Uncharted Islands of Primorsky Krai: from the uninhabited to the smallest
Опубликовано: 17.03.2026 | Обновлено: 24.03.2026
Primorsky Krai is a great place to relax on the islands. The huge archipelago in Peter the Great Bay consists of more than 150 islands that have official names. In addition to them, the water area hides hundreds of unnamed stones and islanders. If Russian Island is familiar to everyone, then the small and protected islands of Primorye remain a mystery to many.
Island geography of Primorye
Most of the land is concentrated in the Gulf of Peter the Great. In Primorsky Krai there are both inhabited territories with developed infrastructure, and absolutely wild places.
The map of the islands of Primorsky Krai is conditionally divided into the archipelago of Empress Eugene and the Rimsky-Korsakov archipelago. Most of them are uninhabited. Many islands of Primorsky Krai are shrouded in myths and historical secrets. Each piece of land here has its own unique history, from gold mines to abandoned military facilities.
Note: The map shows the approximate location of the islands of Primorsky Krai.
Askold Island - gold, deer and ghost beacon
Askold is called an island-mystery. In the XIX century, gold was mined here, and today hundreds of spotted deer run along its hills. The main attraction is an ancient lighthouse and abandoned artillery batteries. Getting to this uninhabited island is possible only on a private boat or as part of a tour group.
The island of Putyatin is the story of the merchant Startsev and the lotus lake
The island is named in honor of Admiral Euphy Putyatin and is the second largest island in the Russian area. Once there flourished the farm of merchant Alexei Startsev: worked brick and porcelain factories, there were engaged in breeding horses, and even organized a deer farm. After the revolution and nationalization, a fish factory was located on the island, next to which an island village was formed. The island is still inhabited today.
Today, tourists come here to see Lake Gusinoye, where the relict lotus Komarova blooms in the summer.
💡 The ferry to the island of Putiatina goes from the village of Danube. When planning a trip, check the schedule of the ferry in advance, as there may be interruptions in the crossing due to the weather.
Tiny islands and kekurs
Small islands of Primorye attract the attention of professional photographers and lovers of scuba diving. Diving in Vladivostok often includes routes to these remote points.
- Karamzin Island. Here are the largest bird bazaars. Near the island, sunken ships lie at the bottom, which makes this place popular with divers.
- Verkhovsky Islands. It's a group of sea kekures. They are suitable for experienced divers, as there are often strong currents, but the visibility of the water reaches record levels.
- Antipenko Island. A small piece of land with a lighthouse on top. In local bays, largas are often seen - spotted seals.
- Sibiryakov Island. If you look at it from a certain angle, the outlines of the rocks resemble a human profile.
These tiny islands are the best places for those looking for peace and clean sea.
The islands of the Far Eastern Marine Reserve
Furugelm Island is the southernmost island in Russia. Since it is part of a marine reserve, nature here is preserved in absolute purity. The white sand and turquoise water in the bays resemble tropical resorts. Access to the island is possible only by special permission through licensed tour operators.
When planning a trip to the islands in Primorye, it is important to choose the right way of transportation. To inhabited islands such as Popova or Reineke, there are regular voyage ships. Uninhabited and protected areas are easiest to reach as part of an organized group.
📌 Rules of behavior on protected islands
Remember that the islands of Primorsky Krai are a fragile ecosystem. In protected areas it is forbidden to make fires, leave garbage and disturb wild animals. Try not to take anything with you except photos and leave nothing but footprints.
When it is better to go to the islands of Primorye
The best period for rest is August and September. At this time, the sea warms up as much as possible, and fogs are replaced by clear weather. In June and July, the islands are often dense fog, which interferes with navigation and photography.
What to see and do
On the islands, everyone will find something to like. Transparent water makes the islands of Primorsky Krai ideal for diving and snorkeling. Photo hunting for rare birds and marine mammals will replenish the archive with unique footage. Historians will appreciate the remains of coastal batteries and lighthouses that still serve on the borders of the country.
The island world of Primorye is an inexhaustible storehouse of new discoveries. From the legendary Askold to the tiny Sibiryakov, each island has its own unique character and history. Traveling here requires preparation and respect for the laws of nature, but in return gives an unforgettable experience. Carefully plan your expedition and discover new horizons in the heart of the Far East
Other Primorye islands
Kekuras 2 Brothers
Two Brothers or Two Fingers are located on the coast of the Sea of Japan, near the Ore Wharf.
Petrova Island
On the island of Petrov, the remains of an ancient fortress of the Zhurchen era are preserved, with which many legends are associated.
Krabbe Peninsula
The peninsula is a museum of the era of Korean immigration to the territory of the Hasan district: it is dotted with the remains of Korean fanzas of the late XIX – early XX century.