Did you know that some of the world’s most stunning beaches are located north of the arctic circle? You do now. Here are 8 of my favorite arctic beaches, all located in Nordland county in northern Norway.
8 Arctic Beaches In Norway
1. Langsanden Beach, Gildeskål
On the west coast of Sandhornøya island in Gildeskål municipality lies one of the most stunning beaches on this planet, Langsanden beach. “Langsanden” literally means “the long sand” in Norwegian, and the beach truly lives up to its name. It is 2 kilometers long, and surrounded by spectacular mountains and an incredible view of the fjord. Although Langsanden is a popular choice among locals and people from Bodø, it never feels crowded due to its size. Langsanden has restroom facilities on site, which makes it a great place to put up a tent for the night as well.
2. Mjelle, Bodø
Mjelle beach in Bodø is undoubtedly the local’s favorite – and with good reason. In fact, this beach is so stunning that several songs have been written about it. One of the reasons Mjelle is so unique is that part of the sand is often red due to gemstone particles. The short hike from the parking lot is easy, and you can visit Mjelle all year round.
Related: A local’s guide to Bodø, Norway
3. Unstad, Lofoten
Of all the stunning beaches in Norway, many of them are located in the Lofoten Islands. My ultimate favorite is Unstad beach. Here you can go for a swim or relax with a good book while you take in the beautiful nature surrounding you. Unstad beach is also great for those who crave more adrenaline, as the conditions are perfect for surfing, kiting, or snorkeling.
Related: A complete guide to Lofoten
4. Tranøy, Hamarøy
The charming peninsula Tranøy, in Hamarøy municipality, is home to many stunning beaches. One of them is the lovely little beach in the photo below. Here you can go for a swim in the arctic fjord before checking out the outdoor art exhibit close by. Later, you should grab a bite to eat at Svolværing boat restaurant (their whale steak is amazing) and visit Tranøy Lighthouse.
Related: 10 reasons why you must visit Hamarøy on your Norway trip
5. Bøsanden, Steigen
Bøsanden beach is a an absolutely breathtaking one located on Engeløya Island in Steigen municipality. Here you’ll see stunning nature everywhere you turn, and the mountains around you are great hiking destinations. Go for a swim in Vestfjorden («the west fjord») while enjoying the view of the Lofoten wall, play volleyball, or take a relaxing nap.
6. Strandå, Kjerringøy
Kjerringøy peninsula, a little north of the city of Bodø, is known for its well kept buildings from the 1800s and its beautiful nature – which includes many lovely beaches. One of the best is Strandå beach. Here lies several tradtiio al red boathouses (not pictured) and you’ll have a wonderful view of the mountains in Steigen across the fjord. Highly recommended.
Related: Why you must visit Kjerringøy, Norway
7. Hovdsundet, Bodø
Its impossible to make a list of beautiful beaches in Norway without mentioning Hovdsundet beach, a secluded double beach north of Bodø. Hovdsundet beach went from being a hidden gem to becoming the most instagrammable place in Bodø a few years ago, so you’ll rarely get this one for yourself. The hike to Hovdsundet can take a couple of hours in total, and you’ll have stunning views the entire time. You might even get to see a sea eagle or two on your way, too!
Related: How to hike to Hovdsundet Beach in Bodø
8. Auvika, Bodø
On the way to Hovdsundet beach (mentioned above) you’ll pass another beautiful beach called Auvika beach. The hike here is a lot shorter and easier, and is potentially a better choice for those traveling with young children. From Auvika beach you’ll have a wonderful view of Landegode island, and its a great place to camp outside in the midnight sun during summer.
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Hi, I’m Tina! The chubby fingers behind this travel blog are attached to my body, so I guess that makes me a travel blogger? I enjoy exploring the corners of the world as often as I can, including my own ‘backyard’ in arctic Norway. And I hope you’ll join me on my adventures.
I would have never thought of beautiful beaches in Norway, but these are gorgeous. It would be fun to do some cold water swimming at some of them.
I would have never thought to relate beautiful beaches and Norway togethre. They are stunning though.
Oh wow! These are gorgeous. Definitely adding these too the bucket list.
These are all beeeautiful! Especially Hovdsundet beach!
I love the shape of the mountains you can see from Tranøy, across the water. The gorgeous while sand surrounded by greenery reminds me of the lovely beaches in Connemara, Ireland.
Author
Right?? I had to look up Connemara, Ireland, it looks amazing!
Beautiful beaches! I did not think Norway had beaches – only fjords. All of them look so lovely, with the towering mountains in the background. I love Norway. 🙂
Author
The stunning beaches in Norway are the best way to access the fjords! They’re not located everywhere though, but a lot of them are up north in Nordland, Troms and Finnmark. Glad you enjoyed the post, thanks for reading 🙂