148€/night) or as a meeting room. Tankar Inn is part of the Hostelling International network. Bedsheets and towels can be found in the rooms. The accommodation room offers the possibility of an extra mattress for a child (under 15 years) at an additional cost of €15 per night. We welcome dogs. Breakfast at Café Tankar for an additional fee.

    The well-equipped modern kitchen and the large living room area can be converted into a cosy meeting venue. Please contact us if you would like to book the entire hostel for your own use. Tankar Inn has a total of 10 double rooms, accommodating up to 20 guests. Additional sleeping spaces can be arranged with extra mattresses.

    Contact details

    p.+358408065075

    tourism@visitkokkola.fi

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    Cosy old fisherman´s hut at the harbour. The guest cabin has a kitchenette (fridge, hotplate, microwave oven, coffee maker) and a room with four 110 cm beds in bunk beds. Sheets and towels can be rented. Price from 100€/ night.

    There is an outhouse in a building nearby. A private slot in our wood-burning sauna and breakfast at Café Tankar are available for an additional fee. We welcome pets!

    Contact details

    p.+358408065075

    tourism@visitkokkola.fi

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    Old Villa is a lovely old historic villa, suitable for groups of 25-30 people. It is a popular meeting and family cathering venue. Location on the beach enables a smooth transition to the pier sauna and the beach. Old Villa is often booked together with Pier Sauna, which is in use during summer season.

    There is accommodation for 12 people in Old Villa, divided into four bedrooms. Old Villa has a kitchen and a toilet, but no shower due to it’s historical architecture.

    Come and enjoy a refreshing meeting or event in a soothing sea climate. We are also happy to take care of catering, to ensure you an easy stay in Villa Elba.

    Contact details

    p.+358503294547

    sales.elba@villaelba.fi

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    Traditional style accommodation in six cottages with individual interior design in a relaxed and natural environment. The cottages are equipped with modern amenities: Tv, wireless internet, toilet and shower. There are bunk beds for eight people, a lounge and a kitchenette.

    Contact details

    p.+358503294547

    sales.elba@villaelba.fi

Activities

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    Mustakari’s sauna is located in the best spot in town. Enjoy the heat and admire the sunset surrounded by a magnificent maritime landscape. Our sauna has the best views in Kokkola!

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    Villa Elba is located by the sea and forest, only about 4 km from the center of Kokkola. We offer versatile facilities for organizing meetings, events, and celebrations with over 30 years of experience. Everything you need, from venues and catering to accommodation and programs, can be easily arranged in one place.

    Facilities and Services:
    The Elba Hall in the main building is a perfect choice for large groups. The space accommodates up to 150 people and is ideal for meetings, parties, and other events. There is also room for a band or other performances.

    The charming Old Villa is a cozy space for about 30 people, suitable for smaller meetings and celebrations. In summer, the Villa’s terrace and yard area allow for events with up to 50-60 people. The covered terrace has direct access to the dock, the beach, and the popular piersauna, which is available for rent from May to October.

    The new extension of Villa Elba’s main building, Aava, Usva, and Laine, offers stylish and flexible spaces for around 70 people with sea views. The spaces can be divided with partitions, allowing them to be used individually or as a large unified space. By combining the space with the dining hall, the capacity increases to up to 120 people, and in summer, there is the option to use the terrace with a view of the sea.

    Elba´s Pearl, located on the sandy beach, offers unique facilities for groups of about 20 people. The Helmi features a spacious sauna area, a meeting space with a kitchenette, and stunning sea views.

    The Lappish Hut in the nearby forest is perfect for more relaxed meetings or celebrations. The Lappish Hut can accommodate about 20 people. The fireplace in the middle of the Hut adds warmth and coziness to events.

    The Beach cottage, located by the sea, is ideal for relaxed meetings and celebrations for 15-20 people. The space has a fireplace, and the location by the beach allows for the use of the sandy shore for various programs or activities, making your event unique.

    We offer accommodation in cozy 8-person cabins, the Old Villa, and Lassela. We can accommodate about 72 people year-round.

    We also arrange various programs for recreation days, and you can rent mountain bikes, SUP boards, canoes, snowshoes, and kick sledges for self-guided excursions. On weekdays, lunch and café products are available for visitors.

    Northern lights photograph from Elba: photographer Hannu Moilanen

  • Guided sea trout fishing trips to the archipelago of Kokkola and much more. Andreas Forsberg is a sports fisherman in the third generation. He started fishing as a young boy, and his love for the sport has only grown over the years. Get in touch and discover an unforgettable adventure. We also offer boat transportation to the archipelago and guided island tours.

    1. Guided sea trout fishing tour by boat, max. 3 people:

    • Half day: 550€ (4 hours including equipment)
    • Full day: 750€ (8 hours including equipment and meals)
    • Spring season: May to early June
    • Fall season: Mid-August to end of October

    2. Boat transportation to the archipelago, Charter for max. 6 people:

    • Initial fee: 280€ including 2 hours
    • Additional hours: +80€ per hour

    Guided island tour to Krunni for max. 6 people:

    • Half day: 450€ (duration 4 hours including island presentation, history, campfire coffee, and snacks)

     

    Prices include 10% VAT.

    Reservations and inquiries:

    Email: forsbergfishingadventures@gmail.com
    Tel. 044 3499 075

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    12-track miniGolf next to the café-restaurant

    Contact details

    p.+358 44 778 0792

    kokkola@suomicamping.fi

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    Meripuisto offers something for the whole family. There is a big sandy beach if you feel like a dip in the sea. Meripuisto also features beach volleyball courts, a skate park, a disc golf course, an outdoor gym and an padel court. Children will have fun in the Meripuisto playground, which is built around a great ship with climbing tracks and even has a small planetarium. More activities are offered by the adjacent Kokkola Camping, where you can play a round of minigolf, for example. Distance from the centrum 2,5 km.

    Contact details

    p.0408065075

    tourism@visitkokkola.fi

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    The most famous landmark in Elba is the old pier sauna. This wood heated sauna is in use during summer season. This unique sauna experience is often booked together with Old Villa, which is a popular venue for parties. It fits about 6-10 people in the sauna.

    Contact details

    p.+358503294547

    sales.elba@villaelba.fi

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    Experience Finland’s largest sandy beaches – endless stretches of sand and sea views at Vattaja in Lohtaja, Kokkola. A road lined with beaches leads through the stunning dune area to the fishing village of Ohtakari.

    The Vattaja dune area is one of the longest sandy beaches in the Nordic countries, stretching over 15 kilometers. These beaches are the widest in Finland, and the natural state offers something new to see each time. The seemingly endless sandy beach provides excellent opportunities for sunbathers, hikers, nature photographers, and bird watchers.

    Ohtakari, an island and fishing village accessible via a road flanked by the sea on both sides. Ohtakari is a significant base for fishermen, and visitors can explore the region’s fishing history at the Ohtakari Fishing Museum. The island features an observation tower offering breathtaking views of the sea and the Vattaja dunes. On the island of Ohtakari you can find around 50 holiday cottages, a nature trail, a barbecue shelter, a guest marina, and a summer café. There are also rental spots for motorhomes and caravans.

    The Vattaja area is partially used as a training ground by the Finnish Defense Forces, which may occasionally restrict access. However, the area is open year-round, but the best time to visit it is summer.

    Contact details

    p.0408065075

    tourism@visitkokkola.fi

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    We will meet at the harbour in Bodö, Öja were salty water and archipelago nature are its best.
    After short introduction we go for a hike in the footsteps of the local archipelago smugglers in early 1900s. We walk the same paths as the old smugglers and visit their hidden places in the terrain. You need good shoes and comfortable clothes for all weather types at this trip, we will hike for about 2km and it will take us about 2h. During the trip we also have the opportunity to inspect some of the smuggled weapons and get a taste of the backpack food in early 1900s.
    We end our hiking trip at the boathouse at Café Bryggan were we enjoy an typically Finnish Lunch that includes the traditional and delicious fish soup from Öja, our homemade bread and tasty dessert. Non-alcoholic drinks and coffee/tee also included.
    The menu is made by fresh local ingredients. Served buffet style.

    Contact details

    p.+358503377522

    linda.naast@gmail.com

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    Learn the basics of SUP paddling with a guide. A safe way to try a new activity.

    Contact details

    p.+358503377522

    linda.naast@gmail.com

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    Stilte offers a variety of outdoor equipment for rent, such as canoes, SUP boards, walking poles and snowshoes. The rental equipment depot is located on the shores of beautiful Lake Öjanjärvi in ​​Kokkola, and operates on a self-service basis at a time that suits you best.

    Contact details

    p.+358404133252

    info@stilte.fi

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    A Culinary Journey Along the Coast of Stories

    Feel the salty caress of the sea breeze on your skin and enjoy coastal views on a guided tour along the Seven Bridges Archipelago Route.

    This group excursion includes a guided cycling tour of approximately 38 km at a relaxed pace, from Mannerheim Square in Kokkola to Öja and back. Along the way, we’ll enjoy a light brunch by the Old Harbour Bay at Restaurant Humo, have lunch at Hickarö Resort by the lake Öjanjärvi, and finish with dessert at the atmospheric Café Bryggan in the Öja fishing village.

    During the journey, your guide will share stories about the history of our city and the secrets hidden in our waters.

    The total cycling distance is approximately 38 km, with some mostly gentle hills along the way. On the outward journey, there will be stops for storytelling and meals, while the return trip includes drink breaks as needed.

    Please note: Participants must bring their own bicycles and legally required safety gear. Bikes can also be rented at Pyöräliike Lybäck, located at the starting point of the tour. The tour price does not include bike rental.

    The tour is open to everyone. You may also inquire about private tours directly from the organizer. The tour will take place with a minimum of four participants.

    Contact details

    p.+358404133252

    info@stilte.fi

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    As the warmth of a summer day begins to fade, we glide onto the waters just as the sun starts its slow descent toward the horizon — yet never truly sets. This is the magic of the midnight sun, and you’re invited to experience it in the gentle embrace of Lake Öjanjärvi.

    Four hours stretch into timelessness as the water reflects molten gold and the sky blooms with soft shades of pink. Carried in the arms of the summer night, a landscape unfolds before you where time seems to pause, and the lake speaks its quiet, ancient language.

    During the journey, we’ll land for a peaceful break, enjoying a small snack and a cup of freshly brewed coffee from a local roastery.

    The tour price includes everything you need: high-quality paddling equipment, guiding, and a sandwich. Just bring yourself — alone, with a friend, or with a loved one — and let the summer night carry you.

    Time: 20:00–24:00 (we’ll be on the water around 20:30)
    Place: Lake Öjanjärvi, Kokkola
    Group size: 3–14 people
    The trip will take place once the minimum number of participants is met.

    Come and feel what it’s like when the sun refuses to set — and the lake tells you a story that never ends.

    Contact details

    p.+358404133252

    info@stilte.fi

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    Guided Canoe Trip to Laajalahti

    This guided canoeing trip takes your group across the beautiful Öjanjärvi Lake in open canoes to the wide sandy shores of Laajalahti, where you’ll enjoy traditional Finnish campfire coffee by a local roastery served with scenic lake views.

    The trip, including a coffee break, covers equipment rental and a guide, and lasts approximately two to three hours depending on your group’s paddling experience and the weather conditions.

    If you wish, additional activities can also be arranged at Laajalahti for your group before paddling back to Hickarö Resort.

    Before departure, you’ll receive a safety briefing and a short practical introduction to canoeing. Depending on group size, there will be two to three paddlers per three-person canoe.

    If you can’t find a suitable time in our calendar, feel free to contact us at info@stilte.fi or +358 404 133 252 to check availability for your preferred date.

    Contact details

    p.+358404133252

    info@stilte.fi

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    Get your full experience of Tankar lighthouse island with guided adventures. Night-time photoshooting (Auroras, Milkyway and the lights of Tankar lighthouse) and coastal fishing for seatrout and other species.

    Andreas invites you for an unforgettable maritime experience to Tankar Lighthouse Island, with professional guides whom has passion for outdoor activities such as coastal fishing, night-time photography and knows the stories of the archipelago.

    All though the days are filled with incredible activities (listed below) you still have time to enjoy the peace and the serenity of natures four elements. The duration of the trip is recommended to be at least 3days (2nights) for the full experience.

    Designed for groups
    • Transportation to Tankar on the M/S Jenny ferry
    • Available in late summer and autumn
    • Overnight accomodation on the island
    • Focuses more on the nature of the archipelago and includes multiple activities
    • Can also be customized, e.g., with photography, fishing, or meeting services
    • Activities that can be included in the package:
    o Photography course (nature photography, shooting the night sky or northern lights)
    o Coastal fishing from shore and boat
    o Night floating in dry suits
    o Wilderness open fire cooking (pancake making, coffee, cooking)
    o Exploring the island’s history and the lighthouse
    o Meeting services
    o Archipelago-style dinner

    Contact details

    p.+358443499075

    forsbergfishingadventures@gmail.com