Summer at Lapland: Beaches, SUP & Outdoor Fun
When most travellers think of Lapland, they picture snow-covered landscapes and Northern Lights dancing across winter skies. Yet this Arctic wonderland transforms completely during the summer months, revealing a side that few visitors ever experience. The midnight sun bathes pristine lakes in golden light, temperatures climb to comfortable levels perfect for outdoor adventures, and endless days create opportunities for activities impossible anywhere else on Earth.
Summer Lapland offers an extraordinary blend of natural beauty and outdoor excitement that challenges every preconception about this northern destination. From lakeside beaches where you can swim under the midnight sun to stand-up paddleboarding across crystal-clear waters, the warm months unveil a completely different character. We’ve discovered that many international visitors are amazed by the diversity of summer activities Lapland provides, often saying their expectations were completely exceeded.
This guide explores why summer might be the perfect time for your Lapland adventure, revealing the hidden gems and unique experiences waiting in this remarkable corner of Finland.
Why summer is Lapland’s best-kept secret
The transformation of Lapland during the summer months feels almost magical. Where winter brings snow and darkness, summer Lapland explodes with vibrant green forests, wildflower meadows, and the extraordinary phenomenon of the midnight sun Lapland experience. From late May through July, the sun never fully sets, creating an otherworldly atmosphere where time seems suspended.
Temperatures during Ruka summer regularly reach 20–25°C (68–77°F), perfect for hiking, cycling, and water activities. The extended daylight hours mean you can enjoy outdoor adventures well into what would normally be evening, making every day feel like an extended weekend. This unique combination of comfortable weather and endless light creates opportunities for experiences you simply cannot find elsewhere.
Many visitors are surprised to discover that the summer activities Lapland offers rival those of any mountain or lakeland destination. The pristine wilderness remains largely untouched, offering authentic encounters with nature that feel increasingly rare in our connected world. Wildlife viewing becomes exceptional during these months, with reindeer grazing in open meadows and various bird species thriving in the extended daylight.
The contrast with winter tourism means fewer crowds and a more intimate connection with the landscape. While winter brings its own magic, summer reveals Lapland’s gentler side, where you can truly relax and immerse yourself in the natural environment without battling extreme weather conditions.
Lakeside beaches and water activities at Ruka
Our location beside a beautiful lake creates the perfect setting for lakeside activities Finland enthusiasts. The crystal-clear waters warm to surprisingly comfortable temperatures during the summer months, making swimming not just possible but genuinely enjoyable. These Lapland beaches offer something truly unique: sandy shores surrounded by pristine wilderness, where you might be the only people for miles around.
SUP Lapland adventures have become increasingly popular among our guests. Stand-up paddleboarding across the mirror-like surface during the golden hours of the midnight sun creates unforgettable memories. The calm waters provide ideal conditions for beginners, while more experienced paddlers can explore hidden coves and inlets that reveal new perspectives of the surrounding forest.
Canoeing offers another peaceful way to explore the waterways. The gentle currents and sheltered bays make it suitable for families and couples seeking a romantic adventure. Many guests tell us that paddling under the midnight sun, with only the sound of their paddle cutting through the water, becomes one of their most treasured travel memories.
Traditional Finnish lakeside experiences include sauna sessions followed by refreshing swims. We maintain traditional wood-fired saunas where you can experience this authentic Finnish ritual, then cool off with a dip in the pristine lake waters. The combination of heat and cool, surrounded by untouched nature, embodies the essence of Finnish summer culture.
Fishing enthusiasts discover excellent opportunities right from our shores. The clean waters support healthy fish populations, and there’s something magical about casting a line under the never-setting sun. Whether you’re an experienced angler or trying fishing for the first time, the peaceful lakeside setting provides the perfect backdrop.
Complete summer activity packages for every traveller
We’ve designed comprehensive summer vacation packages Lapland that eliminate the stress of planning while maximising your experience of this remarkable destination. Our holiday package options combine quality accommodation in traditional log chalets with carefully selected outdoor activities and local dining experiences.
The beauty of choosing a complete package lies in the seamless integration of experiences. Rather than worrying about booking individual activities or coordinating schedules, you can focus entirely on enjoying your Lapland outdoor fun adventures. Our packages cater to different interests and energy levels, from gentle nature walks and peaceful canoeing to more adventurous hiking and cycling expeditions.
Families particularly appreciate our multi-generational packages that balance active adventures with relaxing moments. Children love the freedom of endless daylight hours, while adults can unwind in the peaceful natural surroundings. Our accommodation options include spacious chalets perfect for groups, ensuring everyone has comfortable space to rest between adventures.
Individual travellers and couples often choose our romantic summer packages, which might include private SUP sessions at sunset (or rather, the golden glow of midnight), intimate dinners featuring local ingredients, and cosy evenings in traditional log chalets. The Lapland resort summer experience we provide focuses on authentic connections with nature and with each other.
Our activity coordinators work with local guides who possess intimate knowledge of the area. This means you’ll discover hidden gems and learn about local culture, flora, and fauna that independent travellers often miss. The combination of professional guidance and local expertise ensures your summer activities Lapland experience exceeds expectations while maintaining the highest safety standards.
How to book your perfect Lapland summer getaway
Booking your summer Lapland adventure through our website provides a straightforward path to your ideal holiday. Our online booking system allows you to browse available packages, compare what’s included, and secure your dates with just a few clicks. The process takes minutes, but the memories will last a lifetime.
Different package tiers offer varying levels of inclusion and luxury. Basic packages typically include accommodation in our comfortable chalets plus selected activities and experiences. Premium options might add airport transfers, additional excursions, and enhanced dining experiences featuring local specialities.
For travellers with specific requirements or unique interests, our sales team at sales@salonkitravels.fi specialises in creating customised summer packages. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion, travelling with mobility considerations, or have particular activity preferences, we can adapt our offerings to match your needs perfectly.
The booking process includes detailed information about what to pack, what’s provided, and what to expect during different times of the summer season. Early summer offers the freshest greens and wildflowers, while late summer provides the warmest water temperatures and berry-picking opportunities.
We recommend booking well in advance, particularly for July dates when the midnight sun phenomenon is most pronounced. However, the extended summer season means excellent experiences are available from late May through early September, providing flexibility for different travel schedules and preferences.
Your Lapland resort summer experience begins the moment you arrive at our lakeside location. With everything arranged in advance, you can immediately immerse yourself in the unique atmosphere of endless daylight, pristine nature, and the gentle pace of Arctic summer living.