Blue Lagoon Iceland
Experience Iceland's iconic milky blue geothermal waters, a unique natural spa with mineral-rich properties. A must-visit for its surreal beauty.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed vibe
Blue Lagoon Iceland
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed vibe
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience Iceland's iconic milky blue geothermal waters, a unique natural spa with mineral-rich properties. A must-visit for its surreal beauty.
"Beautiful place to visit, but it's quite underdeveloped."
Life Vest Rental Cost
Life vests for the blue area cost 1000 JMD. Consider if it's worth it for your visit.
Bring Your Own Cash
Essential for donations, souvenirs, and any unofficial tours. Many vendors don't accept cards.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Vibrant Blue Swimming Area
Main Lagoon
Immerse yourself in the striking blue waters, a unique natural phenomenon. Requires strong swimming skills or a life vest.
Shallow Mineral Pool
Designated Kid-Friendly Zone
A contained, shallow area with clear, cool water perfect for families and those who prefer calmer waters.
Natural Mineral Pool with Temperature Shifts
Sea Connection Point
Experience a unique sensation where warm and cold water currents meet randomly as the pool connects to the sea.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Understand the Lagoon's Zones
Cash is Key & Be Prepared
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
This waterfall in Iceland is incredibly blue [OC] [3686x5529]
Life Vest Rental Cost
Life vests for the blue area cost 1000 JMD. Consider if it's worth it for your visit.
Bring Your Own Cash
Essential for donations, souvenirs, and any unofficial tours. Many vendors don't accept cards.
Turtles & Manatees? Unlikely.
Don't expect to see turtles or manatees; the lagoon is very deep.
Overpriced Drinks & Souvenirs
Be prepared for higher prices at the bar and souvenir stalls.
Tips
from all over the internet
Life Vest Rental Cost
Life vests for the blue area cost 1000 JMD. Consider if it's worth it for your visit.
Bring Your Own Cash
Essential for donations, souvenirs, and any unofficial tours. Many vendors don't accept cards.
Turtles & Manatees? Unlikely.
Don't expect to see turtles or manatees; the lagoon is very deep.
Overpriced Drinks & Souvenirs
Be prepared for higher prices at the bar and souvenir stalls.
Safety First with Kids
The lagoon can be deep and underdeveloped. Go prepared, especially if you have children.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the Blue Lagoon's waters stunningly beautiful and unique, with the shallow mineral pool being a hit for families. However, many note its underdeveloped state, with overpriced amenities and a need for cash. Safety concerns are also raised due to the depth and lack of clear demarcation.
"Beautiful place to visit. There are multiple parts to the lagoon. The pretty blue area is for swimmers only, be warned, there is like a 200 feet drop between the “shore” area and where the water turns blue, so if you can’t swim, stick to the other side the lagoon where it’s shallow and most people swim at. Of course the money making part is that they rent life vests for a $1000 JMD for the adventurous individuals who wants to swim in the blue area. There is also like a mineral pool, the water there is pretty clear but cool. It’s a fun visit, just “entertain” the tour people and give them a little tip, that’s how they earn their living."
Jamaica Fully Active
"This place is absolutely beautiful and underdeveloped. It's a nice getaway especially if you are staying in the area. You can swim in the lagoon but only with a life jacket...they also offer kayaking. Additionally they have now provided restroom facilities and souvenir shops if you want to grab a few things. There is also the mineral spring area which is very shallow and contained so kids can enjoy themselves in that space"
Lucille Hayles
"Very beautiful location, good for swimming and relaxing in the water however it’s quite underdeveloped. There is some promise of seeing turtles and manatees, which doesn’t seem true as the lagoon is extremely deep. There’s no designated entrance fee but they ask for a donation to enter. It’s pretty underdeveloped, there’s a bar with overpriced drinks and a couple stalls selling souvenirs. There’s also some unofficial tour guides around offering kayaking tours which I don’t recommended. You definitely need cash if you go here! Safety is a bit of concern, go prepared especially if you’re with kids."
Nasrene Bux
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Blue Lagoon is located near Grindavík, about a 45-minute drive from Reykjavík. Many visitors opt for rental cars or organized bus tours. Check local transport options for the most convenient way to reach this popular Icelandic attraction.
Yes, there is parking available at the Blue Lagoon. It's generally ample, but can get busy during peak times.
Absolutely! The Blue Lagoon is a popular day trip destination from Reykjavik. Many tours include transportation and entry, making it a convenient option.
Many travelers find that booking a tour that includes transport from Reykjavik is the easiest way to visit the Blue Lagoon. Alternatively, renting a car offers flexibility.
While not as frequent as tours, some public bus services might connect to areas near the Blue Lagoon, but it's less common and might require additional travel.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There isn't a fixed entrance fee, but donations are requested. Be aware that costs can add up for rentals and amenities.
While not strictly required, booking in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak season, to secure your spot and avoid disappointment.
The Blue Lagoon primarily offers access to its natural pools. Additional costs apply for life vest rentals and other amenities.
Opening hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official Blue Lagoon website for the most up-to-date information on their operating times.
Swimming in the main blue area requires a life vest rental, which incurs a fee. The shallow mineral pool is generally accessible without extra charge.
🎫 🏊 Onsite Experience
Yes, you can enjoy the shallow mineral pool. For the deeper blue area, a life vest is mandatory and available for rent.
Facilities include restrooms, souvenir shops, and a bar. Kayaking tours are also offered by unofficial guides.
Yes, restroom facilities are provided for visitors to change and shower before and after entering the lagoon.
Children can safely enjoy the shallow mineral pool. The deeper blue area requires swimming ability or a life vest.
Bring swimwear, a towel (though rentals are available), cash, and any personal items you might need. Sunscreen is also advisable.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There is a bar with drinks and some stalls selling souvenirs. Food options are limited and can be overpriced.
Yes, drinks at the bar and souvenirs are generally considered overpriced.
There are no specific rules mentioned about bringing your own food, but it's generally best to consume it in designated areas away from the water.
The bar offers a range of drinks, including alcoholic and non-alcoholic options, though prices are on the higher side.
While the immediate area has limited dining, you can find more options in nearby towns like Grindavík or back in Reykjavik.
📸 📸 Photography
Be cautious with electronics. While many visitors take photos, the water can be harsh. Consider a waterproof case or leaving valuables secured.
Late afternoons offer beautiful golden hour light. Early mornings can also be good before crowds build up.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, be respectful of other visitors' privacy.
Drone usage is typically restricted in such natural attractions to ensure safety and preserve the environment. Check official regulations.
Expect stunning shots of the milky blue water, steam rising, and the unique volcanic landscape.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For the main blue lagoon area, ensure children are strong swimmers or rent life vests. Be mindful of the drop-off and the general underdeveloped nature of the site; keeping a close eye on kids is essential. Bring snacks and drinks as options can be limited and pricey.
💰 Budget Travelers
To save money, consider bringing your own towel and snacks. Researching transportation options beyond expensive tours can also help manage costs. Focus on enjoying the natural beauty of the lagoon itself.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Protect your gear! The mineral-rich water can be harsh on electronics. A waterproof phone case or a dedicated waterproof camera is highly recommended. Be mindful of other visitors and their privacy when taking photos.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Understanding the Blue Lagoon's Waters
It's important to note that the lagoon has different zones. The shallow mineral pool is perfect for families and those who prefer to stay close to the edge. The deeper, more vibrant blue section is where the true geothermal experience lies, but it requires confident swimming skills or the use of a life vest, which can be rented.
Be aware of the temperature variations. While the water is generally warm, some areas might have cooler patches due to the natural flow of the geothermal currents. This adds to the unique sensory experience of the lagoon.
Navigating the Underdeveloped Infrastructure
Bring cash, as many vendors and donation boxes operate on a cash-only basis. This is crucial for purchasing souvenirs, tipping unofficial guides, or contributing to the upkeep of the site.
Safety is also a consideration due to the underdeveloped state. The lagoon's depth can be a surprise, and the terrain around it might be uneven. Visitors with children or those with mobility concerns should exercise extra caution and stay within designated safe areas.
The 'Unofficial' Experience
There's also a mention of local vendors selling goods, and in some instances, more illicit substances. This can give the area a 'shady' feeling for some, so it's wise to be aware of your surroundings and stick to official offerings if you're uncomfortable.
Ultimately, the 'unofficial' aspects of the Blue Lagoon are a mixed bag. It's a good idea to research and decide beforehand if you're interested in these types of interactions or prefer to stick to the natural beauty of the lagoon itself.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit