NootamaaNootamaa at a Glance
About Nootamaa
Nootamaa is a small uninhabited islet in Saare County off the west coast of Estonia and represents the westernmost point of Estonian territory. The islet is part of the archipelago of islands in the Väinameri and is included in protected natural areas.
The islet’s value is primarily ecological - it serves as habitat and nesting grounds for seabirds and is surrounded by sensitive marine habitats. There are no permanent buildings and landing is normally restricted to protect wildlife and the natural environment.
Nootamaa lies in the Baltic Sea off the western coast of Saaremaa island and is administered within Saare County as part of local conservation zones. It is reached by boat from nearby islands but typically viewed from protected-area vantage points rather than visited directly.
- Westernmost point and protection: Recognised as the westernmost point of Estonia and included in the nearby marine and island nature protection areas, access is restricted to protect seabirds and habitats.
Best Time to Visit Nootamaa
Summer months are the practical season for visits to small Baltic islets when seas are calmer and daylight is long.
Weather & Climate near Nootamaa
Continental climate with mild summers (peaking in August) and freezing winters (coldest in February). Temperatures range from -4°C to 19°C. Moderate rainfall (586 mm/year).
| Month | Comfort | Temp | Feels | Rain | Sky | Humidity | Wind | UV | Daylight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | Poor | -3° - 1° | -7° | 44 mm | overcast | 88% | 6.4 m/s | 0.0 low | 6.9h |
| February | Poor | -4° - 0° | -8° | 29 mm | overcast | 89% | 5.7 m/s | 0.1 low | 9.1h |
| March | Poor | -2° - 2° | -5° | 32 mm | overcast | 88% | 5.0 m/s | 0.2 low | 11.6h |
| April | Acceptable | 2° - 6° | 0° | 31 mm | partly cloudy | 86% | 4.8 m/s | 0.6 moderate | 14.2h |
| May | Good | 6° - 12° | 7° | 31 mm | partly cloudy | 84% | 4.5 m/s | 1.1 high | 16.6h |
| June | Very Good | 11° - 17° | 14° | 43 mm | partly cloudy | 83% | 4.5 m/s | 1.4 high | 17.9h |
| July | Very Good | 14° - 19° | 17° | 51 mm | partly cloudy | 81% | 4.4 m/s | 1.3 high | 17.2h |
| August | Very Good | 15° - 19° | 17° | 59 mm | partly cloudy | 79% | 4.4 m/s | 1.0 moderate | 15.1h |
| September | Acceptable | 11° - 15° | 13° | 65 mm | overcast | 82% | 5.4 m/s | 0.5 low | 12.6h |
| October | Acceptable | 6° - 10° | 5° | 69 mm | overcast | 84% | 5.8 m/s | 0.2 low | 10.0h |
| November | Poor | 2° - 6° | -1° | 74 mm | overcast | 87% | 6.4 m/s | 0.0 low | 7.6h |
| December | Poor | -1° - 3° | -4° | 58 mm | overcast | 87% | 6.4 m/s | 0.0 low | 6.2h |
How to Get to Nootamaa
Access from Saaremaa (Kuressaare) by small boat; local boat operators can arrange passages in calm weather. Approaches should be coordinated with local authorities due to bird nesting and conservation considerations.
Tips for Visiting Nootamaa
- Nootamaa is a small islet - approach only with local knowledge and appropriate permission, as birdlife is sensitive.
- Bring binoculars: the surrounding waters and islets are often more interesting than the rock itself, especially for seabirds.
- Check tidal charts and smaller-boat operators in Kuressaare for safe passage.