Kristiansund is well placed for excursions along the coast. The Atlantic Ocean Road is the obvious destination — 35 kilometres south via the undersea tunnel — and can be combined with the Averøy fishing villages and the island of Bud. Molde, across the fjord, is reachable by ferry and offers a different angle on fjord Norway. Farther afield, the Trollheimen mountains to the southeast are accessible in a long day by car.
Atlantic Ocean Road (Atlanterhavsveien): Take the Atlantic Ocean Tunnel south to Averøy, then follow the route out across the islands and bridges. Allow 3–4 hours including stops. The road is 35 km from central Kristiansund; combine with a visit to the fishing village of Bud at the far end.
Molde: The ferry across the Moldefjord takes about 90 minutes and arrives in a town known for its roses and panoramic mountain view (the Moldepanorama). The Romsdal Museum, on the edge of town, has an open-air collection of traditional buildings. The Rauma Railway from Åndalsnes, one of Norway's most spectacular train journeys, is within reach if you have a full day.
Averøy and Bud: Averøy island, reached via the Atlantic Ocean Tunnel, has a long shoreline with several good beaches and the old trading post at Bruhagen. The village of Bud, at the western end of the municipality, is a classic Norwegian fishing hamlet — small, windswept, and worth a short stop.