“Island hopping” on the Helgeland coast is an adventure that we think all travellers should treat themselves to at least once in their life. And you can do this by kayak, local express boats, or on two wheels. You’re able to bring your bicycle on the express boat, and there are many places where you can rent a kayak.
You can fly to Bodø, Mo i Rana, Sandnessjøen or Brønnøysund, and from there start your “island hopping” adventure by boarding the express boat. If you have a bike or kayak, you can bring it with you – and either is a great and more flexible alternative to driving a car, especially during the summer. With the Travel Pass Nordland, you can travel as much as you like for a whole week at no extra cost. Think of it as “Interrail by sea”, and take full advantage of the special Summer Route.
Choose “your” island
Next, all you have to do is choose one of the many beautiful islands along the Helgeland coast. Maybe one of the larger islands such as Vega or Dønna, where you can cycle for many hours, hike the mountains and go kayaking amongst the islets and skerries? Perhaps you would prefer a smaller, weather-beaten island such as the fascinating Myken and Træna? Or choose tranquil days and great dining on Lovund or Støtt, Rødøya or Bolga?
Itineraries
Book your experience
Svang Restaurant & Wine Bar – In the heart of Brønnøysund
A cozy place with a focus on local food, suitable for both big and small occasions. At Svang, the hosts warmly welcome you to stop by for a delicious meal, some snacks, or something delightful to drink
Restaurant Soprano – Wining and dining in Sandnessjøen
Restaurant Soprano offers a taste of Italy in rustic surroundings. During the summer, you can dine at an outdoor table, surrounded by trees, cobblestones and people strolling along the pleasant pedestrian street on which the cosy restaurant is situated.
Krambua Café in the coffee roastery at Forvik Old trading post
Nestled between the sea and history, along the Coastal Route in Vevelstad, you’ll find Forvik old trading post — a living tribute to Northern Norwegian coastal culture and one of Helgeland’s most charming roadside stops. Here, you can visit the cosy café, shop, and coffee roastery in the old general store, and enjoy a moment of rich aromas and flavours in a truly historic setting.
Skogmo Family Camping
Skogmo Family Camping is idyllic situated in tranquil surroundings 12 km south of Brønnøysund. It offers a relaxed family-friendly atmosphere well away from the city, where children can play freely and safely.
Nordvika Old Trading Post, on Dønna
The old trading post at Nordvika is one of the oldest and most intact in all of Nordland County. The museum is beautifully situated between towering mountains on the island of Dønna, just a ferry ride from its nearest town, Sandnessjøen.
Ytri Island Retreat – more than just a hotel
Ytri Island Retreat in Træna is an exclusive coastal resort offering 38 rooms and suites, a bar, seafood restaurant, meeting rooms, saunas, an outdoor wellness area, boathouse, guest harbor, and a sandy beach.
Falch Old Trading Post, Rødøy
Falch Old Trading is beautifully situated on the Tjongsfjord, and it’s just a short detour from the Coastal Highway, Fv17. This trading post has provided many functions through the years: a fish plant, cod liver oil production, fishnet production, country store, doctor’s offices and pharmacy.
Havkanten Guesthouse – Restaurant & Accommodation
At Havkanten Restaurant, you can combine a delicious dinner with a spa and sauna on the pier, a sunset RIB adventure, or a wine tasting featuring local flavours.
The Havna festival
Music festival in Sandnessjøen
August 8th and 9th 2025
Locally known simply as “Havna” (the Harbour), this festival takes place in Sandnessjøen during the second weekend of August each year.
Sandnessjøen Camping
Sandnessjøen camping is located at Steiro along the Rv 17, 10 kilometers south of Sandnessjøen. Sandnessjøen Camping is just a short walk from the mountains De Syv Søstre and the local airport.
