Top 10 Must-Visit Finnish Islands for Nature Lovers

10 Finnish Islands You'll Fall in Love With

When it comes to islands, Finland is flexing hard. With over 80,000 islands dotting its coastlines, the Finnish archipelago is the largest in the world. From secret sandy beaches and quaint fishing villages to wild forests and quirky cultural corners, these islands are where nature, history, and community come together.

Ready to hop aboard a ferry and find your slice of island heaven? Here are 10 Finnish islands that are easy to reach and even easier to fall in love with.

🌊 Kaunissaari – Finland's Beautiful Island by Name and Nature

Kaunissaari — literally “Beautiful Island” in Finnish — is the kind of place that sounds like a postcard and looks even better in real life. Just off the coast near Kotka in Southern Finland, this gem is part of the Gulf of Finland archipelago. With its colorful fishing cottages, soft sand beaches, and laid-back charm, it’s the ultimate Baltic escape.

✨ Why Visit?

Because sometimes, you just need to unplug. Kaunissaari has a calming magic about it: no traffic noise, just seagulls overhead and the scent of the sea. You’ll wander past rustic red boathouses, find cafés serving fish fresh from the net, and stumble on local artisans selling handmade crafts. Whether you’re into beachcombing, exploring quirky museums, or simply soaking in quiet coastal vibes, this island is your slow-travel soulmate.

🚢 How to Get There?

Getting to Kaunissaari is part of the fun. Head to the coastal town of Kotka, about 90 minutes east of Helsinki by car or bus. From there, hop on a ferry at Kuusinen Harbour — they run up to four times daily during the summer. The ferry ride takes around 90 minutes, so kick back and enjoy the sea breeze as you cruise past forested islets and open water.

☀️ Best Time to Visit

June through August is the sweet spot. This is when the island is at its liveliest — the cafés are open, local artisans are selling their crafts, and the beaches are warm enough for a dip. If you're after peace and quiet, try visiting in early June or late August, when the crowds thin out but the weather is still magical.

🕰️ How Long Should You Stay?

A day trip is possible, but trust us — you’ll wish you had more time. Plan for at least one overnight stay to fully soak in the relaxed pace. You’ll get to experience the glow of a Baltic sunset, enjoy a leisurely breakfast by the sea, and explore more of the island without rushing.

📸 Must See

• Harbor Village: A picture-perfect welcome with its iconic red wooden boathouses and bobbing fishing boats.
• Kaunissaari Archipelago Museum: Small but full of charm, this local-run museum gives you a glimpse into island life over the centuries.
• Kaunissaaren Maja Restaurant: Great seafood, even better sea views — grab a table outside if the weather's good.

🏖️ Must Do

• Beach Day: Bring a towel, a book, and your chillest mood — Kaunissaari’s beaches are natural, uncrowded, and deeply relaxing.
• Explore Local Art: Discover pop-up galleries and studios showcasing island-made crafts and artwork.
• Walk or Bike Around: The island is small enough to explore by foot or bike — the perfect way to discover quiet spots and hidden corners.

🌿 Local Tips

• Cash is King (Sometimes): A few of the island’s shops and cafés are cash-only, so have a little on hand just in case.
• Midweek Wins: Visit Tuesday to Thursday for fewer crowds and more peaceful vibes.
• Layers are Smart: Even in July, the sea breeze can get cool — pack a hoodie or light jacket.
• Check Ferry Schedules: Especially later in the season, as times can change based on demand and weather. Always plan your return trip in advance.

🌿 Pellinge – Moomin Magic & Island Traditions

Pellinge is not just another island — it’s a whole world of its own. This archipelago near Porvoo has been home to vibrant island communities since the 1500s, and today, it still pulses with a rare kind of energy. Think hand-painted cottages, sailing regattas, and a deep connection to Finnish folklore and literature. Tove Jansson, the creator of the Moomins, found inspiration here — and you just might, too.

✨ Why Visit?

Pellinge is bursting with local flavor and community spirit. In summer, the islands come alive with over 120 events — everything from midsummer bonfires and music festivals to old-school boat races. There’s a warmth here that goes beyond the sunshine; locals genuinely welcome you into their world. Add in cozy cafés, artisan shops, and scenic nature trails, and you've got an island experience that blends culture and calm.

🚢 How to Get There?

Catch a ferry from Tirmo, which is reachable by road from Porvoo (a little over an hour from Helsinki). Ferries are free, run every 15–30 minutes, and operate year-round — making it one of the most accessible island escapes in the region.

☀️ Best Time to Visit

Late June through early August is ideal. This is festival season, and the whole archipelago feels like one big celebration. If you’re after more peace and less party, visit in early September when the crowds disappear but the island charm lingers.

🕰️ How Long Should You Stay?

Give yourself 2–3 days to really enjoy what Pellinge has to offer. One day for the art and culture, one for nature and the sea, and maybe one just to lounge and absorb the calm.

📸 Must See

• Tove Jansson Memorial Spots: Several parts of the island nod to the Moomin creator’s legacy.
• Pellinge Church and Cemetery: A peaceful place full of stories and history.
• Local Handicraft Galleries: Small, family-run spots with authentic Finnish art and design.

🏖️ Must Do

• Join a Summer Festival: Dance, eat, and celebrate like a local.
• Try a Fishing Tour: Learn traditional net-fishing with islanders.
• Hop Between Islets: Rent a boat or kayak and go exploring the nearby smaller islands.

🌿 Local Tips

• Support Local Artists: Many locals sell their crafts from home studios — just follow the hand-painted signs.
• Bring Snacks: While there are cafés, options can be limited on weekdays.
• Explore on Two Wheels: Bring or rent a bike — it’s the easiest and most scenic way to get around.

🏰 Suomenlinna – A Fortress Island with Big City Access

Just a short ferry from Helsinki, Suomenlinna is the kind of island that packs in centuries of history, incredible views, and a chilled-out pace — all without ever leaving the city limits. Built in the 18th century, this massive sea fortress sprawls over six connected islands and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site where locals actually live.

✨ Why Visit?

You can walk on centuries-old ramparts, explore underground tunnels, sip craft beer from a local brewery, and still be back in Helsinki for dinner. Suomenlinna is a perfect mix of culture, nature, and convenience. It’s popular, yes — but there’s always a quiet path or hidden café if you know where to look.

🚢 How to Get There?

Hop on a ferry from Helsinki’s Market Square. The public ferry runs frequently, even in winter, and the ride takes less than 20 minutes. There’s also a private waterbus in summer if you want a more scenic detour.

☀️ Best Time to Visit

Late spring to early autumn is ideal, especially for picnics and those Instagram-worthy coastal views. That said, winter has its own moody charm — think snow-covered stone walls and empty courtyards.

🕰️ How Long Should You Stay?

A half-day to full day is perfect for exploring, though some travelers book a night in a local guesthouse or Airbnb for a more immersive experience.

📸 Must See

• King’s Gate and Fortress Walls: Iconic photo ops and historical significance.
• Suomenlinna Church: It also doubles as a lighthouse — very Nordic.
• The Submarine Vesikko: A real WWII submarine you can climb into (open in summer).

🏖️ Must Do

• Brewery Tasting at Suomenlinnan Panimo: Sample seasonal beers made right on the island.
• Picnic with a View: Find a grassy spot with ocean views — there are plenty.
• Walk the Island Trail Loop: It’s the best way to hit all six islands in one scenic stroll.

🌿 Local Tips

• Pack Snacks or Grab a Picnic Kit in Town: Food on the island is good but can be pricey.
• Download the Suomenlinna App: It has maps and self-guided tour options.
• Bring Layers: The sea breeze can get brisk, even in summer.

🐾 Pentala – Nature, Nostalgia, and Island Tranquility

Nestled just off the coast of Espoo, Pentala is a nature lover’s escape with a touch of old-world Finnish charm. This car-free island is part museum, part forest reserve, and entirely peaceful — the kind of place you go when you want to hear birds instead of buses.

✨ Why Visit?

Pentala gives you a deep dive into both natural beauty and traditional island life. Its unique open-air museum is set in a preserved fishing village, while more than half of the island is a nature conservation area teeming with birds and wildflowers. It’s quiet, uncrowded, and completely refreshing.

🚢 How to Get There?

Catch a summer ferry from Kivenlahti Harbour in Espoo. It runs regularly between June and August, and the short ride drops you off right in the middle of all the calm.

☀️ Best Time to Visit

Summer is the only time to visit, as ferries run seasonally. July is best for good weather, but June and August are more peaceful.

🕰️ How Long Should You Stay?

One full day is perfect. You can walk the trails, check out the museum, swim in the lake, and still catch the last ferry back.

📸 Must See

• Pentala Archipelago Museum: Fifteen preserved buildings tell the story of local island life.
• Lake Pentala: A hidden lake in the middle of the island, complete with its own beach.
• Fisherman’s Cottage: Step inside for a glimpse of what life was like here a century ago.

🏖️ Must Do

• Hike the Nature Trail: A 2.3 km loop that takes you through forest, along the lake, and to the sea.
• Birdwatching: Keep your eyes out for woodpeckers, deer, and rare seabirds.
• Take a Dip: Swim in the lake or off the wild beach — both are peaceful and scenic.

🌿 Local Tips

• No Shops Here: Bring snacks, drinks, and anything else you might need for the day.
• Wear Good Shoes: Trails can be rocky or muddy depending on the weather.
• Respect the Quiet: This isn’t a party island — it’s a peaceful retreat.

👻 Jussarö – Finland's Ghost Island with a Wild Side

Jussarö isn’t your typical island getaway. Once an active iron ore mine and later a military training zone, this large island now stands eerily quiet, scattered with crumbling buildings overtaken by nature. Located off the coast of Tammisaari, it’s a mysterious place where the forest is slowly reclaiming the ruins — and the sea keeps its secrets.

✨ Why Visit?

Jussarö is like stepping into a post-apocalyptic fairy tale. It’s rugged, raw, and absolutely fascinating. Think abandoned houses, twisted metal, untouched nature, and trails that weave between relics of the past. It’s a favorite for photographers, history buffs, and those looking for an island adventure that’s more ghost town than sunbathing spot.

🚢 How to Get There?

In the summer, day cruises run from Tammisaari (Ekenäs) North Harbour. It’s about 1.5 hours from Helsinki by car or train. Some private boat tours and kayaking trips also include Jussarö as a stop.

☀️ Best Time to Visit

July and August are best. That’s when the island is most accessible and guided tours are available. Some weekends also feature pop-up cafés or local events, adding a little life to the ghostly landscape.

🕰️ How Long Should You Stay?

Plan for a full day trip. There’s no accommodation, so you’ll want to catch the return ferry in the afternoon. Bring lunch, water, and a sense of curiosity.

📸 Must See

• The Abandoned Barracks: Chilling and atmospheric — bring your camera.
• Old Mine Shafts & Equipment: Some rusting relics of Finland’s industrial past still remain.
• Viewpoints Over the Baltic: Climb the rocks for sweeping views of the surrounding sea and islets.

🏖️ Must Do

• Explore the Ruins: Let your imagination roam while walking through the old buildings.
• Nature Hike: The forest trail loops are well-marked and surprisingly peaceful.
• Shipwreck Spotting: Ask a guide about the shipwrecks off Jussarö’s coast — it’s one of Finland’s trickiest areas to sail.

🌿 Local Tips

• Bring Food and Water: There are no stores or restaurants on the island.
• Wear Closed Shoes: Lots of debris and uneven ground — sandals won’t cut it.
• Check Weather Before You Go: Ferries may cancel on windy days.
• Watch for Compass Oddities: The island’s iron deposits famously mess with navigation — spooky, right?

🚲 Nauvo – Where Archipelago Life Starts

Nauvo (or Nagu in Swedish) is one of the gateway islands along the Turku Archipelago Trail. This is where island hopping truly begins. With a picturesque harbor, medieval history, local markets, and enough smoked fish to keep your taste buds dancing, Nauvo is a perfect blend of laid-back life and vibrant summer energy.

✨ Why Visit?

If you want a taste of the real Finnish archipelago — salty air, cozy cafés, and bikes loaded with backpacks — Nauvo is the place. It’s bustling in summer, yet still feels like a world away from the mainland. Plus, it’s an easy stop if you’re road-tripping the famous island ring route.

🚢 How to Get There?

From Turku, drive or bus to Parainen, then follow the well-signposted Archipelago Trail. Ferries between islands are free and frequent. Nauvo is connected by bridge and short ferry rides, so it’s very accessible.

☀️ Best Time to Visit

June to early September, with July being the peak for local events, music festivals, and outdoor dining. If you prefer a quieter vibe, late August is perfect.

🕰️ How Long Should You Stay?

At least 1–2 nights if you want to relax and explore. It’s a great base for hopping to nearby islands like Korpo or Seili.

📸 Must See

• Nauvo Guest Harbor: Bustling with yachts, stalls, and sea views.
• Medieval Stone Church: One of the oldest in the region, with beautiful wooden interiors.
• Nauvo Market Square: Great for local produce, handicrafts, and people-watching.

🏖️ Must Do

• Bike the Archipelago Trail: Nauvo is cyclist heaven — rent a bike and follow the sea breeze.
• Taste Smoked Fish: Local stalls sell some of the best you'll ever try.
• Hit the Sauna: Many guesthouses have traditional saunas — perfect after a day of island adventuring.

🌿 Local Tips

• Book Accommodation in Advance: Summer spots fill up fast.
• Pack a Swimsuit: There are hidden coves and small beaches all around.
• Use the Local Ferries: They're frequent, free, and part of the adventure.
• Learn a Few Swedish Words: Most locals are bilingual, but many prefer Swedish.

🌞 Åland – Finland's Sunny, Semi-Independent Island World

Åland isn’t just one island — it’s a full-on island nation within a nation. Located between Finland and Sweden, this autonomous region has its own flag, language (Swedish), postage stamps, and even a sunnier climate than the rest of the Nordics. It’s a place where things move at a slower pace — and that’s exactly the point.

✨ Why Visit?

Because it’s like nowhere else in Finland. Åland blends Scandinavian charm with a quirky independent streak. You’ll find peaceful cycling roads, seaside cottages, Viking history, maritime museums, and locally made apple cider — all wrapped in jaw-dropping coastal views.

🚢 How to Get There?

Ferries to Mariehamn (the capital) run daily from Helsinki, Turku, and Naantali. You can also reach Åland from Sweden. Bring your car or bike — island-hopping here is best done on wheels.

☀️ Best Time to Visit

June to August is prime time. This is when Åland gets more sunshine than anywhere else in Finland. Expect lively markets, summer concerts, and great weather for outdoor adventures.

🕰️ How Long Should You Stay?

Give yourself at least 3–4 days to explore Mariehamn and the outlying islands. You could easily spend a week cycling and still have more to see.

📸 Must See

• Mariehamn’s Maritime Quarter: Historic ships, wooden houses, and working boatyards.
• Kastelholm Castle: A medieval fortress surrounded by dreamy countryside.
• Pommern Sailing Ship Museum: Board a 1903 four-masted ship — a true Åland icon.

🏖️ Must Do

• Cycle Between Islands: Well-maintained roads and stunning sea views make this a cyclist’s dream.
• Taste Åland Pancakes: A thick oven-baked pancake served with stewed plums and whipped cream.
• Swim at Lilla Holmen Beach: A sweet little family beach right in Mariehamn.

🌿 Local Tips

• Rent a Cottage: It’s the most authentic way to stay. Bonus points if there’s a sauna and sea view.
• Bring a Bike or Rent Locally: Some islands are too good to rush through.
• Look for Local Cider and Cheese: Åland’s food scene is small but delicious.
• Brush Up on Swedish: While part of Finland, Åland is 100% Swedish-speaking.

🛥️ Reposaari – A Pocket-Sized Port with Big Character

Tucked just off the coast of Pori in western Finland, Reposaari is a tiny island that packs a whole lot of charm into just 3.5 kilometers. With its colorful wooden houses, quirky architecture, and rich seafaring history, it feels like a miniature coastal town lost in time — and that’s exactly why we love it.

✨ Why Visit?

Reposaari is effortlessly photogenic and full of stories. This former naval base and port town is now a calm and cozy place perfect for history lovers, foodies, and slow-travel enthusiasts. You can stroll its streets in under an hour, but you’ll want to linger far longer.

🚢 How to Get There?

It’s super easy: drive or take a bus from Pori, which is just 30 km away. A causeway connects the island to the mainland, so no ferry needed.

☀️ Best Time to Visit

May to September is ideal, especially if you want to enjoy the walking tours, harbor restaurants, and lively little markets. It’s also the time to see the island’s famously exotic plants in full bloom.

🕰️ How Long Should You Stay?

A day or overnight is perfect. Reposaari is small, but staying overnight gives you the chance to enjoy peaceful sunset strolls and wake up to sea air.

📸 Must See

• Norwegian-Style Wooden Church: Built in 1876, this unique landmark has ship models hanging from the ceiling.
• Historic Harbor: Once a key hub for maritime trade, now a charming spot for a walk or seafood lunch.
• Botanical Surprises: Thanks to ship ballast soil, exotic plants grow here that you won’t find anywhere else in Finland.

🏖️ Must Do

• Take a Guided Walking Tour: Learn all about pirates, sailors, and the island’s naval past.
• Try Local Fish Dishes: Reposaari is proud of its seafood — especially in the summer.
• Stay in a Floating Villa: Yes, you can actually sleep on the water. Dreamy, right?

🌿 Local Tips

• Bring a Camera: The entire island looks like a movie set.
• Check Out the Local Pub: For a small island, Reposaari has a surprisingly fun nightlife scene in the summer.
• Walk Everywhere: You can explore the whole island on foot in a couple of hours — it’s that compact.

🌅 Kvarken Archipelago – Where the Earth Keeps Rising

If you’re into dramatic landscapes and raw nature, Kvarken is your go-to. Located near Vaasa in western Finland, this UNESCO-listed archipelago is geologically unique — the land is literally rising out of the sea thanks to post-glacial uplift. With shallow bays, mysterious rock formations, and birdlife galore, it’s a paradise for nature lovers and curious minds.

✨ Why Visit?

Because where else can you see new land forming before your eyes? Kvarken’s maze of islands, lagoons, and moraines is constantly changing, offering peaceful hikes, serene paddles, and a sense of wonder. It’s remote, rugged, and beautiful in a wild, untouched way.

🚢 How to Get There?

Drive from Vaasa — just 20 minutes away. The Replot Bridge, Finland’s longest suspension bridge, connects the mainland to the archipelago. No ferry needed!

☀️ Best Time to Visit

Late spring through early fall is best for hiking and birdwatching. Autumn is especially lovely with migrating birds and cooler hiking weather.

🕰️ How Long Should You Stay?

One to two days is perfect, especially if you want to hike, take a boat tour, and soak in the nature at a slow pace.

📸 Must See

• DeGeer Moraines: Wavy ridges of stone and sand left by glaciers — like nothing else in Finland.
• Replot Bridge Viewpoint: Breathtaking views over the sea and archipelago.
• Saltkaret Observation Tower: A striking wooden lookout with epic 360-degree views.

🏖️ Must Do

• Hike the Björköby Trail: Peaceful and scenic with stunning sea views.
• Join a Boat Tour: Local guides explain the fascinating geology and wildlife.
• Birdwatching: Red-throated divers, buzzards, cranes — it’s a twitcher’s dream.

🌿 Local Tips

• Bring Binoculars: The birdlife here is rich and rare.
• Dress in Layers: The weather shifts quickly near the sea.
• Stay Overnight in a Cabin: Waking up surrounded by forest and sea? Yes, please.

🐦 Hailuoto – The Wild and Wonderful North

Out in the Bay of Bothnia, not far from the city of Oulu, lies Hailuoto — the largest island in the northern Baltic. It’s a birdwatcher’s paradise, a cultural hotspot, and one of the few places in Finland where you can drive across the sea in winter. Yes, you read that right.

✨ Why Visit?

Hailuoto is an island that offers something for every season. In summer, the beaches and music festivals bring energy and fun. In autumn, it’s all about birds and berries. And in winter? You can reach the island via an official ice road across the frozen sea. It's wild, weird, and wonderful.

🚢 How to Get There?

In summer, take the ferry from Oulunsalo, just outside of Oulu. In winter, drive right over the sea when the ice road is open. Ferries run year-round when the sea isn't frozen.

☀️ Best Time to Visit

Summer is packed with events like the Bättre Folk music festival, while autumn is ideal for hiking and birdwatching. Winter is a unique experience if you want to test out that ice road.

🕰️ How Long Should You Stay?

Stay at least two nights to explore the natural areas, attend a festival, or just relax by the dunes. There’s plenty of space and silence to soak up.

📸 Must See

• Hailuoto Church: A classic wooden church in the middle of peaceful surroundings.
• Marjaniemi Lighthouse: Great sunset views and photo ops.
• Ritaharju Dunes: Wide, wild, and wonderfully quiet.

🏖️ Must Do

• Birdwatch at Kirkkosalmi: Over 300 species pass through Hailuoto every year.
• Join a Festival: From indie music to theatre, summer brings creativity to the island.
• Winter Drive Over the Sea: When conditions are right, it’s a surreal and unforgettable road trip.

🌿 Local Tips

• Rent a Bike or Car: The island is large and spread out.
• Try Local Beer: Hailuoto Brewery makes small-batch craft brews with island flair.
• Book Early for Summer: Events fill up fast and accommodation is limited.
• Pack Bug Spray in August: Trust us.

So whether you’re craving calm, culture, or something completely out of the ordinary, Finland’s islands offer the perfect escape. Easy to get to, hard to forget — and always worth the detour.