Gjesvær
Gjesvær is a true pearl of Magerøya, with spectacular landscape. During the summer months it is a home for many colonies of seabirds, and in winter period it is a good place to catch the Northern Lights.
10 Things to do in Honningsvåg
Honningsvåg is the starting point for trips to the North Cape. But the town and the island offer more: short hikes, boat trips, fishing villages, shopping opportunities, cultural experiences and places to eat. Here are ten suggestions for you.
Explore the island
Honningsvåg
This is where the island's daily life happens. Honningsvåg's harbour, airport and streets are the starting point for almost every trip north on Magerøya.
Kamøyvær
Kamøyvær is an idyllic fishing village on the road to the North Cape
Skarsvåg
Skarsvåg is the world's northernmost fishing village — just 14 km from the North Cape, and close enough to feel like the edge itself.
North Cape Plateau
The North Cape Plateau - where the Arctic Ocean meets the sky. A breathtaking viewpoint and home to the iconic Globe monument.
Nordvågen
Nordvågen is a dreamy fishing village, located in close proximity to Honningsvåg.
Sarnes
Sarnes is a small coastal settlement located about 10 km south of Honningsvåg, along the road to the North Cape.
Fishing villages and hiking spots
1. Climb the Sherpa Stairs to Storfjellet
Honningsvåg doesn’t hand you its best view. You climb for it. The Sherpa stairs, built by Nepalese stonemasons, lead up Storfjellet in steady, honest steps. At the top, the whole town, the harbour and the open sea are laid out below you. Bring a windproof layer, because the weather up here sets its own terms. It’s the best free view in Honningsvåg.
Check the weather before you go, and wear sturdy shoes. Please note that avalanche safety work is currently underway. On days with helicopter operations, the stairs are closed to the public.
2. A guided tour in one of the world’s northernmost breweries with a tasting session
Brewing beer this far north takes stubbornness. Join a guided brewery tour at Sjøgata Pub and hear how local craft beer is made at 71 degrees north. The tour ends with a tasting, so you can judge for yourself what Arctic brewing tastes like. Found a favourite? Pick up a few cans at NO17 and take a taste of Nordkapp home with you.
Book your tour and tasting at Perleporten Kulturhus.
3. Learn about the unique history of Nordkapp
People have lived and fished here for thousands of years, long before tourists arrived. At the North Cape Museum you’ll get the story of life on the edge of Europe: fishing, the harsh climate, Sámi presence, and the war years that shaped the town. It’s a compact museum that makes the rest of your trip make more sense.
Find opening hours, prices and current exhibitions at The North Cape Museum.
4. Taste the unique flavors of Magerøya
King crab, cod tongues, reindeer and the produce of long summer light all end up on plates in Honningsvåg. Whether you want a relaxed bistro lunch, a seafood dinner or a good coffee, the local restaurants and cafés show what Magerøya tastes like. Ask what’s fresh from the sea today.
Where to eat and drink: Corner, Havly, NOR Cafe & Bistro and Snoy. Opening hours vary by season, so check before you go.
5. Walk around in the city centre and the harbour
Honningsvåg is small enough to explore on foot, and full of life. Follow the harbour past fishing boats and cruise ships, then wander through the centre to find local art on walls and in public spaces. The town’s character shows in the details.
Want to explore properly? The tourist information has maps and local tips to get you started.
6. Find an unique piece of Magerøya to bring home
Honningsvåg has local designers, artists and shops selling things that actually come from this place: art, design, handmade pieces and products inspired by the Arctic nature of Magerøya. Take something home that tells the story of your trip.
Browse local products, design and art at Arctandria, Arctic Suvenir AS, Frozen Summer Boutique, Nordstjerna, NO17 and West of the Moon Art Gallery.
7. Discover Magerøya’s Fishing and Seafood Heritage
The sea built Honningsvåg, and it still does. At Bruket – Fish Factory and Ocean Stories you can learn how fishing and seafood production shape life on Magerøya, from the catch to the plate. Each place gives its own insight into how the industry is built, from wild-caught fish to aquaculture. It’s a good way to understand why this community looks the way it does.
Learn more and plan your visit at Bruket – Fish Factory and Ocean Stories. Be aware that Bruket – Fish Factory is located in Nordvågen, 5 kilometres from Honningsvåg.
8. Relax in a soft bed and experience Magerøya stress-free
After a day of wind, hiking and sea air, a good bed matters. Honningsvåg offers a range of places to stay, from harbour-side hotels to boutique options. Book a night or two and let the island come to you at its own pace.
Book your stay at The View Hotel, Scandic Bryggen, Scandic Honningsvåg or Arctic Boutique Hotel (availability vary by season).
9. Step Inside Honningsvåg Church
This is only building in Honningsvåg that survived the Second World War, and it still stands at the heart of town. Step inside for the quiet, the history and the distinctive interior. It’s a calm stop in the middle of a busy day.
Opening hours vary, so check at the tourist information before you visit.
10. Let A Local Show You The Island
Some of Magerøya’s best places don’t have a road to them. Join a local guide and see the island from the water or from the land: by RIB boat along the coast, out on a king crab safari, on an ATV across the open landscape, or on one of the guided tours that take you to the North Cape plateau and the Sámi camp. The guides know the weather, the sea and the stories, and they get you to the right place at the right time.
Find the local Tour Operators or book online on our Booking platform.
Bonus: Experience the fishing villages of Magerøya
Magerøya has other fantastic places where people live their daily lives. Head out to the villages where the coastline gets wilder. Gjesvær, Skarsvåg and Kamøyvær each have their own character: working harbours, dramatic scenery and a pace set by the weather and the sea. This is where you feel how remote Magerøya really is.
Read more about Gjesvær, Skarsvåg and Kamøyvær, including where to eat, stay and join local activities.
Still looking for ideas?
Feel free to contact us, and we are ready to help making your stay in Honningsvåg as perfect as possible!
- Phone: +47 784 77 030
- E-mail: info@northcape.no