Author: Annika Prangli

Estonia’s northern coast is home to a unique archipelago of small, wild, and culturally rich islands—some inhabited for centuries, others untouched and peaceful. If you're looking for a truly local island experience near Tallinn, this guide introduces you to Prangli, Keri, Aksi, and Rammu islands—each offering a different kind of adventure. Why Visit the Islands Near Tallinn? Estonia has over 2300 islands, and many of them remain off the typical tourist radar. From seal watching safaris to exploring abandoned lighthouses and learning about local life, the North Estonian islands offer authentic and peaceful nature escapes, easily accessible as day trips from Tallinn. According to Visit Estonia, Prangli Island is one of the top 10 islands to visit in summer, but its charm goes beyond the warm months. Each season brings a new perspective and rhythm to island life. The small islands near Prangli are also definitely worth a visit. Prangli Island – The Only Inhabited North Estonian Island With 600 Years of History Prangli Island is located in Northern Estonia, in Viimsi Municipality, as part of the Kolga Bay archipelago. The island covers an area of 6.4 km². People have lived here continuously for centuries. Prangli is the only island in Northern Estonia with an indigenous population. During the Soviet era, it was part of a border zone, yet life continued under the protective wing of the Kirov fishing collective farm. The island’s charm is undeniable—with its beautiful sandy beaches, mossy pine forests, juniper groves, colorful fishing villages, and unforgettable sunsets. Getting around by old trucks adds to the fun, and local fish dishes taste different than anywhere else. Here, you can experience a slower island rhythm and enjoy the humorous tales of the locals. To support year-round living, the island has a school, community center, shop, library, and post office.

Spending a night on the island in Estonia? Prangli is a small island and a natural oasis between Estonia and Finland that has been inhabited for many hundreds of years and has its own traditions and culture. The island has around 70 people living there all-year round and many more visitors in the summer season that are attracted to sail to the island or simply take a ferry to visit its pristine beaches, pine forests, and majestic boulders and learn more about its curious history. ©Meeli Laidvee. Spending a night on the island in Estonia Prangli island has been inhabited throughout its long history, even during the Soviet occupation, the people of Prangli are warm and hospitable towards everyone and you can learn a lot about their unique culture and traditions during a few days on the island. Prangli is definitely worth visiting for more days than one, for a long weekend or why not even a full week to be able to relax completely! After taking the ferry for an hour from Tallinn, you can start by exploring the harbour which is the heart of the small island where you will be greeted by locals and visitors alike. The harbour boasts small cafes, a house of local handicrafts and information. A short walk away, the Prangli restaurant on the seaside offers delicious food and a comfortable atmosphere in the pine forest with a sea view, open in the summer season. The villages of Idaotsa and Lääneotsa (East End and West End, respectively) offer a peek into the local lifestyle that has maintained many of its traditions through hundreds of years, with a touch of modern now as well. Not a long walk away is the Prangli Church with its own legends and traditions to discover, as well as many