“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
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A glacier trek on Svartisen
Join us for an exotic adventure: a guided glacier trek on Engabreen. The experienced guides from Meløy Adventure will ensure that this is a safe and unforgettable adventure.
Rødøy Coastal Shop- café and 24-hour grocery store
The Rødøy Coastal Shop (Rødøy Kysthandel) you’ll find both a cozy café and a 24-hour, self-service grocery store, so you can get what you need whenever you need it.
Elfis Sjøstuer – An idyllic stay in rorbu cabins
Elfis Sjøstuer is beautifully situated by a small cove on the northern part of the island of Herøy. This is the place to come for a tranquil holiday in scenic surroundings. Guests enjoy a fine view that spans from the Seven Sisters mountains to the south and the peak called Dønnamannen to the north. Activities available include kayaking, fishing, hiking, cycling and island hopping.
Hotel Sjyen – with fjord and mountain views
In the heart of the coastal village of Nesna, overlooking the fjord and the islands of Tomma, Hugla, and Handnesøya, you’ll find the newly opened Hotell Sjyen.
Trænafestivalen
Music festival in Træna
July 9th to 12th 2025
Trænafestivalen is a cultural experience as breathtaking and unique as the landscape it’s set in—beautiful Træna, located on the outer edge of the Helgeland coast. This is one of the most exciting opportunities to experience these remote islands at their most vibrant.
Kvarøy activity hall
Activity hall with shuffleboard, billiards, golf and hunting simulator, and much more fun for the whole family!
Lille Herstrand – Beachfront holiday home
Lille Herstrand is a modern holiday home just meters from the sea, located in Meløy at the northern end of the Helgeland Coast. Here, you can enjoy nature and the peaceful surroundings, perhaps from a kayak or boat?
Whisky Carthedral at Myken
Join a Whisky Tasting with Storytelling on a Guided Tour through Myken’s Own Whisky Cathedral
Forvik Old Trading Post
The old trading post at Forvik in Vevelstad, which dates back to 1792, is beautifully situated on the sea along route Fv17. Accommodation in charming surroundings is offered in the oldest building, Grålåna. There is a restaurant in Naustloftet, and a coffee roastery in the old general store. People often gather in Brygga, the wharf building, to enjoy the long bright summer evenings.
Guided island hopping by bike to Dønna and Herøy.
Take a guided bike ride from Sandnessjøen to the scenic islands of Dønna and Herøy, with stops at charming cafés and unique local shops along the way.
