Few venues in Southern Norway combine beachside beauty, top-tier events, and family-friendly fun as seamlessly as Aquarama Arena (Aquarama Arena) in Kristiansand. Sitting just steps from the city’s urban beach Bystranda (Bystranda), this multi-purpose arena anchors the larger Aquarama complex—a hub that blends sports, wellness, and seaside leisure in one of Norway’s sunniest cities. For travelers, it’s both a destination and a gateway: a place to catch a concert, cheer at a handball match, or unwind after exploring the coastal charm of Kristiansand.
Opened in 2013 as part of a major waterfront development, the arena quickly became a cultural and athletic centerpiece for the region of Southern Norway (Sørlandet). It’s the home ground for Kristiansand’s elite handball clubs, and has welcomed everything from championship matches to high-energy youth tournaments. The arena’s flexible layout allows for a swift transformation from sports court to concert stage, hosting national touring acts, comedic performances, and community festivals—making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
What makes the venue especially attractive to travelers is its integration with the surrounding Aquarama complex. Next door you’ll find the Aquarama Water Park (Aquarama Bad), one of Norway’s most comprehensive aquatic centers, featuring wave pools, slides, a surf simulator, and dedicated children’s areas. Wellness seekers can retreat to the Aquarama Spa (Aquarama Spa) for saunas, steam rooms, and treatments, while fitness-minded guests often drop into the Aquarama Fitness Center (Aquarama Trening). It’s possible to spend a full day here: hit the gym, relax at the spa, then cap it off with an evening concert or fixture at the arena.
Location is a major win. Aquarama Arena sits within easy walking distance of Kristiansand’s city center, the Marina (Gjestehavn), and the lively Fish Market (Fiskebrygga), making it a convenient stop in any sightseeing itinerary. In summer, the coupling of arena events with the sandy curve of Bystranda is especially appealing: arrive early to sunbathe, swim, or rent paddleboards, then head indoors for the evening’s headline event. Numerous cafés, ice cream stands, and restaurants surround the waterfront, ensuring you won’t go hungry between activities.
Practical tips for visitors: tickets for sports and concerts are best purchased in advance via official event listings or the arena’s website, especially during peak summer or holiday periods. Seating configurations vary by event, so check the plan when booking. The venue is accessible and family-friendly, with amenities such as stroller access and nearby parking garages. Public transport is straightforward: several bus lines stop close to the arena, and Kristiansand Station (Kristiansand stasjon) is about a 10–15 minute walk. If you’re planning a wellness day, consider combination tickets or day passes at the water park and spa—these can offer good value.
A few fun facts add to the allure. The arena and its neighboring facilities were designed with sustainability in mind, benefiting from energy-efficient systems and a compact urban footprint that encourages walking and public transport. The setting by City Beach is also unique in Norway, creating a Mediterranean vibe on sunny days that complements the city’s vibrant summer festival season. And for families, the proximity of the water park means there’s always a backup plan if the weather turns.
Whether you’re in town for a weekend or exploring the southern coast on a longer road trip, Aquarama Arena encapsulates what makes Kristiansand special: a laid-back seaside lifestyle paired with high-quality culture and sport. Come for the handball, stay for the beach, and round it off with a spa session—few venues in Norway offer such a complete, all-weather experience in one place.