Havstenssund
Tanum
At the tip of a peninsula north of Grebbestad lies Havstenssund, in the heart of one of the world’s most beautiful archipelagos. Here you can experience a genuine, vibrant fishing village surrounded by breathtaking nature, with the sea always close at hand.
The Harbor
In the harbor, you’ll find several active fishing boats. During spring and early summer, the main catch is mackerel, and the autumn lobster season is important for many—both professional and recreational fishers. Shrimp, crayfish, and oysters are also common catches in Havstenssund. The village was previously entirely dependent on fishing and shipping. Today, the sale and service of leisure boats provide the largest share of local employment. Many residents commute daily to nearby towns for work.
Havstenssund is part of Kosterhavet National Park. Ninety‑eight percent of Kosterhavet National Park consists of marine environments.
In the harbor area of Havstenssund, you’ll find the summer‑open restaurant Skaldjurscaféet. Here you’ll also find the well‑renowned, year‑round GBM Marin, one of the country’s oldest marine suppliers, as well as an InfoPoint.
Guest Harbors
At the northern harbor, you dock at the private guest harbor belonging to GBM Marin. There is space for 12–14 boats. Here you have access to toilets, showers, shore power, waste disposal, and water. GBM Marin also offers a small grocery section and a fuel dock where you can refuel year‑round.
Photograph: Celina Falck
Swimming & Hiking
A walk along the pier and boardwalk takes you to the village’s beach—a child‑friendly swimming area with a sandy beach and a jetty. The beautiful archipelago environment invites you to discover your own swimming spots among islets and coves.
In and around Havstenssund, you’ll find several scenic hiking trails. The lovely walk through “Målarklöva” takes you up to the top of Sunneberget, where you can enjoy a stunning panoramic view over the village, islands, and strait. The nature reserve on Trossö‑Kalvö‑Lindö sits across the strait. The islands are connected by a road suitable for both walking and cycling, offering an extraordinary nature experience. Unfortunately, there is no public transport across—only your own boat or kayak.
The popular excursion spot Tjurpannan Nature Reserve, just south of Havstenssund, is perfect for hiking and swimming, with smooth cliffs that slope down into the salty, turquoise‑blue water.
We dare say that the idyllic charm of Havstenssund will leave you wanting more.
The waters in and around Havstenssund are extremely clear, and the surrounding area is considered by many to be among the best in the world for paddling. Book a kayak, guide, and adventure package—with or without accommodation—through Skärgårdsidyllen Kayak & Outdoor or Minto Tingvall. You can also try the standing paddling option, Stand Up Paddleboard (SUP). Read more about paddling in Tanum here.
Photograph: Linnea Sjögren
Accommodation
Havstenssund currently offers no commercial accommodation. Nearby campsites include Saltvik Camping and Edsvik Camping.
You can find all accommodation options in Tanum Municipality here.
Oysters
In Havstenssund, you’ll find the award‑winning Havstenssunds Ostron AB, which offers activities and events upon request. You can buy oysters locally and join an oyster safari year‑round to their own farm, where they cultivate the European oyster, Ostrea Edulis. The best time to enjoy oysters is autumn, winter, and spring, when the water is cold and fresh and the oysters are not spawning.
Photographer: Havstenssunds Ostron AB
Photograph: Havstenssunds Ostron AB