The Blue Lagoon may be famous for its warm, blue waters, but there's so much more to see and do nearby. Just a short drive away, the Reykjanes Peninsula has everything from amazing volcanic landscapes to fascinating museums and cozy fishing towns.
Whether looking for outdoor fun, history, or breathtaking views, you'll find it close to the Blue Lagoon. Here are some top spots to add to your trip!
What Is the Blue Lagoon?
The Blue Lagoon is a well-known outdoor geothermal spa near Grindavík, Iceland. It is famous for its warm, mineral-rich waters, which offer relaxation and skin benefits. Guests can enjoy massages, refreshing drinks, or a cozy soak in the naturally heated lagoon, which stays at around 39°C (102°F) year-round.
Whether visiting for the day, staying overnight, or dining at its lava restaurant, the Blue Lagoon is a perfect spot to unwind and recharge in stunning surroundings.
Read more here: The Blue Lagoon Iceland
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Iceland Blue Lagoon & Golden Circle Day Trip From Reykjavik
The Best of Iceland: Golden Circle & Blue Lagoon Experience the true essence of Iceland by combining its most celebrated attractions in one day!
How to Get to the Blue Lagoon Iceland
The Blue Lagoon is just a 30-minute drive from Reykjavik, Iceland's capital, and only 15 minutes from Keflavik International Airport, making it easy to reach.Here are your options for getting there:
- Car Rental: You can rent a car at the airport or in Reykjavik to drive yourself and explore more along the way. Read more here
- Taxi: A taxi from Reykjavik or the airport will take you straight to the Blue Lagoon.
- Private Charters: You can book a direct transfer if you prefer private transport.
- Bus or Shuttle: Buses and shuttles run between the airport, Reykjavik, and the Blue Lagoon, offering a budget-friendly option.
Consider a tour for extra convenience. Many tours to the Blue Lagoon include transportation, so you can simply relax and enjoy the experience. No matter your choice, getting to the Blue Lagoon is simple, so you can look forward to a relaxing visit!
Blue Lagoon transfer from Reykjavik
Embark on a one-way journey from the lively Reykjavik to the therapeutic serenity of the Blue Lagoon, nestled amidst a spectacular lava field.
Top Things to Do Near Blue Lagoon Iceland
ATV Adventure Tours
Join an exciting ATV ride across Iceland's wild scenery. Race over vast lava fields, cruise by unique black sand beaches, and navigate bright red gravel roads.
The trip takes you through stunning mountain views that feel like another planet. This ride is fun and unforgettable.
Please note: you need a valid driver's license to join.
Horseback Riding
Saddle up and experience the Reykjanes Peninsula through the unique perspective of an Icelandic horse—journey across mesmerizing volcanic landscapes and stunning coastal trails.
Golden Circle Horse Riding
What better way to see Iceland's countryside than by combining the Golden Circle with a horseback riding tour? Horseback riding tours are suitable for all levels of experience...
Known for their compact stature, incredible strength, and gentle demeanor, Icelandic horses offer a serene yet thrilling way to connect with Iceland's natural wonders.
Read more here: Horse Riding Tours in Iceland: Everything You Need to Know
Viking World
Located in Reykjanesbær, the Viking World Museum brings the exciting history of the Vikings to life. It features a full-size replica of the Gokstad Viking ship, discovered in 1882.
This famous ship, named Íslendingur, sailed from Newfoundland to New York, retracing the historic voyage of Leif Ericsson. Visitors can also enjoy the "Vikings – The North Atlantic Saga" exhibition from the Smithsonian Institution in Washington, D.C.
This museum is an excellent place for anyone interested in learning about the Vikings and the remarkable items found by archaeologists in Iceland. For a more in-depth experience, you can book a private tour to explore the museum's fascinating artifacts and Viking history up close.
Sunset at Garðskagi Lighthouse
Built in 1897, Garðskagi Lighthouse is a historic gem on the Reykjanes Peninsula. It is known for its stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean, especially at sunset.
The nearby beach invites visitors for peaceful shoreline walks, with the chance to spot whales, dolphins, or seals just offshore in the Atlantic. A favorite for wildlife lovers and those seeking a serene escape, Garðskagi Lighthouse offers an unforgettable coastal experience.
Icelandic Museum of Rock' n' Roll
When you arrive in Iceland at Reykjanesbær, often called Keflavík, you're in a town famous for its music. The Icelandic Museum of Rock' n' Roll (Rokksafn Íslands) is a fun place for families to learn about how music in Iceland has grown over the years.
The museum shows you the journey of music from the old classics of the 19th century to today's big names like Björk and Of Monsters and Men. Keflavík is nicknamed "The Beatles town" because of its rich music history.
Brimketill Lava Pool
Brimketill is a striking natural pool set in high sea cliffs, crafted by the relentless waves of the North Atlantic. Visitors on the viewing platform experience the exhilarating splash of the ocean, making it a vivid encounter with nature's power.
The forceful waters require visitors to proceed with caution. Located just 15 minutes from the Blue Lagoon, Brimketill offers a quick journey to witness this dramatic seascape.
Steam Vents at Gunnuhver
Gunnuhver, home to Iceland's largest mud pool, is a hotspot of geothermal wonders. Plumes of steam and boiling liquids escape from the Earth's depths, creating a misty, almost otherworldly atmosphere.
Wander along the boardwalk that weaves through this mineral-rich terrain, where the intense energy of volcanic forces surrounds you. Just a 20-minute drive from the Blue Lagoon, this site offers a mesmerizing look at the dynamic forces that continuously shape our planet.
Visit Historic Hvalsneskirkja
Built in 1887 from local basalt and driftwood, Hvalsneskirkja is a beautifully preserved example of Icelandic architecture. Next to the church is a historic cemetery dating back to the 17th century, where notable figures, like the daughter of poet Hallgrímur Pétursson, rest.
This site, just a 34-minute drive from the Blue Lagoon, offers a meaningful look into Iceland's cultural roots.
Fagradalsfjall Volcano Trek
In March 2021, Fagradalsfjall Volcano awakened, casting rivers of molten lava across the landscape in a mesmerizing display that captivated global audiences. Although the fiery flows have since cooled, the trek to the ridge offers breathtaking vistas of solidified lava fields and vividly colored sulfur cones.
This landscape, shaped by the forces of nature, continues to allure visitors with its stark beauty and the stark contrast of blackened rock against the vibrant geological features.
Historical Journey at Selatangar Ruins
Step back in time at Selatangar, where the remnants of ancient fishing huts reveal a slice of Icelandic history. These simple shelters, once bustling with fishermen each hot spring, now stand quiet, offering a poignant look into the lives of those who lived and worked by the sea centuries ago.
The ruins at Selatangar, last used in the 1880s, offer a captivating window into a bygone era, perfect for history enthusiasts eager to connect with Iceland's maritime heritage.
Colors of Seltún Geothermal
Discover the vibrant geothermal field of Seltún, where a boardwalk winds through a landscape of bubbling mud pools and steaming vents. Bright mineral deposits paint the ground in a natural palette, adding to the surreal experience.
Nearby, soothing hot springs quietly bubble, inviting a closer look at nature's underground forces. Just a quick 30-minute trip from the Blue Lagoon, this hot spring site offers an accessible and memorable adventure.
Ocean's Drama at Brimketil
Brimketill is not just a pool; it's a spectacle carved by the relentless ocean into towering cliffs. This precise, natural basin captures the fierce beauty of the North Atlantic as waves crash against it, often soaking spectators on the nearby platform.
The sheer power of these waters commands respect and caution from all who visit. Just a 15-minute drive from the Blue Lagoon, Brimketill offers an unforgettable encounter with nature's untamed force.
Views from Reykjanesviti Lighthouse
As Iceland's oldest beacon since 1908, Reykjanesviti Lighthouse towers 70 meters above the turbulent North Atlantic. Surrounded by vivid geothermal fields and the vast blue horizon, this storied lighthouse is a steadfast sentinel in a captivating yet relentless landscape.
A 25-minute journey from the Blue Lagoon offers a breathtaking vantage point that blends historical allure with dramatic natural scenery.
History Along Stafnes Coast
In the 17th and 18th centuries, Stafnes was a key fishing hub and maritime trade center, though the dangerous skerries nearby claimed many ships. The trawler President Jon, in 1928, was a tragic wreck that lost 15 crew members.
Since 1925, the bright yellow Stafnes lighthouse has served as an enduring symbol of the area's storied past and vital role in Icelandic seafaring. Only 36 minutes from the Blue Lagoon, Stafnes offers visitors a striking glimpse into Iceland's rich coastal heritage amid rugged landscapes.
Geothermal Marvels of Krýsuvík
Krýsuvík is a surreal geothermal site where boiling mud pools, steam vents, and vivid mineral deposits bring the landscape to life. Nearby, the turquoise lakes Graenavatn and Kleifarvatn, tucked into ancient volcanic craters, offer a serene contrast.Just 31 minutes from the Blue Lagoon, Krýsuvík is a must-visit for nature lovers and thrill-seekers alike.
Best Golden Circle Tour From Reykjavik: Geysir, Gullfoss and Thingvellir
Experience Iceland's most famous natural wonders with this top-rated tour departing from Reykjavik.
Earth's Rift at the Continental Bridge
Set on the divide between two tectonic plates—the North American and Eurasian—this site features a bridge between continents, allowing you to literally walk from one continent to another. Below, a visible fissure marks the slow drift of these plates, offering a rare glimpse into Earth's tectonic movements.
This spot is just a scenic 22-minute drive from the Blue Lagoon, perfect for geology enthusiasts and curious travelers.
Mystique of Lake Kleifarvatn
Kleifarvatn, the Reykjanes Peninsula's largest lake, is known for its eerie charm. Its waters flow entirely underground with no visible inlets or outlets, adding to its mystery.
Encircled by rugged lava formations shaped by volcanic forces, the lake's expansive views and surreal landscape make it an enchanting stop, only 36 minutes from the Blue Lagoon.
Final Verdict
With so many unique attractions just minutes away, visiting the Blue Lagoon becomes the perfect gateway to exploring Iceland's wild beauty and history. From steaming geothermal fields and scenic lighthouses to Viking stories and volcanic trails, there's no shortage of adventures nearby.
Each stop offers a new glimpse into the natural and cultural wonders of the Reykjanes Peninsula. Ready to dive deeper? Visit our website to find exclusive tours and make the most of your Icelandic adventure!
FAQs
What should I wear to the Blue Lagoon?
A swimsuit is required to enter the Blue Lagoon, and guests are also asked to shower without it beforehand to keep the water clean. If you don't bring your own, swimsuits, towels, and robes are available for rent at the lagoon.
Is the water safe for children?
Yes, but children under 2 years old are not allowed in the lagoon due to the high mineral content. Kids aged 2-8 must wear floaties (provided for free), and a parent must always supervise them.
How does the lagoon affect hair?
The silica-rich water can leave hair feeling dry and stiff, so applying a leave-in conditioner before entering is recommended. Blue Lagoon provides complimentary conditioner in the showers, and tying long hair up or using a swim cap can help protect it.
