
Nauthólsvík Geothermal Beach
Reykjavik's urban geothermal beach offering a warm lagoon, hot tubs, and a bracing ocean dip at an affordable price.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Longer hours, warmer weather

Nauthólsvík Geothermal Beach
Best Time
Longer hours, warmer weather

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Reykjavik's urban geothermal beach offering a warm lagoon, hot tubs, and a bracing ocean dip at an affordable price.
"Totally worth visiting! For not much money, you can stay there indefinitely. Way more affordable than other famous spa places."

💰 Affordable Spa Alternative
Much cheaper than Blue Lagoon! Pay a small fee for unlimited time in pools & hot tubs .
🥶 Ocean vs. Lagoon
Try the lagoon first, then brave the ocean for a true Icelandic experience .

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Geothermal Lagoon
Main pool area
A man-made lagoon with pumped-in hot water, offering a warm embrace against the Icelandic chill.

Ocean Dip
Adjacent to the lagoon
For the adventurous, brave the bracing North Atlantic waters right next to the warm lagoon.

Hot Tubs & Steam Room
Near the lagoon
Relax and unwind in the steaming hot tubs or the invigorating steam room after your swim.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds & Cost
Embrace the Cold (or Not!)
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Bathing at Nauthólsvík
💰 Affordable Spa Alternative
Much cheaper than Blue Lagoon! Pay a small fee for unlimited time in pools & hot tubs.
🥶 Ocean vs. Lagoon
Try the lagoon first, then brave the ocean for a true Icelandic experience.
Swimming in the ocean at the Nauthólsvík beach
Nautholsvik Geothermal Beach- Reykjavik
🚿 Facilities Available
Clean showers, changing rooms, and lockers (bring your own padlock) are provided.
🚶♀️ Walk the Runway
Enjoy a stroll along the runway base near the beach for unique views.
101 all things hot springs / water in general in Iceland for first timers.
Tips
from all over the internet
💰 Affordable Spa Alternative
Much cheaper than Blue Lagoon! Pay a small fee for unlimited time in pools & hot tubs.
🥶 Ocean vs. Lagoon
Try the lagoon first, then brave the ocean for a true Icelandic experience.
🚿 Facilities Available
Clean showers, changing rooms, and lockers (bring your own padlock) are provided.
🚶♀️ Walk the Runway
Enjoy a stroll along the runway base near the beach for unique views.
🧸 Kid-Friendly Fun
Toys available for children in the geothermal pool area.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Nauthólsvík Geothermal Beach is praised as an affordable and enjoyable alternative to more expensive spas, offering a unique blend of warm geothermal waters and the bracing ocean. Visitors appreciate the clean facilities, the relaxing hot tubs, and the scenic coastal location, though some note the geothermal pool can be small and its winter hours limited.
"Totally worth visiting! For not much money, you can stay there indefinitely. Way more affordable than other famous spa places like Blue Lagoon. The outdoor heated pool is great and they also have a very hot steam room.
You can alternate between the outdoor pool and the cold lagoon, or even try to swim in the sea nearby"
Álvaro Menduiña
"Great little beach. Pretty and not too busy. You can see the steam rising from the water and close to the hot tub area the sea water is warm"
Kelly Rickard
"Amazing place, public, free, opens 10am-7pm in the summer! GREAT PLACE"
Pámela Bóveda-Aguirre
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Nauthólsvík is easily accessible by public bus from downtown Reykjavik. Several routes stop nearby. Alternatively, it's a pleasant walk or a short taxi ride, offering scenic views along the coast. Free parking is also available if you're driving.
Yes, it's a scenic walk from the city center, taking about 30-40 minutes along the coast. It's a great way to see more of Reykjavik's waterfront.
There is free parking available at Nauthólsvík Geothermal Beach, making it convenient for visitors arriving by car.
While possible on a clear night with good aurora activity, Nauthólsvík's city lights can reduce visibility. For better aurora viewing, consider heading further away from the city.
Absolutely! Nauthólsvík is a perfect half-day or full-day trip from Reykjavik, offering relaxation and unique geothermal experiences.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to Nauthólsvík is very affordable, significantly less than other popular spas like the Blue Lagoon. The fee grants you access to the geothermal pool, hot tubs, and steam room for an unlimited time.
Opening hours vary seasonally. In summer, it's typically open from 10 am to 7 pm. During winter, the geothermal pool may only be open on certain days and has shorter hours. Always check the official website for the most current schedule.
Advance booking is generally not required for Nauthólsvík, especially outside of peak summer days. You can usually purchase tickets upon arrival.
Yes, lockers are available for storing your belongings. It's recommended to bring your own padlock for added security.
The geothermal pool is generally open year-round, but its operating days and hours can be reduced during the winter months. The ocean access is always available, weather permitting.
🎫 🏊 Onsite Experience
Nauthólsvík offers changing rooms, showers with washing liquid, lockers, a geothermal lagoon, hot tubs, a steam room, and a cooler circular pool near the water. Snacks and drinks are also available for purchase.
Yes, you can swim in the ocean adjacent to the geothermal lagoon. It's a bracing experience, and many visitors enjoy alternating between the warm lagoon and the cold sea.
Yes, Nauthólsvík is family-friendly. There are toys available for children in the geothermal pool area, and the lagoon provides a safer, warmer environment for them to play in compared to the open ocean.
The geothermal lagoon is heated to a comfortable temperature, while the ocean water is significantly colder, typical of the North Atlantic. The hot tubs and steam room offer very warm temperatures.
Yes, you can walk around the beach and the surrounding area. A popular activity is walking along the bottom of the runway from the beach, offering unique views.
🍽️ 🍔 Food & Dining
Yes, there is a snack bar at Nauthólsvík where you can purchase snacks, drinks, and ice cream.
While there are food options available for purchase, it's generally acceptable to bring your own snacks and non-alcoholic beverages to enjoy during your visit.
The snack bar typically offers a selection of light snacks, hot and cold drinks, and ice cream, suitable for a casual visit.
There are restaurants located in the vicinity of Nauthólsvík, particularly back towards the city center or in the nearby Grótta lighthouse area, offering more substantial dining options.
Prices at the snack bar are generally in line with typical Icelandic prices for casual food and drinks.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture stunning shots of the geothermal lagoon with steam rising, the contrast between the warm lagoon and the cold ocean, and the unique coastal landscape. The nearby runway offers an interesting backdrop too.
Yes, photography is generally allowed at Nauthólsvík. Be mindful of other visitors' privacy when taking photos.
Early mornings or late afternoons can offer softer light for photography. However, the steam rising from the lagoon can create dramatic effects at any time of day.
Drone usage may be restricted in public areas. It's advisable to check local regulations and obtain any necessary permits before flying a drone.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive coastal views and the lagoon. A waterproof camera or phone case is recommended if you plan to get close to the water.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
🏃♀️ Active & Adventurous
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Geothermal Advantage
The facility provides a controlled environment with changing rooms, showers, and lockers, making the experience convenient. Visitors can choose to relax in the heated lagoon, invigorate themselves in the steam room, or enjoy the warmth of the hot tubs. The proximity to the cold ocean allows for a thrilling contrast, a true Icelandic experience for those who dare to dip into the bracing North Atlantic waters.
Beyond the Lagoon: Exploring the Area
For those seeking a bit more adventure, the surrounding coastline is perfect for exploration. The area is relatively quiet and secluded, offering a tranquil escape from the city bustle. It's a great spot to enjoy the crisp Icelandic air and the dramatic coastal scenery. The free parking and accessibility make it an easy addition to any Reykjavik itinerary.
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