Pihlajasaari

Pihlajasaari – Helsinki’s ultimate summer oasis and a slice of raw Baltic paradise

If you have a free day on your hands and the sun is shining, there is really only one place you should head: Pihlajasaari. This former villa island is the local go-to summer paradise, offering the perfect escape from the downtown buzz—even though the boat ride from the mainland takes only about ten minutes. The moment you step off the ferry, the salty sea air, the soft sand, and the rugged granite rocks take over so naturally that the hustle of the city simply melts away.

The real magic of Pihlajasaari—or Pihlis, as the locals call it—lies in how much it packs into one place. The island’s northern shore features a long, powdery sandy beach dotted with iconic, brightly colored wooden changing cabins, custom-made for lazy sunbathing days and refreshing dips in the open sea. But if you are craving a bit of quiet solitude, just wander over to the other side of the island. There, you'll find massive, smooth granite cliffs where you can sit completely undisturbed, watch the massive cruise ships glide across the horizon, and just listen to the wind. The destination is actually made up of two islands connected by a charming wooden footbridge, so there is plenty of room to explore.

You don't need to worry about packing a massive picnic either, because the island’s spots are top-notch. Housed in a gorgeous 19th-century wooden villa, Restaurant Pihlajasaari serves up delicious, uncomplicated bistro food, and its sea-facing terrace is easily one of the best spots in Helsinki to enjoy a cold drink with a view. For those who want to do things their own way, the island is equipped with cozy cooking shelters for grilling, and you can even book a traditional beachside sauna to top off the day with a proper Finnish steam and a dip in the sea.

Getting here is incredibly easy and part of the whole experience. The JT-Line water buses run regularly throughout the summer season from two convenient spots: Merisatama (right next to Cafe Carusel) and Ruoholahti, which you can reach directly via the metro.

what recommends: To get the absolute most out of Pihlajasaari, catch an early morning ferry to claim your perfect spot on the sand or the rocks before the afternoon warmth kicks in. Pack your swimwear, plenty of sunscreen, a big towel, and a great book. Before you settle down, take a quick stroll along the island's nature trail through the shaded woods and historic villa gardens—it’s the perfect way to build up an appetite for a long, relaxed lunch on the restaurant's sunny terrace.