Kosterhavet National Park
Welcome to Sweden’s first marine national park.
Sweden´s first marine national park
Experience all the typical species of the west coast, plus a large number of species that have their only known occurrence right here in the Koster Sea. The unique underwater word extends north of the border into Ytre Hvaler National Park in Norway and adjoining the Väderö Islands marine nature reserve in south.
Kosterhavet National Park
The national park lies off the coast in northern Bohuslän and is a valuable recreational resource - it is one of Sweden´s most visited tourist destinations.
Visitor centre
You can reach the main entrance to the national park, on South Koster, by one of the Västtrafik ferries from Strömstad. The trip takes about 45 minutes. Free entrance.
Activities
This area, Kosterhavet, is also a valuable recreational resource - it is one of Sweden´s most visited tourist destinations. It is attractive for hiking, paddling, diving, swimming and other nature experiences both on and by the islands, along the mainland and on the outlying seacoast.
Certified activities in Kosterhavet
See certified activities that aim to offer better experiences and sustainable future. Here you also will find restaurants certified by Västsvenska Mersmak.
Family Fun
Strömstad and the nationalpark offer lots of fun activities for children of all ages. Fish for crabs, cycle on the Koster Islands, go on a seal safari, or visit popular attractions such as naturum Kosterhavet and the Tjärnö Aquarium, where you can learn more about life beneath the surface.
Maritime fun in the national parks
Are you thinking of taking the family to the archipelago paradise on the border and wondering what you can do there? Here are some tips for a three-day experience in Kosterhavet and Ytre Hvaler national parks.
Kayak rental
Here you find a list of companies that offer guided kayak trips and courses, and rentals in Strömstad and Tanum.
Boating in Kosterhavet
As a traveller at sea, you can contribute to preserving the Parks’ valuable nature for the future! Download the folder Cast off on nature´s terms - a guide with lots of useful information for anyone visiting the Park.
Cycling on South Koster
Discover a fantastic part of the Bohuslän archipelago on two wheels. You’ll see small fishing villages surrounded by an amazingly beautiful landscape in Kosterhavet sea.
Good to know before your visit
Koster Islands
If you are in the town of Strömstad you should take the boat out to the Koster islands. On South Koster island there is a small network of bicycle-friendly paths that are mostly car-free and run alongside walking paths.
Maps and brochures
Want to download a map or brochure of the Valley? You'll find them here!