Heimaey Westman Islands Iceland - Image 1
1 / 3

Heimaey Westman Islands Iceland

4.7
·143 reviews·, Iceland

A volcanic gem off Iceland's coast, Heimaey offers dramatic landscapes, puffin colonies, and the iconic Elephant Rock.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

May - August mornings

Puffin season & best light

CrowdMedium
Loading map...
Heimaey Westman Islands Iceland - Image 1

Heimaey Westman Islands Iceland

Best Time

May - August mornings

Puffin season & best light

CrowdMedium

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A volcanic gem off Iceland's coast, Heimaey offers dramatic landscapes, puffin colonies, and the iconic Elephant Rock.

4.7
(143 reviews)

"One of Iceland's best kept secrets the Westman Islands. Not every visitor makes it here but the ones that do never forget it"

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Ferry with Car Recommended

Bringing your car on the ferry offers the most flexibility to explore Heimaey's diverse landscapes.

🦤 Puffins: Go Early!

For the best puffin sightings, head out early in the morning.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Elephant Rock

Elephant Rock

Coastal area

A natural basalt rock formation resembling an elephant's head, sculpted by volcanic activity.

Eldfell Volcano

Eldfell Volcano

Central Heimaey

Hike this relatively young volcano, formed in a 1973 eruption, for panoramic island views.

Puffin Colonies

Puffin Colonies

Coastal cliffs

Witness thousands of Atlantic puffins nesting on the island's dramatic cliffs during summer.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Ferry to Heimaey: Plan Ahead

The ferry to Heimaey is a popular route, especially for those bringing a car. Booking in advance is highly recommended, particularly during peak season, to secure your spot and avoid disappointment. The journey itself offers stunning coastal views.

Best Time for Puffins & Views

For the best chance to see puffins, plan your visit between May and August. Early mornings are often cited as ideal for wildlife viewing and capturing the island's dramatic landscapes before the day-trippers arrive.

Best Times

When
May - August mornings
Why
Puffin season & best light
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekdays, off-season
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

These just keep getting more and more fun!!! Let me know if there are other brands I should try to do a full face of!! EVERYTHING LINKED IN MY LTK ❤️ #makeupreview #firstimpression #makeuptutorial @Westman-Atelier @Huda Beauty @SCUFFERS
@palomahendersonn
219K likes • 1.4M views

🚗 Ferry with Car Recommended

Bringing your car on the ferry offers the most flexibility to explore Heimaey's diverse landscapes. Reddit

🦤 Puffins: Go Early!

For the best puffin sightings, head out early in the morning. Reddit

The Elephant Rock in the the island of Heimaey, in the Westman Islands archipelago in Iceland. #elephantrock #iceland #icelandtrip #icelandnature #icelandtravel @natgeoyourshot #naturephotography #nature #naturephoto #video #reels #reelsinstagram #landscape #vacation #vacationmode #heimaeyisland #amazing #travel#travelphotography #travelersnotebook #travelreels #traveltheworld #travel_drops #igda...
eclectic_lady_
4.8K likes • 23.7K views
Do you see it…? This is Elephant Rock 🐘🪨 (or in Icelandic, Halldórsskora). The beautiful Westman Islands (or “Vestmannaeyjar”) are located just off the south coast of Iceland and the main island, Heimaey, is home to this unique natural basalt rock formation, which has become a popular sight for visitors due to resembling the head of a giant elephant which has submerged half of its trunk into the ...
strawhattedtraveller
90 likes • 1.7K views

🥾 Hike Eldfell Volcano

The hike up Eldfell offers incredible views and a unique perspective on the island's volcanic history. Reddit

🐘 Spot Elephant Rock

This iconic basalt formation is a must-see, easily accessible via coastal paths. Instagram+1

Elephant Rock is a natural rock formation on the island of Heimaey, in the Westman Islands archipelago.It is made of basalt rock formed in a volcanic eruption of Eldfell. It is known for its shape which resembles the head of an elephant with its trunk in the water. #elephantrock #iceland #vacation #nature #mountains #ocean #atlanticocean #rockformation #volcanoeruption #backpackerpapiya
backpacker_papiya
32 likes • 1.5K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Ferry with Car Recommended

Bringing your car on the ferry offers the most flexibility to explore Heimaey's diverse landscapes. Reddit

🦤 Puffins: Go Early!

For the best puffin sightings, head out early in the morning. Reddit

🥾 Hike Eldfell Volcano

The hike up Eldfell offers incredible views and a unique perspective on the island's volcanic history. Reddit

🐘 Spot Elephant Rock

This iconic basalt formation is a must-see, easily accessible via coastal paths. Instagram+1

🐳 Visit Beluga Sanctuary

Heimaey is home to the world's first beluga whale sanctuary, a unique conservation effort. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.7
(143 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Heimaey as a stunning and unique island, often described as one of Iceland's best-kept secrets. The dramatic volcanic landscapes, abundant puffin colonies, and the iconic Elephant Rock are major highlights. Many appreciate the ease of access via ferry, especially with a car, and the opportunity to hike Eldfell volcano.

"Such a beautiful, quaint island. The puffins are incredible! It is a 9 minute ride from the ferry terminal to see them. Drive up to the top, and walk along the fence. Enjoy. Remember to go early in the morningZ"

Trish Sousa

"One of Icelands best kept secrets the Westman Islands. Not every visitor makes it here but the ones that do never forget it"

Amber Dawn

"Small island with stunning views all around."

Eric Bartolo

What People Like

Stunning volcanic scenery
Abundant puffin colonies
Iconic Elephant Rock

What People Dislike

Can be crowded on day trips

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The most common way to reach Heimaey is by taking a ferry from Landeyjahöfn on the south coast of Iceland. The ferry ride is approximately 35-40 minutes and you can bring your car. Alternatively, there are short flights available from Reykjavík to Heimaey's airport. InstagramReddit+1

Yes, bringing your car on the ferry is highly recommended as it allows you to easily explore the entire island, including the volcano, coastal areas, and viewpoints at your own pace. Reddit

The ferry journey from Landeyjahöfn to Heimaey typically takes around 35 to 40 minutes. InstagramReddit

It is strongly advised to book your ferry tickets, especially if you plan to bring a car, well in advance, particularly during the summer months, to guarantee your spot. Reddit

Yes, there are scheduled flights from Reykjavík to Heimaey (Vestmannaeyjar Airport) which offer a quicker, though often more expensive, way to reach the island. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

While many natural attractions like Elephant Rock and hiking trails are free to access, some specific sites or museums on Heimaey may have admission fees. It's best to check individual attraction details. Reddit

Eldfell volcano itself is an outdoor natural site and is generally accessible at any time. However, any associated visitor centers or museums may have specific operating hours. Reddit

While you can often see puffins from the shore without a tour, booking a boat tour specifically for puffin watching can offer closer views and is recommended to book ahead during peak season. Instagram

No, Elephant Rock is a natural formation accessible from the coastline and does not have an entrance fee. InstagramReddit+1

The Atlantic puffins are typically on Heimaey from May to August, making this the prime season for spotting them. Instagram

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Key attractions include Elephant Rock, hiking Eldfell volcano, observing puffin colonies, and visiting the Eldheimar museum which details the 1973 eruption. InstagramReddit+2

Popular activities include hiking, birdwatching (especially puffins), exploring volcanic landscapes, visiting the beluga whale sanctuary, and enjoying coastal walks. InstagramReddit+1

Absolutely! Heimaey offers fantastic hiking opportunities, with trails around Eldfell volcano and along the dramatic coastlines providing stunning views. InstagramReddit

A day trip is possible, but an overnight stay is highly recommended to fully experience the island's charm, see puffins, and hike the volcano without rushing. Reddit

With a car brought over on the ferry, you can easily drive to most points of interest. Walking and cycling are also good options for exploring the main town and nearby areas. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, Heimaey has several local restaurants and cafes offering fresh seafood and traditional Icelandic dishes. Enjoying a meal at a local spot is part of the island experience. Reddit

While seafood is prevalent, most restaurants in Iceland are accustomed to dietary needs and can usually offer vegetarian options. It's always good to ask. Reddit

Yes, visitors can enjoy local brews at the local brewery on the island, adding a unique flavor to the dining experience. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The dramatic cliffs, Elephant Rock, the summit of Eldfell volcano, and the puffin colonies offer incredible photographic opportunities. The ferry approach also provides stunning vistas. InstagramReddit+2

Early morning and late afternoon offer the best light for photography, creating dramatic shadows and golden hues across the volcanic landscapes and coastlines. Reddit

Drone regulations can vary. It's essential to check current Icelandic drone laws and any local restrictions on Heimaey before flying, especially near wildlife or residential areas. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Heimaey offers a unique adventure for families. Hiking Eldfell volcano is an exciting activity where kids can walk on a relatively young volcano and learn about its history. The chance to see puffins up close is a major draw, providing an unforgettable wildlife encounter. Instagram The beluga whale sanctuary is also a fascinating educational stop. Instagram Consider bringing snacks and drinks, as facilities can be spread out. The ferry ride itself is often an adventure for children. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Solo Travelers & Hikers

📸 Photographers

Heimaey is a photographer's dream, offering dramatic landscapes shaped by volcanic activity and the relentless sea. Elephant Rock is a must-capture subject, best photographed during the golden hours of sunrise or sunset for optimal lighting. Instagram+2 The rugged coastlines, the vastness of the Eldfell volcano crater, and the charming puffins provide endless subjects. Instagram Consider bringing a wide-angle lens for landscapes and a telephoto lens for wildlife. Remember to check drone regulations if you plan aerial shots. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Volcanic Heart of Heimaey

Heimaey's dramatic landscapes are a direct result of its volcanic activity. The most prominent example is Eldfell, a volcano that dramatically erupted in 1973. This eruption famously buried a significant portion of the town under lava and ash, forcing an evacuation. Today, visitors can hike up Eldfell, walking on the still-warm ground and seeing firsthand the immense power of nature. The Eldheimar Museum offers a fascinating and poignant look into this event, showcasing excavated homes and telling the stories of those affected. InstagramReddit

Another iconic volcanic feature is Elephant Rock (Halldórsskora), a striking basalt formation on the coast that, from the right angle, uncannily resembles an elephant's head with its trunk submerged in the sea. This natural sculpture is a testament to the erosive forces of the ocean acting upon volcanic rock. It's a popular spot for photos and a symbol of Heimaey's unique geological identity. Instagram+7

Exploring these volcanic sites provides a deep appreciation for the island's dynamic history and its resilience. The stark beauty of the lava fields and the dramatic coastal formations make Heimaey a truly unforgettable destination for nature and geology enthusiasts.

Puffins and Marine Life

Heimaey is a vital nesting ground for thousands of Atlantic puffins during the summer months, typically from May to August. These charismatic birds, with their distinctive colorful beaks, can be observed along the island's cliffs. Many visitors recommend heading out early in the morning for the best viewing opportunities. While you can often spot them from the shore, boat tours offer a closer perspective and a chance to see them in their element, diving for fish. InstagramReddit

Beyond puffins, the waters surrounding the Westman Islands are rich with marine life. Heimaey is also home to the world's first beluga whale sanctuary, located at the former quarry of Klettsvik. This sanctuary provides a safe haven for rescued beluga whales, offering a unique opportunity to learn about marine conservation and observe these intelligent creatures. Instagram

The combination of accessible puffin colonies and the pioneering beluga whale sanctuary makes Heimaey a premier destination for wildlife enthusiasts and anyone interested in Iceland's natural heritage. The sheer abundance of birdlife and the presence of marine mammals create a vibrant and engaging experience.