Iceland’s Breathtaking Beaches: A Travel Guide

With dramatic, rocky cliffs and velvety black volcanic sand scattered with icebergs, the beaches of Iceland are unlike anywhere else in the world.

Iceland is defined by its stunning natural beauty, and the beaches certainly reflect this. Fire and ice have shaped Iceland’s glaciers, mountains, and people, as well as the sandy covers dotting its indented coastline. From black volcanic beaches backed by mysterious basalt columns to geothermal beaches with blond sand, Iceland offers miles of unspoiled oceanfront beauty.

Whether you are a photographer, an outdoor enthusiast, or simply a curious traveler, spending time on the coast is one of the best activities in Iceland. Here are some of the country’s unmissable beaches.

1. Reynisfjara, South Iceland

Near the quaint fishing village of Vík í Mýrdal in South Iceland, Reynisfjara is arguably Iceland’s most famous beach. Its stacked geometric basalt columns and its stretch of black sand with thunderous waves crashing on the shore provide a dark yet stunningly beautiful backdrop. It’s little wonder that Reynisfjara is so popular with travelers and locals alike.

Take a stroll to the edge of the beach and listen to the roaring waves of the Atlantic as they crash around the Reynisdrangar sea stacks, emerging like monstrous fangs from the foamy surf. According to folklore, these three tall basalt rocks are the petrified remains of trolls that stayed out too late and were turned to stone at sunrise, adding an element of magic to one of the best beaches in Iceland.

2. Djúpalónssandur Beach, West Iceland

The sand and pebble-strewn shores of Djúpalónssandur Beach lie at the foot of the ancient glacier-capped volcano Snæfellsjökull in West Iceland. The name translates to “Deep Lagoon’s Sand,” referencing the serene lake that lies just inland, despite Djúpalón lagoon only being about 5m/16ft deep.

Ancient lava flows have led to some impressive rock formations, including the notable Söngklettur (singing rock), which is said to be protected by elves. Here, you can also find the rusted remnants of a shipwrecked British trawler, a poignant reminder of the 1948 disaster.

Planning tip: Enjoy strolling in this fairytale-like location, but be cautious and maintain a safe distance from the waves, as they can be more dangerous than they appear.

3. Nauthólsvík Geothermal Beach, Reykjavík

This artificial geothermal beach is an ideal escape, located just a couple of kilometers from downtown Reykjavík. Warm waters and imported golden sand enhance the summer experience at this beach lover’s paradise. The water is geothermally heated to between 15°C and 19°C (59°F and 66°F), making it one of the most appealing spots to swim in the Reykjavík area. Adventurous souls can also swim out into the chilly sea for a hot-and-cold spa experience.

Planning tip: Nauthólsvík Geothermal Beach offers public changing rooms, steam baths, and inviting hot tubs for a complete Icelandic bathing experience. Entry is free in summer, but there is a nominal fee to use the facilities in winter. Whether you’re sunbathing on the beach or floating in the warm waters, this is a perfect way to unwind in Iceland.

4. Diamond Beach, South Iceland

Have you ever imagined walking among sparkling icebergs scattered across stark black sand? If you haven’t, make sure to add Diamond Beach to your travel plans. The icy fragments adorning the shore are remnants of icebergs that broke off from the nearby Breiðamerkurjökull Glacier, drifted across Jökulsárlón glacial lagoon, and were subsequently fractured by the waves. Every day, shining, glassy pieces wash up along this aptly named beach.

Planning tip: While new icebergs are constantly breaking away from the glacier, avoid climbing on the icy blocks as the edges can be slippery and sharp, and floating icebergs pose risks. Instead, take time to capture stunning photos of this surreal location, which stands as one of the most captivating sights in South Iceland.

5. Rauðisandur Beach, Westfjords

The name Rauðisandur translates to “Red Sands,” and visitors will quickly understand the source of this name. Stretching along the picturesque and remote coast of the Westfjords for over 10km (6 miles), Rauðisandur is one of the most beautiful beaches in Iceland. Its lush, red-toned sand meets towering cliffs and grassy windswept plains along this unspoiled stretch of Icelandic shoreline.

Planning tip: Due to its secluded location, reaching Rauðisandur involves a lengthy drive of 395km (246 miles) from Reykjavík, but the journey is certainly worthwhile. Additionally, camping options in the area provide a sense of adventure and enable visitors to fully embrace the scenery. However, be prepared for a restless night as the wind whispers eerily along the shore, and spooky Viking burial grounds dot this lone coastline.

6. Vestrahorn Beach, Southeast Iceland

Where the mountains meet the sea, Vestrahorn Beach is framed by jagged peaks and adorned with rich black sand. Located just a 10-minute drive from the charming town of Höfn in Southeast Iceland, this beach is incredibly scenic due to the impressive sawtooth ridge of Vestrahorn mountain, which rises to 454m (1489ft). The mountain’s distinctive dark color and spiky shape are attributed to the high levels of iron and magnesium in its gabbro rock.

Planning tip: Visiting in the winter allows you to witness the mountain covered in snow, while clear nights on the sandy beach make for spectacular opportunities to catch the stunning Aurora Borealis.

7. Grótta Island, near Reykjavík

Located at the tip of the Seltjarnarnes Peninsula and designated as a nature reserve, Grótta Island offers a slice of wilderness right at the edge of Iceland’s capital. Locals cherish the island for its captivating coastline, which is adorned with smooth stones and dark sand, complemented by a historic 19th-century lighthouse. At low tide, visitors can easily access the lighthouse for a closer look.

Grótta Island buzzes with seabirds and serves as one of the best spots for nature encounters in the Reykjavík area. Additionally, you may catch sight of surfers braving the waves off this peninsula.

Planning tip: Thanks to its minimal light pollution, Grótta Island stands as one of the top locations in Reykjavík for witnessing the northern lights during winter.

This article was first published on Aug 31, 2021, and updated on Jul 19, 2023.