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Kosterhavet National Park

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Kosterhavet National Park (Sweden)

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Kosterhavet National Park, inaugurated in 2009, is Sweden's first national park dedicated primarily to the protection of marine biodiversity. Located in the Skagerrak strait off the coast of Bohuslän, it spans approximately 388 square kilometers, the vast majority of which is underwater. The park is contiguous with Norway's Ytre Hvaler National Park, creating a significant transboundary marine protected area. Its centerpiece is the Koster Trench, a deep submarine valley reaching depths of 247 meters, which brings saline oceanic water into the archipelago. This environment supports over 6,000 marine species, including the only living cold-water coral reefs in Sweden, formed by Lophelia pertusa. The islands within the park, such as Nordkoster and Sydkoster, feature rocky shores, coastal meadows, and heathlands. Wildlife includes substantial populations of harbor seals and grey seals, as well as diverse seabirds. Visitors can explore the marine life through snorkeling, diving, or kayaking, while the main visitor center in Ekenäs on Sydkoster has interactive displays about the park's unique underwater ecosystems.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C-1-2161115171613840
Rain mm846354567278931078810910087

📋 Practical info

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Getting there
Access to this marine park is primarily by passenger ferry from the mainland town of Strömstad on the Swedish west coast. Visitors typically disembark on the main Koster islands to begin their exploration of the coastal area.
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Best season
Late spring to early autumn provides the most reliable weather for boat trips, snorkeling, and coastal hiking. Winter conditions can be harsh, with strong coastal winds and limited ferry schedules affecting travel plans.
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Terrain & paths
The landscape mixes rocky shorelines, sandy beaches, coastal meadows, and underwater reef environments. Walking paths on the islands are generally easy, but navigating the rocky coastal outcrops requires some agility.
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What to bring
Pack windproof and waterproof clothing, sturdy walking shoes for the islands, and a good camera. If you plan to explore the underwater world, bringing your own snorkeling gear or booking a guided diving trip is essential.
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Parking
Visitors must leave their cars on the mainland, as the islands themselves are practically car-free. Long-term parking facilities are available in and around Strömstad near the ferry terminals for visitors' convenience.
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Safety
Weather conditions at sea can change rapidly, bringing unexpected strong winds and large waves. Always respect the protected wildlife zones, stay on marked trails, and exercise caution when walking on slippery coastal rocks.
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Time needed
A typical visit requires at least a full day to allow time for the ferry crossing and basic island exploration. Many visitors prefer to stay for a weekend to enjoy snorkeling, hiking, and guided marine tours fully.

Geography

Coordinates
58.85000, 11.01000

Facts

  • Inaugurated in 2009 as Sweden's first marine national park.
  • Total area of 388 km², with approx. 98% being marine environment.
  • Home to Sweden's only living cold-water coral reefs (Lophelia).
  • The Koster Trench reaches a maximum depth of 247 meters.
  • Contains more than 6,000 different marine animal and plant species.
  • Bordered directly by Norway's Ytre Hvaler National Park.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

SydkosterSydkoster4 km · NExplore →
StrömstadStrömstad14 km · NEExplore →
Ytre Hvaler National ParkYtre Hvaler National Park18 km · NExplore →
SkjærhaldenSkjærhalden20 km · NExplore →
HvalerHvaler21 km · NExplore →
GrebbestadGrebbestad23 km · SEExplore →
Tanum (Vitlycke rock carvings)Tanum (Vitlycke rock carvings)23 km · SEExplore →
Tanum Rock CarvingsTanum Rock Carvings25 km · SEExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):

© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService

Sights in the town Kosterhavet National Park (1)

Ursholmen fyr📍 landmark

A historic lighthouse on the Ursholmen islands within the national park.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

What is special about Kosterhavet?
It is Sweden's first national park with a focus on marine ecology.
Can you snorkel in the park?
Yes, there are marked underwater snorkeling trails.
How do you get to the Koster Islands?
There are regular ferries departing from Strömstad.
Is driving cars allowed on the islands?
No, the islands are largely car-free; people use bicycles instead.
What animals can you see there?
Seals, many seabirds, and a rich underwater life.
Kosterhavet National Park: where is it located?
Kosterhavet National Park is located in Sweden.
Kosterhavet National Park: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Kosterhavet National Park: why is it worth visiting?
Kosterhavet National Park, inaugurated in 2009, is Sweden's first national park dedicated primarily to the protection of marine biodiversity.
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