Sommarøy Islands: A Practical Guide to Norway’s Arctic Beaches Near Tromsø

Sommarøy is one of the most beautiful coastal destinations within easy reach of Tromsø, combining brilliant white beaches, clear turquoise water, rocky islands, fishing boats and rugged Arctic mountains.

Often described as the “Caribbean of Northern Norway”, Sommarøy looks surprisingly tropical on a sunny summer day. The difference becomes obvious when you touch the water: this is still the Norwegian Sea, well above the Arctic Circle.

Sommarøy is both a small island and a working fishing community. The neighbouring island of Hillesøy forms part of the same settlement, while bridges connect the islands with larger Kvaløya. This means you can drive all the way from Tromsø without taking a ferry. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}

The destination works equally well as a scenic day trip or an overnight escape. Summer brings white beaches and the midnight sun, while the darker months provide opportunities for northern lights, winter landscapes, snowshoeing and other Arctic activities. :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}

Sommarøy at a Glance

Driving time is typically around an hour from Tromsø, while the current direct Arctic Route service takes around 1½ hours each way. :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}

Sommarøy or Sommarøy Islands?

Travellers frequently refer to the destination as the Sommarøy Islands because the landscape is made up of numerous small islands, skerries and shallow channels.

The principal inhabited island is Sommarøy itself. Immediately beside it is Hillesøy, connected by a low bridge. Sommarøy is then connected by the larger Sommarøy Bridge to Kvaløya and the road back towards Tromsø. :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}

From viewpoints above the village, the surrounding geography becomes one of the highlights: instead of one large island, you see countless small rocky outcrops and pale-green sandbanks scattered across the sea.

A Working Arctic Fishing Village

Sommarøy is not simply a resort created for tourists. It remains an active fishing community of around 300 residents and is one of the busier fishing villages in Troms. Herring is an important local product and is processed for export. :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}

Walking through the settlement, you will see fishing boats, harbour facilities, colourful houses and modern homes rather than a preserved historical village.

This is worth remembering when exploring: people live and work here. Stay on public roads and paths, do not walk across private gardens to reach beaches, and keep noise down near homes, particularly late at night during the endless summer daylight. :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}

Why Is Sommarøy Famous?

The scenery is the main attraction.

Sommarøy combines:

• White sandy beaches
• Clear turquoise and blue-green water
• Rocky islets
• Small sheltered coves
• Distant mountain ranges
• Traditional fishing scenery
• Open views towards the Norwegian Sea

Official Northern Norway tourism information describes numerous shallow coves and unusually pale beaches around Sommarøy, while Visit Norway highlights the island for its beaches, clear water, kayaking and easy hiking. :contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}

The White Beaches of Sommarøy

The beaches are the signature attraction.

On a clear summer day, the combination of white sand and shallow turquoise water can look more like the Mediterranean than Arctic Norway.

Several small beaches and coves are scattered around Sommarøy and Hillesøy rather than concentrated into one enormous resort beach.

This makes exploring on foot particularly rewarding: around another bend in the road, you may discover a small crescent of pale sand framed by rocks and mountains.

The shallow coves can warm somewhat during fine weather, but official regional tourism guidance still warns that the sea cannot generally be described as warm. Beach walking is considerably more common than prolonged swimming. :contentReference[oaicite:9]{index=9}

Can You Swim at Sommarøy?

Yes, but expect cold water.

Visitors do swim from Sommarøy’s beaches during summer, especially during calm, sunny weather, but this remains an Arctic marine environment.

If you decide to swim:

• Enter cold water gradually
• Stay close to shore
• Do not underestimate cold-water shock
• Avoid swimming alone
• Watch currents and changing weather
• Keep warm clothing ready for afterwards

The clear appearance of the water should not be mistaken for tropical temperatures.

Walk Around Sommarøy Village

One of the simplest activities is simply walking around the village.

Small roads wind between houses, harbour areas and sections of coastline. Official regional guidance encourages visitors to slow down and appreciate the character of the community rather than treating it as merely a series of photographic stops. :contentReference[oaicite:10]{index=10}

Look for the small Kongeparken, or Royal Park, where a commemorative stone bears the signatures of King Harald and Queen Sonja following their visit in 1992. :contentReference[oaicite:11]{index=11}

Låvhaugen Local Museum

Sommarøy also has a tiny local museum at Låvhaugen.

The modest house dates from around 1890 and illustrates the living conditions of fishing families during the early period when Sommarøy was developing as an important fishing settlement. :contentReference[oaicite:12]{index=12}

Opening arrangements can be irregular, so treat this as an interesting bonus rather than the main reason for visiting.

Hillesøy

Hillesøy is immediately beside Sommarøy and connected by a bridge.

Historically, more people lived on Hillesøy, while Sommarøy was used seasonally for grazing animals. The growth of motorised fishing and the need for a better harbour contributed to Sommarøy developing into the main fishing settlement during the 20th century. :contentReference[oaicite:13]{index=13}

Today, Hillesøy is particularly attractive to walkers because its hills provide some of the best elevated views over the archipelago.

Hike Above the Islands

You do not need to climb a major Arctic mountain to obtain a spectacular view.

Several relatively modest hills overlook the islands, beaches and surrounding sea.

Visit Tromsø’s current self-guided Sommarøy information specifically recommends hiking Sørkollen or Nordkollen on Hillesøy. :contentReference[oaicite:14]{index=14}

Regional tourism information also highlights Hillesøytoppen and Ørnfløya as excellent short hikes. :contentReference[oaicite:15]{index=15}

Hillesøytoppen

Hillesøytoppen rises to approximately 214 metres.

That does not sound particularly high, but the hill rises immediately above the low-lying islands, creating panoramic views over Sommarøy, the surrounding skerries and the open sea.

Several paths lead towards the summit. From above, you get a much clearer impression of the extraordinary geography: dozens of islands, rocks and pale-green shallows extending across the water. :contentReference[oaicite:16]{index=16}

Ørnfløya Viewpoint

Another excellent option is Ørnfløya on Kvaløya, near the approach to Sommarøy.

The summit is only around 154 metres high, but the viewpoint looks directly towards the elegant curve of Sommarøy Bridge and across the surrounding sandbanks, islands and coastline towards Senja. :contentReference[oaicite:17]{index=17}

If you are driving from Tromsø, this is a particularly worthwhile stop either shortly before reaching Sommarøy or on your return journey.

Summer Hiking Safety

Even short Arctic hikes deserve preparation.

Weather around Tromsø can change rapidly, and official tourism advice recommends carrying layers even during summer. Conditions near the sea and on exposed hills can feel much colder than the temperature in sheltered areas suggests. :contentReference[oaicite:18]{index=18}

Bring:

• Walking shoes with good grip
• Windproof outer layer
• Warm layer
• Water
• Phone
• Sun protection in summer

Winter Hiking Requires More Caution

Conditions are very different in winter.

Regional tourism advice specifically warns that short hills such as Hillesøytoppen and Ørnfløya can become unsuitable when trails are icy. Proper traction equipment may be necessary, and visitors without winter mountain experience should not assume a low elevation makes a trail safe. :contentReference[oaicite:19]{index=19}

Sea Kayaking Around Sommarøy

Kayaking is one of the best ways to experience the archipelago.

The sheltered channels, tiny islands, white beaches and unusually clear water make the coastline especially attractive from sea level.

Sommarøy Adventure currently operates guided kayaking throughout the year, including summer, autumn and winter experiences. :contentReference[oaicite:20]{index=20}

Current Guided Kayaking Experience

A current guided morning kayak tour with return transport from Tromsø is advertised from approximately 1,690 NOK per person. Participants travel to Sommarøy, receive equipment and a safety briefing, then paddle through bays and around small islands, with a beach stop included. :contentReference[oaicite:21]{index=21}

The experience is currently suitable for both beginners and experienced paddlers. Stable tandem kayaks are used for many participants, certified local instructors lead the tour, and no previous kayaking experience is required. :contentReference[oaicite:22]{index=22}

The current minimum age is 10 years, and the tour is weather-dependent. :contentReference[oaicite:23]{index=23}

Wildlife Around Sommarøy

The coastal environment supports a variety of Arctic wildlife.

Depending on season and luck, visitors may encounter:

• White-tailed sea eagles
• Seabirds
• Seals
• Reindeer
• Moose on Kvaløya
• Other marine wildlife

Guided tours around Kvaløya and Sommarøy also encourage visitors to watch for whales, seals, foxes, moose, reindeer and sea eagles, although sightings can never be guaranteed. :contentReference[oaicite:24]{index=24}

Sea Eagle Trips

The outer islands are particularly good territory for white-tailed sea eagles.

Seasonal boat trips can travel towards places such as Hekkingen and the dramatic offshore island of Håja. Regional tourism information identifies spring and summer as periods when these boat excursions can include sea-eagle watching. :contentReference[oaicite:25]{index=25}

Håja – The Dramatic Island on the Horizon

One of the most distinctive landmarks visible from Sommarøy is Håja.

The island rises approximately 486 metres from the sea and forms a striking silhouette on the horizon. It is one of the region’s favourite photographic subjects. :contentReference[oaicite:26]{index=26}

From Sommarøy, you can often see Håja without needing to take a boat trip.

The Midnight Sun

Summer is an extraordinary time to stay overnight because darkness essentially disappears.

In the Tromsø region, the midnight sun normally lasts from around 20 May until 22 July. During this period, the sun remains above the horizon throughout the night. :contentReference[oaicite:27]{index=27}

Sommarøy is particularly well positioned for the experience because of its open western horizon over the sea.

Instead of going to bed after dinner, you can walk along a beach or climb a viewpoint near midnight while the landscape remains illuminated by warm, low-angle sunlight.

Best Places for Midnight Sun Views

Good options include:

• West-facing beaches on Sommarøy
• Hillesøy viewpoints
• Hillesøytoppen
• Ørnfløya
• Open shoreline facing Håja

Hillesøytoppen and Ørnfløya are both specifically recommended by regional tourism sources for summer midnight-sun hiking. :contentReference[oaicite:28]{index=28}

Remember: Midnight Sun Does Not Mean Guaranteed Sunshine

The sun may remain above the horizon, but clouds can still hide it.

Weather along the Arctic coast changes quickly. Even during the midnight-sun period, conditions can range from brilliant sunshine to rain, fog, wind and low cloud. :contentReference[oaicite:29]{index=29}

If you stay overnight, you gain more flexibility to wait for clearer weather than visitors confined to a short day tour.

Northern Lights at Sommarøy

Sommarøy becomes a very different destination as summer ends.

The Tromsø region’s northern lights season generally extends from late August until early April, whenever skies are sufficiently dark and clear. :contentReference[oaicite:30]{index=30}

Sommarøy can be particularly attractive for aurora photography because the surrounding sea, beaches and mountains provide much more dramatic foregrounds than a simple dark roadside location.

Are the Northern Lights Guaranteed?

No.

You need both auroral activity and sufficiently clear skies. Cloud can completely obscure a strong display.

Visit Tromsø notes that aurora can appear at any time during darkness, although activity is commonly seen between approximately 8:00 pm and 2:00 am. :contentReference[oaicite:31]{index=31}

An overnight stay gives you the advantage of being able to check the sky repeatedly rather than depending on a single short visit.

The Polar Night

During the darkest part of winter, the sun remains below the horizon in the Tromsø region from roughly mid-November to mid-January.

This does not mean complete darkness for 24 hours. There are still periods of colourful twilight, often producing remarkable pink and blue Arctic light around the middle of the day. :contentReference[oaicite:32]{index=32}

Winter visitors should plan activities around limited daylight, snow conditions and rapidly changing weather.

Best Time to Visit Sommarøy

Late May to July

Best for midnight sun, hiking, beaches and kayaking.

This is the most popular period for enjoying the island’s famous bright-night landscapes. The midnight sun normally lasts until around 22 July in the Tromsø region. :contentReference[oaicite:33]{index=33}

August

Excellent for hiking and long daylight.

The midnight sun has ended, but nights remain light at first. By late August, sufficiently dark conditions begin returning for possible northern-light sightings. :contentReference[oaicite:34]{index=34}

September and October

Excellent for autumn landscapes and aurora.

Days become noticeably shorter and northern-light opportunities increase.

November to March

Best for a true Arctic winter experience.

Expect snow, darkness, winter storms and the possibility of northern lights. Activities can include snowshoeing, winter kayaking and other guided Arctic experiences. :contentReference[oaicite:35]{index=35}

April and Early May

Increasing daylight transforms the landscape quickly. Late winter can still offer snow in the mountains while longer days make outdoor exploration easier.

How to Get From Tromsø to Sommarøy by Car

Driving gives you the greatest flexibility.

The direct route from Tromsø travels across Kvaløya towards the western coast and reaches Sommarøy entirely by road and bridge. No ferry is required. Regional tourism information recommends the direct Route 862 approach through Eidkjosen and Sjøtun. :contentReference[oaicite:36]{index=36}

Allow approximately one hour under normal conditions, but considerably more if you stop repeatedly for photographs.

Turn the Drive Into a Scenic Loop

Rather than travelling out and back on exactly the same road, drivers can create a longer loop through Kvaløya.

Regional tourism information describes an alternative route through areas including Larseng, Straumsbukta and Buvika. It is longer and narrower but allows you to see considerably more of the island landscape. :contentReference[oaicite:37]{index=37}

This is an excellent option in summer when daylight is long and road conditions are good.

Driving in Winter

Winter driving should not be treated like summer sightseeing.

Expect possible:

• Snow
• Ice
• Strong wind
• Poor visibility
• Rapidly changing conditions

If you are uncomfortable driving on Arctic winter roads, use an organised tour or scheduled transport instead.

Public Bus 420

Sommarøy is served by the regional public bus network. Route 420 operates between Tromsø, Straumsbukta and Sommarøy, and the official Svipper timetable currently lists a schedule valid from 20 June to 31 December 2026. :contentReference[oaicite:38]{index=38}

Public transport is inexpensive, but the timetable is designed for local transport needs rather than sightseeing. Regional visitor information specifically warns that some public-bus timings can be inconvenient for a same-day tourist excursion. :contentReference[oaicite:39]{index=39}

Check the Svipper journey planner shortly before travelling because departure times can change. :contentReference[oaicite:40]{index=40}

Arctic Route Bus From Tromsø

For visitors without a car, the seasonal Arctic Route provides a much easier sightseeing option.

The direct shuttle runs between Tromsø and Sommarøy with a journey time of approximately 1½ hours each way. It departs Tromsø from Prostneset Harbour Terminal and uses Sommarøy Arctic Hotel as its Sommarøy stop. :contentReference[oaicite:41]{index=41}

Summer 2026 Self-Guided Sommarøy Trip

For summer 2026, Visit Tromsø lists a self-guided Arctic Route excursion at around 590 NOK return per person. :contentReference[oaicite:42]{index=42}

The current half-day itinerary includes:

• 11:30 am: Departure from Tromsø Prostneset
• 1:10 pm: Arrival at Sommarøy
• Approximately 1 hour: Independent exploration
• 2:15 pm: Return departure
• 4:00 pm: Arrival in Tromsø

The total experience is approximately 4½ hours. :contentReference[oaicite:43]{index=43}

This is convenient and inexpensive, although one hour on Sommarøy is relatively brief. If hiking, kayaking or a relaxed beach walk is important, choose a longer day-trip schedule or stay overnight.

Organised Day Tours From Tromsø

Another option is a guided scenic tour covering both Kvaløya and Sommarøy.

Current programmes typically include scenic driving, photography stops and time around the coastal settlements. Some last about five hours and may include lunch. :contentReference[oaicite:44]{index=44}

Choose an organised tour if:

• You do not want to drive
• You want frequent photography stops
• You are visiting in winter
• You want local commentary
• You have limited time

Continue to Senja

Sommarøy can also form part of a much larger Northern Norway road trip.

From nearby Brensholmen, a ferry crosses to Botnhamn on Senja. The route operates with several departures and provides access to Senja and its Norwegian Scenic Route. :contentReference[oaicite:45]{index=45}

This creates an excellent itinerary:

Tromsø → Kvaløya → Sommarøy → Brensholmen → Senja

If using the ferry, always check the current timetable before travelling rather than relying on an older itinerary.

Where to Stay

Sommarøy

Best for midnight sun, northern lights and a relaxed coastal stay.

Staying on the island allows you to experience the beaches after most day visitors leave and gives you much greater flexibility for photography.

Sommarøy Arctic Hotel currently offers hotel rooms, seaside cabins, restaurant facilities and outdoor activities, including seasonal kayaking and winter experiences. :contentReference[oaicite:46]{index=46}

Hillesøy

Best for a quiet island atmosphere and easy access to local hikes.

Holiday houses and smaller accommodation options can provide a more independent stay.

Tromsø

Best if Sommarøy is only one day trip during a broader Arctic holiday.

Tromsø provides far more restaurants, hotels and organised tours while remaining close enough for a full-day excursion. Visit Norway describes Sommarøy as approximately an hour’s drive from Tromsø. :contentReference[oaicite:47]{index=47}

Day Trip or Overnight?

Half-Day Trip

Suitable if you mainly want scenery and photographs.

The current Arctic Route half-day product gives only about one hour for exploring the island itself. :contentReference[oaicite:48]{index=48}

Full-Day Trip

Good for most visitors.

You can explore beaches, walk through the village and complete a short hike without rushing.

One Night

Much better for photography.

In summer, you can experience the midnight sun; during aurora season, you can watch the skies after dark without worrying about immediately driving back to Tromsø.

Two Nights

Best for kayaking and a relaxed Arctic escape.

You gain enough time to add a guided sea activity, hiking and beach exploration while retaining some protection against poor weather.

A Good One-Day Sommarøy Road Trip

Morning – Leave Tromsø

Depart after breakfast and cross Kvaløya towards the coast.

Late Morning – Ørnfløya

Stop for the short walk to the viewpoint overlooking Sommarøy Bridge and the surrounding islands.

Midday – Sommarøy

Cross the bridge and explore the fishing village on foot.

Lunch

Have lunch locally or bring food for a picnic in an appropriate public area.

Afternoon – Beaches

Spend time walking along the coast and exploring the shallow white-sand coves.

Late Afternoon – Hillesøy

Cross to neighbouring Hillesøy and, if weather and conditions are suitable, complete a short viewpoint walk.

Evening

Return to Tromsø or remain overnight for sunset, midnight sun or northern-light opportunities according to season.

A Better Two-Day Sommarøy Itinerary

Day 1 – Scenic Drive and Island Exploration

• Drive from Tromsø through Kvaløya
• Stop at Ørnfløya
• Cross Sommarøy Bridge
• Walk around the village
• Explore the beaches
• Visit Hillesøy
• Stay overnight

Day 2 – Choose an Arctic Activity

Summer: kayaking, hiking or wildlife boat trip.

Autumn: hiking, photography and northern-light watching.

Winter: guided snowshoeing, winter kayaking or aurora activities.

Sommarøy Adventure currently operates outdoor experiences throughout the year, adapting activities to the season. :contentReference[oaicite:49]{index=49}

Sommarøy With Children

Sommarøy can be excellent for families because the attraction is primarily the landscape rather than a strict sightseeing programme.

Good family activities include:

• Beach walks
• Shell collecting
• Short village walks
• Picnics
• Easy viewpoints
• Wildlife spotting

The current Arctic Route service is family-friendly and has booster seats available; baby seats need to be requested in advance or provided by the family.

Current guided kayak tours with transport have a minimum age of 10. :contentReference[oaicite:51]{index=51}

Accessibility

The easiest parts of Sommarøy for visitors with reduced mobility are the scenic drive, village roads and viewpoints reached by vehicle.

Beaches naturally involve sand and uneven surfaces, while hill walks are not suitable for everyone.

The current Arctic Route service is listed as adapted for visitors with disabilities, although anyone requiring specific assistance should confirm arrangements before booking.

Facilities Are Limited

Sommarøy is a small village rather than a large tourism centre.

Regional visitor information specifically notes that there are no general public toilets in the village. Facilities are available to customers at places such as the local café and hotel. :contentReference[oaicite:53]{index=53}

This is worth knowing before beginning a long beach walk or hike.

What to Bring

Even during summer, pack for rapidly changing Arctic weather.

• Windproof jacket
• Warm mid-layer
• Comfortable walking shoes
• Hat
• Sunglasses
• Sunscreen
• Water
• Camera
• Portable phone charger
• Swimsuit if you are determined to try the water

Visit Tromsø specifically recommends layers during the midnight-sun season because temperatures can vary and exposed coastal locations may feel cool even on sunny days. :contentReference[oaicite:54]{index=54}

Photography Tips

Sommarøy is one of the easiest places near Tromsø to photograph classic Arctic coastal scenery.

Good subjects include:

• Sommarøy Bridge
• White beaches
• Turquoise shallows
• Fishing boats
• Håja Island
• Midnight sun
• Northern lights
• Hillesøy viewpoints

In summer, the long period of low-angle evening light can produce particularly attractive colours and shadows. Visit Tromsø specifically highlights the warm tones and long shadows of the midnight-sun period for photographers. :contentReference[oaicite:55]{index=55}

Respect the Local Community

Tourism has grown considerably, but Sommarøy remains a small residential community.

Regional tourism authorities ask visitors to avoid entering private gardens, avoid photographing children without permission, keep noise under control and remove everything they bring to the beach. :contentReference[oaicite:56]{index=56}

Supporting local cafés, accommodation and activity providers is also one of the simplest ways to ensure tourism contributes to the community.

The “Time-Free Zone” Story

You may see Sommarøy described online as a place that has abolished time or removed clocks during summer.

This should not be interpreted literally as a different legal time system.

The idea grew from a playful tourism campaign reflecting the strange experience of living through weeks of continuous daylight. Visit Norway has described Sommarøy’s desire for a “time-free zone” in connection with the midnight sun and the relaxed summer lifestyle. :contentReference[oaicite:57]{index=57}

Your bus, hotel checkout and restaurant booking will still operate according to normal Norwegian time.

Sommarøy or Tromsø?

Choose Tromsø If You Want:

• Restaurants and nightlife
• Museums
• Large choice of hotels
• Many organised activities
• Easy airport access

Choose Sommarøy If You Want:

• Beaches
• Quiet coastal scenery
• Fishing-village atmosphere
• Kayaking
• Midnight-sun photography
• Dark skies for aurora
• A slower Arctic experience

The destinations work particularly well together because Sommarøy is close enough to Tromsø to combine city and nature within the same trip. :contentReference[oaicite:58]{index=58}

Sommarøy or Senja?

Sommarøy is easier for a short excursion from Tromsø.

Senja is vastly larger and deserves several days if you want to drive its scenic route and explore its mountains and coastal villages.

A good extended road trip combines both by travelling from Sommarøy to nearby Brensholmen and taking the ferry to Botnhamn on Senja. :contentReference[oaicite:59]{index=59}

Practical Tips for Visiting Sommarøy

• Rent a car if possible. It gives you much more freedom for beaches and viewpoints.
• Allow a full day. A short bus stop barely scratches the surface.
• Stay overnight for the midnight sun or aurora.
• Bring layers even in July.
• Check the weather before hiking or kayaking.
• Expect cold sea water despite the tropical-looking beaches.
• Use the Svipper app for current Route 420 information. :contentReference[oaicite:60]{index=60}
• Consider the Arctic Route if you do not have a car. :contentReference[oaicite:61]{index=61}
• Do not enter private gardens to reach photographs. :contentReference[oaicite:62]{index=62}
• Take all rubbish away from beaches.

Is Sommarøy Worth Visiting From Tromsø?

Absolutely.

Sommarøy is one of the easiest ways to experience the wild coastal landscapes surrounding Tromsø without committing to a multi-day road trip through Northern Norway.

Within roughly an hour of the city by car, the scenery changes to white beaches, turquoise shallows, fishing harbours and dozens of rocky islands. Sommarøy and neighbouring Hillesøy remain connected to Kvaløya by bridges, so there is no ferry complication when travelling from Tromsø. :contentReference[oaicite:63]{index=63}

Summer is particularly memorable. The Tromsø region normally experiences the midnight sun from around 20 May to 22 July, allowing you to walk a beach or climb a viewpoint near midnight in full natural light. :contentReference[oaicite:64]{index=64}

From late August into early April, the experience changes again as sufficiently dark nights return and the northern lights become possible. :contentReference[oaicite:65]{index=65}

If you have no car, visiting has also become easier. The current summer 2026 self-guided Arctic Route trip costs about 590 NOK return and connects central Tromsø directly with Sommarøy, although the half-day version allows only around an hour on the island. :contentReference[oaicite:66]{index=66}

For a much better experience, give Sommarøy a full day. Walk the beaches, explore Hillesøy and climb a short viewpoint. If your itinerary allows it, stay overnight and add kayaking or another coastal activity the following morning.

The turquoise water may create the first impression, but it is the combination of Arctic light, fishing-village life, mountains, beaches and dozens of tiny islands that makes Sommarøy genuinely special.