Leirvik is the regional centre of Sunnhordland, and has many public services and offices such as the regional court and Sunnhordland Museum, as well as shops and restaurants. In 2008, Leirvik had a population of 11,342, and covers an area of 8.46 square kilometres with a population density of 1,341 per square kilometre. Leirvik has approximately 65% of the total population of Stord. It is the largest urban area that is located in a municipality where Nynorsk is the preferred language form.

The name translates into 'clay bay', the word "leire" meaning "clay" and "vik" meaning "bay". The name comes from the high concentration of clay in the ground. The locals often refer to Leirvik by the name "Vikjo" rather than "Leirvik".

Wikipedia articles for Leirvik

• Leirvik
• Stord
• Litlabø
• Rommetveit