
Sandhammaren Lighthouse
Sweden's most beautiful beach, featuring soft white sand, shallow warm waters, and an iconic lighthouse.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Warmest water, fewer crowds

Sandhammaren Lighthouse
Best Time
Warmest water, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Sweden's most beautiful beach, featuring soft white sand, shallow warm waters, and an iconic lighthouse.
"The best beach in Osterlen! The white sand is super soft, the water is shallow and the seaweed is not as bad as Borrby."

🚗 Ample Free Parking
Plenty of free parking available, but it gets busy on nice days. Arrive early!
🍦 Beachside Kiosk Delights
Grab ice cream, snacks, or lunch from the convenient kiosk near the parking.

Quick Facts
Rating
4.5 · 360 reviews
Type
Museum
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Sandhammaren Beach
Österlen coast
Pristine white sand, shallow warm waters, and gentle waves make this Sweden's dream beach.

Sandhammaren Lighthouse
Near the beach
An architecturally unique lighthouse offering panoramic views, though access may vary due to renovations.

Dunes and Coastal Landscape
Surrounding the beach
Explore the charming sand dunes and unique coastal flora that frame this beautiful stretch of coastline.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beach Bliss & Lighthouse Views
Seasonal Access & Amenities
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Ample Free Parking
Plenty of free parking available, but it gets busy on nice days. Arrive early!
🍦 Beachside Kiosk Delights
Grab ice cream, snacks, or lunch from the convenient kiosk near the parking.
🚶♀️ Shallow Waters for All
Perfect for families; you can walk far out without the water getting deep.
♿ Family-Friendly Access
Enjoy the beach with ease thanks to an access ramp and decking.
Things to do in Ystad and Skurup
I will find myself back in Sweden this winter — this time, in Skåne. I will be staying between Skurup and Ystad, and I’ll be there for around a week. Does anyone here know of anything fun (preferably outdoors) to do around here, or anything I (as a Canadian) should know about…
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Ample Free Parking
Plenty of free parking available, but it gets busy on nice days. Arrive early!
🍦 Beachside Kiosk Delights
Grab ice cream, snacks, or lunch from the convenient kiosk near the parking.
🚶♀️ Shallow Waters for All
Perfect for families; you can walk far out without the water getting deep.
♿ Family-Friendly Access
Enjoy the beach with ease thanks to an access ramp and decking.
💡 Lighthouse Visit Times
Check opening hours for the lighthouse, usually weekends in summer.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Sandhammaren is celebrated for its breathtakingly beautiful, soft white sand beach and incredibly shallow, warm waters, making it a top choice for families and swimmers. Visitors appreciate the ample free parking and convenient beachside kiosk. While the lighthouse is an interesting landmark, its accessibility can be limited by renovations.
"Very nice self-service restaurant with friendly service. The food is very good and the prices are reasonable. The sandy beach of Sandhammaren is a dream. The nearby light tower is architecturally very interesting. However, as of September 2023 it is under renovation and therefore cannot be visited."
Birk Karsten Ecke
"Beautiful white sandy beach surrounded by sand dunes. There's a kiosk near the parking which has a good selection of ice cream, snacks and bigger lunch options. There's free parking and an access ramp and decking on the beach which makes it excellent for families with pushchairs. Also the beach is very shallow. You can walk out far without the water coming above your waist. Only downside is the temporary "porta-potty" toilets."
Simon Leback-Butcher
"Excellent soft white sand and nice warm water. Truly, the best beach in Sweden!"
Ashish Rawal
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Sandhammaren is located on the southeastern tip of Skåne, Sweden. The easiest way to reach it is by car, with ample free parking available near the beach. It's a scenic drive through the Österlen region.
Public transport options are limited. While buses may run to nearby towns like Ystad or Simrishamn, you'll likely need a taxi or to rent a car for the final leg to Sandhammaren.
Many visitors enjoy walking along the beach and through the surrounding dunes. Cycling is also a popular way to experience the Österlen landscape.
Yes, charming towns like Ystad and Simrishamn are relatively close and offer historical sites, shops, and restaurants.
Pack swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, a hat, and comfortable walking shoes. Consider bringing snacks and drinks, though a kiosk is available.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Sandhammaren Beach is free to access and enjoy. There are no entrance fees for the beach itself.
Entry to the lighthouse grounds is typically free, but access to climb the tower may have a small fee or be restricted during certain times or renovations. Check the official association's website for current details.
The lighthouse is usually open to visitors on weekends from late June to mid-August, typically between 2 PM and 5 PM. Always verify current hours before your visit.
The lighthouse itself is generally not open for interior visits outside of the summer season. However, you can still admire its exterior and the surrounding landscape.
During peak season, parking areas can fill up. Otherwise, the beach is open to the public. Respect the natural environment and any posted signage.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
There's a kiosk near the parking lot selling ice cream, snacks, and lunch items. Temporary toilet facilities (porta-potties) are also available.
Absolutely! The water is very shallow, making it incredibly safe for children to play. There's also an access ramp and decking for strollers.
Yes, the water is shallow and often warm, making it ideal for swimming and wading.
The sand is exceptionally soft, fine, and white, often described as one of the best beach experiences in Sweden.
While not explicitly stated in all reviews, it's generally advisable to check local regulations regarding dogs on beaches, especially during peak season. Respect any posted signs.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The closest dining option is a kiosk near the parking area that offers ice cream, snacks, and lunch. For more extensive dining, you'll need to travel to nearby towns like Ystad or Simrishamn.
The kiosk typically offers a good selection of ice cream, sandwiches, and other light lunch options.
Yes, bringing your own picnic is a great idea, especially if you plan to spend a full day at the beach. There are no restrictions mentioned against it.
One review mentions a 'self-service restaurant with friendly service' and good prices, suggesting a more substantial offering than just a kiosk.
Ystad offers a variety of restaurants, from traditional Swedish cuisine to international options, cafes, and bakeries.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the stunning white sand beach, the unique lighthouse, the rolling sand dunes, and the vast sea. Sunrises and sunsets can be particularly beautiful here.
Absolutely. The combination of the beach, dunes, and lighthouse provides diverse and picturesque landscapes for photographers.
Early morning or late afternoon offers the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones. Midday can be harsh.
Interior access is limited to specific opening hours and may be restricted due to renovations. Exterior shots are always possible.
The distinctive trees growing in front of the lighthouse and the expansive, shallow coastline offer unique perspectives.








Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit