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Kosterhavet National Park

Västra Götalands län

Kosterhavet is a marine national park on Sweden’s west coast with several gateways on islands and the mainland. This guide explains access, accessibility and why overnight-stay rules need to be checked before your visit.

How do I plan a first visit to Kosterhavet National Park?

Kosterhavet has several gateways, including South Koster, Saltö, Rossö and Resö. According to current park information, ferries operate from Strömstad to the Koster Islands year-round. Accessibility and overnight rules differ between locations, so first decide which part of the park you want to experience.

Glacially polished and grooved granite bedrock by the sea in Kosterhavet National Park, showing clear glacial striations in the rock with the sea visible in the background.
Geological Survey of Sweden (SGU), photographed by Thomas Eliasson

Source: Sweden's National Parks: Kosterhavet National Park – Visit the park · Last verified: 8 September 2026

Timetables, services and some regulations are time-sensitive. Check the official park website and transport operator immediately before visiting.

Several gateways

Kosterhavet National Park has several entrances. The main entrance is at Naturum by Ekenäs jetty on South Koster, with other gateways in Strömstad, Saltö, Rossö and Resö.

Ferry access to the Koster Islands

Official park information states that Koster ferries operate from Strömstad year-round and the crossing takes about 45 minutes. Timetables are dynamic and should be checked with the operator.

Accessibility

The park states that its entrance areas are accessibility-adapted. Naturum on South Koster is reached by ferry, followed by about 200 metres of paved road from Ekenäs jetty.

Overnight stays have specific rules

Special rules apply to overnight stays in the national park. Current official information includes a general maximum of two nights in the same place in much of the park and additional seasonal restrictions in some locations. Check the latest rules before camping or staying overnight by boat.