As the days grow longer and the weather gets warmer, the Lofoten Islands transform into a summer paradise unlike any other. With its picturesque landscapes, white sandy beaches, and endless outdoor activities, the archipelago off the coast of Norway offers a one-of-a-kind experience for visitors seeking an escape from the ordinary.
In this article, we will explore the top 15 activities you must try during your summer visit to the Lofoten Islands, from hiking under the midnight sun to enjoying the local cuisine. Get ready to immerse yourself in the best of summer in Lofoten!
Which are Lofoten’s summer months?
Being located in the Northern Hemisphere, Lofoten (and Norway) experience the summer season between the months of June and September.
However, the main summer season in Lofoten starts in the second half of June and lasts until mid-August.
Local tip: Early June is your best chance for beating the biggest crowds, while also enjoying summer weather. Similarly, the second half of August gets significantly more quiet in comparison to July. Some of the activity providers stop running their tours around September 15 which is an unofficial end of the summer season.
Hiking in the mountains in Norway and in Lofoten especially is an experience like no other. Lofoten’s mountainous landscape is home to some of the most spectacular hiking trails in the world.
However, before you set out on a hike in Lofoten, make sure you know what you’re getting into. Some trails are easier than others, so make sure you pick one that suits your fitness level and experience.
Also, some trails may not be marked clearly or at all, so it’s always a good idea to bring a map or GPS device with you especially if you choose something else than the TOP 5 hikes in Lofoten.
Reinebringen – Reinebringen is the most popular hike in the whole of Lofoten. The summit offers stunning views of Reine and its surrounding mountains. It is a steep climb and takes around 2-3 hours to complete.
Kvalvika Beach – This hike starts in Fredvang and takes you to a beautiful white sand beach surrounded by steep mountains. It’s about a 2-hour hike each way, and the trail is well-marked.
Ryten – The summit of Ryten provides amazing views of Kvalvika Beach and the ocean. It takes about 3-4 hours to complete.
Mannen – This hike offers breathtaking views of the Haukland beach and the surrounding mountains. It takes around 2-3 hours to complete and includes some steep sections.
Offersøykammen – This mountain peak close to Leknes provides panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and the ocean. It’s a relatively easy hike and takes around 2-3 hours to complete.
Radka overlooking the Kvalvika Beach at the beginning of September
These are the most popular hikes in Lofoten. They provide spectacular view, however, they also attract large crowds of hikers during the high season.
That being said, there are still ways to avoid the crowds and enjoy the hike at your own pace.
Start your hike in the early morning hours or in the evening when most people are still sleeping or have already finished their hike for the day. This way, you can avoid the crowds and enjoy the peacefulness of the surroundings.
There are plenty of lesser-known trails in Lofoten that are just as beautiful as the popular ones. Do some research (or purchase our map of Lofoten where we did the work for you) and explore these trails to avoid the crowds.
Hiking in Lofoten can be a wonderful experience, but it’s important to prioritize safety during your trip. The terrain can be rugged and unpredictable, so it’s essential to have the right equipment and be prepared for the weather changes.
Bring appropriate gear: You’ll want to have sturdy hiking boots, layered clothing, and a waterproof jacket. It’s also a good idea to bring a fully charged phone, and a first aid kit.
Check the weather: The weather in Lofoten can be unpredictable and can change quickly. Check the weather forecast before you head out and be prepared for changes in conditions.
Stick to marked trails: Many of the most popular hikes in Lofoten are marked and well-traveled. Stick to these trails and avoid going off-trail.
Watch your step: The terrain in Lofoten can be rocky and uneven, so watch your footing.
Know your limits: Lofoten offers a range of hiking options, from easy walks to challenging climbs. Choose hikes that match your level of fitness and experience. Don’t attempt hikes that are beyond your skill level.
During the summer months, the Earth’s axial tilt causes the North Pole to be inclined towards the sun, which means that in places north of the Arctic Circle, including the Lofoten Islands, the sun doesn’t fully set below the horizon. This means that for several weeks during the summer, the sun remains visible for 24 hours a day, leading to the natural phenomenon known as the midnight sun.
Midnight sun in Flakstad in western Lofoten
In Lofoten, you can witness the midnight sun from late May to mid-July, with the peak of the phenomenon occurring around the summer solstice on June 21st.
The experience of seeing the midnight sun is quite surreal. The colors of the sky and landscape during the midnight sun are often be breathtakingly beautiful, with magic golden light illuminating the surroundings. The sun’s constant presence creates a sense of endless possibility and freedom, as you feel quite energized to explore and enjoy outdoor activities.
To fully experience the midnight sun in Lofoten, it’s important to have an open horizon in the northern direction. The best spots are the stunning sandy beaches on the northern side of the islands, like Haukland and Uttakleiv Beaches close to Leknes, the beaches on the northern side of Gimsøya island close to Svolvær or the Skagsanden beach in Flakstad.
Local tip: You may want to bring an eye mask to sleep despite the brightness.
If you’re planning a trip to the Lofoten Islands, visiting at least one of the white sand beaches should definitely be on your itinerary. With their breathtaking scenery, crystal-clear waters, and peaceful atmosphere, Lofoten has some of the most beautiful beaches in the world.
Radka enjoying the view of Kvalvika Beach in September
🏖️ Haukland Beach on the island of Vestvågøy has been named best beach in Europe by travel publication Lonely Planet.
🏖️ The neighbouring Uttakleiv beach attracts photographers to take picture of the famous Dragon eye of Uttakleiv all year round.
🏖️ You also should not miss the beautiful Skagsanden beach, where you can watch the surfers riding the waves under the midnight sun.
🏖️However, two of our absolute favorite beaches in Lofoten are Kvalvika beach and Bunes beach.
The mighty cliffs of Ryten photographed from Kvalvika beach
Kvalvika Beach is our favorite since we live in the nearby village of Fredvang and Kvalvika is our nearest hike that we can do without having to drive and searching for a space at the parking lot.
The beach is only accessible on foot, but trust me, it’s totally worth the hike. Once you reach Kvalvika Beach, you’ll be greeted by a picturesque crescent of white sand nestled between towering cliffs.
You can take a dip in the Arctic ocean, relax on the sand, or just watch the powerful waves. If you’re up for it, you can continue the hike up to Ryten for even more spectacular views.
Kvalvika Beach
Bunes Beach is definitely worth a visit, but getting there is a bit more of an adventure. You can only reach this secluded paradise by boat, which adds to the overall experience.
The boat ride along the Reinefjorden is a highlight in itself. Once you arrive at Vinstad, you’ll need to hike for about 2 km to get to the beach. The soft white sand, crystal clear turquoise waters, and majestic mountains surrounding the Bunes Beach make for a truly magical setting.
If you’re up for a challenge and you have some extra time, you should consider hiking to the Helvetestinden peak, which towers over the beach. The hike is steep and requires some fitness, but the reward is stunning views of Bunes Beach and the surrounding mountains. It’s an experience you won’t soon forget.
Bunes Beach is only accessible by boat and a short hike
Sadly, the private ferry that was going to Bunes run only for one season and now we are back to the municipal ferry with no prebooking and insane queus.
Fishing has been a way of life for the people in Lofoten for centuries, and it is deeply ingrained in the community’s history and traditions. Even today, fishing continues to be an essential activity for many locals, especially during the winter seasonal fishery known as Lofotfisket.
If you want to try your luck at fishing, we highly recommend joining fishing trips with local fishermen on board a traditional fishing boat.
From our amazing April Fishing Trip with Go2Lofoten
If you’re in Svolvær, we can highly recommend Go2Lofoten, which is a family business run by six out of seven Hansen brothers! The Hansen brothers were born and raised in Svolvær, and as their parents and grandparents actively fished and hunted whales, it was only natural that they became fisherman as well.
In April 2023, we had the pleasure of going fishing with Bård and it was an unforgettable experience! Bård proved to be a patient, humorous, and knowledgeable guide who kept us entertained throughout the trip. He answered all our questions about fishing and whaling, shared interesting facts that we were not aware of, and fostered a friendly and welcoming atmosphere on the boat. We couldn’t have asked for a better guide to accompany us on our fishing adventure.
Happy Radka and her cod!
In the western part of Lofoten, we recommend you to go for a fishing trip from Ballstad with Next Adventure Lofoten.
The village has a long history of fishing and maritime culture, with many of its buildings and houses dating back to the 19th century. Today, Ballstad remains a bustling fishing village with a vibrant community of fishermen and their families.
Fishing in Ballstad, Lofoten is a truly unique experience, and one that is made even better when aboard the L/S Sira. This classic 41-foot oak-wood boat from the 1940s has a rich history, originally used to transport pilots between ports and larger ships at sea.
Nowadays, the L/S Sira is a protected ship and takes visitors on 3-hour fishing tours to the best local fishing spots.
Kayaking is a fantastic way to explore the breathtaking scenery of Lofoten. There are some great places to paddle around, including Reinefjorden, Svolvær, Skrova, and Henningsvær.
It’s important to note that for safety reasons, you need to have a certificate to rent a kayak on your own. If you don’t have one, consider joining a guided tour.
If you’re looking for a great kayaking experience in Reinefjorden, we highly recommend Reine Paddling. Runhild, who owns the company and also runs the Catogården accommodation, grew up in Reine and has excellent knowledge of the fjord’s conditions.
You can be assured that you will be in safe hands with her. Although we have not yet joined a guided trip from Reine Paddling, we often rent kayaks from Runhild since we don’t own our own kayaks.
This is not exactly a summer picture (It was taken during Easter), but kayaking in Reinefjorden is fun all year round!
Another magical place where we would recommend you to try sea kayaking is the island of Skrova. Skrova is often called the “Hawaii of Lofoten” due to its pristine white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters.
It is just a short ferry ride away from Svolvær and has a population of around 200 people, who primarily engage in fishing. The village gained privileged trading rights in 1760, and for a long time, it was the largest fishing village in Lofoten, as well as the largest whaling station in Norway.
Skrova Kayaking, run by Czech kayaker Michal Kraus, offers guided kayaking tours around the island. Michal, who lives on the island, has extensive knowledge of kayaking and the local conditions, so you can be assured of a safe and enjoyable experience.
Trollfjord is a narrow and dramatic fjord located between the Lofoten and Vesterålen islands in northern Norway. The fjord is famous for its steep cliffs that rise up to 1,000 meters above sea level, and its narrow entrance that is only 100 meters wide.
One of the most famous events that took place in Trollfjord was the Battle of Trollfjord in 1890. That year the cod migrated all the way to Rafsundet and the narrow Trollfjorden.
At the time, most fishermen used small traditional boats to fish, but a few shipping companies had introduced steam boats that used closed nets. These steamboats blocked the fjord mouth with nets, catching the fish inside and preventing the small boats from accessing the fjord.
This sparked a conflict between the rowing boats’ fishermen and the steamship crew and led to a fight. While there were injuries reported, there were no fatalities.
Hurtigruten entering the Trollfjorden
To explore Trollfjord, take a boat tour from the nearby town of Svolvær. There are plenty of tour companies to choose from, offering everything from high-speed RIB boat trips to longer sailing adventures.
If you’re up for a wild adventure, you should try a sea eagle safari on a RIB in Trollfjord. Not only will you get to enjoy breathtaking views of Lofoten and Vesterålen, but you’ll also get to see these amazing sea eagles up close in their natural habitat.
Sea eagles are the largest birds of prey in Europe and have a wingspan of up to 2.5 meters. When you take a RIB tour, the guides will share all kinds of cool facts and stories about these incredible creatures. They’ll even feed them right in front of you, giving you a chance to see these majestic birds up close. Trust us, it’s an experience you won’t forget!
The island of Røst is well known for its diverse and abundant bird life. Specifically, the island is famous for its large colonies of seabirds, including Atlantic puffins, black-legged kittiwakes, northern fulmars, and common guillemots, among others.
These birds are attracted to the island because of its nutrient-rich waters and rocky coastline, which provides ideal breeding and nesting habitats for them. The bird cliffs of Røst are a popular destination for birdwatchers and wildlife enthusiasts from all over the world.
According to an 2015 article in the newspaper Framtida, Røst had the largest colony of puffins for many years. In 1979, there were 1.5 million puffin couples nesting on the island.
However, by 2015, the number had dropped significantly to 289,000 due to a lack of nutritious food.
As a result, many couples choose to abandon nesting or cancel the process, and the hatched chicks have had a low survival rate since 2006. This problem is caused by the rise in sea temperature, which has allowed mackerel to move north and feed on the herring that the puffins used to rely on for food.
Sadly, this issue is not unique to Røst, as Norway’s total puffin population has decreased by a third over the last 30 years. Puffins have a lifespan of around 25 years and only lay one egg per year.
These factors, combined with their relatively stationary nature, have led to concerns that the puffin population on Røst and in other areas could face extinction over time.
Local tip: The best time to see puffins on Røst is from late April to mid-August, when they come to the island to breed and nest.
While Lofoten Islands are known for their scenic beauty and wildlife, including whales, it is important to note that there are no organized whale safaris in the Lofoten Islands.
Vesterålen is a lesser-known archipelago located north of the Lofoten Islands. Despite not having the same level of Instagram fame as Lofoten, Vesterålen offers a unique and quieter experience for travelers. One of the most significant advantages of traveling to Vesterålen is the opportunity to go on a whale watching trip.
The northern tip of the Andøya island is situated on the edge of the continental shelf, where the nutrient-rich waters provide an abundant food source for a variety of marine life, including the whales.
The whale watching season in Vesterålen is a year-round affair, with different species of whales being more prominent during different times of the year.
During the summer months, the waters outside Andenes in Vesterålen are primarily populated by Sperm whales. However, you may also spot other whale species, such as Killer whales and Pilot whales.
For those looking to experience whale watching in Andenes, we highly recommend joining Whalesafari Andenes on board their unique vessel, M/S Reine.
The boat has a rich history, dating back to the World War II. Originally intended as a seal hunting vessel, delays caused by the war led to a change of plans, and the vessel was sold to Vesteraalens Steamship Company to be used as a passenger boat in the Lofoten and Vesterålen regions. Throughout the years, M/S Reine underwent several refits and was used for various purposes. In 1992, M/S Reine embarked on its new adventure with Whalesafari A/S as their main whale watching vessel.
Since then, M/S Reine has been continuously upgraded and adapted in terms of safety and comfort for passengers. Today, it is a state-of-the-art vessel designed specifically for whale watching, with indoor seating areas and large windows. The vessel also has specialized equipment, such as hydrophones for listening to the whales.
As Andenes is a small town located on the northern coast of Vesterålen, getting there by public transport is a challenge. However, if you’re looking for a comfortable and hassle-free way to travel to Andenes, we highly recommend taking a bus trip with Best Arctic that combines the bus transportation with whale watching Safari.
➡️ Whale Watching From Svolvær
During summer time it is mainly Sperm whales to be found in the area outside Andenes. But it is also possible to come across other whale types, typically Killer whales and Pilot whales.
Lofoten’s food scene goes beyond the famous stockfish and Lofoten lamb. Marielle and Hugo, originally from the Netherlands, operate Lofoten Gårdsysteri, a cheese farm situated in the stunning Saupstad on the outer edge of the Lofoten islands.
During the summer, their roughly 150 dairy goats roam freely in the mountains around the farm, grazing on fresh pastures, which enhances the flavor of their cheese. The couple’s cheese factory operates throughout the year, utilizing as many local resources as possible. If you’re interested in trying their award-winning cheeses, you can sample them in the small café next to the farm, and you can also purchase their exquisite products in the farm shop.
Delicious cheeses from Lofoten Gårdsysteri
Aalan Gård is a family-run farm located close to Leknes that is definitely worth a visit. Tove and Knut Åland, who run the farm, are among the few remaining goat farmers in Nordland county.
They make various types of cheese, including brown and white goat’s cheese, feta cheese, fresh cheese with herbs, and curds, among others. You can taste their delicious cheeses that are served on board the Hurtigruten coastal express.
But worry not if you do not travel by Hurtigruten, you can still visit the farm and buy the products in the farm shop. In July, they have an open farm café with opening hours from 11:00 to 15:00. They serve a cheese platter and “kjærlighetssuppe” (a Norwegian soup made with various vegetables and meat) for lunch.
Aalan gård
Last farm that should not be missed on your list is Polarhagen, meaning “polar garden.” It is a vegan vegetable farm operated by Parsa and Lisa, who grow vegetables for both the local community and travelers using eco-friendly techniques without any animal inputs or tractors.
From 2019-2022, they ran a small market garden in Rise, but in 2023, they moved to Voie in Vestvågøy, where they purchased their dream farm covering 170 acres.
Throughout the summer, Polarhagen organizes several “pop-up kitchen” evenings. These events are more than just an opportunity to indulge in their delicious pizzas; during the four-hour event, Parsa and Lisa share their farm’s story and provide insight into their farming practices. They discuss why they grow food and how we can all contribute to helping the environment in the future.
Do not miss the chance to participate at the pop up kitchen at Polarhagen!
#10 Try surfing
Surfing in Lofoten is a relatively new activity, having gained popularity among local surfers in the late 1990s. Today, Lofoten has become a popular destination for surfers from all over the world, especially during the winter months when the waves are at their best.
Surfing at Unstad Beach
Lofoten’s top surf spots are located on the northern side of the islands, as this area receives the most favorable N windswells and large wrapping SW swells during winter, making it an ideal location for surfing.
Unstad Beach is one of the best surfing spots in Lofoten and is home to the Unstad Arctic Surf, the world’s most northerly surf school, which offers accommodations and equipment rentals for surfers of all levels.
The best season for surfing in Lofoten is from October to March, when the swells are the biggest and the water temperature is around 4-7°C. However, it’s possible to surf all year round, and some surfers prefer the summer months with its long days and warmer temperatures.
Surfing at Unstad Beach
Another popular surfing spot in Lofoten is Skagsanden Beach, which spans approximately 300 meters and is known for its favorable windswell action in the winter from the W and the N.
Skagsanden is a sand-bottomed beach break, making it suitable for beginners and intermediate surfers. Lofoten Beach Camp at Skagsanden Beach is a popular campsite located just a few steps away from the beach. You can rent surfing equipment at the camp and book a lesson with an instructor. There is also an on-site café that serves simple food such as burgers and tacos.
Lofoten Beach Camp
Skagsanden is a sand-bottomed beach break, making it suitable for beginners and intermediate surfers.
Gimsøya Island is one of the lesser-known gems of the Lofoten archipelago. Located just a short drive from Svolvær, the island is a beautiful and peaceful destination that offers stunning scenery.
Hov Gård, a horse farm located on the island, provides year-round horse riding tours that cater to beginners as well as experienced riders. The tours offer a chance to explore the enchanting scenery of Lofoten while riding on white sandy beaches, witnessing the midnight sun during summers, and enjoying the northern lights during winter months.
Every year hundreds, if not thousands, of climbers flock to the Lofoten islands to test their strength on the high-quality granite walls in the vicinity of Svolvær and Henningsvær. The most well-known climb in Lofoten is undoubtedly the Svolvær goat, also known as Svolværgeita.
You’ve probably seen pictures of people jumping from one pinnacle to another. If looking at it doesn’t make you feel uneasy, then you might be up for the challenge of standing on top of the rock and taking in the stunning view overlooking Svolvær. And who knows, maybe you’ll even be brave enough to attempt the famous jump!
Ivar and I climbing Svolværgeita in 2017
Climbing the Svolvær goat is a must-do on the bucket list for all climbers in Norway, but you don’t need to be a professional climber to experience it. In fact, the climb itself is relatively easy and can be done by people with average fitness and a steady head for heights with the assistance of professional guides.
Ivar and I decided to take on the challenge of climbing Svolværgeita on our own during our first holidays to Lofoten in 2017, and it turned out to be an adventure we will never forget.
While Ivar fearlessly jumped between the horns with little hesitation, I got stuck and panicked. It took all of Ivar’s skills and persuasive powers to help me make my way down from the summit.
If you’re not a confident climber, we highly recommend booking a guided tour with Northern Alpine Guides. They have experienced professionals who will guide you through the climb and ensure your safety every step of the way, so you can fully enjoy the adventure without any worries or stress.
Exploring the fishing villages of Lofoten is an experience not to be missed during a visit to the region no matter the time of the year. A visit to the fishing villages offers a glimpse into the rich history and culture of the fishing industry in Lofoten, as well as stunning views of the surrounding mountains and sea.
Nusfjord, Reine and Å are some of the most famous and touristy fishing villages in Lofoten, each with its own unique charm and character.
Å rorbuer
In Å, you can explore the Norwegian Fishing Village Museum and learn about the traditional methods of fishing and boat-building in the area. In addition, you can learn more about the stockfish in the small Stockfish museum, that is open only during the summer.
Reine rorbuer
Reine is known for its picturesque red fishermen’s cabins that line the harbor. It’s often considered one of the most beautiful villages in Norway and has been featured in many travel guides and magazines. The village is surrounded by towering mountains, including the iconic Reinebringen.
Book Your Stay at Reine Rorbuer
Eliassen rorbuer
Hamnøy is another charming fishing village in the Reinefjorden area, and it is also known for its red fishing cabins which have been converted into cozy accommodations for visitors. The nearby Hamnøy bridge is a popular spot for photographers who want to capture the iconic shot of Eliassen rorbuer nestled under the mighty Festhæltind peak, which provides a stunning backdrop to the already picturesque location.
Book Your Stay at Eliassen Rorbuer
Nusfjord Arctic Resort (And the Hansines bakeri that sells the best cinnamon buns in Lofoten)
Nusfjord is a picturesque fishing village with a long and fascinating history that dates back to the Viking age. The location of Nusfjord was ideal for fishing because of its sheltered harbor, which provided a safe haven for fishing boats during storms. Over time, the village grew and became an important center for the cod fishing industry in Lofoten.
Today, Nusfjord is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site and an open-air museum where you can tour a sawmill, an old-fashioned store, and a factory that makes cod-liver oil.
Book Your Stay at Nusfjord Arctic Resort
Henningsvær
Henningsvær has evolved from a quaint fishing village to a vibrant town that is home to trendy cafes, art galleries, boutique hotels, arts and crafts shops, and restaurants. Do not expect a big shopping opportunities though, the town center can be easily explored on foot, taking less than 10 minutes to walk through.
Henningsvær is not only known for its artsy and bohemian atmosphere, but also for having one of the most unique and picturesque football fields in the world. Located on a tiny island at the edge of the town, the football field is surrounded by fish drying racks and turbulent sea. However, getting a good view of the field is challenging, and the best way to appreciate its beauty is by using a drone.
After a day filled with hiking or water activities, a good sauna session can be the perfect way to unwind and relax your muscles. Although the sauna is technically a Finnish invention, Norwegians have all embraced the sauna culture. In recent years, saunas have become increasingly popular throughout Lofoten, providing visitors and locals with a cozy escape from the cold.
Sauna at Hov Gård on the Gimsøy Island
One of the most popular is the sauna at Hov Beach on Gimsøy Island. Here, you can enjoy a traditional wood-fired sauna right on the beach, with stunning views of the surrounding mountains and ocean.
Another great option is Catogården in Reine, which offers both a traditional Finnish sauna and a hot tub. We also love the Lofotspa in Nyvågar rorbu hotell and the private jacuzzi and sauna in Skårungen.
We highly recommend planning your summer trip to Lofoten in advance. Accommodations and activities tend to fill up quickly in the summer, so it’s best to book ahead of time to ensure that you can experience everything that you want to during your stay. So don’t wait until the last minute, start planning your summer trip to Lofoten now!
Our Insight: Based on our experience, we advise you to book your accommodation in Lofoten for July well in advance. Typically, the available options get booked up quickly, and last-minute bookings are limited. We recommend booking your accommodation before the end of January to secure your desired dates!
The accommodation in Lofoten gets usually fully booked in July
If you have any questions or would like to share your own experiences, feel free to drop your thoughts in the comments section below.
We are happy to answer any questions you may have regarding the best activities to do in Lofoten in summer.
Lofoten is an incredible destination that is worth visiting any time of the year. Each season offers a unique and unforgettable experience.
Summer is undoubtedly one of the best times to visit Lofoten, as the weather is generally warmer and more stable, making it easier to enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, kayaking, and fishing. With the midnight sun, you can take advantage of the long daylight hours to explore the stunning scenery or enjoy a hike without worrying about the lack of daylight.
However, summer also comes with some challenges. Crowds can be a problem, with more visitors flocking to Lofoten during the peak season, which results in higher prices and a more competitive booking situation. Parking at some of the most popular hiking trails can also be a challenge during high season, and you may need to arrive early or plan alternate routes.
Our Insight: While summer is an excellent time to visit for warm weather and outdoor activities, we highly recommend visiting during the shoulder season (late May, September and early October) or off-season (beginning of April) for a quieter and more affordable trip.
The weather in Lofoten during the summer months is heavily influenced by the Gulf Stream, which is a warm ocean current that flows along the coast of Norway.
The Gulf Stream helps to moderate the climate in Lofoten, making the weather milder and more temperate than what would be expected at this latitude.
During the summer, the daytime temperatures typically range from 12-17°C (53-63°F). This is considerably warmer than other locations at similar latitudes, such as Alaska or Siberia.
In addition to moderating temperatures, the Gulf Stream also brings moisture to Lofoten, which contributes to the frequent rainfall and cloudy weather in the area. This can create a unique and moody atmosphere that is characteristic of the region.
Our Insight: It’s important to note that weather conditions in Lofoten can change rapidly, so you should always be prepared for a range of weather conditions, including rain, wind, and even occasional heat waves.
The weather in Lofoten can be unpredictable, so it’s essential to pack for all eventualities.
Here are some items we recommend bringing to make the most out of your Lofoten summer adventure:
✅ Warm layers: If you’re planning to hike or explore the mountains, make sure to bring some warmer layers to keep you comfortable.
✅ Sun protection: Even on overcast days, the sun’s rays can still be strong. Be sure to pack sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect your skin and eyes from the sun.
✅ Swimsuits and towels: Don’t forget to pack your swimsuit and towel so you can enjoy Lofoten’s pristine beaches! Or the saunas and hot tubs if you are not a fan of cold water.
✅ Hiking shoes: Comfortable hiking shoes are a must if you plan on exploring the mountains and beaches.
✅ Hat, gloves, and scarf: Even in summer, it’s a good idea to bring a hat, gloves, and scarf as it can get windy.
✅ Waterproof jacket: While summer is generally drier in Lofoten, it’s always a good idea to pack a waterproof jacket just in case.
✅ Eye Mask: If you think you might struggle to sleep because of the brightness, pack a sleeping mask! And throw in a pair of ear plugs as the seagulls can get pretty loud!
The number of days you need to spend on the Lofoten Islands largely depends on your travel style, interests, and activities you wish to do.
However, to truly experience the beauty and charm of the Lofoten Islands, we recommend you to plan for a minimum of 4 days. This will give you enough time to explore some of the most iconic locations such as Henningsvær, Reine, Å, and Nusfjord, as well as try some activities such as hiking, kayaking, or fishing.
However, if you want to take things at a slower pace, spending a week or more on the islands would be ideal. This will give you time to explore the lesser-known places, and higher chances to experience some days with sunny weather.
It’s worth noting that traveling to and from the Lofoten Islands can take some time, depending on your mode of transport, so you may want to factor that into your travel plans.
Public transportation in Lofoten during the summer months is generally reliable and frequent, with buses running along the main routes between the major towns and villages.
However, the public buses are limited, bordering nonexistent in more remote parts of the islands.
We would recommend planning your travel in advance and checking schedules and timetables when relying on public transportation in Lofoten. Also, consider renting a car if you plan on exploring the islands in depth.
Read more: Getting around Lofoten without a car
Wild camping in Lofoten is an adventure in itself, with the archipelago offering some of the most stunning and secluded spots for camping.
However, it’s essential to distinguish between wild camping and camping next to a road shoulder.
✅ Wild camping refers to camping in a remote location away from civilization, and it’s regulated by the Allemanseretten (Fredom to roam).
❌ In contrast, camping next to the main road E10, or in general next to a road, is increasingly frowned upon by locals, as it often leads to littering and damage to the environment.
To preserve the delicate ecosystem of Lofoten, we encourage to camp in designated areas with an access to toilets.
In terms of daylight hours, Lofoten experiences the phenomenon of the “midnight sun” from the end of May until mid-July, where the sun remains visible above the horizon for 24 hours a day. This means that you can enjoy extended daylight hours and endless opportunities for outdoor exploration and activities.
In July, Lofoten experiences the peak of the summer season, with temperatures averaging around 14-17°C (57-63°F) during the day. The days are long, with nearly 24 hours of daylight. You can expect warm and sunny weather, but occasional rain and wind should be expected as well. You know, the weather in Lofoten is like a box of chocolates, you never know what you´re gonna get :D
Moving into August, the temperature in Lofoten remains relatively stable, with average daytime temperatures ranging between 12-16°C (53-61°F). The days begin to get shorter, but you can still expect nearly 20 hours of daylight in the beginning of the month.
As August progresses, the days gradually become shorter, with the sun setting earlier each day. You can expect similar weather conditions to July, with occasional rain and wind mixed in with sunny and warm days.
In Lofoten, the Northern Lights season lasts from late August/ early September to mid-April. That does not mean though that you will be able to see the northern lights every night during this period, as you need to have clear sky and there has to be a solar activity.
Hi! We are Ivar & Radka, an international couple who runs the Guide to Lofoten. We met in Trondheim and lived together in western Norway, Narvik and Tromsø. At the moment we call western Lofoten our home. We hope our page will make it easier for you to explore the beautiful places that made us chose Norway for our home.
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Hi! We are Ivar & Radka, an international couple who runs the Guide to Lofoten.
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Fantastic guide, but when its a guide to Lofoten. Way only show one Company for engelsk, Kayakking mm? It could be Great for tourist and the readers to see all activitys who offering all over Lofoten, like puffins safari at Røst, rib safari in Reine, Lofoten Explorer, Lofoten charterbåt and xxl Lofoten for sea Eagles safari. Kayakking by Lofoten active in Svolvær and kabelvåg and xxl Lofoten. + alot more activitys. When its comming to guiding allong Lofoten for the Northern lights its only few Company who have licens to do this leagle from nordland fylkeskommune and statens vegvesen.