Photo: Visit Oulu, Rosa Ruuskanen / Harri Tarvainen
Hailuoto’s Top 5 Photography Spots
Hailuoto is a dream destination for photographers. Throughout the year, the island’s unique light paints the landscape in ever-changing ways. Pristine sandy beaches, the lighthouse, the old fishing village, and the island’s distinctive nature and birdlife offer endless subjects for both professional and amateur photographers alike. In winter, Hailuoto enchants with its darkness free from light pollution, revealing northern lights, star-filled skies and the quiet beauty of the night.
Marjaniemi Lighthouse
Marjaniemi Lighthouse is Hailuoto’s most iconic landmark and one of the island’s most photographed sites. Completed in 1871, its light has guided seafarers for over a century. During the summer season, guided tours allow visitors to explore the lighthouse and learn about its history. From the top of the tower, breathtaking views open out over the old fishing village of Marjaniemi and the open sea beyond.
Old Fishing Village
Marjaniemi’s old fishing village is an atmospheric glimpse into Hailuoto’s history and one of the island’s most beloved photography spots. The red-ochre boathouses and fishermen’s cottages tell stories from a time when the sea was both a livelihood and a way of life for islanders. Today, the village is mainly used by cottage owners and summer residents, so visitors are asked to respect privacy when exploring the area. You are welcome to walk through the village, admire its unique atmosphere and capture postcard-perfect scenes with your camera.
Hailuoto’s Beaches
Hailuoto boasts over 30 kilometres of stunning coastline, lined with soft sandy beaches and dunes shaped by nature. The island’s most popular beach is located in Marjaniemi, where sea, sky and light meet in a truly unique way. Although Hailuoto has no official swimming beaches, the clean sand and shallow waters invite visitors to enjoy summer days and peaceful walks along the shore. The light along the beaches is constantly changing – from glowing sunrises to golden sunsets and vibrant skies – offering endless inspiration for photographers and nature lovers alike.
Summer 2026 Will Be the Last Ferry Summer
Hailuoto Ferries
The yellow ferries have been part of Hailuoto’s atmosphere for decades and are among the island’s most iconic sights. The ferry crossing from the mainland to the island is an experience in itself – a moment to pause, take in the open seascape and feel the wind on your face. The ferries carry cars, cyclists and pedestrians alike. Soon, these yellow ferries will become part of history when the new bridge to Hailuoto opens to traffic. The coming summer will therefore be the last opportunity to experience and capture this iconic sea journey in photographs.
Hailuoto organum
Hailuoto Organum is a concrete site-specific sound art installation built by Hai Art and designed by acoustic artist Lukas Kühnen, located in Ulkokarvo. Composed of three interconnected domes of different sizes, the sculpture resonates at different tones – inside, visitors can speak, hum, or simply listen to how sound and silence meet. The site is free to visit and open year-round. Access is via a marked trail starting to the left of the Ulkokarvo wilderness hut. The sculptural form and the surrounding natural landscape make Organum a striking photography spot in every season.
