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Ytre Hvaler National Park

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

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Ytre Hvaler National Park is Norway's first marine national park and protects a unique coastal and underwater landscape in the outer Oslofjord. Founded in 2009, the park covers an area of 354 square kilometers, of which over 95 percent is underwater. One of the most outstanding features is the Tisler reef, the world's largest known cold-water coral reef close to the coast. Above the water surface, the park consists of hundreds of islands and islets characterized by smoothly ground granite rocks and a diverse coastal flora. The region is an important breeding ground for numerous seabirds and is home to a rich variety of fish and crustaceans. Geologically, the area is part of the old crystalline basement shaped by glacial erosion. The park directly adjoins the Swedish Kosterhavet National Park, creating a large transborder protected area. For visitors, Ytre Hvaler gives excellent opportunities for boating, kayaking, and nature observation in one of Norway's sunniest regions.

Location: Norway
Nearby: Trolldalen (16 km)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	-1	-2	1	6	11	15	17	16	13	8	4	0
Rain mm	84	63	54	56	72	78	93	107	88	109	100	87

📋 Practical info

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Getting there

The park is easily accessible from Skjærhalden, where ferries clearly connect the main islands. Exploring the marine areas requires a kayak, private boat, or joining a recognized guided tour.

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Best season

Summer is absolutely the peak time for boating, swimming, and coastal hiking in warm weather. Spring and autumn offer a quieter experience, good for dedicated birdwatching along the shoreline.

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Terrain & paths

The terrestrial areas feature smooth, wave-washed granite rocks and deep coastal pine forests. Beneath the surface, the terrain drops off into massive deep coral reefs and kelp forests.

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What to bring

Swimwear, reliable sun protection, and a windproof jacket are standard summer essentials. If exploring underwater, specific snorkeling or diving equipment and a thick wetsuit are necessary.

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Parking

Skjærhalden gives several parking areas, though they demand a fee and fill very quickly. Many regular visitors prefer to leave cars on the mainland and smoothly use public transport or ferries.

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Safety

The primary risks obviously involve marine activities, such as strong currents and submerged rocks. Visitors should be careful when walking on smooth coastal rocks, which become intensely slippery when wet.

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Time needed

A typical visit basically lasts from a few short hours of island hopping to a full weekend getaway. Dedicated divers or kayakers often spend multiple days thoroughly exploring the extensive marine boundaries.