Best Swimming Spots in Copenhagen: A Guide by iBestTravel

Copenhagen is renowned for its hygge, Tivoli, and exceptional interior design. However, this coastal city boasts a unique swimming culture. With numerous locations offering opportunities for a refreshing dip in the ocean, it has even been designated the best city in the world for swimming. Engaging in swimming year-round is an integral part of Danish culture. This guide focuses on the best swimming spots in Copenhagen, showcasing family-friendly beaches, artificial swimming areas, popular party spots, and hidden gems. So, pack your swimwear and prepare to dive in!

Islands Brygge: The Local’s Favorite Swimming Spot

Undoubtedly the most popular swimming area in Copenhagen, Islands Brygge serves as the perfect hangout for locals and visitors alike on sunny days. This area features a large lawn ideal for picnics, games, and music from loudspeakers, which occasionally disrupts nearby residents.

• Enjoy activities such as volleyball and an outdoor gym.
• Dare to jump off the 5m-high diving board, the tallest in the area.
• A designated kids’ pool is perfect for families.

Ofelia Beach: A Fun Spot in the City Center

Situated in the heart of Copenhagen, with picturesque views of the Queen’s castle, Amalienborg, the Opera, and the Theater, Ofelia Beach is the most central location for swimming. It’s ideal for those seeking a swim amidst sightseeing. The expansive wooden deck is lined with lounge chairs, and nearby food trucks ensure that hunger doesn’t go unaddressed before or after swimming. On warm summer evenings, Ofelia Beach transforms into a vibrant destination for socializing.

Bellevue Beach: Stunning Architecture and Scenic Views

Located 10km (6 miles) north of the city, Bellevue Beach offers an exceptional experience on the Danish Riviera, stretching across 700m (2300ft) of sand. It’s easily accessible via public transportation; simply take the train to Klampenborg station.

While enjoying the beach, make sure to appreciate some exemplary Danish architecture, including the nearby watchtowers and the Bellevista apartment complex, both designed by Arne Jacobsen in the 1930s in the Bauhaus style. For a culinary treat, you can wander 1.5km (0.9 miles) to Olivers Garage, a charming café offering sandwiches and ice cream in a unique gas station setting designed by Arne Jacobsen.

If you prefer to stay closer to the city, consider Svanemøllen Beach, which offers views of the Svanemølle Power Station.

Havnevigen: Family-Friendly Beach and Bathing Area

Havnevigen is an expansive sandy stretch of artificial beach located in the modern area of Islands Brygge. This venue exemplifies Denmark’s commitment to recreational activities for families.

At Havnevigen, you’ll encounter many local families enjoying the beach with young children. The swimming lake reaches depths of 2m (6ft) in certain areas while providing kid-friendly shallow waters along the sandy shores. Nearby, Nøah offers a delightful café to refuel.

La Banchina: A Cozy Harbor Cove

Situated in the trendy area of Christianshavn, La Banchina is a charming shack right on the water, offering a delicious menu for any meal and exceptional coffee. The term “Banchina” translates to pier in Italian, where you’ll find a vibrant crowd of locals ready to plunge into the harbor. If you find the Scandinavian waters too cold, you can always enjoy a sauna at La Banchina.

Kalvebod Bølge: Dive Into the Harbor

Across from Islands Brygge, Kalvebod Bølge is another fantastic option for a quick dip. The promenade is equipped with baths for both kids and adults. If you’re feeling adventurous, try diving from various heights at the designated towers or enjoy the nearby wooden roller-coaster.

Amager Strand: Swim with a View of Sweden

The expansive beach park at Amager Strand is a sanctuary for nature enthusiasts, characterized by its sand dunes and grassy lawns. This location is a premier spot for beach activities such as stand-up paddleboarding and surfing, conveniently reached from central Copenhagen via the metro. The beach stretches for several kilometers and offers breathtaking views of Sweden and the Øresundsbroen, which connects Denmark to Sweden.

Architecture aficionados will appreciate swimming at the Kastrup Sea Bath, designed like a massive, curling wooden snail, known locally as Sneglen (the snail). This popular spot features several platforms at varying heights for jumping or diving into the inviting waters.

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