“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
Aloha Cafe on Træna
Aloha Cafe, nestled in the heart of Høusøy in Træna, offers a delightful cafe experience with a touch of island charm. With it’s central location it’s just a short walk from the express boat and ferry terminals, the church, tourist information center, grocery store, Træna Accommodation, and House by the Sea.
3 Kalver – Hearty dining at a farm restaurant
The farm restaurant called 3 Kalver (Three Calves), situated on the island of Dønna, offers satisfying dining in distinctive surroundings. The menu proudly features dishes based on quality local ingredients.
The Coast Coffee
At the coffee roastery The Coast Coffee at Lovund, the lively coastal culture and urban coffee culture meet at their best. Here you can enjoy an exquisite cup of coffee in what is the island’s own coffee bar and roastery, with a great atmosphere by the sea.
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.
Tjøtta Gjestegaard – Accommodation and café in historical surroundings
Stay close to nature experiences in historic surroundings at Tjøtta Guesthouse, conveniently located near the Seven Sisters mountain range, cultural trails, and historical sites, with excellent ferry connections for day trips to the islands along the Helgeland coast.
Kayak and bike rental in Herøy and Sandnessjøen
Herøy is an ideal destination for kayaking enthusiasts. Its stunning islands, skerries, and scenic shorelines provide an excellent opportunity to experience nature at its best. Herøy Kajakk & Sykkel offers a wide range of options for both land and water explorers. You can rent kayaks, e-bikes, and SUP boards to embark on your own adventure, or join a guided paddling tour led by experienced kayakers to explore the island.
Experience all of Helgeland with Helgeland Travel Service
Helgeland Travel Service (HTS) will gladly take you on a tour to Helgeland’s many attractions. Whether we explore the coast or inland tracts, on a clear summer day or a day with mist and rain, all of our excursions will show you the magnificent landscape of Helgeland.
8770 Træna
If you visit Husøya, the main island in the Træna archipelago, consider staying at the cosy little hotel called 8770 Træna. Træna is a vibrant community, and here you will find good dining as well as strikingly beautiful scenery.
Brygga on Dønna
“Brygga” is nicely located in quiet surroundings on the north-eastern side of Dønna, 7 km from the ferry terminal at Bjørn. The wharf consists of 5 apartments of 60 square meters each located right next to the sea. They also offera a conference room, boathouse, grill, hot tub and a cabin (Rorbu).
Rootsfestivalen
Music festival in Brønnøysund
July 16th to 19th 2025
In the height of summer, you can enjoy four days of a vibrant mix of local musicians, emerging talents, and well-known national and international artists.
