Harakka Island represents a diverse concentration of life. The island’s vegetation, rich birdlife and interesting geology are second to none. The nature centre, which is open to everyone, offers a great setting for nature experiences.
Harakka Nature Centre’s nature house, aquariums, photo exhibitions and fairy tale house Vellamo show visitors the wonders of the Baltic Sea and archipelago nature.
“The exceptionally beautiful island, the thoughtfully refreshed exhibition of the nature house, the rich selection of art exhibitions and the huge number of birds and plants form a unique whole,” says Kaisa Pajanen, Team Manager in charge of Harakka’s operations.
Visitors can borrow equipment for nature observation from the nature house and admire the island’s rich birdlife from a bird watching hide or from a bird watching tower and scenic platform built on top of a bunker. The island’s glaciated rocks and scenic spots take the mind off the urban rush.
Harakka Nature Centre’s events in 2023
The programme of the 2023 summer season includes free nature tours, children’s island adventures, public events and exhibitions. A free island tour introduces visitors to the nature and history of the island every Saturday from 14.00 to 15.00. No advance registration is required for the events. You can find more information about the nature centre and the events of the season on the website: hel.fi/harakka
The nature centre is open to the public daily at 10.00–17.00 from May to the end of September (closed on Midsummer). The ferry to Harakka Island departs from Ullanlinna Pier in Kaivopuisto Park, next to Café Ursula (Ehrenströmintie 3). The ferry fare can only be paid by card or MobilePay.
During the Helsinki Day nature and art event on 12 June, Harakka Nature Centre will offer visitors’ free ferry trips.
Food for thought for an island visit
- Harakka is a great place for a picnic. There is no café on the island, but there are many beautiful spots to eat a packed lunch.
- There is a 1-km footpath around Harakka Island. The path is difficult in some places.
- Some of the island’s routes are temporarily closed during the bird nesting season. Please ask the visitor centre staff about the most suitable routes to take during the nesting season.
- Explore temporary exhibitions by the artists working on the island: harakka.fi
- Please note that you cannot come to the island by your own boat or with a dog.