An Unforgettable Christmas on Finland's Arctic Coast

Your own seaside villa, the flavours of a traditional Finnish Christmas and an elf-led visit to Santa Claus. Opening in December 2026, Aurora Sea Resort invites you to celebrate Christmas on the shores of the Bothnian Bay, surrounded by northern nature and cherished traditions.

On Finland's Arctic coast, winter transforms the seascape. As freezing temperatures settle in, ice spreads across the Bothnian Bay, and the open horizon blends into the soft colours of the winter sky. Here in Merihelmi, Ii, Christmas is a chance to slow down and spend time with the people you love.

Aurora Sea Resort opens in December 2026 with 15 seaside villas welcoming families and couples for its first winter season. The Finnish name Merihelmi, meaning *Sea Pearl*, captures the spirit of the setting. From the views outside your villa to the experiences that fill your days, the sea is always close by.

Follow the Lantern Light to Santa

During the Christmas weeks, a little festive magic settles over Merihelmi. One of the highlights is a private meeting with Santa Claus in a traditional Finnish kota hut by the sea. An elf guides each family or group individually to the hut by lantern light, where an unhurried encounter with Santa becomes a Christmas memory to treasure.

For younger guests, Santa's Little Pearls Club brings extra festive fun. Merihelmi's own complimentary children's club runs daily during Christmas week, with activities ranging from making gingerbread houses and baking Finnish Christmas pastries to playing in the snow. A small playground and a long slide add to the fun.

Festive Flavours from the Coast and Local Farms

Merihelmi's restaurant serves traditional Finnish Christmas dishes during Christmas week, while a special New Year's Eve dinner buffet marks the turn of the year.

The coastal kitchen brings together fish, locally farmed meat and lamb, and seasonal flavours, complemented by a varied selection of drinks. For an atmospheric dining experience, enjoy dinner beside an open fire in a traditional kota hut.

Winter Adventures and Time Together

Fill your days with a visit to a nearby reindeer farm, a snowmobile excursion or a kota dining experience. Many activities begin at the resort or close by. The surrounding area also offers opportunities to meet huskies and visit a sheep farm.

For couples, Christmas brings time to unwind together. A seaside sauna, a warm hot tub on a winter evening and a private kota dinner create a romantic escape. At the end of the day, your own villa awaits by the sea.

An Easy Journey to Your Christmas Escape

Aurora Sea Resort is approximately 35 minutes by car from Kemi and 50 minutes from Oulu. Rovaniemi is around two hours away, making a day trip to the Arctic Circle an easy addition to your coastal stay. Transport to Rovaniemi is available on several days during the Christmas period, while a rental car gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace.

At Merihelmi, Christmas comes to life through time together, Finnish traditions and the beauty of the northern coast. Welcome to your own unforgettable Christmas on Finland's Arctic Coast

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