With an area of 1,586.3 square kilometres (612.5 sq mi),[1] it is the second largest island in Norway (outside of the Svalbard archipelago).

The eastern and southern parts of the island are milder, with rounder mountains, forests, rivers, and agricultural land.

[citation needed] Senja is often referred to as "Norway in miniature", as the island's diverse scenery reflects almost the entire span of Norwegian natural geography.

The western part of Senja facing the Norwegian Sea has a more subpolar oceanic climate (Cfc) like the Hekkingen lighthouse.

Older climate data from the village Gibostad on the eastern shore of the island; facing the mainland, during 1961-1990.

Naturally, the fishing industry is dominant on Senja, notably the Nergård Group at Senjahopen and Brødrene Karlsen at Husøy.

[citation needed] The residents of Senja have the Gisund Bridge as a ferry-free road connection to the mainland across Gisundet to the town of Finnsnes.

The town serves as a trading center for the entire Mid-Troms region, including the island of Senja.

At Lysnes on northern Senja is a fast boat connection with the city of Tromsø, a trip that takes about 50 minutes.

[citation needed] The island of Senja is mentioned in David Armine Howarth's World War II book, and true story, We Die Alone: A WWII Epic of Escape and Endurance.