What are the different lagoons in Iceland?
It’s no secret that Iceland is well known for its diverse lagoons.
Spa culture in Iceland is huge amongst both locals and tourists. It’s safe to say that Iceland is home to some of the best and most unique spa’s in the world! Ranging from geothermal springs to glacier lagoons.
While the most popular Spa locations are places such as the Blue Lagoon, Sky Lagoon and Secret Lagoon, there are SO many other options spread across Iceland that you are spoilt for choice!
Not sure what the best option (or options - many people will visit multiple lagoons) for your trip to Iceland will be? Let’s break all the choices down in this guide to geothermal baths and natural pools in Iceland.
Blue Lagoon
The most well-known lagoon in Iceland is, of course, the Blue Lagoon.
Named one of the 25 Wonders of the World by National Geographic, the Blue Lagoon is home to unique geothermal seawater that can’t be found anywhere else on Earth! This water is great for your skin as it’s rich in silica, algae, and minerals.
While Iceland has many geothermal pools and lagoons, the Blue Lagoon's water is unique in the sense that it is specifically run from a geothermal power plant, which is enriched with silica, algae, and minerals, which contribute to its distinctive blue colour.
Where is Blue Lagoon Located?
Blue Lagoon is located in the Southwest of Iceland within the Reykjanes Peninsula, close to Grindavík. It’s an ideal activity to do right after your flight lands, or before you fly out of Iceland as it’s only 12 miles from Keflavík International Airport. Either pick up your hire car and head straight to the Blue Lagoon, which is about a 20 minute drive, or if you’re not renting a car then you can jump on one of the shuttle buses that run between the airport and Blue Lagoon!
If this doesn’t suit your flight timings, then Blue Lagoon is only a little further out from Reykjavík, with it being roughly a 50 minutes from Reykjavík centre!
Blue Lagoon Swim Up Face Mask Station
Sunset over the scenic walk to the entrance towards the Blue Lagoon
How much is the Blue Lagoon?
The Blue Lagoon offers various different entry packages that vary in price, but the basic package includes entry to the Blue Lagoon, a Silica Mud Mask at the Mask Bar, a complimentary drink (alcoholic or non-alcoholic) from the swim-up-bar, access to public changing rooms and a towel.
You can pay for additional packages that include further masks, drinks, and access to robes. Or you can add the price of these on once you arrive by scanning the wristband you’re given upon arrival, you then scan this wristband in order to leave and pay any remaining balance upon exit.
Prices start from ISK 9,990 (approximately $78 USD, £58, or €69 ). Children aged 2 to 13 years old can enter for free with an accompanying paying adult.
Things to Know about the Blue Lagoon
While the Blue Lagoon is certainly a fun day out, there are a few things to keep in mind before you visit.
Blue Lagoon and volcano eruptions:
There have been a large number of volcanic eruptions within the Reykjanes Peninsula in Iceland over recent years. When these eruptions happen, they can often affect the Blue Lagoon due to its close proximity to the volcano sites. This means that there have been several instances when the Lagoon has closed for safety purposes.
When I last visited Iceland there was an eruption about a week before my trip, the Blue Lagoon ended up announcing their re-opening the day before my trip, however the car park remained closed and the only way to get there was via shuttle bus. While this was very-well organised, it’s important to factor the potential of this happening when you go to visit!
The Blue Lagoon can get busy:
As the Blue Lagoon is the most well-known lagoon in Iceland, it tends to be busier than other Lagoons located across Iceland. While I didn’t have this problem myself, I’ve seen plenty of others complain about large crowds, changing rooms with no space, and the pools being too cramped.
The good news is that there are plenty of other lagoons located across Iceland that all have their own unique twist.
If you’re looking for something similar but quieter, then you might want to check out some of the other following options in this guide.
Blue Lagoon Upgrades:
Blue Lagoon are currently in the process of upgrading its facilities, which include enhanced changing rooms, the addition of a new sauna, the addition of a new steam cave, a new cold plunge pool, massage waterfalls and updated foot bridges that run over parts of the Lagoon.
Blue Lagoon Upgrade Plans, Image from: www.bluelagoon.com
Blue Lagoon Sauna Upgrades, Image from: www.bluelagoon.com
Sky Lagoon
The Sky Lagoon is located in Kópavogur, just outside of Reykjavík around a 15 minute drive away from the centre.
The Sky Lagoon is a geothermal pool overlooking the Atlantic Ocen. With beautiful scenery and a multitude of relaxing facilities, the Sky Lagoon is a modern-style geothermal spa in Iceland. It combines a classic and immersive spa experiences with the Icelandic tradition of hot-springs bathing.
Sky Lagoon Cold Plunge Pool, Image from: www.skylagoon.com
Sky Lagoon Sauna with Ocean View, image from: www.skylagoon.com
The Sky Lagoon 7 Step Ritual
The Sky Lagoon is famous for its Seven Step Ritual, which involves a geothermal lagoon, cold plunge pool, sauna, a cold mist room, a cleansing sea salt body scrub, a steam room, and finishing off with an Elixir health shot which aims to improve digestion, immunity, detoxify and enhance body functions.
How much does the Sky Lagoon cost?
The Sky Lagoon offer multiple entry packages which start from ISK 12,990 (approximately, $101 USD, £75, or €90), which includes Sky Lagoon Admission, one journey through the Seven Step Ritual, public changing facilities and a towel.
Secret Lagoon
The Secret Lagoon, known locally as Gamla Laugin, is actually the oldest natural pool in Iceland, made in 1891.
The Secret Lagoon is also home to views of the Litli Geysir, which erupts every few minutes and is a popular reason why many choose to visit!
Despite its name, ironically the Secret Lagoon is actually a very popular choice and one of Iceland’s most famous hot springs.
The Secret Lagoon is located within the same region as the popular Golden Circle route, so this can be a good stop to make an addition to your itinerary if you’re planning to tour the Golden Circle!
Entrance to Secret Lagoon Pool, Iceland Image from: www.secretlagoon.is/
Geothermal Area at Secret Lagoon. Image from: www.secretlagoon.is/
Your content goes here. Edit or remove this text inline or in the module Content settings. You can also style every aspect of this content in the module Design settings and even apply custom CSS to this text in the module Advanced settings.
How much is entry to the Secret Lagoon in Iceland?
For people aged 15 to 66, the price is approximately ISK 4200, with discounts available for people aged 67+, and children aged under 15 can go in for cheaper too, however there are additional fees for towel rentals.
Forest Lagoon
Iceland’s Forest Lagoon is located in Akureyri in Northern Iceland. The Forest Lagoon overlooks one of Iceland's longest fjords, Eyjafjörður and is set in the Vaðlaskógur forest.
The Forest Lagoon is home to two main pools, with the larger pool having two swim-up bars, a sauna and a cold plunge pool.
Forest Lagoon, Iceland. Image from: www.forestlagoon.is/
Forest Lagoon Sauna. Image from: www.forestlagoon.is/
How much is entry to the Forest Lagoon?
Adult entry to the Forest Lagoon is ISK 6,900 (approximately $54 USD, £40, or €48), children aged 5-15 can enter the Forest Lagoon for ISK 3,450 and children under the age of 5 go free! Towels are not included in the cost of Forest Lagoon entry but can be rented for an additional fee!
Can you see the Northern Lights from the Forest Lagoon?
One benefit of the Forest Lagoon is that it’s open until midnight, the location of the Forest Lagoon gives you great opportunity to see beautiful sunsets, as well as the Aurora during the winter months!
Sunset over Forest Lagoon, Iceland. Image from: www.forestlagoon.is/
Mývatn Nature Baths
Mývatn Nature Baths, located in Northeast Iceland, offer visitors a completely natural pool experience. The Baths overlook Lake Mývatn, and a features natural, geothermal steam bath with a swim-up bar, offering both alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. As well as a sauna with large panoramic windows that overlook the beautiful Lake Mývatn. Mývatn Nature Baths runs off 100% renewable energy.
The Mývatn Nature Baths are located near a lot of interesting hiking routes, where you can explore lava formations, geysers, birds and many other natural wonders.
Mývatn Nature Baths. Image from: www.myvatnnaturebaths.is/
Swim up bar at Mývatn Nature Baths. Image from: www.myvatnnaturebaths.is/
How much is entry to the Mývatn Nature Baths?
Entry to the Mývatn Nature Baths is approximately ISK 7,400 (approximately $58 USD, £43, or €51), Teenagers aged 13-15 go for 3,600 ISK. There are discounts available for students and seniors, and children under the age of 12 can visit for free!
There are additional prices for renting towels and bathrobes.
Laugarvatn Fontana
Laugarvatn Fontana Geothermal Baths are located in the centre of the Golden Circle route. I stopped here myself during my Golden Circle Tour.
Laugarvatn Fontana is a popular thermal pool amongst locals. Home to sauna, outdoor mineral baths, hot tub, steam rooms. Visitors can also walk into the cool lake from the pier or walk on the warm black sand beach.
Geothermal Bakery
Something super interesting about Laugarvatn Fontana is the Geothermal Bakery. Bread is created using an old Icelandic recipe, dug it into the warm ground and baked for 24 hours! It is then dug back up and eaten. I got to watch this process for myself and it was super interesting, I’ve never seen anything like it before!
Laugarvatn Fontana Geothermal Pool. Image from: www.fontana.is/
Bread Baking at Laugarvatn Fontana Geothermal Bakery. Image from: www.fontana.is/
How much is entry to the Laugarvatn Fontana Geothermal Pool?
General Admission entrance to the Laugarvatn Fontana Geothermal Pool starts at ISK 5,490 (approximately $43 USD, £32, or €38).
Can you see the Northern Lights from Laugarvatn Fontana?
Due to its low light pollution, Laugarvatn Fontana is a popular spot for seeing the Auroura during the winter months in Iceland!
Aurora over the Laugarvatn Fontana Geothermal Pool. Image from: www.fontana.is/
GeoSea Thermal Sea Baths
The GeoSea Thermal Baths are located along a western-facing cliffside that overlooks the Skjálfandi Bay and the Arctic Circle to the north.
The GeoSea Baths provide an incredible pool experience with the ultimate viewing point for whale watchers, or for those seeking the northern lights during the winter months, due to its low light pollution location.
While the Sea Baths are popular amongst tourists and locals, they are generally much quieter than the likes of the Blue Lagoon.
GeoSea is home to sea baths with a swim up bar, and also a steam room. The Geothermal seawater which makes up these pools gently caresses and revitalises the skin.
GeoSea Thermal Sea Baths Image from: @geoseaiceland Official Instagram
GeoSea Thermal Sea Baths Image from: @geoseaiceland Official Instagram
How much is entry to the GeoSea Thermal Sea Baths?
Adult tickets are priced at ISK 6,990 (approximately $55 USD, £41, or €48), children's tickets are priced at ISK 3,590 for children aged 6-16. Children under the age of 5 go for free, and there are also additional discounts for students and senior citizens!
Vök Baths
The Vök Baths are located on the bank of Urriðavatn lake, just outside of the town of Egilsstaðir.
The Vök Baths are home to floating geothermal pools with infinity views, two on shore hot pools, a sauna, cold water spray tunnel, tea bar, a swim-up pool bar, and the Vök Bistro restaurant. You can even take a swim in the surrounding Urriðavatn lake!
While Iceland overall is largely associated with its geothermal activity. This is not the case for East Iceland, which is typically considered a cold spot within Iceland. This makes Vök Baths an even more special as one of the rare exceptions in this area of the country!
In fact, the warm water flowing from the ground at Urriðavatn Lake is that pure that it is the only geothermal water in Iceland that is officially certified as drinkable.
Vok Baths Infinity Pools. Image from: www.vokbaths.is/
Vok Baths Geothermal Baths. Image from: www.vokbaths.is/
How much is entry to Vök Baths?
Adult entry to Vök Baths is ISK 7,490 (approximately $59 USD, £44, or €52). Youth tickets (ages 6-15) are priced at ISK 3,590. Children aged 5 and under can visit for free, and there are also discounts available for students and seniors (aged 67+).
There are additional costs for towel and bathrobe hire. However admission covers the entry to Vök Baths and a Tisane drink at the tea bar.
Hvammsvík Hot Springs
The Hvammsvík Hot Springs are located about a 45-minute drive from Reykjavik. This is one of the lesser-known Hot Springs near the Reykjavik area, due to it being a much newer facility than other thermal baths in the area.
The Hvammsvík Hot Springs is home to eight natural hot springs that vary in size and temperature. The scenic pools are located on the edge of the Atlantic Ocean in Whale Fjord.
The pools also feature a swim-up bar, as well as having a steam room and outdoor shower on site. Plus, visitors also have easy access to swim in the ocean itself.
Hvammsvík Hot Springs also have other activities such as paddle boarding, introductory sessions to Wim Hof techniques, instructed ocean swimming and kayaking which can be included in the admission ticket!
On top of all this, due to its isolated and low light pollution location, visitors can have the chance to see the aurora during winter months.
The Hvammsvík Hot Springs is definitely much more of an active based location in comparison to some of the other geothermal pools which perhaps emphasise the relaxation and spa element a lot more. Although the relaxing Hot Springs and Spa facilities do still make up the main attraction of Hvammsvík Hot Springs.
Hvammsvík Hot Springs Image from: @hvammsvik | Hvammsvík Hot Springs Official Instagram
Hvammsvík Hot Springs Image from: @hvammsvik | Hvammsvík Hot Springs Official Instagram
What is the entry price for the Hvammsvík Hot Springs?
The entry price varies from ISK 7,900 ISK – ISK 15,100 dependent on the package you select. our swim-up bar, steam room, and the ocean itself. We also have fun activities such as paddle boarding, ocean swimming, introductory sessions to Wim Hof techniques, and so much more included with your admission ticket!
Reykjadalur Hot Springs
If you’re looking for an entirely authentic Icelandic experience and don’t mind a moderately challenging hike to get there, why not visit Reykjadalur?
Reykjadalur which means "Steam Valley," is a geothermal area in Iceland known for its hot springs and steamy river.
You will find this near the town of Hveragerði, or about a 40-minute drive out of Reykjavik.
There is no entry fee to Reykjadalur as it is completely natural. However it’s not easy to get to and will require a hike that is rated as ‘moderately challenging’ in order to get there.
However, if you don’t mind hiking for a few hours, you can then have the opportunity to bathe in the naturally heated bubbling thermal river.
This is a relatively popular hiking route amongst travellers to Iceland, so if you’re looking for some hiking adventures, why not consider this one where you also get the opportunity to relax in the Natural Springs as well as taking in the beautiful scenery during the hike.
The hike to Reykjadalur Hot Springs is approximately 6km or 3.7 mile round trip. If you’re visiting during winter months or are due to experience a lot of rainfall, it’s important to note this route can get very muddy. Always make sure you prioritise your safety and assess weather conditions before deciding which routes to hike.
Reykjadalur Hot Springs, Iceland
Lagoons & Hot Springs in Iceland 🗺️
Explore Lagoons, Hot Springs & Thermal Pools in Iceland
Iceland Lagoon's FAQ
What is so special about the Blue Lagoon in Iceland?
The Blue Lagoon is considered one of the 25 Wonders of the World by National Geographic. While Iceland has many geothermal pools and lagoons, the Blue Lagoon's water is unique in the sense that it is specifically run from a geothermal power plant, which is enriched with silica, algae, and minerals, which contribute to its distinctive blue colour.
Are kids allowed in Blue Lagoon, Iceland?
Yes, children are allowed in the Blue Lagoon from the age of 2 years old. In fact, Children aged 2 to 13 years old can enter the Blue Lagoon for free but must be accompanied by a paying adult.
Why can’t you put your hair in the Blue Lagoon?
The water in the Blue Lagoon is great for your skin as it’s rich in silica, algae, and minerals but this water can be very damaging to your hair. It’s best to not get your hair wet or at least coat it in a hair mask if you think there is a chance it will get wet.
What is the Blue Lagoon famous for?
The Blue Lagoon is the most famous lagoon in Iceland for tourists. It’s named one of the 25 Wonders of the World by National Geographic due to its unique geothermal seawater that can’t be found anywhere else on Earth! This water is great for your skin as it’s rich in silica, algae, and minerals. The water is unique in the sense that it is specifically run from a geothermal power plant, which is enriched with silica, algae, and minerals, which contribute to its distinctive blue colour.
Does Blue Lagoon sell out?
It is important to book the Blue Lagoon in advance of your trip as it does typically sell out.
Can kids visit the Sky Lagoon in Iceland?
The minimum age to experience Sky Lagoon is 12-years old. This age policy helps the Sky Lagoon to preserve the peaceful, rejuvenating environment that it provides its guests.
Is Sky Lagoon better than Blue Lagoon?
It depends on what you’re after, the Sky Lagoon provides a more tailored spa experience, whereas the Blue Lagoon is mainly a warm geothermal pool with the ability to have face masks and a swim up bar. The Blue Lagoon is better suited to families with children as the minimum age requirement for the Sky Lagoon is 12 years old. Sky Lagoon is typically quieter, and while the Blue Lagoon is the more well-known option, it is bigger and can generally cope with the crowds. If you’re looking for more of a spa experience, pick the Sky Lagoon.
What is the 7 step ritual at Sky Lagoon?
The 7 Step Ritual at the Sky Lagoon involves: a geothermal lagoon, cold plunge pool, a sauna, a cold mist room, a cleansing sea salt body scrub, a steam room, and finishing off with an Elixir health shot.
Do I need to book the Secret Lagoon in Iceland in advance?
Pre-booking in advance is highly advised for the Secret Lagoon in Iceland. Due to its high demand, it’s not guaranteed that you will be able to enter if you do not book in advance.
