Exploring the Oslofjord by leisure boat is one of summer’s great pleasures. Drifting between islands, guest harbors and swimming coves offers a sense of freedom that’s hard to match. But the good news is that many of the fjord’s best destinations can also be reached by public transport during the summer season, making them just as appealing for day-trippers without a boat.
Håøya. The Most Charming Island
If I had to choose one favorite island in the Oslofjord, it would be Håøya.
Located just outside the picturesque coastal town of Drøbak, Håøya is the largest island in the inner Oslofjord, and the atmosphere is what makes it special.
Goats graze freely across the island. Near the harbor you’ll find a charming café and small dairy where locally produced goat cheeses are made.
There are swimming spots, hiking trails, grassy fields perfect for football games, scenic camping areas, and countless trees ideal for hanging a hammock and spending the night.
The southern part of the island is protected as a nature reserve containing valuable old-growth forest. All plants and wildlife on Håøya are protected, and parts of the eastern reserve are closed to visitors during nesting season to protect breeding white-tailed eagles.
History lovers will also appreciate Håøya’s military past. The island played an important role in the defense of the Oslofjord during both World Wars, and remnants of military installations can still be discovered among the trees.
Oscarsborg. Where History Comes Alive
Just a short boat ride from Håøya lies one of Norway’s most fascinating historic sites, Oscarsborg Fortress.
Oscarsborg is known for it`s pivotal role on April 9, 1940, when the fortress sank the German cruiser Blücher, delaying the Nazi invasion and helping secure the evacuation of Norway’s government and royal family.
Today massive cannons, underground tunnels and defensive walls can be explored.
During summer, concerts are sometimes held within the fortress walls, creating a unique outdoor venue.
While visiting these islands, don’t skip Drøbak. With its white wooden houses, narrow streets, waterfront cafés, and relaxed coastal atmosphere, it’s one of the Oslofjord’s most charming towns.
Spro. An Indiana Jones Adventure
A very short, but slightly rugged, hike from Spro Harbour on Nesodden, you will find an old mine with mica sparkling in the rock walls and across the ground.
Bring a headlight and be careful, the stones are wet and slippery.
In the middle there is huge chamber were the roof has collapsed, bringing the sun in from above.
Continue through the darker tunnels, and exit on the other side.
The area outside is great for a swim, an overnight stay in a hammock, or simply exploring the shoreline. For children, there’s plenty to discover. Mica scattered on the ground, rocks to crack open, and endless opportunities for beachcombing along the fjord.
Finish the trip with a pizza or an ice cream at the harbor afterwards.
The trail can be reached by car, by private boat via the guest marina, or by taking the ferry from Oslo to Nesodden and continuing by bus to Spro.
Sandvika and Kalvøya. Urban Beach Escape
Not every summer outing needs to involve wilderness and hidden caves.
Just west of Oslo, Sandvika offers one of the region’s most accessible waterfront destinations. Its guest marina is easy to reach by boat, while drivers, train passengers, and bus travelers can arrive with minimal effort.
On sunny days, the atmosphere is lively. Teenagers jump from diving platforms, volleyball games fill the courts, children crowd the playgrounds, and the kiosk serves a steady stream of ice cream and coffee.
If you’re looking for something quieter, simply cross the bridge to Kalvøya.
Here you’ll find peaceful walking trails, calmer swimming spots, open meadows for picnics and football games, and beautiful shoreline paths.
Afterward, stroll back along Sandvika’s waterfront promenade, where restaurants and cafés line the harbor and provide the perfect ending to a summer day.
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