Top 10 Best Beaches in Iceland
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Best beaches in Iceland
Iceland’s beaches are unlike any in the world—dramatic, windswept, and carved by volcanic forces and glacial rivers. From black sand expanses and ice-strewn shores to red volcanic beaches and geothermal lagoons, Iceland offers an otherworldly coastal experience. Whether you’re looking to marvel at basalt columns, stroll past diamond-like ice chunks, or soak in a natural hot pool with an ocean view, this guide to the best beaches in Iceland will take you to the wildest, most unforgettable stretches of sand on the island.
Table of contents
Best beaches in Iceland 1. Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach – Vík 2. Diamond Beach – Jökulsárlón 3. Rauðasandur (Red Sand Beach) – Westfjords 4. Djúpalónssandur – Snæfellsnes Peninsula 5. Nauthólsvík Geothermal Beach – Reykjavík 6. Stokksnes Beach – Southeast Iceland 7. Ytri Tunga Beach – Snæfellsnes Peninsula 8. Grótta Lighthouse Beach – Seltjarnarnes, Reykjavík 9. Breiðavík Beach – Westfjords 10. Krossneslaug Shoreline – Strandir Coast, Westfjords
1. Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach – Vík
Dramatic basalt cliffs and roaring Atlantic waves on Iceland’s south coast
Reynisfjara is Iceland’s most iconic black sand beach—and one of the most striking in the world. Located near the village of Vík, this volcanic beach is framed by towering basalt columns, massive sea stacks (Reynisdrangar), and thunderous waves crashing against the shore. The contrast of black sand, white foam, and misty cliffs creates a powerful and unforgettable coastal experience. It’s popular for photography, nature walks, and witnessing Iceland’s raw elemental beauty.
- 🌍 Location: Vík, South Iceland (Google map)
- ✅ Highlights: Black sand, basalt columns, Reynisdrangar sea stacks, powerful ocean views
- 👎 Downsides: Dangerous sneaker waves—never turn your back on the sea; often windy and cold
Nature’s cathedral
The cliffside basalt columns at Reynisfjara resemble giant organ pipes and make you feel as though you’re walking through a natural cathedral. They’re popular for photos and offer a bit of wind shelter for those lingering by the shore.
Legend and lava
Local legends say the Reynisdrangar sea stacks were trolls turned to stone by sunlight. Whether you believe the tale or not, these formations stand as eerie monuments to Iceland’s volcanic origins.
Come for drama, not for swimming
Due to deadly currents and unpredictable waves, Reynisfjara is strictly for admiration—not for bathing. But for atmosphere, intensity, and visual impact, it tops the list of the best beaches in Iceland.
2. Diamond Beach – Jökulsárlón
Glacier ice meets black sand on Iceland’s most surreal beach
Diamond Beach, located across from the Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, is a magical stretch of black sand where chunks of glacial ice wash ashore and sparkle like diamonds in the sun. Constantly reshaped by the melting glacier, the beach is never the same twice. The contrast between jet-black sand and glowing blue or crystal-clear icebergs creates one of the most visually stunning scenes in all of Iceland—making it a must-see destination for photographers, nature lovers, and dreamers alike.
- 🌍 Location: Near Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, Southeast Iceland (Google map)
- ✅ Highlights: Icebergs on the sand, glacial scenery, ever-changing landscape, surreal photo ops
- 👎 Downsides: Can be cold and windy year-round; ice can be slippery—watch your step
Icy art gallery
Every tide brings a new collection of glacier ice to the shore, ranging from tiny polished pebbles to towering, jagged chunks. The ice glows in different hues depending on the light—some translucent, some a deep glacial blue.
Perfect for sunrise or sunset
Visit during golden hour for breathtaking colors as the light bounces off the ice and dark sand. It’s a peaceful, almost otherworldly scene that changes with the weather and tide.
Nature’s contrast on full display
Diamond Beach shows the stark beauty of Iceland—fire and ice, darkness and light, stillness and movement. It’s one of the best beaches in Iceland for pure visual wonder.
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3. Rauðasandur (Red Sand Beach) – Westfjords
Endless red-gold sands in one of Iceland’s quietest corners
Rauðasandur, meaning “Red Sand,” is a remote and expansive beach in the Westfjords known for its unique coppery-pink sand that shifts color with the light and weather. Unlike Iceland’s typical black sand beaches, Rauðasandur glows with warm tones of red, gold, and beige, stretching for nearly 10 kilometers. With dramatic cliffs on one side and views of the Snæfellsjökull glacier across the bay, this tranquil haven is perfect for long walks, solitude, and reflection in untouched Icelandic nature.
- 🌍 Location: Westfjords, near Látrabjarg (Google map)
- ✅ Highlights: Rare red sand, peaceful setting, views of Snæfellsjökull, great for walking and photography
- 👎 Downsides: Remote location; gravel road access can be tricky; minimal facilities
Color that shifts with the light
Depending on the time of day and weather, the sand at Rauðasandur can look deep red, golden, or even pink. It’s a beach that changes mood constantly—no two visits are ever quite the same.
Birdsong and silence
You won’t find crowds here—just the sound of seabirds, the rustle of wind, and endless space to think or breathe. It’s wild swimming territory for the brave, and meditation ground for the rest.
Untouched and unforgettable
If you're looking for the best beaches in Iceland with seclusion, beauty, and a rare color palette, Rauðasandur is an otherworldly treasure in the far northwest corner of the country.
4. Djúpalónssandur – Snæfellsnes Peninsula
Volcanic black-pebble beach with shipwreck remains and dramatic cliffs
Djúpalónssandur is a hauntingly beautiful black pebble beach located at the foot of the Snæfellsjökull glacier on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. Unlike soft sand beaches, its shore is made of smooth, jet-black lava pebbles known as “pearls of the deep.” The beach is steeped in local legend and history, featuring remnants of a shipwreck from 1948 and dramatic rock formations rising from the sea. It’s a place where Iceland’s mythic atmosphere meets powerful natural forces.
- 🌍 Location: Snæfellsnes Peninsula, West Iceland (Google map)
- ✅ Highlights: Lava rock beach, shipwreck ruins, volcanic scenery, hiking trails nearby
- 👎 Downsides: Dangerous waves—no swimming; uneven terrain; limited shelter on windy days
Pearls of the deep
The entire beach is covered in shiny black lava pebbles shaped by centuries of ocean currents. They create an eerie, musical sound as waves retreat—like thousands of tiny stones whispering stories.
Shipwreck stories and lifting stones
Explore the scattered remains of the Epine GY7, a British trawler that ran aground here in 1948. Near the shore, you’ll also find ancient lifting stones once used to test the strength of local fishermen.
A mythic, moody must-see
Djúpalónssandur is one of the best beaches in Iceland for atmosphere—raw, rugged, and steeped in lore. Just don’t swim here: the waves are powerful and unpredictable.
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5. Nauthólsvík Geothermal Beach – Reykjavík
Urban geothermal beach where hot water meets cold sea
Nauthólsvík is Reykjavík’s most accessible and unique beach, offering a man-made blend of cold Atlantic seawater and geothermal hot water. This golden sand beach, just a short walk from the city center, features a lagoon heated to comfortable temperatures in summer, a hot tub overlooking the sea, and changing facilities. It’s a favorite spot for locals who enjoy wild swimming with a bit of comfort—and an excellent introduction for visitors curious about Iceland’s outdoor bathing culture.
- 🌍 Location: Nauthólsvík, Reykjavík, Iceland (Google map)
- ✅ Highlights: Geothermal-heated water, hot tub, sandy beach, changing facilities, family-friendly
- 👎 Downsides: Artificial feel, can get busy on warm days, not a remote wilderness experience
Soak, swim, repeat
Start your visit with a dip in the sea—then warm up instantly in the beachside hot tub. The mix of cold and hot is energizing and very Icelandic. It’s popular year-round, especially with cold-water swimmers in winter.
City swim, natural spirit
Despite being man-made, Nauthólsvík offers real coastal charm and amazing views across the Faxaflói Bay. On sunny days, it feels like a mini seaside escape right in the capital.
Perfect for beginners
If you're new to wild swimming in Iceland, Nauthólsvík is the perfect starting point. It’s one of the best beaches in Iceland to test the waters—literally and figuratively.
6. Stokksnes Beach – Southeast Iceland
Windswept black sands and majestic Vestrahorn mountain views
Stokksnes Beach is a cinematic black sand beach located beneath the dramatic peaks of Vestrahorn, one of Iceland’s most photographed mountains. This southeastern gem offers windswept dunes, mirror-like tidal pools, and uninterrupted views of jagged peaks rising from the shoreline. The beach is part of private land, so there’s a small entrance fee—but the visual payoff is extraordinary. Stokksnes is a paradise for landscape photographers, nature lovers, and those seeking Iceland’s raw coastal magic.
- 🌍 Location: Near Höfn, Southeast Iceland (Google map)
- ✅ Highlights: Black sand dunes, Vestrahorn mountain backdrop, reflection photography, quiet atmosphere
- 👎 Downsides: Paid access, can be very windy, no swimming—just stunning views
Mirror landscapes
The tidal pools on Stokksnes Beach create perfect reflections of Vestrahorn on calm days. Photographers often visit at sunrise or sunset for dreamy, surreal shots that capture Iceland’s mystic appeal.
Dunes and drama
Unlike many of Iceland’s flat beaches, Stokksnes features sweeping black sand dunes covered in tufts of hardy grass. The terrain feels untouched, eerie, and cinematic.
One of Iceland’s most iconic scenes
Even if you’re not planning to swim, Stokksnes deserves a spot on any list of the best beaches in Iceland. The views alone are worth the journey—and the entry fee.
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7. Ytri Tunga Beach – Snæfellsnes Peninsula
Golden sand and friendly seals on Iceland’s sunniest beach
Ytri Tunga Beach offers a rare sight in Iceland: golden sand instead of black, and regular visits from a local seal colony. Located on the southern coast of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, this beach is a favorite for wildlife watchers and peaceful seaside strolls. During low tide, you can spot seals lounging on the rocks just offshore, and the surrounding views of the Snæfellsjökull glacier and open sea make this a tranquil and scenic stop on your Icelandic adventure.
- 🌍 Location: Snæfellsnes Peninsula, West Iceland (Google map)
- ✅ Highlights: Golden sand, seal watching, peaceful atmosphere, great for families
- 👎 Downsides: No facilities, seals can be hard to spot at high tide, not ideal for swimming
Seal spotting paradise
The rocky offshore areas at Ytri Tunga are a natural seal hangout, especially in summer. Bring binoculars and a zoom lens for a respectful and memorable wildlife encounter.
A softer side of Iceland
With golden sand and gentle waves, Ytri Tunga stands out among Iceland’s typically rugged, black beaches. It’s a lovely spot for kids to play and adults to unwind.
Quiet charm with glacier views
This may not be one of the most dramatic beaches, but it’s one of the best beaches in Iceland for a peaceful break—complete with charming wildlife and glacier vistas in the distance.
8. Grótta Lighthouse Beach – Seltjarnarnes, Reykjavík
Peaceful city escape with arctic views and lighthouse charm
Grótta Lighthouse Beach is a local favorite in Reykjavík, located on the Seltjarnarnes Peninsula. This tidal beach combines natural beauty with easy access, offering views of distant mountains, seabird colonies, and a picturesque lighthouse at the tip of the peninsula. The area is a popular spot for sunset strolls, arctic dips, and even northern lights viewing in winter. When the tide is low, you can walk right out to the lighthouse—just make sure to return before the tide rises.
- 🌍 Location: Seltjarnarnes, Reykjavík (Google map)
- ✅ Highlights: Lighthouse views, northern lights, birdwatching, tidal paths, peaceful walks
- 👎 Downsides: Limited swimming (cold + rocky), must time visits with tide, exposed to wind
Lighthouse walk and tidal adventure
At low tide, the beach reveals a narrow pathway leading out to Grótta Lighthouse. It's a magical walk surrounded by sea on both sides. Just be sure to check the tide times so you don’t get stranded.
Sunsets and northern lights
In summer, Grótta is a serene sunset spot. In winter, it’s one of the best places within Reykjavík to catch the aurora borealis dancing over the sea. Locals bring hot drinks and watch the sky light up.
Easy access to Icelandic wildness
Though it’s close to the city center, Grótta feels wild and open. For travelers without time to reach remote beaches, it’s one of the best beaches in Iceland to breathe in the Arctic air and reset.
9. Breiðavík Beach – Westfjords
Golden sands and seabird cliffs in Iceland’s remote northwest
Breiðavík Beach is a wide, sweeping bay of golden-yellow sand nestled near the towering cliffs of Látrabjarg in the remote Westfjords. Surrounded by dramatic mountains and grassy fields, this peaceful beach feels like a well-kept secret—especially when shared only with puffins flying overhead. The bay’s gentle curve and soft sand make it ideal for long, contemplative walks. Though far from the tourist crowds, it’s one of the best beaches in Iceland for wild beauty and complete silence.
- 🌍 Location: Near Látrabjarg, Westfjords (Google map)
- ✅ Highlights: Golden sand, bird cliffs nearby, remote tranquility, beautiful coastal drive
- 👎 Downsides: Very remote, limited services, access may be difficult in poor weather
On the edge of the world
Breiðavík feels like the last stop before the edge of Iceland. The beach opens up into the Atlantic with a vastness that invites silence, thought, and connection to nature. Bring a picnic and stay a while.
Puffins and peace
Just minutes away, Látrabjarg cliffs are famous for puffin watching. After a hike along the edge, Breiðavík offers the perfect place to relax and let the sea breeze carry your thoughts away.
A golden farewell
Breiðavík is a quiet climax to any Westfjords road trip. If you're looking for the best beaches in Iceland where you’ll find solitude and soul-stirring scenery, this one’s a golden winner.
10. Krossneslaug Shoreline – Strandir Coast, Westfjords
Remote geothermal soak with sweeping views of the Greenland Sea
While not a classic beach in the lounging sense, the shoreline at Krossneslaug in the remote Strandir region offers one of the most surreal oceanfront experiences in Iceland. The beach here is a rugged mix of rocks and driftwood, sitting right next to a steaming geothermal pool perched on the edge of the sea. As you soak in the naturally heated water, waves crash just meters away and seals sometimes bob by in the surf. It’s one of the most remote bathing spots in Iceland—and among the best coastal experiences the country has to offer.
- 🌍 Location: Krossneslaug, Strandir, Westfjords (Google map)
- ✅ Highlights: Geothermal pool by the sea, seal watching, remote atmosphere, raw shoreline
- 👎 Downsides: Very difficult to reach, gravel road access, limited facilities
Soak with a view
Krossneslaug isn’t just a beach—it’s an experience. Soak in hot geothermal waters while watching icy waves crash on the rugged Strandir coastline. Few places offer this contrast of heat and cold.
Seals and solitude
Seals often appear in the surf just offshore, curious about bathers in the nearby pool. It’s quiet, peaceful, and entirely off the typical tourist trail.
One of Iceland’s wildest edges
For travelers who want to earn their beach experience, Krossneslaug delivers. The drive is long, the road is rough—but the reward is unforgettable. One of the best beaches in Iceland? It’s a yes from anyone who's made it there.
“Nothing calms the soul like standing on black sand, with glacier wind in your face and silence all around”
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Table of contents
Best beaches in Iceland 1. Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach – Vík 2. Diamond Beach – Jökulsárlón 3. Rauðasandur (Red Sand Beach) – Westfjords 4. Djúpalónssandur – Snæfellsnes Peninsula 5. Nauthólsvík Geothermal Beach – Reykjavík 6. Stokksnes Beach – Southeast Iceland 7. Ytri Tunga Beach – Snæfellsnes Peninsula 8. Grótta Lighthouse Beach – Seltjarnarnes, Reykjavík 9. Breiðavík Beach – Westfjords 10. Krossneslaug Shoreline – Strandir Coast, Westfjords
