In Oulu’s Nallikari, summer is spent with kids by the one-kilometer-long sandy beach. Beach activities, an amusement park, nearby nature, and the close proximity to the city ensure there’s something for both younger children and teens on the verge of adulthood. With great accommodation options, you won’t have to look far for a place to relax. Check out the tips and spend your summer with kids in Oulu’s Nallikari!
A relaxed holiday atmosphere and sand-filled toes, because every summer vacation needs at least one day spent enjoying the beach life!
Nallikari is home to the famous one-kilometer-long Nallikari Beach, which provides fantastic conditions for even a longer beach holiday. With its gently sloping shore and fine sand, it’s a local favorite and an ideal spot for a beach day with kids. Swim, relax, climb on the play structures, or play beach games. The beach also features volleyball nets and soccer goals.
The beach is bordered by a stylish waterfront boulevard, lined with ice cream stands, Restaurant Nallikari, and services at Nallikari Aalto, including Restaurant Bistoria Patio, Nallikari Safari’s equipment rental and activity center, as well as Osfysio’s wellness services. The view is highlighted by the iconic blue changing cabins and lifeguard tower, with Nallikari Lighthouse at the far end of the beach, famous for its observation tower and stunning vistas.
Vauhtipuisto is an amusement park where adults can also have fun.
Vauhtipuisto is a charming amusement park for the little ones, offering entertainment for leisure time for the third generation. With over 40 years of bringing joy to locals, Vauhtipuisto features carousels, bouncy castles, and a mini village with delightful little houses. At the park’s stalls, you can find snacks, and Restaurant Huvilinna’s delicious buffet keeps you satisfied on the busiest days.
The Vauhtipuisto wristband also includes a free ride on the city train, Potnapekka, which is an experience for both children and adults. Potnapekka transports visitors between Nallikari, Vauhtipuisto, and the city center. Separate tickets for city days can also be purchased directly from the driver.
Vauhtipuisto will be open in the summer of 2025 from May 31st to August 23rd, every day from 11 AM to 6 PM. For more information on services and prices, visit www.vauhtipuisto.fi.
Activities with kids
Nallikari Safaris‘ equipment rental and activity center, located downstairs in Nallikari Aalto, offers everything you need for spontaneous active days with kids. The children’s equipment includes a fatbike designed for cyclists over 125 cm tall, as well as several bikes for those over 155 cm. Additionally, you can rent kayaks where both an adult and a child can paddle together in the same kayak. Besides bikes and kayaks, Nallikari Safaris also rents out SUP boards and various beach equipment. Guided tours with a guide are also available during the summer season.
Nallikari Safaris’ rental and activity center will be open during the summer season of 2025, from June 1st to August 31st, every day from 10 AM to 8 PM. Guided biking and kayaking tours are held several times a week. For more information on services and prices, visit www.nallikarisafaris.fi.
Pssst… Near Nallikari Holiday Village, you can also enjoy mini-golf and indoor fun at Nallisport!
Accommodation for families with children in Nallikari
Stay with your kids in the heart of Oulu’s summer at Nallikari!
Nallikari Holiday Village is located right next to Nallikari Beach, surrounded by the area’s services, offering much-needed peace when you need it the most.
Nallikari Aalto features 21 high-quality apartments with direct sea views, offering plenty of space for families with children. The Hiekka Standard and Kuura Superior apartments include a double bed and a fold-out sofa bed. The Aava Superior Plus corner apartments, equipped with a hot tub, have a double bed, a sofa bed, and an additional separate bedroom with two single beds.
Poiju Villas are modern, Two-bedroom coastal villas, featuring their own sauna and a large outdoor terrace. The traditional Holiday Cottages accommodate up to five people, and children will especially enjoy the loft space upstairs. Nallikari Campsite welcomes visitors with caravans or tents. Pets are also welcome at Nallikari Campsite, the Holiday Cottages, and some Poiju Villas.
Day Trip to Oulu and the Oulu Region
Nallikari’s ideal location in the heart of nature by the sea, yet only a short distance from the vibrant city center, provides excellent opportunities to explore Oulu and its surrounding attractions.
A day trip to Oulu city center, located just 3.5 kilometers away, is a great experience for the whole family whether the sun is shining or it’s a rainy day. The Toripolliisi statue, standing guard at Oulu Market Square, is a must-see highlight of any visit to the city. Right next to it is Market Hall and there is tourist information stand perfect place to pick up the best local travel tips, shop for souvenirs, and enjoy delicious local treats. Kids will love Hupisaaret Park, which features a large outdoor playground in Ainolanpuisto and free tropical greenhouses. The best ways to reach Oulu city center from Nallikari include Oulu public transport bus number 15, the Potnapekka city train, or by rental bike along the city’s bike paths.
For those traveling by car, Nallikari provides a great starting point for exploring other attractions along Pohjola route within just a couple of hours. Popular stops for families include the Liminka Bay Nature Center with its birdwatching towers, the roaring Koiteli rapids with barbecue spots, and Hailuoto, known for its long sandy beaches and island life.
Still looking for accommodation for your next trip to Oulu? Book your summer holiday by the sea at Nallikari now: www.nallikari.fi/bookings.
For more inspiration, visit www.visitoulu.fi.
