The diverse flora and fauna, beaches and good services of Pihlajasaari attract plenty of visitors to the former villa island during the summer months. The sea voyage from southern Helsinki to the island takes approximately 10 minutes.

The sheltered lagoon on Itäinen Pihlajasaari used to serve as an ideal harbour for fishing boats. Fishermen also constructed a hut in the northern part of the island, which is also called Lasimestarinsaari, as the area’s open fields and smooth rocks were ideal for spreading out bait.