Ekenäs Archipelago National Park
Park Scenic archipelago protecting Baltic islands, birdlife, and coastlines
Archipelago park off southern Finland protecting rocky islets, shallow bays and coastal meadows near Ekenäs. Tourists kayak, island-hop by boat and birdwatch on accessible trails and skerries in summer months.
Ekenäs Archipelago National Park is a protected marine and island landscape in the Gulf of Finland off the southwest coast of Finland, adjacent to the town historically known as Ekenäs (modern Raseborg/Tammisaari). The park preserves a mosaic of skerries, small islands and coastal habitat characteristic of the Finnish archipelago.
The area is popular for boating, kayaking, birdwatching and seasonal outdoor recreation; visitors use marked landing points and basic facilities such as barbecue and campfire places on selected islets. The park emphasizes low-impact visitation and local maritime heritage.
The archipelago lies off Finland’s southern coast in Uusimaa, with the nearest settlements and launch points at Raseborg/Tammisaari and nearby coastal communities. Boat travel is the usual means to reach the islands, and services vary by season.
- Access and facilities: Access to the archipelago is primarily by private boat or scheduled boat services from the nearby coast; onshore options include marked routes and basic campfire sites.
How to Get to Ekenäs Archipelago National Park #
Access typically by boat from the Ekenäs (Tammisaari) harbor; local ferry and private boat operators run seasonal services. Check local operators for landing permissions and schedules.
Tips for Visiting Ekenäs Archipelago National Park #
- Bring a waterproof jacket and shoes suitable for rocky shorelines if planning a boat landing on islands.
- Book guided boat trips in advance; islands are reachable only by private boat or organised tours.
- Look for seals and seabirds in spring and early summer; local guides know the best viewing coves.
Best Time to Visit Ekenäs Archipelago National Park #
Best in summer for boating and island access; shoulder seasons useful for birdwatching but seas can be rough.