The German National Tourist Office GCC (GNTO GCC) has today announced that the number of overnight stays by GCC visitors to Germany has grown steadily since 2022 to 1.2 million in 2025, an increase of 9%, while GCC travellers spent a total of €3 billion, over 30% more than the average expenditure of all overseas visitors to Germany in 2025.
The announcement was made during a press conference on the opening day of Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2026, taking place from 14–17 September 2026 at the Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC).
This Lofoten Islands, Norway travel guide covers the best way to get there, where to stay, the top places to see, what to pack and more!
Easily one of the most beautiful regions in the world, the Lofoten Islands in Norway are home to dramatic fjords, icy blue waters, scenic beaches, and quaint fishing towns. While trips to the islands are increasing in popularity every year, this otherworldly region is still home to pristine landscapes and extremely friendly locals.
The Lofoten Islands have been a dream destination of mine for as long as I can remember, and the magic I found there was unforgettable!
How to Get to the Lofoten Islands
Flying to Lofoten Islands
To get to the Lofoten Islands by flying, I recommend flying into Svolvaer as I did, which will give you the maximum amount of time in Lofoten. This small airport is a hub of the region, with direct flights from Bodo and Tromso year-round, plus seasonal flights from Oslo.
If you’re coming from elsewhere in Lofoten or Vesteralen, nearby regional airports like Leknes, Stokmarknes, and Rost can also get you closer.
Driving to Lofoten Islands
If you’re dreaming of seeing all the sights along the way to the Lofoten Islands, then renting a car and hitting the open road is the way to go. The Road E10 connects the Lofoten Islands to the mainland, and will allow you to see all the major islands.
Taking the Ferry to the Lofoten Islands
To get to the Lofoten Islands by ferry, your main point of departure will be Bodø, and the crossing takes roughly 3 to 3.5 hours. If you opt for the ferry option, know that there are both passenger and car ferry options, so if you plan on renting a car, you can have the best of both worlds.
Renting a Car in Lofoten Islands
To rent a car in Lofoten, head to a hub city such as Svolvaer, Moskenes, Reine, or, for a cheaper option, nearby Bodo. Be sure to have your international drivers licence up-to-date!
Driving Tips for Lofoten Islands
Pay VERY close attention to speed limits in Norway! Getting a ticket for going 2km over the speed limit is common and there are speed cameras in many areas. Speeding tickets are extremely expensive and are given out depending on how many kilometers you were going over the speed limit.
Located in Nusfjord, Nusfjord Village & Resort offers traditional cottages with stellar sea views. All cottages are equipped with wooden floors and refrigerators, and there is a wood-fired hot tub for use. I absolutely loved my stay here — everything from the cozy and tasteful decor to the huge home-made breakfast which is delivered every night.
Reine Rorbuer
While all the cabins, rooms, and apartments at the Reine Rorbuer have been newly renovated for comfort, they manage to maintain the atmosphere of their old use as fisherman’s lodgings. Reine Rorbuer, set directly in the village of Reine, offers wifi, traditional and international meals, and fjord views.
Eliassen Rorbuer
Located on the island of Hamnoy, Eliassen Rorbuer consists of 35 renovated cabins consisting of one or two bedrooms, private bathrooms, kitchens, and free wifi. In the summertime, take advantage of Eliassen’s free rowboat usage and explore the area from the water.
Located on the tiny island of Lamholmen in Svolvaer, Scandic Svolvaer is a gorgeous waterfront hotel offering lush accommodations, meeting rooms, free wifi and a restaurant with a panoramic view of the surrounding landscape. My favorite part of my stay was watching the birds fish in the calm water right outside my room with a private balcony.
A charming fishing village on the island of Moskenesoya, Reine is home to just 329 people and some incredible sites. A great place to go for outdoorsy types, Reine has some excellent opportunities for hiking, fishing, kayaking, and, if it’s a clear night, Northern Light watching.
Hamnoy
Located on the east side of Moskenesoya, Hamnoy is about 2 kilometres east of Reine, and is the oldest fishing town in the Lofoten archipelago. While Hamnoy is an excellent place to visit most of the year, if you’re a jazz fan then plan to visit the area during May when the town hosts the Elijazzen Jazz Festival.
I recommend driving across the bridge to visit the tiny island of Sakrisøy and stop for a fresh fish burger at Anitas Sjømat.
Set on a few tiny islands off the coast of Austvagoya, Henningsvaer is a picture-perfect destination in both its landscape and its art. To get to the islands, there is a narrow road to drive along that seems to burst from the mountains; and trust me, this view alone will make it worth visiting Henningsvaer. While you’re there, be sure to visit Galleri Lofotens Hus, a museum that doubles as an art gallery.
Nusfjord
One of Lofoten’s best-preserved fishing villages, Nusfjord is a great place to go if you want to take in excellent scenery and traditional culture of the area. If you visit from June to August, make sure to visit the outdoor spa and observe how the locals refine the traditional cod liver oil of the area.
Unstad Beach in Vestvagoy is not only one of Lofoten’s most frequented beaches, it is also a surfing hotspot and home to the most northern surfing school in the world. With its icy waters and fjords jutting up into the sky, this beach is not to be missed.
Located on the island of Flakstadoya, Ramberg Beach is a beautiful white sand beach that, in the summertime, practically dares you to take a dip in its waters. While still colder than a tropical paradise, the waters in Ramberg Beach are warmer than expected due to the Gulf Stream.
Fredvang
While once only accessible by boat, Fredvang is now connected to its neighbor island by two spectacular, and photogenic, bridges. In Fredvang, sheep dot the landscape while the harbor buzzes with activity. While getting to Fredvang is relatively easy, leaving will prove to be the challenge as the town’s laid back fishing and farming lifestyles beckon to be enjoyed.
Kvalvika Beach
Just a one-hour hike from Fredvang sits Kvalvika Beach, a gorgeous spot with stunning views. This spot is great for beach bums and also a must for photographers!
Vaeroy
Characterized by its gorgeous, yet harsh, scenery, Vaeroy and is home to colorful houses scattered across its landscape, turquoise Breivika beach, and awesome hiking trails. Speaking of hiking, be sure to head on up the trail to Mastadfjellet to experience one of Vaeroy’s most iconic views.
Layering up with fleece-lined leggings, some thermal tops, and some sports socks will make sure you stay comfortable in the Lofoten Islands.
Winter Gear
To prepare yourself for the cold weather, make sure to bring along some snow pants, a down jacket, a beanie, a scarf, and some snow boots.
Beach Attire
If you plan on hitting up a spa, beach, or surfing hotspot, be sure to bring along a swimsuit or wetsuit (I’d bring a 4.3mm or warmer), as well as a quick drying towel.
Lofoten Islands, Norway FAQ
What is the best time to visit the Lofoten Islands?
It really depends on what you’re after. If you want long daylight hours, milder weather, and the magic of the midnight sun, aim for June through August. If the Northern Lights are your priority, you’ll want to visit sometime between September and April, when the nights are dark enough to see them.
How many days do you need in the Lofoten Islands?
I’d recommend at least five to seven days if you want to actually relax into the pace of the islands rather than rush between villages. You could see the highlights in three or four days, but Lofoten rewards slowing down — the weather alone can shift your plans, so building in buffer time makes for a much better trip.
Do you need a car to see the Lofoten Islands?
I’d say yes. Public transportation exists but is limited, and so much of what makes Lofoten special (the tiny fishing villages, remote beaches, and scenic pullouts along the E10) is easiest to reach with your own car. If you’re not driving, you’ll want to plan carefully around bus schedules or lean on organized tours.
Can you see the Northern Lights in the Lofoten Islands?
Yes — Lofoten is actually one of the more accessible places in Norway to see them, with a season that runs roughly September through April. Just know that sightings depend entirely on clear skies and solar activity, so there are no guarantees on any single night.
Is Lofoten expensive to visit?
Like most of Norway, Lofoten isn’t a budget destination — accommodations, food, and rental cars all come at a premium compared to much of Europe. That said, you can manage costs by traveling in the shoulder season, cooking some of your own meals, and booking rorbuer (traditional fishing cabins) that include a kitchen.
What’s the closest airport to the Lofoten Islands?
Svolvaer Airport is the most convenient option if you’re flying directly into Lofoten, with routes from Bodo, Tromso, and seasonally Oslo. Some travelers also fly into Evenes Airport near Narvik or Harstad and drive in via the Lofoten Mainland Connection, which can offer more flight options depending on where you’re coming from.
Plan Your Trip
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Flights:Going is the first place I check when searching for cheap flights. If you sign up for their email alerts, you’ll receive flight deals at up to 90% off. I have traveled all over the world using their flight deals.
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Travel Insurance: I never travel without a travel insurance policy because it’s not worth the risk! I use and trust Visitors Coverage, which I have used for the past 10 years.
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The Middle East’s leading travel and tourism organisations and destinations have been honoured at a VIP gala ceremony in Dubai. Industry leaders gathered at One&Only One Za’abeel to celebrate the winners of World Travel Awards Middle East Gala Ceremony 2026.
Everything you need to know about a multi-day kayaking trip in the San Juan Islands, including where to spot whales, the best time to go, and what to pack.
Washington’s San Juan Islands are home to quaint towns, beautiful landscapes, and a multitude of outdoorsy activities. However, I’m not going to lie, the number one reason I planned a multi-day kayaking trip to the San Juan Islands is because I’m obsessed with whales.
That’s right, the San Juan Islands offer great whale watching opportunities, and what better way to see whales than on a multi-day kayaking trip?!
How to Get to the San Juan Islands for Kayaking
There are a few different ways of getting to the San Juan Islands, and each has its own benefits.
For a great way to see the islands from the water, either walk or drive aboard the Washington State Ferry from Anacortes. This ferry will take you straight into Friday Harbor after stopping at Lopez Island, Shaw Island, and Orcas Island.
A seasonal passenger ferry from Seattle has run in past years, though it’s not currently operating — check current schedules before planning around it.
If you’re bringing a car to the island, we recommend making a reservation in advance — especially if you’re traveling between the months of May and September. Walk-ons don’t need a reservation.
For a unique opportunity to see the islands from above, there are several regional flight options into the San Juan Islands that fly out of Boeing Field in Seattle, Lake Union, or Lake Washington.
What to Expect Kayak Camping in the San Juan Islands
we kayaked about six miles per day over two days, although the distance varies trip-to-trip depending on each group’s ability (you don’t have to be an expert kayaker by any means!).
While taking the two-day trip was a great adventure, looking back I absolutely wish I had given myself more time. After all, the more days spent on the water, the greater chance there is of seeing whales!
Discovery Sea Kayaks provides all the camping gear you’ll need on your trip, but know that you will be responsible for the set up and take down of this equipment at camp.
Additionally, all meals on your trip will be provided and I found them to be delicious, healthy, and locally sourced from organic gardens and local farms. If you have any dietary restrictions, let the team know ahead of time and they’ll be more than happy to accommodate your needs.
Where to Spot Whales While Kayaking in the San Juan Islands
If you’re wondering exactly where your best odds are, the west side of San Juan Island is the spot paddlers and whale-watching operators talk about most. Haro Strait, which runs along that west shore, is where orcas most frequently hunt and travel as they spend summer months foraging for salmon, and it’s often cited as some of the best orca-kayaking water in the country.
If you’d rather watch from land first (or want a backup plan for a day the water’s too rough to paddle), Lime Kiln Point State Park on that same stretch of coast is nicknamed “Whale Watch Park” for a reason, with orcas commonly seen from its overlooks along the Haro Strait.
That said, I’ll be honest about my own experience: I didn’t spot whales from my kayak. We had a foggy day that made it unsafe to cross the strait toward where they were, so we heard them more than we saw them.
I did see orcas on a separate whale-watching boat tour, and I’d definitely recommend booking both if whales are your main reason for coming — a kayak gets you into their world, but a boat gives you a much better chance of sightings when weather or timing doesn’t cooperate. Seeing them from shore is possible but rare, and not something I’d plan a trip around.
Note that this is a rough guide as itineraries tend to change based on the needs of the group, weather, tides, and other unforeseen reasons.
Day 1
To begin our adventure, my group departed from Jackson Beach near Friday Harbor and we made our way out of Griffin Bay and into the San Juan Channel. From there, we kayaked until we reached Jones Island State Park near Orcas Island, where we camped for the night.
Day 2
After leaving Jones Island State Park, we crossed San Juan Channel to Spieden Channel along the north shore of San Juan Island. From there, we took a break at the gorgeous Posey Island State Park before turning tail and heading back to Jackson Beach.
Although I was crunched for time, had I gone on to take the three-day tour I would have visited both Smallpox Bay and San Juan County Park on the west side of San Juan Island. Also, if you opt for a longer trip, your group can choose to spend a day of rest on one of the islands, hiking and taking short trips in your kayaks.
The Best Time to Kayak the San Juan Islands
While the weather in the San Juan Islands tends to stay fairly mild year round, if you visit between June and September you’ll find the warmest weather, least amount of rain, and best opportunities for whale watching.
Additionally, the summer months are also the best time to find bioluminescence in the water. The bioluminescence is due to a microorganism in the water called Noctiluca that, when disturbed, emits a sparking green light. To witness this awesome natural spectacle, tours can be arranged through Discovery Sea Kayaks.
How Long to Stay in the San Juan Islands for a Kayaking Trip
To fully grasp the island vibe and experience the best of what the San Juan Islands have to offer, I would recommend staying at least three, preferably four, days. Remember, the longer your trip, the better your chances of seeing whales.
I’d suggest bookending your kayaking trip with a night or two in Friday Harbor before and after, so you have time to explore the town, recover, and fit in extra activities like whale watching by boat. I stayed at Bird Rock Hotel, a boutique spot right in downtown Friday Harbor with homemade scones in the morning and complimentary beach cruiser bikes.
To keep yourself and your personal items dry, I recommend bringing along a 20L dry bag for clothing, a 10L dry bag for camera gear, a pair of waterproof pants, a rain jacket, a pair of water shoes, paddling gloves, and a waterproof case for your phone.
Being exposed to the elements, you’re going to want to bring along both bug spray and sunscreen.
Whale Watching Gear
To capture your whale experiences, be sure to bring along a pair of binoculars, a waterproof casing for your camera or a GoPro, and a telephoto lens for either your phone or camera.
San Juan Islands Kayaking FAQ
Do you need kayaking experience to kayak the San Juan Islands?
Not necessarily. I’m not an expert kayaker, and I was perfectly comfortable on our multi-day trip. Our group kayaked about six miles per day, but the distance and pace can vary depending on the group. If you’re new to kayaking, I recommend going with a guided tour so you have someone who knows the local waters, tides, and weather conditions.
Can you see whales while kayaking in the San Juan Islands?
You can, but there are no guarantees. I was hoping to see whales from my kayak and unfortunately didn’t get to see them. We did hear them, but the weather was too foggy for our group to safely cross the channel to where they were. I did see whales on a separate boat tour, so if seeing whales is high on your list, I would recommend doing both a kayaking trip and a dedicated whale watching tour.
What is the best month to kayak in the San Juan Islands?
I would plan your trip between June and September. These months generally have the warmest weather, less rain, and some of the best opportunities for whale watching. Summer is also a good time to look for bioluminescence in the water.
How many days do you need for a San Juan Islands kayaking trip?
I would give yourself at least three days, although four days would be even better. I did a two-day kayaking trip and loved it, but I definitely wished I had more time. A longer trip gives you more time to explore the islands, relax at camp, and hopefully spot some wildlife.
What should you wear kayaking in the San Juan Islands?
Layers are your best friend. The weather can change throughout the day, so I recommend moisture-wicking layers, a fleece, a rain jacket, and waterproof pants. You’ll also want water shoes and clothing that dries quickly if you get splashed.
Do you camp during a multi-day kayaking trip?
Yes. On my trip, we camped overnight at Jones Island State Park. The kayaking company provided the camping gear, but we were responsible for setting everything up and taking it down at the end of the trip. Meals were also provided, which made the whole experience much easier.
Is kayaking in the San Juan Islands worth it?
Absolutely. The combination of being out on the water, camping on the islands, and having the chance to see wildlife makes this one of my favorite ways to experience the San Juan Islands. I especially loved that the trip felt like an adventure rather than just another sightseeing tour.
Plan Your Trip
Sign up for my travel newsletter here and be the first to get my best travel advice and secret finds — so you can discover hidden gems, and travel like an insider (not just a tourist).
After traveling consistently for over 20 years, I’ve come to trust and rely on a few websites to help me find the best deals on flights and accommodation.
Flights:Going is the first place I check when searching for cheap flights. If you sign up for their email alerts, you’ll receive flight deals at up to 90% off. I have traveled all over the world using their flight deals.
Accommodation:Booking.com offers savings on hotels, apartments, and villas in 80,000 destinations worldwide. You can browse hotel reviews and find the guaranteed best price on hotels for all budgets.
Travel Insurance: I never travel without a travel insurance policy because it’s not worth the risk! I use and trust Visitors Coverage, which I have used for the past 10 years.
Let me book your trip! Looking for a Travel Advisor to help you plan your trip? Learn more here!
