SANTAHAMINA

Santahamina, located on Helsinki's island chain, is famous for its scenic landscape and historical importance. Explore the rich military heritage of the island and experience its cultural and traditional charm.

Discover a variety of military installations on the island including bunkers, command centers, and old fortifications that date back to the 20th century. You will get a chance to learn more about how Finland used to protect its capital from enemy attacks. Immerse yourself in the natural atmosphere of Santahamina, and admire the coastal views and lush greenery.

Enjoy guided tours and dive into the events related to the island's history and culture. Visit the Santahamina Church, and take a look at its traditional Finnish architecture. Head out on nature trails that feature exotic flora and fauna, or simply enjoy a leisurely walk along the sandy shores of the beaches. 

Highlights

• Explore the natural beauty of Santahamina and discover its historical and strategic importance as Finland's military base.
• Take a walk along the scenic coastal views and admire the crystal-clear waters of the stunning Baltic Sea.
• Get a chance to learn about various iconic landmarks and military installations that contribute to Finland's national security.
• Opt for a guided tour and listen to stories about the past and present of Santahamina's journey.
• Visit Santahamina Church, and admire its stunning Finnish architecture that showcases detailed woodwork.

How To Reach

• By Car: Santahamina is located at a distance of around 2 km from the city center of Laajasalo. You can reach your destination in 5 minutes via the Degerövägen/Laajasalontie route. You can either get an Uber or take a local taxi which is easily available from any corner of the city. For added convenience, you can also rent a car and enjoy a self-drive to Santahamina.

• By Bus: You can also consider reaching Santahamina via bus, known to be a budget-friendly option. You can take Bus No. 86 from Willebrandsvägen in Laajasalo. It will take approximately 25 minutes for you to reach the destination. Remember to get off at the Kasernerna bus stop, from where you reach the island via a 10-minute walk. 

• By Bicycle: If you prefer, you can also choose to rent a bicycle to reach the island. Santahamina is located at a distance of approximately 3 km from the city center of Laajasalo. It will take you around 10 minutes to reach Santahamina via the Degerövägen/Laajasuontie route.

Best Time To Visit

Santahamina is a year-round attraction and can be visited any time of the year.

• Best Season: It's suggested that you visit between June and August, known for longer daylight hours and pleasant weather, perfect for outdoor activities.
• Best Day of the Week: If you want to avoid crowds and prefer exploring at a comfortable pace, it's suggested that you plan your visit for weekdays.
• Best Time of the Day: You can visit Santahamina early in the morning or late in the afternoon, to avoid crowds and ensure a wholesome experience. 

Other Essential Information

• Keep an eye on the weather forecast before planning your visit to the park, to avoid any last-minute hassles. 
• Respect the local rules related to cleanliness and keep your surroundings clean by disposing of waste in bins. 
• Enjoy exploring the historical landmarks like military fortifications, command centers, bunkers, and old fortifications.
• Check for information and proper authorization, since the island has access restrictions applied to many areas.
• Remember to check the event listings for any festivals or cultural events scheduled during your visit to Santahamina. 
• Respect local customs and military installations, while exploring the island, and keep noise levels to a minimum.