Activities

Lysekil is a fantastic destination when it comes to activities! Here you will find beautiful granite cliffs, a unique coastal landscape, and a vibrant archipelago where nature and the sea create the perfect conditions for both adventure and relaxation. Culture lovers can explore local museums, diving culture, art galleries, and historical sites.. For those who want to combine nature and culture, there are charming fishing villages, guided tours of rock carvings and quarries, and nearby excursion destinations such as Nordens Ark Zoo. In short, Lysekil is a gem on the west coast where scenic views, exciting activities, and authentic coastal culture come together—perfect for a memorable vacation whether you're traveling with family, friends, or on your own. Here are our best tips!

Hiking around Lysekil

Lysekil is a perfect destination for hiking, with its stunning nature, dramatic coastline, and many beautiful hiking trails. Whether you are an experienced hiker or just want to take a lovely walk in beautiful surroundings, there is something for everyone. Here are some of the best hiking experiences in Lysekil and its surroundings.

StÄngehuvud is undoubtedly one of the most spectacular places to hike in Lysekil. This nature reserve is located right on the coast and offers dramatic cliffs, bays, and sweeping views of the sea. Here you can follow the easily accessible StÄngehuvudleden, an approximately 4 km long hiking trail that takes you along the steep cliffs and out to viewpoints with panoramic views of Gullmarsfjorden and the BohuslÀn archipelago.

The VĂ€sterhavspromenaden is one of the most popular hiking trails in Lysekil and offers a spectacular experience of the BohuslĂ€n coastal landscape. The trail runs along Lysekil’s western coast, with sweeping views of the open sea and the BohuslĂ€n archipelago. It is a perfect activity for both nature lovers and those who want to enjoy a relaxing walk in one of Sweden’s most impressive coastal environments.

Kuststigen Lysekil – Skal stretches along Lysekil’s western coast and takes you through different types of landscapes – from rocky coasts and open fjords to lush forests and sparkling lakes. The total length of the Coastal Trail is about 12 km (one way), but it can be adapted to your own level and time by choosing shorter stages.

Wild swimming

The tradition of cold bathing in Lysekil goes back a long way. In the mid-19th century, when Lysekil was a popular destination for health-seeking visitors, Dr. Carl Curman, a pioneer in spa and health bathing, recognized the healing effects of both cold and warm sea baths. He prescribed these baths to visitors to the town to strengthen the body, improve circulation, and alleviate various ailments.

Today, cold bathing has become a popular activity for both residents and visitors seeking a natural path to well-being. The cold water stimulates blood circulation, strengthens the immune system, and can give a feeling of euphoria and clarity after bathing. It is also a fantastic mental challenge that makes you feel alive and in harmony with nature. Lysekil offers a large number of places for cold bathing with jetties, stairs, and ladders that make it easy to get in and out of the cold, clear sea water – whether you want to take a quick dip or spend a longer time in the water.

Lysekil’s Cold Bath House is a historic gem on the coast, with a long tradition of cold bathing experiences and wellness. The Cold Bath House, which opened in the 19th century, is a central place in Lysekil for those seeking both relaxation and a natural boost for the body.

Kayaking and nature

Outdoor West is a family business that has been helping both beginners and experienced adventurers discover nature in their own way for 19 years. Based in Lysekil, they offer tailor-made experiences such as kayaking, paddling, cycling, and hiking for small and medium-sized groups. A perfect blend of challenge and relaxation, always with nature in focus.

Balanspunkten offers a unique blend of adventure and well-being with activities such as kayaking, yoga, and massage. They work with joie de vivre and balance, where each experience is a chance to find presence, recovery, and inner harmony. Slide into your kayak and let the sea, the cliffs, and nature open up new perspectives—both for your body and soul! Balanspunkten offers guided kayak tours during summertime (about 45 minutes by car from Lysekil).

SkĂ€rgĂ„rdsidyllen Kayak & Outdoor is your closest kayak and outdoor center to the outer archipelago of western Sweden. Here you are in the middle of the unspoiled archipelago, without having to cross large open waters or fairways. Perfect for both beginners and experienced paddlers. Explore some of the world’s best paddling waters by renting a sea kayak, taking a course, or joining a guided tour. Ingela and Marcus, the owners, will give You a spledid hospitality and speaks both English and French. Experience the wilderness of western Sweden up close! (About 1 hour by car from Lysekil).

Rent kayak / Book a kayak winter tour with SkÀrgÄrdsidyllen

Havets Hus aquarium and Nordens Ark - Giving endangered animals a future

Havets Hus is a fantastic experience for young and old alike, located on the coast where you have the chance to discover life in our Scandinavian waters. Here you will find an impressive saltwater aquarium where you can admire a wide range of marine animals – from small, colourful fish to majestic sea creatures and fascinating predators.

It is the perfect place to learn more about our oceans and the important role they play in the ecosystem. Havets Hus offers a range of interesting exhibitions and activities for all ages, and you will have the opportunity to get up close to the marine inhabitants through large panoramic windows and interactive stations. Here you can see what marine life looks like along our west coast and also learn more about endangered species and protective measures to preserve our marine life.

Nordens Ark – the park that makes a difference!
Here you have a unique opportunity to discover both Nordic and international endangered species in a fantastic environment. The zoo aims to preserve and protect endangered species through research, education, and breeding programs. Visitors have the opportunity to learn more about everything from Swedish predators such as wolves and lynxes to more exotic species such as tigers, jaguars, and desert foxes.

With its expansive, natural surroundings, Nordens Ark offers an unforgettable experience for the whole family. Here you can get close to the animals in their natural habitats and learn more about their lifestyle and the challenges they face in the wild. The park also offers a variety of exciting activities and events for all ages, and you can take part in guided tours and lectures that provide a deeper understanding of the work involved in saving endangered species.

Scuba diving

When you visit us at Strandvillan, you will find the perfect location for both diving and exploring the fantastic marine world on land. Our neighbor, Dive Team, offers everything you need for a fantastic diving experience: training courses, boat diving trips, diving tours, a well-stocked shop, and air refills. Dive Team is also the perfect partner to help you deepen your diving skills and take advantage of the best diving areas.

For those looking for something extra unique, we highly recommend Dykcentrum Gullmarsfjorden, a fantastic place for diving in the scenic and protected Gullmarsfjorden. Here you will find countless diving opportunities for both beginners and experienced divers, with crystal clear water and rich marine life.

And for anyone who wants to experience life below the surface without diving themselves, we recommend a visit to Havets Hus, our saltwater aquarium. Here you can get an insight into marine life in our Scandinavian waters and see everything from colorful fish to fascinating sea creatures.
As a guest at Strandvillan, you get a special price on admission tickets to Havets Hus, and it is a perfect activity for both divers and non-divers. Bring your family members and show them the amazing underwater world that you as a diver get to experience up close.

Visit Skaftö

Just across the Gullmarsfjord from Lysekil lies Skaftö, a beautiful and peaceful archipelago island offering a unique blend of culture, nature, and sea. Skaftö is known for its picturesque fishing communities, sheltered bays, and rich history as a seaside resort and maritime center.

From Lysekil, you can easily reach Skaftö by ferry or enjoy a scenic drive. Once there, you will be greeted by an idyllic atmosphere, with an archipelago that provides shelter from the big waves of the sea and a tranquility that makes the island perfect for both relaxation and adventure. Explore the old fishing communities, stroll along the coast, or take a dip in the clear water.
A trip to Skaftö is a must for anyone who wants to experience the best of BohuslĂ€n – a paradise just a stone’s throw from Lysekil.

Strandflickorna offers bicycles for hire, perfect for those who want to discover BohuslÀn at their own pace. Take a bike ride through the beautiful countryside, along coastal roads or to nearby attractions.

Golf courses

Holma Golf is one of the most scenic courses in the region and a favorite among golfers. The 18-hole course is known for its beautiful landscape with rolling hills and open fields.
The course layout offers both challenges and enjoyment for players of all levels, and its high standard makes it a popular destination for both local golfers and visitors. It is also possible to book golf lessons, or why not finish your round with a good meal at the clubhouse, which offers a wonderful atmosphere and a view to remember.

Not far from Lysekil is Skaftö Golf, another fantastic course that is perfect for a relaxing and nature-oriented golf experience. Skaftö Golf is an 18-hole course beautifully situated by the sea, offering open views and a varied landscape. Here you can enjoy the scenic surroundings while playing on a course that challenges both technique and tactics.

With its charming, family-friendly atmosphere and peaceful location, Skaftö Golf is a place where both beginners and experienced players can find their golf flow. For those who want to extend the experience, there is also a driving range and other facilities. After your round, you can take a break and enjoy something tasty in the clubhouse, where you can enjoy the same beautiful sea views you had during your game.

Padel and tennis

Arena RinkenÀs is a versatile sports facility by the sea in Lysekil, offering something for everyone. Here you will find modern padel courts for both beginners and experienced players, making it an ideal place to try out or improve your padel game. Challenge your family to a game of mini golf or take a dip at RinkenÀs beach.

Lysekils Padelcenter is the perfect place for padel lovers of all ages and levels. With both indoor and outdoor courts, the facility offers the opportunity to play all year round, regardless of the weather. Here you can challenge yourself on the courts, take part in fun tournaments, or just have a relaxing time with friends and family. The facility has modern amenities and a wonderful atmosphere that makes every visit an experience.

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