Õhuvabad

Õhuvabad, also known as the "Island of Joy," is a small, uninhabited island located in the Gulf of Finland, part of the Baltic Sea. Situated approximately 1.5 kilometers off the coast of the Estonian mainland, near the town of Pärnu, the island covers an area of around 1.5 hectares. It is part of the Pärnu municipality and is protected as a nature reserve due to its ecological significance.

The island is notable for its unique geological and botanical features. Its rocky terrain is covered with sparse vegetation, including rare and endemic plant species such as the Baltic sea aster (*Aster tripolium*) and the Baltic sea milkwort (*Polygala amara*). The island also serves as a nesting site for various seabirds, including the common tern (*Sterna hirundo*), black-headed gull (*Chroicocephalus ridibundus*), and the great cormorant (*Phalacrocorax carbo*). Its importance as a bird habitat has earned it recognition as an Important Bird Area (IBA) by BirdLife International.

Õhuvabad is accessible only by boat, typically during the summer months when the weather conditions are favorable. The island is a popular destination for nature enthusiasts, birdwatchers, and those seeking a peaceful retreat. Visitors are encouraged to respect the natural environment and adhere to the rules of the nature reserve, which prohibit camping, littering, and disturbing wildlife.

The name "Õhuvabad" translates roughly to "joyful waters," reflecting the island's serene and inviting atmosphere. While there are no permanent structures on the island, it occasionally hosts temporary research stations and educational programs focused on environmental conservation and ecological studies. The island remains a symbol of Estonia’s commitment to preserving its natural heritage.