Summer in Finland is changing. Here’s how families are beating the heat with fun, free, and nature-filled escapes near the capital.
Summer in Finland often brings sunny, warm days, but lately, heat waves with temperatures soaring over 25°C have become more common. While this might sound perfect for a northern country, Finnish homes—traditionally designed to keep warmth in during long winters—aren’t built to resist heat well. As a result, many locals find the summer heat challenging, often preferring to spend their days outdoors or investing in air conditioning during these warm spells.
Fortunately, newer houses are being built with global warming in mind, factoring in better ventilation and cooling features. Meanwhile, Helsinki and surrounding cities are actively investing in public spaces where families, especially those with kids, can enjoy the summer comfortably. These outdoor spots not only provide relief from the heat but also promote Finland as an attractive summer destination. In fact, as intense heat waves hit much of Central Europe, Nordic countries—including Finland—are trending as cooler retreats for travelers seeking to escape scorching temperatures.
Importantly, for families who can’t afford to travel far, these accessible and free public spaces offer an equal chance to enjoy the city’s summer pleasures without breaking the bank — providing cool outdoor options for both locals and visitors.
Here 3 awesome places to go with kids near Helsinki.
🧸 1. Töölönlahti Park & Oodi Playground — In the Heart of Helsinki
📍 Right next to Helsinki Central Library Oodi
Töölönlahti is a dream stop for families exploring central Helsinki on foot. The new playground next to Oodi Library is modern, safe, and beautifully designed.
🌟 What you’ll find:
- Water fountains and splash zones
- Large sand play areas
- Toddler-safe sections
- Shady grassy spots for picnics or resting
- Nearby cafés, restrooms, and the library
☕ Pro tip: Grab a coffee from Café Oodi or Piku Finlandia while the kids play! Also, check out Hakuna Matata, where you can rent SUP boards and kayaks for extra fun.
🏖️ 2. Pirkkola Plotti Swimming Spot — Helsinki’s Hidden Gem
📍 About 30 minutes from the city center
A shallow beach in Pirkkola Sports Park, perfect for younger kids and totally free to enjoy.
🌟 Why parents love it:
- Fun slide for kids
- 90 cm shallow water — ideal for toddlers
- Lifeguards on duty daily (summer season)
- Playground, splash fountain, beach area
- Bring your own food for picnics
- Green spaces and picnic tables
- On-site kiosk (ice cream, meals, coffee; chicken and sausage meal ~12€)
- Nearby forest — hammock heaven!
🚲 Reachable by public transport, bike, or car.
👉 Read my full article here [coming soon]
🐦 3. Oittaa Beach & Angry Birds Park – Espoo
📍 By Lake Bodom – ~30 minutes from Helsinki
One of the most popular family beaches in the Helsinki region, Oittaa is a full-day summer destination.
🌟 What’s included:
- Free Angry Birds activity park next to the beach
- Long, sandy beach with shallow entry
- Grassy play areas
- Changing rooms, toilets, outsoor showers
- Café Oittaa
- Walking trails and forest for nature breaks
🧺 Tip: Bring towels, a picnic, and extra clothes — you’ll want to stay all day!
Q&A Section
Q: Is Finland warm enough for beach days with kids?
A: Yes! In recent years, like many places worldwide, Finland has seen more frequent heatwaves. July and August often bring 25–30°C days, and locals love heading to lakes and beaches. You’ll find great spots just a tram ride away from Helsinki city center.
Just note, that the water might feel cold for not Nordic People!
Q: Are these places stroller-friendly?
A: Absolutely. All three locations are accessible by stroller, and public transport in Helsinki is easy to use with kids.
Q: Do I need to pay for entry?
A: Nope! All these 3 places are free to visit, including playgrounds, splash areas, and beach access.
Q: Is there food available nearby?
A: Yes — cafés and kiosks are available at all three locations for snacks, drinks, and ice cream.
Fun fact: In 2018, it got so hot for the first time that some supermarkets opened their doors for people to cool down and avoid the heat! Sadly, this no longer happens.
✅ Save This for Summer!
Doesn’t matter if you live in Helsinki or you’re just here for a visit — these spots are perfect for hanging out with kids on a sunny day. They’re free, easy to get to, and full of space to play, splash, and relax.
🌞 My best advice? Be ready to spend a few hours — kids never want to leave! Bring snacks, lots of water, swimsuits, sunscreen, and if you want extra comfort, maybe even an umbrella, hammock, or a little tent.
👶 And just a friendly reminder: wherever you go, your kids are your responsibility — so keep an eye on them while they play, especially near water.
