Summer Fun on the Water in Copenhagen
Think there is nothing special to do on the water in Copenhagen this summer? Think again! This lovely weather inspires us to get outside and explore on the water - it's a total vibe in Copenhagen. Swim, dive, kayak, sail, paddle - we have it all covered! These are all the ways we are going to have fun this summer on the water in Copenhagen, whether it is the beach, harbour baths or from inside a big swan boat. ...Yes really!
Make a Splash!
Copenhagen in summer is perfect for those who love to have fun on the water. With clean canals, urban beaches, and boat rentals all over the city, you don’t have to go far for a dip, a paddle, kayak, or just enjoy a cruise around! Whether you're up for a chill swim or ready to captain your own boat around the canals, we have all the info you need to make the most of Copenhagen’s water ways. Here are our top tips of where and how to have fun on the water this summer in Copenhagen.
Urban Swimming in the heart of the city! - Harbour Baths
We are kicking off with the most popular and unique to our city Yes, you can swim in the middle of Copenhagen, and it’s actually clean. Copenhagen’s harbour baths are famous for their refreshing water, great vibes, and epic city views. These are popular spots where you can dive in, picnic, sunbathe, or just enjoy the atmosphere like a local. Everyone welcome all summer long!
Islands Brygge Harbour Bath
This is the number 1 Copenhagen swim spot, and it's free! But you may need to get here early to get a good place. Right across from the city centre, Islands Brygge has five pools, including diving platforms (up to 5m!) and lanes for laps for the more serious swimmer. It's a favourite spot in summer for swimming and diving in the clean water, so bring your towel early if you want a good sunbathing spot or miss out!
Sandkaj Bathing Zone (Nordhavn)
Here you can grab a drink and chill on the pier to dry off after a quick dip in the water. Think laid-back beach bar vibes meets inner-city swim spot. There’s no pool, just a floating dock and ladders into the harbor – perfect for sunsets and swims with locals.
Kastrup Søbad
This is famous for locals and stands out on the skyline but you need to travel a little further to Amager beach area. This architecturally impressive circular wooden structure sits in the sea and it's a favourite spot - it's less crowds but just as fun.
Life is a beach!
Surprise! Copenhagen isn’t just canals and cobblestones – it’s got beaches too, and summer is the perfect time to dive in. Whether you're down for a quick dip, a full beach day, or just soaking up the sun with locals, there’s a stretch of sand waiting for you. Easily accessible by bus or train, you can get outside of the city in 20 minutes and enjoy long sand stretches and dunes!
Amager Strandpark – just South of the city
Just a short metro ride from the city centre, Amager Strandpark is where Copenhagen goes full summer mode with everything from volleyball to picnic spots. The beachfront here is a summer hotspot for locals, but thanks to its wide layout—stretching between sand dunes, a calm lagoon, and long sunbathing areas—there’s still plenty of space to spread out and relax. The shallow, warmer waters of the lagoon are perfect for paddleboarding, kayaking, or beginner swimmers, with no strong currents to worry about.
A long promenade runs along the beach, great for walking, cycling, or skating with sea views all the way. The sandy stretch is dotted with wooden piers—perfect for jumping into the water or just lounging on the deck and soaking up the view of the nearby wind turbine park. On hotter or windier days, the lagoon side offers more shade and shelter, plus it’s just a short walk from the nearest metro stop. 
Bellevue Beach – Classic Danish Vibes
Located north of the city, Bellevue is a local icon. Expect soft sand, calm waters, and the famous blue-striped Arne Jacobsen-designed lifeguard towers. It's the kind of beach that makes you feel like you’re in a Scandinavian lifestyle shoot – minimalist, clean, and effortlessly cool.
Tisvildeleje – For Chill Days & Cute Beach Huts
A bit further up the coast, Tisvildeleje gives you that low-key, boho beach feel. Think colourful little huts, shallow waters, and that slow-summer pace. Great for families or anyone wanting a softer, more relaxed vibe.
Gudmindrup Beach – Nature and chill
If you’re after wide, dune-backed beaches and peaceful surroundings, head to Gudmindrup. Less crowded and more wild, it's ideal for sunbathing, reading, or just escaping the buzz of the city. 
Canal Cruising on a Rental Boat
If you fancy yourself as captain then have a go at renting an electric boat and taking a trip around the city. Just pack a picnic (and maybe a speaker for some music), and prepare for a little cruise!
GoBoat
No boat license needed – just bring snacks, drinks, and good vibes. These boats are solar-powered and super easy to navigate. Perfect for a picnic on the water or relaxing at the end of the day. You can take them from Islands Brygge or Nordhavn and they fit up to 8 people for 1 or 2 hours. Check the prices on their website.
FriendShips
A similar boat rental vibe but based in Christianshavn, but with a little more luxury and comfort – think floating lounge meets electric boat and bring your own tunes (bluetooth speakers). So much fun with friends to just chill out around the harbour! 
Canal Kayaking & Paddleboarding
Any good on a paddle board? Want to see Copenhagen from the water? If you're looking for a scenic and relaxing way to see Copenhagen from the water then why not try exploring the city from a new angle. Kayaking and SUP are great ways to explore the city and also fun as a solo traveller.
GreenKayak- the sustainable option!
Enjoy paddle boarding totally free! This sustainable project allows you to paddle board in exchange for collecting any rubbish or trash you come across in the water. This means you can feel good and help the planet while enjoying the views from the water and seeing a new city to the city. You can find them at various locations from Kayak Republic to Refshaleøen.
Kayak Republic
Located right in the city centre Kayak Republic offer hourly rentals, guided tours, and a floating bar to enjoy after your paddle. Their sunset tours are really popular if you want to do something different and enjoy the city as the sun goes down. They also have a floating sauna if you want to give it a go!
Out of town - Kajakhotellet
If you travel to Amager Beach Park you will find it more peaceful and get to enjoy getting out the city. Here you can find Kajakhotellet, based near Amager Strandpark they have everything from SUP boards to sea kayaking courses, so you can take lessons or just head out and explore!
Floating Saunas & Chill Zones
If you're looking for something a little less physical on the water and with some chilled vibes, then how about lazing around in a floating sauna?
CopenHot
Take a trip to Refshaleøen and book a spot in your floating hot tub boat or on a floating sauna. This is the perfect spot to enjoy something a little more unusual with a view of the harbor skyline. Book in advance as they are very popular!
The Butcher’s Heat
Located in Kalvebod Bølge, this is a local favourite for “saunagus” – a kind of guided sauna session with oils, music, and steam. Combine it with a swim in the harbour for the full Nordic experience.
We hope you're feeling inspired by all the things you can enjoy on the water in Copenhagen this summer! Ask at reception for more tips on local things to see and do! 
Stay With Us this Summer in Copenhagen
At Copenhagen Downtown Hostel, we bring the beach to you – literally. Our legendary Full Moon Parties feature real sand, tropical cocktails, and live DJs spinning until late! If you're in town when one of these iconic nights hits, you won’t want to miss it.
And the summer vibes don’t stop there – our happy hours are the best in town, and our cocktail menu is stacked with refreshing drinks to keep you cool. 🍹
Stay with us at Copenhagen Downtown Hostel, the city’s top party hostel right in the heart of the action. With a retro-chic design, buzzing international bar, live music, theme nights, and a super social atmosphere, it’s the perfect home base for the Genuine Backpacker.
Find out more about our 50 + Famous Hostels here www.famoushostels.com Copenhagen Downtown is a proud member of Famous Hostels - stay with us for a #GenuineBackpacker experience.