Fun activities for families in Haugesund

Travel back to the Viking Age

At Avaldsnes, Norway’s oldest royal seat, children can get close to history. Visit the Nordvegen History Centre, St. Olav’s Church and the Viking Farm – and let the kids join the popular Viking Hunt.

The trip can easily be combined with The Viking Planet in Haugesund city centre, a digital museum featuring film, VR and interactive installations. And yes: the selfie station is a must!

See more about the viking history in the Haugesund region here.

Europe’s largest mini-golf park

At Torvastad you’ll find Minigolfen Familiepark with six themed courses – both indoor and outdoor. It’s easy to spend several hours here, and the themes make the experience extra fun for children.

Burn off some energy at Rush Trampoline Park

Rush Trampolinepark suits both younger and older children. They can try the obstacle course, jump from towers or practise tricks. And the best part? It´s open all year round and it doesn’t depend on the weather!

Family-friendly Via Ferrata in Åkrafjorden

For families who enjoy active experiences, Via Ferrata Ingadalen is a great choice. The route is suitable for children from around six years old. Combine the trip with a night at Åkrafjorden Nature B&B – they also have an indoor climbing wall and gym hall.

Horse-riding in Åkrafjorden – experience the fjord from horseback

One of the region’s most unique family activities is horse-riding in Åkrafjorden. You’ll experience the dramatic fjord landscape from horseback, surrounded by steep mountains, forest and streams – a special way to enjoy nature together. The rides are suitable for beginners as well as more experienced riders, and offer a safe and memorable experience for both children and adults.

Tysværtunet Badeanlegg– perfect temperatures all year round

At Tysværtunet Badeanlegg in Aksdal, the water is always comfortably warm. There’s a diving tower, water slide and a dedicated children’s pool – perfect for young swimmers in any weather. Remember to buy tickets online in advance. Combine your visit with a snack at GP Café.

Film magic at the cinema

If the weather turns, it’s nice to hide away in a dark cinema with a good film (and a sweet treat, of course). Check the film listings for Edda Kino, Karmøy Kino, Tysvær Kino and Skakke Kino – you’ll easily find something that suits everyone.

Fun and learning for children at the museum

Visit one of Haugalandmuseet’s departments and combine play with learning. Karmsund Folk Museum, Arquebus War History Museum, Dokken – Sildemuseet in Haugesund and Haugesund Art Gallery all offer activities for children. Check Hauglandmuseet’s website for opening hours for each museum.

Museum, playground and nature trails at Visnes

At Visnes Mining Museum, children can learn about the copper mines that supplied materials for the Statue of Liberty. The area has a museum, playground, zipline and a small “mine” for children. You can also try the Adventure Hunt here, which is also available in Skudeneshavn. The quiz sheets and diploma can be collected at selected locations or downloaded online. Stop by Fransehagen Bistro for a bite to eat while you’re there (check opening ours before your visit).

Treasures of the sea on Røvær island

Take the boat from Haugesund to Røvær, a small and charming island. Here, children can catch crabs by the shoreline and visit Røvær Havbrukssenter, a free attraction with games, activities and learning about marine life. A RIB tour to the fish farm can be booked separately.

Norway’s most beautiful beach on Karmøy

Think you need to travel abroad for white sand and crystal-clear water? Then you should visit the beaches on Karmøy – especially Åkrasanden and Sandvesanden. In addition to great swimming spots, they’re ideal for walks, play and exploration. Perhaps your child’s very first swim will happen here?

Visit Trolltunga’s little sister

A visit to Nedstrand, about 50 minutes from Haugesund, is highly recommended. Here you’ll find Himakånå, often called “Trolltunga’s little sister”, rising 357 metres above sea level. The hike takes about an hour and is suitable for families. Bring something tasty in your backpack – and time to enjoy the view.

Swimming spots within walking distance of Haugesund city centre

It’s easy to combine a city visit with a refreshing dip in Haugesund. Several bathing spots are within walking distance of the centre. Haraldsvang is about 30 minutes on foot and offers swimming, a diving tower and a great playground. Asalvika is a short walk from the city park, and Kvalsvik lies along the Coastal Path north of Haugesund. All are suitable for children, and Haraldsvang and Kvalsvik have good parking.

Day-trip cabins – exciting destinations for all ages

Day-trip cabins have become popular spots for families – and for good reason. Several are found in the Haugesund region, some easier to reach than others. How about visiting the cabin on top of Alvanuten or the cabins on Vibrandsøy and Utsira?

At the top of Bokn

The hike to the top of Boknafjellet is short and easy, taking around 45 minutes. From the top, you’ll have lovely views across parts of Haugalandet and Ryfylke. Boknafjellet has long served as a sailing landmark and rises 293 metres above sea level. Parking is available at Boknafjellet car park.

Cupcake heaven in Haugesund

Jåblom Bakst Cupcakehuset is a dream come true for children who love sweets. You’ll find delicious cupcakes in countless flavours, along with a wide selection of coffee and drinks. You’ll quickly understand why these cupcakes are talked about far beyond Norway’s borders.