Ula

Ula is a tiny seaside village tucked into a sheltered bay on the Vestfold coast, halfway between Sandefjord and Larvik. Locals consistently rank its beach as the finest in the region. The bay faces south and is protected from the open Skagerrak, with shallow sandy water surrounded by smooth coastal rocks, perfect for families with children. The village grew up on fishing and piloting in the second half of the 1700s. Its most famous resident was Anders Jacob Johansen, known as Ulabrand, a sea pilot who guided ships through the treacherous waters off the coast. He died at sea in November 1881. A stone monument in his memory stands on the hill right above the harbour where he lived, and the viewpoint offers one of the best panoramas along this stretch of coastline. A row of protected 18th-century wooden houses lines the main beach, giving Ula a character that newer resort villages lack. The population has shrunk to fewer than 200 year-round residents, but in summer the village fills with cabin owners, campers and day visitors. The campsite runs a stone-oven pizzeria during the school holidays. Towards Kjerringvik, Oslofjordens Friluftsrad manages large recreational areas open to the public. The coastal trail passes right through, making Ula a natural stop for hikers following the Vestfold shoreline. Kayaking, diving and bouldering on the surrounding rocks are all popular.