Pihlajasaari is one of Helsinki’s most popular islands for outdoor activities. Visitor numbers have risen in recent years, partly due to the development of water transport, and the annual number of visitors is estimated to rise from the current figure of around 60,000 to as many as 100,000 by 2030.
According to a visitor survey carried out in the summer of 2026, the island’s main attractions are its natural surroundings, tranquillity, maritime character and unique archipelago atmosphere. Current visitors did not primarily want new services, but rather improvements to the existing basic services. The greatest need for improvement was identified in the toilet facilities, water points and signage. In addition, visitors wanted more sauna sessions and the option of public sauna sessions.
Current visitors described Pihlajasaari as an easily accessible nature destination that offers recreation, tranquillity and a respite from hectic city life.
Tranquil nature and active pastimes side by side
The City’s aim is to develop Pihlajasaari into a pleasant and safe destination for an increasing number of Helsinki residents, such as schoolchildren and families. A key principle underpinning this development is the preservation of the tranquillity of the natural environment.
The plan for the island identifies both areas intended for active use and areas designed to promote natural tranquillity and silence. The objective is to utilise the different parts of the island in a balanced manner and to offer even more people the opportunity to enjoy its finest outdoor environments.
As part of this wider project, the naturist beach on the southern shore of eastern Pihlajasaari will be converted into a public area during the summer of 2027. The change will open up areas for a wider range of uses than at present and provide more space for activities such as recreation, fishing and lounging.
"The starting point for the development of Pihlajasaari is to preserve it as an accessible nature destination where anyone can easily come and spend the day. We want it to be easy to get to the island – even straight from the urban streets without changing into outdoor gear. Visitors appreciate, above all, the island’s natural beauty, tranquillity and seaside atmosphere, and it is precisely these strengths that we want to develop and nurture in the future as well,” says Head of Outdoor Services Stefan Fröberg at the City of Helsinki’s Sports Services.
First changes to appear in summer 2027
The development work will begin in 2027. The facilities in the camping and barbecue areas will be renovated, and catering services will be developed in collaboration with the operator.
Sauna services will be expanded by offering more bookable sessions, and the aim is to organise public sauna sessions in the future as well as to explore the possibility of a new sauna.
In addition to this, the emissions from waterborne transport will be reduced through electrification. Free water transport services will continue to be offered to schoolchildren and, as part of various themed days, to all residents of the city.
The booking of changing rooms at Pihlajasaari and Uunisaari will be transferred to the Varaamo system during the winter season of 2027. Going forward, the changing rooms will be let on an annual basis following a raffle.