Long, silky sandy beaches in bays and coves.
On a hot summer's day, there's nothing like visiting one of our local "southern beaches". Sandvesanden at Skudeneshavn and Åkrasanden further north invite you to white sand and pure clear water. Karmøy's beaches are a first-class bathing spot for both children and adults - and a wonderful place to recharge your batteries. The Great Ocean is a great sight, whatever the weather.Karmøystrandene is a favorite hiking spot all year round. Karmøy has a reputation for having some of Norway's best windsurfing beaches. Strong winds and open seas make winter the high season for windsurfers who seek out Sandvesanden, Åkrasanden, Sandhåland or Mjølhus for wind in their sails. For organized trips with kayaks or rental of equipment contact: epost@oppkoma.no, opppkoma.no You can rent SUP (stand up paddle boards) and surfboards here: booking@skaarnesheimen.no, rawoceanlodge.com
Many people have had a surprise on their first stroll over Åkrasanden. Especially in summer, there is a Mediterranean atmosphere on the beach, where it lies elongated and sandy white against the turquoise sea. Åkrasanden has the recognized international environmental label Blue Flag. A cultural and nature trail runs along the shoreline from Åkrehamn to Ferkingstad. A walk here offers distinctive sandy vegetation, exciting historical tracks and a cultural landscape shaped by people over the centuries.
Photo: Stian Johannesen
Whats on
MAY
KARMØYGEDDON METAL FESTIVAL Kopervik. www.karmoygeddon.no
JUNE
VIKING FESTIVAL FESTIVAL in the home of the Vikings! On historical ground at Avaldsnes, you can take part in the biggest Viking festival in Western Norway the first full week in June. Come and experience how the Vikings lived and visit a Viking market. See a blacksmith at work and Vikings in combat, listen to Viking music and Viking sagas, or try various activities, such as archery and juggling! www.vikingfestivalen.no
JULY
SKUDESFESTIVAL. Western Norway’s biggest coastal culture event featuring all kinds of boats – wooden boats, pleasure craft and sailing ships. There are many art exhibitions in Søragadå, the main street in the old town. The Skude Festival is always held on the first weekend in July. www.skudefestivalen.no
AUGUST
FISKERIDAGENE (fishery days). A festival where fishing is the main focus. Exciting deep sea fishing competition, delicious food, funfair, stalls and entertainment for both children and adults. First weekend i August. www.fiskeridagene.no
SEPTEMBER
Medieval Festival at Avaldsnes, provides an insight into the exciting period of history from 1100 to 1400. You can meet jugglers, knights and musicians, and dance Medieval dances and take part in games from the period. www.opplevavaldsnes.no
VISNES FAIR Traditional activities for children and adults alike in Fransahagen. Market fair with concert on Friday, activities for children on Saturday, and traditional market day with sales exhibitions, arts and crafts and locally produced food on Sunday.
NOVEMBER
SKUDENESHAVN INTERNATIONAL LITERATURE AND CULTURE FESTIVAL (SILK) spreads the joy of reading by hosting cultural experiences in the many exciting venues in Skudneshavn. www.silkfestival.no
Tourist information Nordvegen Historiesenter 4262 Avaldsnes Tel. +47 52 81 24 00 post@opplevavaldsnes.no Karmøy rådhus 4250 Kopervik, Tel. +47 52 85 75 00 servicetorg@karmoy.kommune.no Skudeneshavn Torget. Tel. +47 52 85 80 00 turist@karmoy.kommune.no Oasen Storsenter Norheim. Tel. +47 52 83 10 89 informasjonen.oasen@olavthon.no Opening hours see: www.visitkarmoy.no