[2][3] Helgenæs lies across the bay to the east, a bit inland to the west is the Marselisborg Deer Park and to the north is the Varna Palace.

It is a white sandy beach with occasional rows of boulders extending into the sea, for coastal erosion protection.

Ballehage Beach is popular for sunbathing and swimming due to the shielding effect and scenic view of the nearby forest on the steep hillsides to the west.

The beach has a single jetty extending some 20 metres (66 feet) into the sea, offering a platform to jump from or relax on.

Aarhus Municipality frequently tests the water for bacteria and algae and rates all beaches on a yearly basis.