Amager Strandpark

The beach park was rebuilt in 2005 by creating an artificial island two kilometres offshore and joining it to Amager with bridges, so there are two waters: the open Oresund on the seaward side with views to Sweden and the Oresund Bridge, and a shallow sheltered lagoon between the island and the mainland which warms faster and is safer for children. Five kilometres of sand, dunes planted to hold it, a promenade, kayak and windsurf hire and a set of low bathing facilities make it the city beach, ten minutes from the centre by metro, and on a hot day tens of thousands of people use it. Winter bathing clubs swim here through the cold months, which is a serious local habit.

What you actually see

• Five kilometres of made beach - an artificial island of sand and dune.
• The sheltered lagoon - shallow warm water between island and shore.
• Views to Sweden - the Oresund Bridge and the far coast on clear days.
• Winter bathing clubs - swimmers in the water through the cold months.

When to go

May to September for swimming; the water is cold before June. Half a day. Weekday mornings are quiet, hot weekends are packed. Winter dips are a year-round tradition if you are so inclined.

Honest expectations

The Baltic here is cold even in August. It is entirely artificial and looks it in places. Hot weekends bring enormous crowds and litter. Wind off the sound can make it uncomfortable even on warm days. Facilities are basic.

Nearby

Amager Nature Park is inland; the metro links it to the city centre.