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Hiiumaa, Eesti - Things to Do in Hiiumaa

Things to Do in Hiiumaa

Hiiumaa, Eesti - Complete Travel Guide

Hiiumaa is Estonia's second-largest island, a pristine gem in the Baltic Sea known for its untouched nature, historic lighthouses, and peaceful rural atmosphere. This enchanting island offers visitors a glimpse into traditional Estonian island life, with ancient meteorite craters, medieval churches, and some of the oldest lighthouses in the Baltics. The landscape is dominated by juniper groves, stone fences, and traditional windmills that create a uniquely Nordic pastoral setting. With a population of just over 10,000 inhabitants, Hiiumaa provides an authentic escape from modern life where time seems to move slower. The island's rich maritime heritage is evident in its numerous lighthouses, fishing villages, and coastal fortifications, while its interior reveals fascinating geological formations and well-preserved traditional architecture. Visitors come here to experience genuine Estonian culture, explore pristine beaches, and enjoy outdoor activities in one of Europe's most unspoiled island environments.

Top Things to Do in Hiiumaa

Visit Kõpu Lighthouse

Explore one of the oldest lighthouses in the world, dating back to 1531, standing majestically on the Kõpu Peninsula. This UNESCO World Heritage candidate offers spectacular panoramic views of the Baltic Sea and surrounding landscapes from its historic tower. The lighthouse represents centuries of maritime history and serves as Hiiumaa's most iconic landmark.

Booking Tip: Entry costs around €3-5 per person, open daily during summer months (May-September) from 10 AM to 6 PM. Best visited during clear weather for optimal views, and consider timing your visit for sunset photography. No advance booking required, but check weather conditions before visiting.

Explore Suuremõisa Manor

Discover this beautifully preserved 18th-century baroque manor house, once owned by the Swedish noble family Stenbock. The manor showcases elegant period architecture and houses exhibitions about local history and culture. The surrounding park features ancient trees and walking paths perfect for leisurely exploration.

Booking Tip: Manor tours cost approximately €4-6 per adult, typically open Tuesday-Sunday from 10 AM to 5 PM during peak season. Guided tours available in Estonian and English by appointment, best to call ahead during off-season. Photography permitted in most areas for an additional small fee.

Discover Käina Bay Nature Reserve

Experience one of Estonia's most important bird-watching destinations, home to over 270 bird species including rare migratory birds. The shallow bay and surrounding wetlands provide excellent hiking trails, observation towers, and pristine natural environments. This UNESCO Biosphere Reserve offers unique opportunities to observe seals, diverse flora, and traditional island ecosystems.

Booking Tip: Free access to most areas, but guided nature tours cost €10-15 per person and should be booked through local tour operators. Best visited during spring and autumn migrations (April-May, August-September). Bring binoculars and waterproof footwear, and check tide schedules for optimal wildlife viewing.

Visit Kassari Chapel and Museum

Step into this charming 15th-century stone chapel, one of Hiiumaa's oldest religious buildings, featuring medieval architecture and historical artifacts. The adjacent museum showcases local maritime history, traditional crafts, and island folklore. The chapel's peaceful setting among ancient trees creates a contemplative atmosphere perfect for understanding local spiritual heritage.

Booking Tip: Entry fee around €2-3, typically open daily 10 AM to 4 PM during summer season. Combined tickets with other island attractions available for €8-12. Best visited as part of a cultural tour route, and consider attending occasional classical music concerts held here during summer months.

Cycle the Island Coastal Route

Embark on a scenic cycling adventure along Hiiumaa's well-marked coastal routes, passing through traditional fishing villages, ancient stone fences, and pristine beaches. The relatively flat terrain and excellent bike paths make this perfect for all skill levels. You'll encounter historic lighthouses, traditional windmills, and stunning Baltic Sea vistas throughout the journey.

Booking Tip: Bike rentals available from €12-18 per day at ferry terminals and accommodations. Multi-day packages with accommodation cost €45-65 per person per day. Best cycling months are May through September, book rentals in advance during peak summer season. Many routes are 15-30km long, suitable for half or full-day adventures.

Getting There

Hiiumaa is accessible by ferry from mainland Estonia, with regular services departing from Rohuküla (near Haapsalu) to Heltermaa on Hiiumaa. The ferry journey takes approximately 90 minutes and operates year-round with multiple daily departures. Ferry tickets cost around €8-12 for passengers and €15-25 for cars, with advance booking recommended during summer months. Alternative routes include flying from Tallinn to Kärdla airport (limited seasonal service) or taking a ferry from Saaremaa island via Triigi-Sõru route.

Getting Around

The best way to explore Hiiumaa is by car or bicycle, as public transportation is limited to a few bus routes connecting major villages. Car rentals are available at the ferry terminal and in Kärdla, costing approximately €25-40 per day. Cycling is extremely popular due to well-maintained bike paths and relatively flat terrain, with rental bikes available throughout the island. Taxis operate between main towns but should be booked in advance, and many accommodations offer bicycle rental services to their guests.

Where to Stay

Kärdla (main town)
Kassari Peninsula
Kõrgessaare village
Emmaste area
Suuremõisa vicinity
Kõpu Peninsula

Food & Dining

Hiiumaa's dining scene focuses on fresh local ingredients, particularly Baltic Sea fish, lamb, and seasonal vegetables. Traditional Estonian cuisine dominates, with restaurants serving hearty dishes like smoked fish, local lamb, and foraged mushrooms and berries. Most dining options are concentrated in Kärdla and larger villages, ranging from cozy farm-to-table restaurants to casual cafes serving homemade pastries and local beer. Many guesthouses and farms offer authentic home-cooked meals featuring traditional recipes passed down through generations, providing an intimate taste of island culinary culture.

Top-Rated Restaurants in Estonia

Highly-rated dining options based on Google reviews (4.5+ stars, 100+ reviews)

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Restoran Controvento

4.5 /5
(2405 reviews) 2
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La Prima Vanalinn

4.6 /5
(1494 reviews) 2

Restoran Gianni

4.6 /5
(1240 reviews) 3

Ciao Ragazzi Restoran

4.7 /5
(773 reviews) 2

iL FORNO Pärnu mnt.

4.7 /5
(490 reviews)

Carlo's Kitchen Old Town

4.8 /5
(290 reviews)
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When to Visit

The ideal time to visit Hiiumaa is from May through September when weather is warmest and all attractions are fully operational. Summer months (June-August) offer the longest days, warmest temperatures (15-22°C), and best conditions for outdoor activities, though this is also peak tourist season. Spring (May) and early autumn (September) provide excellent value with fewer crowds, pleasant weather, and optimal bird-watching opportunities during migration seasons. Winter visits are possible but many attractions have limited hours, and ferry schedules may be affected by weather conditions.

Insider Tips

Purchase the Hiiumaa Museum Card for €12-15 to access multiple attractions and museums with significant savings compared to individual tickets
Pack layers and waterproof clothing even in summer, as Baltic Sea weather can change quickly and coastal areas tend to be windier and cooler
Visit local farms and craft workshops to purchase authentic handmade souvenirs like traditional woolens, pottery, and locally produced honey and preserves

Explore Activities in Hiiumaa