This Strömstad travel guide covers the best things to do in one of Sweden’s most appealing coastal towns. Located in northern Bohuslän, close to the Norwegian border, Strömstad combines a lively harbour, granite islands, seafood restaurants, excellent shopping and easy access to Kosterhavet National Park. Whether you are planning a weekend by the sea, a summer island trip or a longer west coast holiday, this guide will help you make the most of visiting Strömstad.
Why visit Strömstad?
Strömstad is a compact seaside town with a distinctly maritime character. Fishing boats, passenger ferries and pleasure craft fill the harbour, while the surrounding landscape is shaped by smooth granite rocks, saltwater coves and open sea. The town is small enough to explore on foot, but it also works well as a base for discovering the wider Bohuslän coast.
One of the biggest attractions is the combination of town and nature. You can spend the morning browsing shops and eating fresh seafood, then take a boat to the Koster Islands for swimming, hiking or kayaking. Strömstad is also a popular stop for visitors from Norway, partly because of its border location and extensive shopping opportunities.
Summer is the busiest season, with warm days, busy terraces and frequent boat services. Spring and early autumn are quieter and often ideal for walking, photography and relaxed meals. Winter has a slower pace, although fewer attractions, restaurants and boat routes operate outside the main season.
Best things to do in Strömstad
Explore the harbour and town centre
Begin your visit around Strömstad’s harbour, where the town’s history and modern holiday atmosphere meet. The waterfront is lined with boats, restaurants and places to sit and watch the activity. From here, it is easy to continue into the centre, with its local shops, cafés and small streets.
Strömstad has a long maritime history, and the harbour remains central to local life. Look for fishing vessels and passenger boats heading towards the islands. In summer, the waterfront becomes especially lively, but it is also pleasant in the quieter months when you can enjoy the views without the crowds.
Visit Strömstad Museum
Strömstad Museum is a useful stop for understanding the town and the surrounding region. Exhibitions cover local history, maritime life, coastal culture and the development of Strömstad as a spa and seaside destination. It is a good option on a rainy day or when you want more context before exploring the coast.
Opening times and exhibitions can change, so check the museum’s current information before planning your visit. Allow extra time if you enjoy local history, since the displays provide a broader perspective on Bohuslän beyond its beaches and holiday resorts.
See the town from the water
Boat travel is one of the best ways to experience Strömstad. Regular services connect the town with several islands, while sightseeing cruises and private boat trips may also be available during the warmer months. The journey itself is part of the experience, with views of skerries, fishing villages and the open waters of the Skagerrak.
If you are planning to visit the Koster Islands, check departure times carefully. Services vary by season, and popular departures can become busy during July and August. Arriving early is sensible, especially if you are travelling with bicycles, outdoor equipment or children.
Discover the Koster Islands
The Koster Islands are the highlight of many Strömstad trips. They are located in the Kosterhavet National Park, Sweden’s first marine national park, which protects an important marine environment and a distinctive archipelago landscape. The islands are known for their clear water, rocky shores, walking trails and peaceful villages.
South Koster
South Koster is generally the easiest island to explore on a day trip. It has several small settlements, places to eat, swimming spots and paths through coastal scenery. Renting a bicycle can be a practical way to cover more ground, although walking is a better choice if you want to take your time and stop frequently for photographs.
Pack a swimsuit, water, sunscreen and comfortable shoes. Many attractive swimming places are reached by foot rather than directly from the main landing points. The rocks can be uneven, and some paths are exposed to the sun, so preparation makes a noticeable difference.
North Koster
North Koster offers a wilder and quieter experience, with open coastal views and a strong sense of remoteness. It is well suited to visitors who prefer hiking and nature to busy beaches. The terrain is varied, with rocky ground, low vegetation and sections where the wind can be strong even on a warm day.
Before choosing your route, check the boat connections between the islands and back to Strömstad. It is important to leave enough time for the return journey, particularly outside the high season when services may be less frequent.
Kosterhavet National Park
Kosterhavet is home to rich marine life, including species that are uncommon elsewhere in Swedish waters. The national park is best appreciated through responsible activities such as hiking, kayaking, swimming and guided boat tours. If you snorkel or dive, follow local rules and avoid disturbing marine habitats.
The park’s visitor information can help you choose trails, learn about the protected environment and understand where different activities are permitted. Take all rubbish with you, keep dogs under control and avoid removing shells, plants or stones from protected areas.
Beaches and swimming spots around Strömstad
There are many places to swim in and around Strömstad, from small rocky coves to more traditional sandy beaches. Local swimming spots often have a simple, natural character rather than extensive facilities. This is part of the appeal, but it also means you should bring drinking water, a towel and anything else you need for the day.
On the islands, smooth rocks are popular for sunbathing and swimming. Sea temperatures can be refreshing even in summer, while sheltered bays may feel warmer on calm days. Always take care near the water, as rocks can be slippery and conditions can change quickly.
For families, look for beaches or bathing areas with easy access and calm water. If you are travelling without a car, ask at your accommodation or the local tourist information office about the most convenient swimming places reachable by bus, bicycle or boat.
Outdoor activities in Strömstad
Hiking
Hiking is one of the simplest ways to enjoy the Bohuslän landscape. Trails around Strömstad and the Koster Islands pass through pine woodland, coastal meadows, rocky headlands and small settlements. Some routes are short and gentle, while others require more time and sturdy footwear.
There is limited shade on exposed sections of the coast. Bring water and check the weather forecast before setting out. A light jacket is useful even in summer because coastal wind can make the temperature feel cooler than expected.
Kayaking
Kayaking allows you to experience the archipelago at a slower pace. The sheltered waters between islands can be suitable for beginners when conditions are calm, and guided tours are available from local operators during the main season. More experienced paddlers can explore further, but should pay close attention to wind, currents and boat traffic.
If you rent a kayak, ask about recommended routes, safety equipment and areas with restrictions. Weather on the west coast can change quickly, so do not plan a demanding route unless you are confident in your abilities.
Fishing and boating
Fishing is closely connected to Strömstad’s coastal identity. Depending on local regulations and the season, visitors may be able to join a fishing trip or arrange a private boat excursion. Guided tours are the safest option if you are unfamiliar with the waters and want to learn about local species and fishing traditions.
Food and restaurants in Strömstad
Seafood should be high on your list when visiting Strömstad. Menus often feature prawns, mussels, crab, fish and other seasonal ingredients from the west coast. You will find everything from casual harbour meals to more polished restaurants focused on local produce.
For a relaxed lunch, look for a café or casual restaurant near the waterfront. An evening meal with a view of the harbour is a popular choice in summer, so booking ahead is wise if you have a specific restaurant in mind. Outside the high season, check opening days because some businesses reduce their hours.
Local shops and food markets can also be useful for preparing a picnic. Buying bread, fruit, cheese and seafood gives you the option of eating beside the water or on one of the islands. Follow local guidance when taking food into protected natural areas and always clean up afterwards.
Shopping and Strömstad tourism
Shopping is an important part of Strömstad tourism, particularly for visitors from Norway. The town centre has independent shops, cafés and everyday services, while the Nordby shopping area, north of Strömstad near the Norwegian border, is one of the largest shopping destinations in the region.
Nordby is easiest to reach by car, although bus connections may also be available. It is separate from the historic centre and the harbour, so plan your transport if you want to combine shopping with sightseeing. Prices, opening hours and product availability can change, and travellers should remember that customs rules may apply when crossing borders with goods.
If shopping is not your main interest, you can still enjoy Strömstad without visiting Nordby. The town centre offers a more local atmosphere, while the archipelago and coastal trails provide the experiences that make the area distinctive.
Where to stay in Strömstad
Strömstad offers accommodation for different budgets and travel styles. Hotels in or near the centre are convenient if you want to walk to the harbour, restaurants and boat departures. Guesthouses and bed and breakfasts can provide a quieter, more personal stay, while holiday cottages are useful for families and longer visits.
Camping is popular during the warmer months, with options in the wider Strömstad area. Some sites offer cabins as well as pitches, making them suitable for visitors who want outdoor surroundings without bringing a tent. Book early for July and weekends, since accommodation can fill quickly.
When choosing where to stay, think about your planned activities. A central location is practical for boat trips and evening meals. A property outside town may offer more space and access to nature, but you may need a car or bicycle for local transport.
How to get to Strömstad
By train and bus
Strömstad is connected to other parts of Sweden by rail and bus services. The train from Gothenburg is a popular option, although journey times and connections can vary. Check the latest timetable before travelling, especially if you are arriving in the evening or connecting with a boat to the islands.
By car
Driving gives you flexibility to explore beaches, shopping areas and coastal villages outside the town centre. From Gothenburg, the journey follows the west coast northwards. From Norway, Strömstad is a convenient destination south of the border and is often reached by road for day trips or weekends.
Parking can become limited in central areas during summer. If your accommodation does not include parking, ask about local car parks and restrictions before arrival. Do not leave valuables visible in the car, particularly at busy beach and trailhead parking areas.
By ferry
Ferry services connect Strömstad with Norway, including routes to Sandefjord. These crossings can be useful for travellers combining Sweden and Norway in one trip. Timetables, fares and vehicle requirements vary, so book directly with the operator and allow extra time for check-in.
A suggested weekend itinerary
Day one: town and harbour
Arrive in Strömstad and settle into your accommodation. Spend the afternoon walking around the harbour and centre, then visit the local museum if it is open. Enjoy a seafood dinner by the waterfront and take an evening stroll along the shore.
Day two: Koster Islands
Take an early boat to the Koster Islands. Spend the day hiking, swimming and exploring the villages and coastal paths. Bring a picnic or plan a meal on the island, while checking the return timetable well in advance. Back in Strömstad, have a relaxed dinner or enjoy a quiet evening at your accommodation.
Day three: nature or shopping
Use your final day for a coastal walk, a kayaking trip or a visit to Nordby. If the weather is unsettled, focus on the museum, cafés and shops in the centre. Those with a later departure can enjoy one more swim or lunch by the harbour.
Practical tips for visiting Strömstad
- Book accommodation and popular boat trips early for July and August.
- Check island ferry timetables before leaving, and allow time for the return journey.
- Bring a windproof layer, even if the forecast is warm.
- Wear shoes suitable for uneven rocks and coastal paths.
- Carry water and snacks when hiking or spending the day on an island.
- Use local buses, trains or bicycles when possible, since central parking can be busy.
- Respect national park rules and take all rubbish with you.
- Confirm restaurant and museum opening hours outside the summer season.
- Keep an eye on weather conditions before kayaking or taking a small boat out.
Strömstad is at its best when you allow time to move between town and sea. Explore the harbour, taste local seafood, then head into the archipelago for a different view of the coast. With the Koster Islands, Kosterhavet National Park and the wider Bohuslän landscape close by, Strömstad makes an excellent base for a flexible Swedish west coast holiday.