Marjaniemi Lighthouse has been regarded as a symbol of Hailuoto since the late 19th century. Designed by one of Finland’s leading architects, Axel Hampus Dahlström, the lighthouse was built and eventually brought into operation in 1872. Since then, it has served as an invaluable aid to maritime navigation.

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Guided tours are organised at the lighthouse, taking visitors all the way to the top. Along the way, you’ll hear stories about the lighthouse and its history. From the summit, there are beautiful views over the old fishing village of Marjaniemi and the surrounding shoreline. Tours are offered during the summer season, and for groups also at other times by request.

Kniivilä Local Heritage Museum houses over 3,000 catalogued artefacts. The Kniivilä farm itself presents traditional livelihoods of Hailuoto, with displays of agricultural and livestock farming tools, fishing equipment, as well as handicraft tools and examples.

Life on a smallholding is further illustrated by the cobbler’s cottage, the cowshed and a small smoke sauna. The machinery shed features an extensive collection of agricultural equipment dating from the late 19th century through to the 1960s. Fishing gear and a mid-engine fishing boat are also on display.

Kirkkosalmi Birdwatching Tower is located by a reed-filled lake that has been cut off from the sea. The site is particularly well suited for observing cormorants and birds of prey during spring migration. The variety of waterfowl and wading birds is also rich and diverse.

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The best time for birdwatching is from April to May. The birdwatching tower is a pleasant destination for families, and it is also accessible for wheelchair users. The tower is maintained by Metsähallitus (Parks & Wildlife Finland).

Hailuoto Organum is a concrete sound art installation set in the scenic landscapes of Ulkokarvo. The artwork consists of three domes of different sizes, each with its own resonance frequency – a specific pitch corresponding to a musical note. The domes function as natural amplifiers, giving sound a unique depth and tonal quality inside the structures.

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At the Organum, visitors can sing, speak, play music, or simply remain silent and listen to the surrounding sounds.

Keskiniemi Daymark is the oldest surviving sea mark in Hailuoto, located on the island’s northern shore. Completed in 1858, it was built to warn mariners of the sandbanks stretching north of Keskiniemi. The daymark is a structure of significant cultural and historical value. It was restored by the Finnish Transport Infrastructure Agency in autumn 2024.

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The Keskiniemi Daymark can be reached along an old hiking trail. Access by car is possible to the end of Karvontie or Sunilahentie. Leave your car at the widened area at the end of the gravel road and follow the old yellow trail markers to reach the daymark.

Hailuodon Panimo produces organic beers on the island – German-style, unfiltered, all-malt beers full of character. The on-site Pub & Shop operates mainly during the summer season, and brewery tours as well as guided beer tastings are available for groups by advance booking. A visit to the brewery brings together local flavours, craftsmanship and the unique atmosphere of island life. Set in a historic building, the brewery offers a charming stop on a journey into Hailuoto’s world of taste.

Hyypänmäki is one of the most beautiful ridge areas in Hailuoto and a wonderful destination for outdoor recreation all year round. It is a landscape shaped by dry pine forests, sandy slopes, and the forces of wind and ice. The trails of Hyypänmäki are easily accessible from the Hyypä ski lodge area, and the paths are easy to walk, making them suitable for families as well.

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According to local tradition, during the Great Northern War (1700–1721), a hideout known as Piilopirtti Gorge was located in a ravine at Hyypänmäki. The area is also home to a community-created artwork, the Hyypä Landscape Bench, where visitors can rest and take in the surrounding scenery.
 

Hailuoto Church is located in the heart of the village of Hailuoto. Its teepee-inspired design and large altar window draw the eye toward nature, framing the centuries-old pine trees standing just outside. The church was designed by architects Irma and Matti Aaltonen.

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The current church building was constructed to replace the former church, which was destroyed by fire in 1968. In the church entrance hall, visitors can explore a small museum space displaying historical artefacts that were rescued from the fire.

Ojakylä Windmill is a traditional windmill located in the village of Ojakylä in Hailuoto. Near the mill, visitors can also see old grain storehouses and a large cogwheel. The site can be reached by car, with parking available at a designated parking area. From the main road, a weathered sign on the left points the way to the windmill.
More detailed information, such as the annual summer turning of the Ojakylä windmill, can be found on the Hailuoto-Seura website. According to local tradition, the mill is turned by women to ensure a good grain harvest in the autumn.