Day Trips & Attractions in Oskarshamn

Blå Jungfrun National Park

Rising from the waters of the Kalmar Strait, the legendary island of Blå Jungfrun is one of Sweden’s most fascinating national parks. During the summer, sightseeing boats depart from Oskarshamn for the island, where dramatic cliffs, caves and hiking trails await. Bring sturdy shoes, food and plenty of water – the terrain can be challenging in places, and there are no shops or restaurants on the island.

Stensjö Village Cultural Reserve

Step back in time to old Småland, surrounded by traditional red houses, winding gravel roads, stone walls and kilometres of wooden fences. Stensjö village is Kalmar County’s first cultural reserve, and its beautifully preserved surroundings may look familiar from film adaptations of Astrid Lindgren classics such as the Children of Bullerbyn and Emil of Lönneberga. There are also hiking trails and opportunities for a swim in Lake Stärringen.

Döderhultarn Museum

Discover one of Oskarshamn’s most celebrated cultural figures at the Döderhultarn Museum in the Cultural Centre. The museum displays almost 200 wooden sculptures by the world-famous woodcarver Axel Petersson, better known as Döderhultarn. It’s a perfect place to visit on a rainy day – and in the same building, you’ll also find the Maritime Museum, an art gallery and several other exhibitions.

The Seaside Promenade

If you’d like to explore Oskarshamn on foot or by bike, you can start right from First Camp Gunnarsö. The seaside promenade runs between Gunnarsö and Havslätt, taking you past the Ernemar waterfront, the harbour area and several lovely viewpoints and barbecue spots. The route is also suitable for pushchairs and mobility aids.

Stenhuggarleden in Vånevik

In the coastal village of Vånevik, you can combine beautiful scenery and sea views with fascinating local industrial history. Follow the Stenhuggarled past old quays, railway tracks and water-filled quarries, and use the QR codes along the way to learn more about the area’s heyday as a centre of the stone industry. Bring a picnic and round off your day trip with a refreshing swim at Södra Kajen.

Misterhult Archipelago0

For those who want to experience the archipelago at its best, a vast nature reserve with around 2,000 islands, islets and skerries awaits north of Oskarshamn. The area is particularly rewarding to explore by kayak or your own boat, with bare rocky shores, historic archipelago settings and abundant birdlife. Check the nature reserve regulations before setting off, as parts of the archipelago are subject to seasonal bird and seal protection restrictions.

Virum Moose Park

Get up close to one of Småland’s most iconic animals at Virum Moose Park outside Vimmerby. Meet the park’s moose at close range during a guided tour – an experience that’s sure to create lasting memories for visitors of all ages. Why not combine your visit with a few more stops around Vimmerby and make a full day of it?

Källströmsgården in Påskallavik

The former home of artist and sculptor Arvid Källström is now a charming attraction filled with art both indoors and out. Wander through the garden among impressive sculptures and explore the house and studios when they are open to visitors. During the summer, art exhibitions and a café add even more reasons to visit – be sure to check current opening hours before you go.

The Kingdom of Crystal

Set off on a classic Småland day trip to the Kingdom of Crystal, where glassworks, studio glasshouses and designers keep Sweden’s celebrated glassmaking tradition alive. Watch skilled glassblowers at work, discover beautiful art glass and browse shops and galleries along the way. Visit a single glassworks or create your own route between several, such as Kosta, Målerås and Boda Glasbruk.

Oskarshamn Cultural Centre and Maritime Museum

Head into central Oskarshamn and enjoy several cultural experiences under one roof. The Cultural Centre is home to the Maritime Museum, where you can discover stories from the town’s seafaring past, as well as an art gallery, the city library and the Moments from Oscarshamn exhibition. It’s a convenient choice when the weather isn’t quite right for the beach or the archipelago.

Fredriksberg Manor

Beautiful Fredriksberg Manor, dating from 1783, offers Gustavian architecture, historic interiors and an unusual 18th-century mineral collection. Located in Döderhultsdalen, the manor makes a lovely day trip for anyone interested in historic surroundings and local heritage. The interiors can be visited on pre-booked guided tours, so check current visiting options before setting off.

Uvö – Coastal Hiking with a Touch of History

Just north of Oskarshamn, Uvö is perfect for a leisurely day trip in nature. The approximately 2.2-kilometre nature trail follows the coast through occasionally hilly terrain, with benches, a barbecue area and traces of the island’s fascinating history along the way. Pack a picnic and enjoy a peaceful moment by the sea.

Öland

Spend a full day on the other side of the Kalmar Strait and discover Öland – the island of sun and wind. From beaches and wide-open landscapes to farm shops, charming coastal villages and famous attractions such as Borgholm Castle and Solliden Palace Park, there’s plenty to explore. Pick a few favourites and enjoy a memorable road trip across the Öland Bridge.

Kalmar Castle

On the shores of the Kalmar Strait, one of Sweden’s best-preserved Renaissance castles is waiting to be explored. At Kalmar Castle, you can wander through historic halls, visit exhibitions and learn more about the Kalmar Union and the era of the Vasa kings. Combine your castle visit with a stroll and lunch in central Kalmar for a varied and enjoyable day out.

Astrid Lindgren’s World

Take a day trip to Vimmerby and step straight into the stories of Pippi Longstocking, Emil of Lönneberga and Astrid Lindgren’s other beloved characters. The park is filled with storybook settings brought to life, theatre performances and plenty of opportunities to play, making it a firm favourite with families. Astrid Lindgren’s World is open seasonally, so check the calendar and ticket availability before you go.

Day Trips, Museums and Attractions in Oskarshamn