Harju Islands – How to Get There and What to Do?
Author: Simo Sepp
Author: Simo Sepp
The small islands are ideal for those looking to escape the buzz of the city, as you’ll find peace, quiet, and the chance to explore nature. You can also enjoy fresh, clean sea air, a rich and distinctive cultural heritage, and delicious food. The larger islands in Harju County are Aegna, Naissaar, Prangli, and the Pakri Islands (Suur Pakri and Väike Pakri). Each island is unique and well worth a visit!
Aegna is a small island just a short ferry ride from Tallinn. It is known for its beautiful beaches, pine forests, and lighthouse. The island is popular with hikers and nature lovers, offering scenic trails that wind through the woods and along the shoreline. Its beaches are also perfect for relaxing and enjoying the sun.
The season for visiting Aegna is quite short – regular services run from May to October. One of the most fun ways to explore Aegna is by a kayak or sea-kayaking tour. You can, of course, also reach the island by Sunlines’ scheduled ferry or the Monica excursion boat. For an extra dose of adrenaline, visit Aegna by speedboat!
Once you arrive on Aegna, you can explore the island on foot or by bicycle. There are no cars, making it a great place to escape the city and enjoy nature. Several hiking trails lead through pine forests, along the coast, and up to the island’s historic lighthouse. The island also has several beautiful sandy beaches where you can swim and soak up the sun.
Naissaar offers visitors a wide range of things to do. You can explore the island’s wartime heritage by visiting abandoned bunkers, tunnels, and artillery batteries. Guided tours provide a fascinating overview of Naissaar’s history.
Naissaar also has 40 kilometres of narrow-gauge railway, first built during the Tsarist era in 1913. Parts of the railway were used during the period of the Republic of Estonia as well as during the Soviet occupation. Today, a 2.4-kilometre section has been restored.
Hiking and nature walks: Naissaar has several hiking trails offering beautiful views of the island’s forests, coastal cliffs, and sandy beaches. The trails are well signposted, with both easy and more challenging options, making hiking suitable for all levels.
Beaches and swimming: Naissaar also has several lovely sandy beaches where visitors can swim, sunbathe, and relax. The water around the island is clean and clear, making it a great spot for a refreshing summer dip.
Birdwatching: This small island is home to many bird species, including eagles, owls, and herons. Birdwatching is a popular activity on Naissaar, and visitors can observe birds in their natural habitats year-round.
Camping: Visitors can camp on Naissaar and enjoy a night under the stars. There are several designated camping areas where campers can soak up the peaceful atmosphere and the island’s beautiful nature.
There is no year-round ferry connection to Naissaar. From May to September, several operators offer trips to the island. For private charters of up to 100 passengers, the high-speed catamaran VEGTIND runs from Linnahall Harbour to Naissaar in about 20 minutes, and bicycles can be taken on board. Another fun option is a sea safari combined with a truck tour on the island.
Prangli Island, just off the coast of Tallinn, is Estonia’s northernmost island with a year-round population. Across its three villages, it is home to around 100 residents, and it has preserved a centuries-old fishing village culture. Prangli is one of Estonia’s oldest inhabited islands, with many old buildings and ruins that offer a glimpse into the island’s past. The island also has a small museum where visitors can learn more about Prangli’s history and culture.
Prangli has several hiking trails and cycling routes that offer beautiful views of the island and the surrounding coastline. You can rent a bike right at the harbour. The island also has several sandy beaches where visitors can swim, sunbathe, and unwind. The water around the island is clean and clear, and the beaches are well maintained.
A wide range of festivals and events take place on the island throughout the year.
According to legend, Prangli was once an island of pirates who lived in a dense spruce forest. To get rid of them, the forest was supposedly burned down, and a pine forest grew in its place. The pirates’ treasure has never been found; its burial place is believed to be Kullamägi, the island’s highest point.
Guided trips from central Tallinn or from Leppneeme Harbour introduce Prangli’s traditions and history, sights and nature, legends, and modern-day island life. You can reach Prangli by the Wrangö ferry — check the timetable for departures.
The Pakri islands lie 2–3 km west of the town of Paldiski. They are separated from the mainland by the Kurkse Strait and from the Pakri Peninsula by Pakri Bay. The islands offer numerous hiking trails with beautiful views of the sea and the coastline. They are also home to a wide variety of plants and animals that you can discover along the way. In addition, the islands feature several historical sites, such as the Vana-Pakri cemetery and the Pakri Lighthouse, offering a glimpse into the islands’ past.
On the Pakri Islands, you can also enjoy extreme sports such as rock climbing and diving. Local guides can arrange safe and exciting experiences. You can reach the islands by the Arabella speedboat.
Estonia’s small islands charm visitors with their unique character, shaped by the distinctive conditions that come with island life and remoteness. Fresh, clean sea air, birdsong, local delicacies, and memorable cultural events come together to create an unforgettable holiday. Which island have you visited — or are you planning to visit?