Kosteröarna – complete guide for active holidaymakers
The Koster Islands, located in Bohuslän's outermost archipelago, are a destination for those who love beautiful nature, active experiences and relaxation in a unique archipelago environmentConsisting of South Coast and North Coast, these car-free islands offer a combination of pristine beaches, rocky coastlines, lush forests and proximity to the sea – perfect for hiking, cycling, kayaking and nature experiences all year round.
Whether you want to explore Kosterhavet National Park, enjoy local seafood or cycle between charming fishing villages, there is something for everyone. This guide will help you plan your trip, find the best accommodation and discover activities and excursions on and around the Koster Islands.
Contents of this page
How to get to the Koster Islands
Traveling to the Koster Islands requires a bit of planning as the islands are car-free, but there are convenient transport options from the mainland.
Car and parking
If you are traveling by car, Strömstad is your starting point. Here you can park at North Harbour, Cod Island or South Harbor, where there is both long-term and short-term parking. During peak season, parking can be a challenge, so it is wise to arrive early or choose alternative transportation.
Bus connections to Strömstad
Västtrafik runs regular buses from Gothenburg, Uddevalla and other parts of Bohuslän to Strömstad. This is a good option if you want to travel sustainably and avoid parking worries. There are also long-distance buses that operate along the west coast. Read more about Bus4you and Flixbus here. If you want to see a comparison between these companies, you can read our comparative article about them here
Boat transport from Strömstad to the Koster Islands
The boat trip to the Koster Islands is part of the experience! From Strömstad harbour departs The Koster boats year-round and stop at several piers on both Sydkoster and Nordkoster. During the summer the boats go frequent (every 30 minutes in high season), while winter time has a sparser timetable.
- Tickets and timetable: Available on Western traffic
- Travel time: Approximately 40 minutes from Stromstad
- Cost: Approx. 100–150 SEK round trip per person
Accommodation options on the Koster Islands – From cozy cabins to camping life
Since the Koster Islands are a popular destination, it is wise to book accommodation in good time, especially during the summer months. Here you will find everything from charming guesthouses and hotels to hostels and campsites.
1. Kosterbaden Eco Lodge (North Coast)
A modern and sustainable housing alternative with cottages and hotel rooms by the sea. Perfect for families and couples who want proximity to the beach and restaurants.
2. The Koster Folding Garden (South Coast)
A cozy guesthouse with fantastic sea view, good food and a relaxing atmosphere.
3. Kostergården (South Coast)
Affordable option for hikers and backpackers. Located close hiking trails and swimming areas.
4. Nature camping on the Koster Islands
On Sydkoster there is Långagärde Camping, a nature-friendly campsite where you can stay in tents or rent simple cabins. Here you are close to cycling and hiking trails.
Accommodation options in Strömstad
Hiking on the Koster Islands – The best trails for all levels
The Koster Islands have a well-developed network of hiking trails which makes it easy to explore nature reserves, cliffs and forests.
1. Western Trail (South Coast)
- Length: About 10 km
- Difficulty level: Easy–medium
- Highlights: Kosterfjorden, old fishing villages, viewpoints
2. Nordkoster circular loop
- Length: About 5 km
- Difficulty level: Medium
- Highlights: Rocky landscapes, stunning panoramic views of the sea
3. Valfjäll peak (Nordkoster)
- Length: 2 km
- Difficulty level: Medium
- Highlights: The best view of Kosterhavet!
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Swimming spots on the Koster Islands – Cliffs, beaches and child-friendly options
Whether you prefer soft sand or sun-warmed rocks, here are some of Bohuslän's most beautiful swimming spots.
1. Rörvik (South Coast)
- Family-friendly beach with shallow water and fine sand
- Perfect for families with children
2. Hasslevikarna (South Koster)
- Cozy bay with sandy beach and cliffs
- Good for snorkeling and relaxing
3. Bastei Bay (Nordkoster)
- Dramatic rock pools with crystal clear water
- For those who like to jump off cliffs
Restaurants on the Koster Islands – Local flavors you don't want to miss
On the Koster Islands you can enjoy fresh seafood, fish and local delicaciesHere are some excellent places to eat:
1. Kosters Gardens (South Koster)
- Organic restaurant with locally grown ingredients and vegetarian options
2. Kosterhavets Fish Restaurant (South Coast)
- Perfect for a Seafood platter with the best flavors of the sea
3. Galejen Koster (Nordkoster)
- Classic archipelago restaurant with fish, shrimp and local specialties
Suggestions for excursions from the Koster Islands
In addition to hiking, swimming and dining experiences, there are many exciting activities and excursions to do on and around the Koster Islands.
- Kayaking in Kosterhavet National Park – Experience the archipelago from the water
- Guided boat tour to the underwater world of Kosterfjorden
- Fishing trips with local guides
- Snorkeling trails at Rörvik
Termination The Koster Islands
The Koster Islands are the perfect destination for active holidaymakers all year roundWhether you want to hike, paddle, cycle or just enjoy the sea air, there is something here for you.
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Nearby destinations to Koster and 5 day itinerary
Read more below about nearby communities/Destinations that you can visit. As well as a suggested itinerary for a 5-day visit to the area around Koster.
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Nearby destinations to visit around the Koster Islands
If you are planning a trip to The Koster Islands, why not combine it with some of Bohuslän's other amazing destinations? Here you can find charming coastal communities, historical sights and incredible nature experiences which makes your trip even more memorable.
1. Strömstad – Archipelago town with pulse and history
Strömstad is the natural the starting point for the Koster Islands and offers shopping, restaurants and cultural experiences.
Must-sees in Strömstad:
- Stroll along the harbor and old town center – cozy alleys, shops and cafes.
- Visit Strömstad Museum and learn more about the city's fishing and smuggling history.
- Bathe in Seläterbadet or Capri – popular swimming spots near the city center.
- Treat yourself to a spa day at Strömstad Spa & Resort.
- Take an archipelago tour to Alaska – a unique, hand-built stone garden on an island just outside the city.
2. Grebbestad – Bohuslän's seafood capital
Grebbestad is known for fresh seafood, picturesque harbor areas and beautiful coastal views.
Must-sees in Grebbestad:
- Join us on a seafood safari – learn how to pick oysters and cook crayfish.
- Enjoy a seafood meal at Grebys or Restaurang Hjalmars.
- Take a walk up to Tjurpannan Nature Reserve – wild and beautiful rocky coast with views of the sea.
- Visit Tanum Beach – one of Bohuslän's best spa facilities.
3. Fjällbacka – Detective environment and archipelago idyll
Fjällbacka is a little gem known for its dramatic cliffs and connection to crime writer Camilla Läckberg.
Must-sees in Fjällbacka:
- Hike up Vetteberget for one of Bohuslän's best views of the archipelago.
- Explore the King's Gorge – one spectacular mountain crevasse where parts of the film Ronja Rövardotter were filmed.
- Boat excursion to the Väderöarna Islands – one of Sweden's most remote island groups, perfect for the adventurous.
- Coffee on the pier at Café Skafferiet and enjoy the atmosphere.
4. Tanumshede – Rock carvings and Bronze Age history
Tanumshede is a must for anyone who likes culture, history and archaeology.
Must-sees in Tanumshede:
- Visit the World Heritage Site of Tanum Rock Carvings – 3,000 years old carvings from the Bronze Age.
- Take a guided tour of Vitlycke Museum to learn about the lives of Bronze Age people.
- Visit one of Sweden's best preserved Iron Age villages at Greby burial ground.
5. Resö & Havstenssund – Small coastal gems with natural charm
If you want to experience less tourist-dense archipelago communities, Resö and Havstenssund are perfect day trips.
Must-sees on Resö & Havstenssund:
- Kayak along Resö's beautiful archipelago.
- Have lunch at Resö Hamnkrog – one of Bohuslän's hidden gems.
- Hike on Havstenssund's nature trails with panoramic views of the sea.
5-day itinerary for a perfect Bohuslän vacation
Here is one optimized itinerary which combines Koster Islands with nearby attractions and gives you a balance between adventure, relaxation and culture.
Day 1 – Arrival in Strömstad & exploration of the city
🔹 Arrival in Strömstad (by car, train or bus)
🔹 Stroll through the old town and harbor
🔹 Visit Strömstad Museum for a historical insight
🔹 Lunch by the sea at Laholmen or Rökeriet
🔹 Spa and relaxation at Strömstad Spa & Resort
🔹 Dinner at Skagerack or Park
💤 Overnight stay in Strömstad
Day 2 – Kosteröarna Day 1: Cycling & the national park
🔹 Take the morning boat to Sydkoster
🔹 Rent a bike and explore the island's beautiful coastal roads
🔹 Visit Naturum Kosterhavet and learn about the national park
🔹 Lunch at Kosters Gardens – organic and local ingredients
🔹 Cycle on to Rörvik and take a swim at the sandy beach
🔹 Evening excursion to Valfjälls viewpoint on Nordkoster
🔹 Dinner at Galejen with seafood from the Kosterhavet Sea
💤 Overnight stay at Kosterbaden Eco Lodge or Pensionat Bergdalen
Day 3 – Koster Islands day 2: Kayaking & hiking
🔹 Morning kayaking in the Kosterhavet archipelago
🔹 Coffee at Långagärde Café
🔹 Hike around Nordkoster and enjoy the wild cliff landscapes
🔹 Lunch at Ekenäs Harbour Tavern
🔹 Afternoon snorkeling at Hasslevikarna
🔹 Boat back to Strömstad in the evening
🔹 Dinner and evening drinks at Laholmen
💤 Overnight stay in Strömstad
Day 4 – Fjällbacka & Grebbestad – Archipelago and culture
🔹 Drive or take the bus to Fjällbacka
🔹 Hike up Vetteberget and visit the King's Gorge
🔹 Lunch at the pier at Bryggan Fjällbacka
🔹 Afternoon trip to Grebbestad
🔹 Join us on an oyster and shellfish safari
🔹 Dinner at Grebys or TanumStrand
💤 Overnight stay in Grebbestad or Tanumshede
Day 5 – Rock carvings & relaxation in Bohuslän
🔹 Visit Tanum's rock carvings and Vitlycke Museum
🔹 Coffee at Bullarens Gårdscafé
🔹 Lunch at Havstenssund – small-scale and close to nature
🔹 Walk along the cliffs of Havstenssund and enjoy the sea breeze
🔹 Conclusion and return home
Summary 5 days itinerary
This The 5-day trip gives you the best of Bohuslän – from The wilderness and coastal beauty of the Koster Islands to charming communities, historical sights and delicious food.
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