Guide to Grinda – Attractions, Dining, and Accommodation

Grinda is one of the most visited islands in the Stockholm archipelago

Just an hour from the city, you can breathe in the fresh air of beautiful nature while enjoying archipelago cuisine, cliffs, beaches, and breathtaking views over Saxarfjärden.

Getting Here

Grinda is located north of Värmdö and just south of Södra Ljusterö. During the summer, ferries run daily to and from Stockholm, Nacka Strand, Lidingö, and Värmdö. If you’re arriving with your own boat, there is a guest harbor on the southern part of the island with space for 100 boats, plus a fuel station, a harbor office, and service facilities.

Historic Inn

Grinda Wärdshus has been welcoming guests since 1906. Today, it offers restaurant and comfortable accommodations and also cozy fireplaces, bars, verandas, and Sista rummet, a special space designed by famous architect Jonas Bohlin. Gather your friends and family to enjoy seasonal menus and a relaxing stay.

Animals and Farming

Grinda Lantbruk operates year-round to maintain the open, natural landscape. The farm is home to nearly all traditional livestock animals, and during the summer, most of them graze freely across Grinda and neighboring islands, helping preserve the countryside. Occasionally, “farm hangouts” are arranged and announced via the farm’s Facebook or Instagram page, but private bookings are also possible. If you visit in spring, fall, or winter, a pre-booked tour is highly recommended, as all the animals are gathered at the farm.

Sea Lodge by the Water

For budget-friendly living, Grinda Sea Lodge is a great place to relax during the summer. Here, you can stay right by the water, with access to swimming, walking trails, an outdoor gym, a barbecue area, and an open-air restaurant. Try stand-up paddleboarding (SUP), kayaking, or canoeing, play table tennis or soccer—or take a refreshing dip in the sea. There's plenty of space for children to run around, and pet-friendly rooms are available for those bringing a four-legged friend.

Cozy Cottages

Rent your own island retreat for a few days! Grinda’s cottage village offers 27 cabins with 2, 4, or 6 beds, allowing you to stay surrounded by nature and tranquility. Larger families can also book a semi-detached house.

Scenic Camping

On Grinda, camping is only permitted in designated areas. The camping site is beautifully located, and no prior booking is required. A small fee grants access to services.

Sandy Beaches

Grinda is often called Stockholm’s swimming paradise. Small sheltered bays, cliffs, piers—where would you like to go?

Hiking Along the Archipelago Trail

Looking for a new way to explore the archipelago? The Stockholm Archipelago Trail stretches across 20 islands, offering a unique hiking experience. The Grinda section follows the northern coastline, providing a varied and occasionally challenging trek.

Plenty of Activities

At Grinda something is always happening—Easter dinners, bonfires, Midsummer celebrations, fishing competitions, swimruns, climbing, kayaking, and more. Keep an eye out, for example in the activity calendar to see what’s on throughout the year.

Things to Keep in Mind

Grinda is a nature reserve owned by Skärgårdsstiftelsen, so be sure to follow the reserve's rules and respect the wildlife. Some areas are farmland, where crops like hay and grains are grown for the animals—stick to designated paths to protect them. There’s plenty of space for play, picnics, and relaxation on public grassy areas. Also, note that most businesses on Grinda are seasonal, with the inn and a few other services open year-round—check individual websites for opening hours.

Voices from Grinda

Maria Jörgensson, Manager of Grinda Farm

A great tip for visitors is to head up to Klubbudden—Grinda’s highest point—for a stunning nature experience. If you’re looking for a quiet place to swim, there are plenty of hidden bays there. Follow the shoreline toward Hästholmen on the southern side of the island to find beautiful sandy beaches.

Jan Pfister, Manager of Grinda Wärdshus

Grinda offers both tranquility and nature, as well as great food and comfortable accommodations. It’s easy to get here by ferry or private boat. Renting the sauna or the floating sauna on a summer evening is truly a special experience.