Päihäniemi is part of the fragmented stretch of ice-marginal formation which formed between the First and Second Salpausselkäs. The highest shoreline in the area was formed during the Baltic ice lake period (height approx. 105msl). Below this are shorelines relating to the Saimaa ice lake stage, and underneath these a clear beach ridge from the Greater Saimaa period is visible at the northern edge of the Satamahiekka sandy beach. This 800m long ancient beach ridge rises 1-2m above its surroundings and is at an elevation of approx. 82msl. Several smaller beach ridges and shore walls can be seen between the beach ridge and the existing shoreline. These relate to the stages after the Greater Saimaa stage, during which time the water level sank towards its current level. There are also Second World War Salpa Line excavations in the area.