As a novel metaheuristic algorithm, the Harris Hawks Optimization (HHO) algorithm has excellent search capability. Similar to other metaheuristic algorithms, the HHO algorithm has low convergence accuracy and easily traps in local optimal when dealing with complex optimization problems. A modified Harris Hawks optimization (MHHO) algorithm with multiple strategies is presented to overcome this defect. First, chaotic mapping is used for population initialization to select an appropriate initiation position. Then, a novel nonlinear escape energy update strategy is presented to control the transformation of the algorithm phase. Finally, a nonlinear control strategy is implemented to further improve the algorithm’s efficiency. The experimental results on benchmark functions indicate that the performance of the MHHO algorithm outperforms other algorithms. In addition, to validate the performance of the MHHO algorithm in solving engineering problems, the proposed algorithm is applied to an indoor visible light positioning system, and the results show that the high precision positioning of the MHHO algorithm is obtained.