Summer
Green mountains, turquoise water and days that don't end.
Summer in Lofoten (June to August) brings the midnight sun until mid-July, the best hiking conditions, and beaches with turquoise water. It's also the busiest season – book houses, ferries and cars early, and go out early in the morning or late in the evening to have the famous places to yourself.
What summer feels like
Green slopes where there was snow, white sand and water so clear it looks Caribbean (it isn't – it's cold). From late May to mid-July the sun doesn't set; in August, the first dark nights return. The weather can be anything from 10 °C (50 °F) and drizzle to properly warm sunny days – often all in one week.
Best summer hikes
- Reinebringen – the famous stairway above Reine, best very early or late.
- Ryten and Kvalvika – a hidden beach and the view down onto it.
- Festvågtind – Henningsvær from above.
- Offersøykammen and Hoven – shorter hikes with big views in the middle of the islands.
See our guides around Reine and around Lyngvær.
Beaches and boats
Haukland, Uttakleiv, Flakstad, Ramberg, Bunes – summer is beach time, even if the water stays cold. Boat trips run into the Trollfjord from Svolvær, and the small ferry from Reine to Vindstad gets you to Bunes beach.
Beat the crowds
Lofoten is popular in July. The trick is simple: the light is there all night, so use it. Go to the famous viewpoints at 6 am or 11 pm. Park only where it's allowed. And spend your middays somewhere quieter.
Book early
Accommodation, the Bodø–Moskenes ferry and rental cars are the bottlenecks in summer. Many guests book their summer stay up to a year ahead.
Good questions
When is the midnight sun in Lofoten?
The sun stays above the horizon around the clock from roughly late May to mid-July (Visit Lofoten gives 28 May to 14 July; exact dates depend on where you are on the islands).
How far ahead should I book?
For June to August and the aurora months around Christmas, New Year and February/March: the earlier the better. Shorter notice can work in spring and autumn. Ask.
Do I need a car?
Yes, realistically. Buses run along the main road, but not often, and the best places are spread out. Rent at the airport or in Bodø before the ferry.
Can I hike Reinebringen from the Reine house?
Yes, the trail starts within walking distance. It is a steep stairway of close to 2,000 steps. The municipality closes it in winter conditions – check before you go.
