The coastline around Tvedestrand is a maze of islands, skerries and hidden coves that rewards exploration by kayak or small boat. The outer islands are low-lying and wind-smoothed, with flat rock shelves perfect for swimming and sun-drying, and the channels between them are sheltered enough for paddlers of modest experience on calm days. Several of the islands are uninhabited and you can pull ashore for a picnic without seeing another person.
Kayak rental is available from the harbour in summer. The standard day route takes you out through the inner skerries and loops back via the larger islands to the east — a circuit of three to four hours that gives a genuine sense of the Sørlandet coast's scattered geography. Longer expeditions are possible with overnight camping on the outer islands, though you should check local regulations and weather before committing to a night out.