Temperatures in Stockholm can rise into the lower 30's Celsius (90's Fahrenheit) during the summer and the best way to cool off is to head to the beach. It might not be the Mediterranean, but Stockholm actually has several beaches (some of them in the center of town) that are very popular. They are as crowded as any beach in southern France on a hot day! The beaches are quite diverse with something for everyone, and the water is very clean... something we are really proud of.
Långholmen is a small forrested island located adjacent to Södermalm, right across the lake from Smeduddsbadet. There is both a sandy beach, wooden platforms as well as small cliffs to dive from. Younger people tend to sun themselves on these secluded cliffs, avoiding the small children at the sandy beaches. The closest subway station is Hornstull (red line).
A little outside of the city, but well worth the trip, is Saltsjöbaden. It is a little beach resort community loccated on the way out to the archipelago that is popular with sailing enthusiasts. Nice beach and places to have lunch. To get there: take the Saltsjöbanan (commuter train) from Slussen. The trip takes about 30 minutes. If you are staying at the Rival Hotel and need more information, just talk directly with me at the hotel.
These are just a few of the many beaches in the Stockholm area... but if you are more interested in swimming in a pool, then the best place to go is Eriksdalsbadet which is located on the island of Södermalm. There are both indoor and outdoor pools as well as a water park, playground, a restaurant and the oppurtunity for other activities (volleyball, tennis, etc;).
