Due to its position, Stykkishólmur has long been the centre of shopping, transport and public services for the Breiðarfjörður area. The main occupation for the 1200 inhabitants is fishing and fish processing. However, industry, trading and services are all well-developed with tourism being the fastest growing industry of the town.

The old houses and buildings of Stykkishólmur give the town a quaint look. The oldest, ‘Norwegian House’ is a local folk museum. There are often special exhibitions or displays here and in the summer a shop is set up, selling local handcraft goods and art.

The new church at Borg is a noticeable landmark both from sea and land. Music recitals are held every fortnight in the summer season in the church. Tourists are invited to visit the church and listen to recitals. The old church has been renovated to its original state. The Chapel and hospital of the St. Francesca sisters give Stykkishólmur a unique character.