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.
Explore the island
Magerøya island is a home for Nordkapp municipality, with approximately 3300 inhibitants, and the magnificent North Cape Plateau.
Magerøya is home to the North Cape municipality, with around 3000 inhabitants spread across small coastal communities. Most people live in Honningsvåg, the island’s main town and harbour, while the rest are found in the fishing villages of Gjesvær, Skarsvåg, Kamøyvær and Nordvågen.
The island is connected to the mainland by the North Cape Tunnel, a 6.5 km underwater link opened in 1999. Located far above the Arctic Circle, Magerøya experiences both the Midnight Sun in summer and the Polar Night in winter, shaping its unique seasons and atmosphere.
Life on Magerøya is closely tied to the sea, weather and changing light. The island’s open landscapes, colourful harbours and surrounding mountains create a distinctive Arctic atmosphere that feels both calm and dramatic. Whether you’re visiting for culture, nature or simply to experience everyday life in the far north, the island offers a unique blend of simplicity and beauty.
Explore the island
Honningsvåg
Honningsvåg is the biggest city on Magerøya island, and an administrative center of Nordkapp municipality.
Kamøyvær
Kamøyvær is an idyllic fishing village on the road to the North Cape
Skarsvåg
Skarsvåg is the closest to the North Cape fishing village
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.
Fishing villages and hiking spots
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Discover Magerøya: Nature, Culture & Arctic Experiences
Magerøya is more than the home of the North Cape – it is a vibrant Arctic island where dramatic landscapes, coastal traditions and wildlife meet. Around 2300 people live in Honningsvåg, the island’s main town, while the rest are spread across the fishing villages of Gjesvær, Skarsvåg, Kamøyvær and Nordvågen. Small in size but rich in character, the island combines close-knit communities with wide-open nature.
Its remote Arctic location shapes both climate and light. From mid-May to late July the Midnight Sun keeps the island bright around the clock, while the Polar Night from late November to January brings soft twilight and long, calm evenings. Temperatures are milder than many expect for the far north: summers average around 12°C, with peaks up to 16°C, while winters hover around –2°C, kept relatively mild by the Gulf Stream.
Clear, dark nights from September to March make the island a prime location for experiencing the Northern Lights. When the sky opens, the aurora often dances above mountains, sea and harbour lights, creating some of the Arctic’s most memorable scenes.
Nestled between mountains and coastline, Magerøya invites exploration at your own pace. Wander through colourful villages, enjoy panoramic viewpoints, walk scenic coastal paths or simply absorb the quiet rhythm of everyday life in the far north. Whether visiting for nature, culture or simple moments of stillness, the island offers authentic experiences shaped by land, sea and tradition.
What to Explore on the Island
Magerøya offers a wide range of places, activities, and natural highlights. Here are some of the island’s most popular features:
- Honningsvåg – The Gateway to the North Cape
The island’s lively hub with cafés, shops, culture, museums, and the main harbour for tours and excursions. - Scenic Fishing Villages
Visit Gjesvær, Skarsvåg, Kamøyvær, and Nordvågen, each with its own character, history, and coastal charm. - Nature & Wildlife
Spot reindeer roaming freely, explore rugged Arctic terrain, and visit the Gjesværstappan Bird Cliffs in summer to see thousands of seabirds. - Hiking & Outdoor Experiences
Popular routes include Kirkeporten, Knivskjellodden, Hornvika, and several short coastal walks suitable for all levels. - Arctic Seasons
Experience the Midnight Sun (May–July), Northern Lights (September–March), colorful autumns, and crisp winter landscapes perfect for photography.
Do you have any other questions?
Please dont hesitate to contact us, we can help in many ways!
- Phone: +47 469 22 881
- E-mail: info@northcape.no