Iceland's Blue Lagoon: The Ultimate Guide

Iceland's Blue Lagoon: The Ultimate Guide

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Learn everything you need to know about Iceland's Blue Lagoon. Find out what the Blue Lagoon is, how to get there, when it's open, the best time to visit, and other tips for planning your trip in this complete guide.

The Blue Lagoon is the most famous geothermal spa in Iceland, offering a unique bathing experience surrounded by nature. It's known for its mineral-rich, milky-blue waters, which are said to have great skincare benefits.

There's a large selection of Blue Lagoon tours and packages to choose from for your visit. The most popular and affordable admission option is the Blue Lagoon comfort ticket. For a more luxurious experience, you can book the premium entrance to the Blue Lagoon, which has additional amenities.

You can easily visit the Blue Lagoon by transfer, like this shuttle bus from Reykjavik. There's also a range of Blue Lagoon accommodations available if you'd like to spend more time in the area.

Whether you're looking to relax in Iceland's most iconic spa or discover the surrounding volcanic landscapes, the Blue Lagoon offers a rejuvenating experience surrounded by the natural beauty of Iceland. Read on to learn all about the Blue Lagoon in Iceland!

Key Takeaways for the Blue Lagoon

  • Iceland’s Blue Lagoon is a world-famous geothermal spa known for its rejuvenating warm waters and natural beauty.

  • Guests can enjoy a variety of treatments, including silica mud masks, in-water massages, and exclusive spa services.

  • It’s easily accessible from both Reykjavik and Keflavik Airport, making it an ideal destination for travelers.

  • Upgrade your visit with tours across Iceland, allowing you to explore other Icelandic wonders alongside the Blue Lagoon experience.

What Is the Blue Lagoon?

Aerial view of the Blue Lagoon geothermal spa in Iceland at sunset, with steaming milky-blue waters surrounded by volcanic lava fields and luxury facilities.The Blue Lagoon is one of Iceland's most popular attractions, and it's little wonder as to why. The beautiful milky-blue water is unlike anything else found on earth and starkly contrasts with the surrounding black lava fields and creeping gray moss.

The temperature of the Blue Lagoon is a consistent 102 F (39 C) year-round, making it the perfect bathing temperature.

The lagoon is on the Reykjanes Peninsula in Southwest Iceland, renowned for its barren landscapes and cone-shaped volcanoes. It's only a 14-mile (23-kilometer) drive from Keflavik International Airport.

The distance from the Icelandic capital city of Reykjavik to Blue Lagoon is 30 miles (49 kilometers). That makes it the perfect first stop when arriving in Iceland or the last stop before leaving the country.

Due to its excellent location, soothing waters, and rich skin nourishment benefits, Iceland's Blue Lagoon quickly became the country's most visited attraction, rivaled only by the Golden Circle sightseeing route.

The Blue Lagoon has also become famous internationally and tops many travelers' bucket lists. National Geographic named it one of the top 25 Wonders of the World, and Conde Nast Traveller included it on a list of the best destination spas in the world.

Bright blue geothermal pool surrounded by moss-covered lava rocks in the Blue Lagoon area of Iceland, under overcast skies.

The Blue Lagoon has become so popular that you'll need to book your ticket days (or even weeks) in advance to get in. And who knows, you might be rubbing shoulders with international celebrities when you do go.

Celebrities such as Bjork, Beyonce, Jay-Z, and Kim Kardashian have been spotted in the Blue Lagoon, much to the delight of fellow visitors.

But what's so special about the Blue Lagoon in Iceland? Read on to learn more about its history, the difference between the entry tickets, why it's so blue, and what makes it unique.



Blue Lagoon Ticket Types

Young woman bathing in the milky blue geothermal waters of the Blue Lagoon in Iceland, enjoying the calming spa experienceIceland’s iconic Blue Lagoon offers a rejuvenating escape. Whether you're looking for a budget-friendly visit or a more luxurious experience, there’s a ticket option to suit your needs.

Options include:

  • Blue Lagoon comfort ticket: Enjoy Iceland’s famous Blue Lagoon with the budget-friendly ticket, which includes access to warm, mineral-rich waters, a rejuvenating silica mud mask, towel use, and a drink of your choice.

  • Blue Lagoon premium ticket: For an enhanced experience, opt for the premium ticket, which offers additional face masks, a cozy bathrobe, and more. Take your time exploring the lagoon’s steam rooms, saunas, and relaxation areas.

Visiting the Blue Lagoon at opening or during the evening is a more affordable option.

Don’t miss out on the opportunity to experience Iceland’s most popular attraction during your time in the country, and book ahead of time to ensure availability. It's sure to be a relaxing escape in the heart of the Reykjanes Peninsula.

How to Get to the Blue Lagoon

After securing your admission ticket, you'll need to arrange how you'll get to the lagoon. If you'd like the Blue Lagoon to be your first stop after you arrive in Iceland, you can reserve a bus transfer from Keflavik Airport to Reykjavik with a stop at the Blue Lagoon.

Alternatively, if you are booking it later in your trip, you can arrange a one-way bus transfer from Reykjavik to the Blue Lagoon and from the Blue Lagoon back to Reykjavik.

If you plan to rent a car for your stay in Iceland, you can also drive yourself there. The Blue Lagoon is located 30 miles (49 kilometers) from Reykjavik, and the journey usually takes around 50 minutes of driving.

You can also join a tour that combines a visit to the Blue Lagoon with another experience, such as this Golden Circle and Blue Lagoon tour. Note that you will still need to book your entry ticket to the Blue Lagoon yourself for some combination tours.

You can also book self-drive tours for your entire stay in Iceland or vacation packages that include interesting tours and accommodation.

Essential Information for Your Blue Lagoon Visit

Older couple smiling while soaking in the warm waters of the Blue Lagoon in Iceland, both wearing silica mud masks under a cloudy sky.When you enter the main reception building you might have to queue up before talking to a staff member who will hand you an electronic wristband. Depending on the admission type you booked, the staff will give you a towel, bathrobe, and slippers. There is also luggage storage if needed.

When you've gone through the reception area, you'll need to take your shoes off and enter a changing room. There are separate changing rooms for men and women, as well as a private, gender-inclusive changing room for those needing more space or wheelchair access.

There, you can take your clothes off and lock them inside a locker using your electronic wristband. You'll need to shower naked before putting on your swimsuit and entering the lagoon.

Showering naked in public is not something everybody is used to, but it's mandatory at all public swimming pools in Iceland. The water in the lagoon doesn't have any chlorine, so people must be completely clean when they enter it.

The Blue Lagoon has shower cubicles where you can have some privacy. You'll almost certainly be called out publicly if you try to sneak through without showering.

Leave your towel inside by the showers instead of taking it out to the lagoon with you, as it may be raining or snowing outside, and you can swim between the indoor and outdoor areas.

Couple relaxing in the Blue Lagoon geothermal spa in Iceland, with white silica mud masks on their faces and mineral-rich blue water surrounded by volcanic lava rocks.After entering the lagoon, check out the swim-up bar, where you can purchase drinks using your electronic wristband. There's also a mud bar, where you can get a silica mud mask for your face (included for all visitors).

Additional algae masks can also be purchased using the electronic wristband. Algae masks are given to visitors who have booked the premium package.

Explore the lagoon, let the water hit your shoulders at the small waterfall by the saunas, and cleanse your skin inside the three different saunas and steam rooms. If you've booked an in-water massage, there's a dedicated place for them by the saunas.

If you're visiting in winter and it's dark outside, remember to search the skies for the northern lights!



Maximizing Your Visit to the Blue Lagoon

Close-up of the Blue Lagoon’s vibrant blue geothermal water contrasting with dark volcanic lava rocks and white silica deposits in Iceland.The Blue Lagoon is one of Iceland’s most iconic destinations, offering a relaxing escape in stunning natural surroundings. To make the most of your visit, look into opening hours, spa amenities, the best times to go, and unique experiences like in-water massages.

Blue Lagoon Opening Hours

The Blue Lagoon is open daily, with hours varying by season.

  • Summer Hours (June 1st – August 20th): 7 AM – 12 AM

  • Winter Hours (August 21st – May 31st): 8 AM – 10 PM

  • Christmas Eve: 8 AM – 4 PM

  • New Year's Eve: 8 AM – 6 PM

Guests are asked to exit the water 30 minutes before closing. As Iceland grows in popularity during the holidays, a Blue Lagoon visit makes a perfect seasonal experience.

Be sure to book in advance, as holiday hours are limited and subject to change. For the latest schedule, check the Blue Lagoon’s official website.

When Is the Best Time to Visit the Blue Lagoon?

People relaxing in the Blue Lagoon geothermal spa in Iceland at sunset, surrounded by steam and volcanic lava rocks with scenic mountain views.Many people wonder when the best time to visit is, both in terms of the time of day and season. The least popular slots to book are the first ones in the morning and the last ones in the day. There may be fewer people around at 9 AM, and you may be able to book a slot with shorter notice.

Even though the last slot of the day is not as popular, the lagoon will likely remain full as there's no time limit. How long you will spend at the Blue Lagoon depends on you, though most people opt to spend at least two hours.

Even when the lagoon is full, you'll still have plenty of room around you as there's a limit on how many guests can enter. Most people also relax near the in-water bar, but if you go further to the edges of the lagoon, you'll enjoy more privacy.

To make the most of the lagoon, don't book a slot an hour before closing time, as they request you leave 30 minutes before the facility closes. This would leave you just 30 minutes to enjoy the waters.

Entering will take some time as you may need to wait in line for your key, then undress and shower. After enjoying a soak in the lagoon, you might want to take your time getting cleaned up, too.

Northern lights dancing in the night sky above a snow-covered lava field and geothermal blue water near the Blue Lagoon in Iceland during winter.The evening slots are probably the best time to visit. What better way to relax after a day of sightseeing tours or adventures like horseback riding and whale-watching tours than to hit the spa for a few soothing hours?

At the height of summer, the Blue Lagoon is open until midnight, so you might want to take a slot at around 8 PM. This gives you time to sightsee, have dinner, relax in the lagoon, and enjoy the midnight sun.

In winter, evenings are popular mainly because there's no better place to admire the northern lights than from a comfortable, warm pool.

Double-check what time the sun sets (since it varies a lot depending on which month you're visiting Iceland), and try to book a slot that will give you at least two hours in the lagoon.



Blue Lagoon Spa Amenities

Woman applying silica face mask while bathing in the Blue Lagoon geothermal spa in Iceland, surrounded by warm steam and volcanic scenery.The Blue Lagoon offers several spa amenities to all guests. These include a silica mud mask, sauna and steam rooms, a human-made waterfall, a relaxation cave, an in-water bar, the option to book an in-water massage, and an indoor relaxation area with a view.

You can get the silica mud mask from the mud bars inside the lagoon. Cover your face with the white silica mask (be careful not to put it in your eyes), let it rest for a few minutes, and then wash it off. You'll have incredibly smooth and beautiful skin afterward.

There's also a traditional Finnish wooden sauna and a steam bath with a window out to the lagoon. Next to the sauna is a human-made waterfall. The strength of the hot water crashing down on your shoulders will relieve tension you might have in your muscles.

Enter the cave to listen to an audio guide about the Blue Lagoon in several languages. It's also the perfect spot for photos.

Blue Lagoon Swim-Up Bar

Group of people enjoying drinks and silica masks in the steaming waters of the Blue Lagoon geothermal spa in Iceland, beside a modern glass-walled structure.The bar is inside the lagoon, and you can purchase alcoholic and nonalcoholic drinks with the electronic wristband you received on arrival. You'll pay your bill when you exit the premises.

The bar offers refreshing smoothies and slushies. It also offers red, white, and sparkling wine, as well as beer, cider, and sodas. There's a limit of three alcoholic beverages per person while in the lagoon itself.

Blue Lagoon In-Water Massages

Woman receiving a relaxing in-water massage at the Blue Lagoon spa in Iceland, surrounded by milky-blue geothermal water and black lava rocks under a clear sky.

Experience ultimate relaxation with Blue Lagoon's unique in-water massages. They combine the therapeutic benefits of geothermal seawater with professional massage techniques.

These treatments are performed while you float in the warm, mineral-rich waters, supported by a flotation mat and draped in a warm blanket for optimal comfort.

Blue Lagoon Massage Options

Relaxing Massage:

  • A deep, soothing full-body massage using Blue Lagoon mineral massage oil.

  • 30-minute session: 150 USD (20,438 ISK)

  • 60-minute session: 208 USD (28,340 ISK)

Relaxing Massage with Full Body Silica Salt Scrub:

  • Starts with a deep-cleansing, exfoliating silica salt scrub to stimulate circulation and revitalize the skin, followed by a deeply relaxing massage.

  • 60-minute session: 244 USD (33,245 ISK)

  • 90-minute session: 309 USD (42,101 ISK)

Signature Massage:

  • A luxurious 120-minute treatment beginning with a salt scrub and mineral massage oil application, followed by a silica or algae wrap with a face and scalp massage, and concluding with a 60-minute full-body Relaxing Massage.

  • 120-minute session: 381 USD (51,911 ISK)

Due to high demand, booking your in-water massage well in advance is strongly recommended.
Also, note the price of an in-water massage does not include admission to the Blue Lagoon.

Admission must be purchased separately.

Blue Lagoon Skin Products

Mother and daughter smiling and applying silica mask while relaxing in the warm, milky-blue waters of the Blue Lagoon in Iceland, surrounded by mossy lava rocks.

The Blue Lagoon is famous for its incredible skin treatment, and a big part of this is the Blue Lagoon Skincare line. In the lagoon itself, all guests are treated to the silica mud mask and can purchase the algae mask for use in the water. You can also buy these skin products, along with many others, to take home with you.

You'll find Blue Lagoon Skincare products available at the Blue Lagoon itself, as well as in their stores located on Laugavegur Street, in the Kringlan Shopping Mall, and at Keflavik Airport.

Although the algae and silica mud masks are the best sellers, there's a wide range of additional products for sale. Bath salts, body lotion, foot balm, foot scrub, hand cream, home treatment sets, lava scrubs, mineral face exfoliators, day cream, night cream, moisturizing cream, eye cream, lip balm, shampoo, bath oil, body oil — you name it, they've got it!

Hands holding a selection of Blue Lagoon Iceland skincare face masks, including mineral, lava, algae, and silica masks, above the milky-blue geothermal water of the Blue Lagoon.The first five products were released in 1993 and focused on treatments. In the following decades, the skincare line expanded into cleansing, boosting, healing, and nourishing products.

The algae claim to be anti-aging, silica-strengthening, and mineral revitalizing. The skincare line adheres to an eco-friendly sustainability model and is harvested through a zero-waste process. Guests can also use the Blue Lagoon hair conditioner in the showers.

Where to Eat at the Blue Lagoon

Elegant dining table with wine glasses overlooking the geothermal waters and volcanic lava fields of the Blue Lagoon in Iceland, seen through a large panoramic window at the Lava Restaurant.A visit to the Blue Lagoon is more than a soak in geothermal waters; it’s an immersive experience complete with unique dining options. From gourmet meals to casual bites, the Blue Lagoon offers a range of choices to suit every palate.

Lava Restaurant

  • Opening hours: Daily from 11:30 AM to 9 PM

  • Attire: Relaxed fine dining

The Lava Restaurant is a top-notch restaurant with a view of the water. It provides you with the perfect stop for a romantic meal before or after soothing your muscles in the water. The restaurant is also suitable for relaxed lunches or family dinners.

The restaurant's design is gorgeous and uses the natural lava rocks as decoration. Built into the lava rock, floor-to-ceiling windows allow diners to view the blue waters.

As expected at a spa resort, Lava Restaurant is a little upscale, and the prices reflect that. Expect to pay a similar amount for your meal as you do for the entry to the lagoon. But the food is delicious, so this gourmet treat is worth it for foodies.

The food is mainly forged from traditional Icelandic ingredients. The menu changes regularly, although some favorite dishes remain the same.

You can expect to see Icelandic food classics such as lamb, arctic char, root vegetables, langoustine, cod, and beef, along with Icelandic herbs, berries, and, of course, the traditional Icelandic dairy product, Skyr yogurt.

A highly recommended four-course tasting menu is available for the whole table, and a children's menu is also on offer. There are also some vegetarian options on the menu. You can purchase an accompanying wine menu or buy drinks by the glass.

Moss Restaurant at Blue Lagoon Retreat

  • Opening hours: Wednesdays to Sundays from 6 PM

  • Attire: Fine casual

Interior of Michelin star Moss Restaurant at the Blue Lagoon in Iceland, with elegantly dressed guests dining and conversing under ambient pendant lighting and modern décor.The newest addition to the Blue Lagoon is the Michelin star Moss Restaurant. The menu is seasonal but relies on fresh Icelandic ingredients. It's located on top of The Retreat Spa, giving customers beautiful views over the surrounding lava landscapes through wall-to-wall windows.

High-quality ingredients fill the menu, sourced straight from farmers across Iceland. A team of esteemed chefs develops the meals and dedicates itself to getting to know the producers and the product. We highly recommend making dinner reservations.

Spa Restaurant

  • Opening hours: Daily from 12 PM to 8 PM with breakfast from 8 AM to 10:30 AM

  • Attire: Casual

If you're enjoying the services provided at The Retreat Spa, you can also visit the in-house Spa Restaurant for a bite to eat.

No reservations are necessary, and you're invited to dine in your bathrobe or fully clothed. 

The small menu features dishes like smoked salmon, avocado toast, chicken salad, and pancakes with berries and vanilla ice cream. Various wines, coffees, hot teas, and hot chocolate are also available.

Blue Cafe

  • Opening hours: Daily from 8 AM to 10 PM

  • Attire: Casual

The fourth option for eating at the Blue Lagoon is a cafe, open daily between 08:00 and 21:00. Visitors can stop by and grab light snacks and refreshments while still enjoying a view of the lagoon.

The café serves breakfast in the morning, making it an ideal stop for travelers arriving on early flights from the airport.



Hotels Near the Blue Lagoon

You can find many great hotels near the Blue Lagoon and places to stay all over the beautiful Reykjanes peninsula, such as Keflavik accommodations.

Whether you’re on a short stopover, beginning or ending your Icelandic adventure, or simply seeking relaxation, these accommodations provide a peaceful retreat just minutes from the rejuvenating waters of the Blue Lagoon.

From modern amenities to scenic surroundings, each hotel offers a unique experience, blending Icelandic charm with convenient access to one of the country's top attractions.

Blue Lagoon Silica Hotel

Silica Hotel of the Blue Lagoon geothermal spa in Iceland with milky-blue waters, volcanic lava rock, and steam rising under a clear sky.The Silica Hotel is a modern luxury hotel that's a part of the Blue Lagoon. Surrounded by lava fields, it offers quiet surroundings and easy access to popular sites in the Reykjanes Peninsula.

One of the main features of the hotel is its private lagoon, which is only available to hotel guests. It’s a calm place to relax in warm, mineral-rich water without the crowds.

The hotel has clean, comfortable rooms with large windows, natural light, and free Wi-Fi. Each stay includes a complimentary breakfast, and guests can have lunch or dinner at the Lava Restaurant, just a short walk away.

With comfortable rooms, helpful staff, and a private bathing area, the Silica Hotel is a good choice for travelers who want a quiet stay close to the Blue Lagoon and nearby attractions.



The Retreat at Blue Lagoon

The Retreat Hotel at Blue Lagoon Iceland with luxury suites overlooking a private geothermal lagoon, surrounded by moss-covered lava fields and distant volcanic mountains.The Blue Lagoon Retreat Hotel is a five-star luxury hotel connected to the Blue Lagoon. It’s set in a quiet area surrounded by lava fields and offers easy access to the geothermal spa and other nearby sights in the Reykjanes Peninsula.

Guests staying at the Retreat have access to a private section of the Blue Lagoon, along with the Retreat Spa, which includes steam rooms, a lava cave, and a range of relaxing treatments.

Suites are spacious and modern, with floor-to-ceiling windows, scenic views, and features like free Wi-Fi and in-room breakfast. Guests can also enjoy fine dining at Moss Restaurant, which serves seasonal Icelandic dishes.

With high-end service, private lagoon access, and luxurious amenities, the Retreat Hotel is a top choice for travelers looking for luxury, comfort, privacy, and a full spa experience at the Blue Lagoon.

Courtyard by Marriott Keflavik Airport

Modern exterior of Courtyard by Marriott hotel near Keflavik International Airport in Iceland, featuring minimalist design, large windows, and clear blue sky backdrop.The Courtyard by Marriott Reykjavik Keflavik Airport offers luxury and convenience just 0.8 miles (1.3 km) from Keflavik Airport, ideal for business and leisure travelers. Located on Iceland’s Reykjanes Peninsula, the hotel provides easy access to the Blue Lagoon, only 13 miles (21 km) away.

You can also visit natural sites like the Gunnuhver Hot Spring and the Bridge Between Continents. Keflavik’s nearby dining and cultural attractions, including the Reykjanes Art Museum and Viking World, add to the experience.

The Courtyard by Marriott Reykjavik has a lovely on-site restaurant, perfect for a nice meal in the area.

The hotel’s rooms feature blackout curtains, high-speed Wi-Fi, and flat-screen TVs, ensuring a comfortable stay. Guests can relax in shared lounges or use the fully equipped gym. With event spaces and a convenient event planning app, the hotel is also ideal for meetings and celebrations.

Northern Light Inn

Northern Lights Inn Hotel located in the mossy lava fields near the Blue Lagoon, Iceland, bathed in golden hour light with dramatic hills in the background.Experience comfort and relaxation at the Northern Light Inn, an elegant hotel just 0.9 miles (1.5 kilometers) from the Blue Lagoon. The inn also offers easy access to the Bridge Between Continents, the vibrant Krysuvik Geothermal Area, and the Viking World Museum.

The Northern Light Inn offers an array of amenities designed for a restful stay. Guests can enjoy the on-site wellness spa, which features saunas, massage treatments, and flotation therapy.

Stay active in the fully equipped gym, and indulge in daily meals at Max’s, the on-site restaurant with panoramic countryside views.

This three-star hotel also offers cozy rooms with free Wi-Fi, a fireplace lounge, and free parking. Choose the Northern Light Inn for convenience, quality amenities, and proximity to the best of Iceland’s attractions on the Reykjanes Peninsula.

Things To Do Near The Blue Lagoon

Dramatic sea stacks and rugged black volcanic cliffs along the Reykjanes Peninsula coast in Iceland, with powerful waves crashing against the shoreline under a partly cloudy sky.

The Blue Lagoon sits on the Reykjanes Peninsula. Visitors to Iceland often overlook this area, as they only see it on the journey to and from the airport. However, the peninsula has plenty of beautiful attractions to admire and won't have hordes of tourists around.

Attractions in the area include countless craters, the geothermal area of Krysuvik, Gunnuhver Hot Springs, Lake Kleifarvatn, the Bridge Between Continents, the natural pool Brimketill, and the town of Keflavik.

Explore the rugged region with these top-rated Reykjanes Peninsula tours:

Explore Geothermal Spots

Steaming geothermal landscape with colorful soil at Gunnuhver hot springs in Reykjanes, Iceland, featuring a wooden boardwalk and Reykjanesviti lighthouse in the background under a cloudy sky.The Reykjanes Peninsula has its fair share of geothermal areas. The most well-known, geothermally active ones are Seltun in Krysuvik, near Lake Kleifarvatn, and Gunnuhver, closer to the Blue Lagoon.

Seltun is a colorful area featuring bright yellow, orange, red, and green-toned earth. It has a wooden path that snakes past boiling mud pots, hot springs, and hissing fumaroles, as well as many educational signs in the area.

Gunnuhver is a large hot spring area with fumaroles and mud pools that are too hot for bathing. This place has a haunted past, with a peasant woman's murderous ghost said to be trapped in the steam.



Visit Lake Kleifarvatn

Colorful volcanic landscape with red lava rocks and rugged mountains surrounding Kleifarvatn Lake on the Reykjanes Peninsula in Iceland, under a dramatic cloudy sky.Lake Kleifarvatn is the largest lake on the Reykjanes Peninsula and the 26th largest lake in Iceland, at about 5.5 square miles (9 square kilometers).

At its deepest, it’s around 295 feet (90 meters), making it one of the deeper lakes in Iceland. However, a couple of earthquakes in 2000 opened a crack that made the water level drop.

As a result, the lake's coastline is fascinating, with steam from hot springs rising around it and gorgeous lava flow rock formations that are well worth exploring.



Walk the Bridge Between Continents

Bridge Between Continents on the Reykjanes Peninsula in Iceland at sunset, symbolizing the divide between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates, surrounded by rugged volcanic terrain.

The Bridge Between Continents is a unique site where visitors can walk between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates. This footbridge spans a rift valley created by the plates drifting apart, offering a chance to stand between two continents.

You can also hike up the cone-shaped Keilir Mountain or visit the Leidarendi Lava Cave by the Blafjoll Blue Mountains.

View the Brimketill Natural Pool

Brimketill lava rock pool on the Reykjanes Peninsula, Iceland, with ocean waves crashing against the rugged volcanic coastline at sunset.

Brimketill, or the Whitewater Cauldron, is a naturally shaped lava rock pool by the seaside. It's a beautiful natural formation that makes for great photographs.

However, it’s filled with freezing cold seawater that shouldn't be entered, especially during high tide or in windy weather. Enormous waves continually crash on it, but a safe viewing platform is close by and accessible to everyone.

Visit the Reykjanes Volcano

Helicopter flying over the rugged lava fields and crater of Iceland's Fagradalsfjall volcano, showcasing the dramatic volcanic landscape of the Reykjanes Peninsula under cloudy skies.The Reykjanes Peninsula has become one of Iceland’s most fascinating geological sites due to recent volcanic activity. The recent eruptions on the Reykjanes Peninsula, by Sundhnukagigar Craters, Mt. Litli-Hrutur, and Fagradalsfjall Mountain, have transformed the landscape, creating vast lava fields and steaming craters.

While access to the area depends on safety conditions, visitors can still witness parts of this dynamic region, hiking to the eruption sites of Fagradalsfjall and Litli-Hrutur mountains.

For a truly breathtaking experience, consider this volcano helicopter tour, offering an aerial view of the volcanic terrain. If you prefer to explore on foot, guided volcano tours provide expert insight into the ever-changing landscape of Reykjanes.

Explore Keflavik Town

Colorful rooftops in Keflavik, Iceland, with Mount Esja and the Faxaflói Bay in the background under a bright blue sky with dramatic clouds.Keflavik is the largest town on the Reykjanes Peninsula. It has some lovely cafes and shops, holds the annual Night of Lights festival at the end of summer, and is home to the Icelandic Museum of Rock ‘n’ Roll.
The town is near a former U.S. Navy Base that is now university housing and apartment blocks. It's an interesting place where you can still see street names written in English.

You can book an entrance ticket to the Viking World Museum for a unique experience in this area.

Similar Experiences to the Blue Lagoon in Iceland

Although the Blue Lagoon is Iceland's most popular bathing spot, it's hardly the only one. There are several other hot spring experiences and lagoons to explore across the country.

Sky Lagoon

Aerial view of the Sky Lagoon geothermal infinity pool in Iceland with steam rising against the Atlantic Ocean backdrop at sunset, blending natural cliffs with modern spa design.The Sky Lagoon is a breathtaking geothermal spa located in the Capital Region, just a 15-minute drive from downtown Reykjavik. It offers a luxurious and tranquil escape with stunning ocean views.

Designed to blend seamlessly with Iceland's natural beauty, it features a dramatic infinity-edge pool, a rejuvenating seven-step spa ritual, and modern facilities inspired by Icelandic bathing traditions.

Whether you're seeking relaxation or a unique cultural experience, booking an entry ticket to the Sky Lagoon promises an unforgettable blend of comfort and nature. It's the perfect place to unwind after exploring Iceland's landscapes.



Hvammsvik Hot Springs

People relaxing in geothermal hot springs at Hvammsvik by the ocean in Iceland, with paddleboarders and swimmers enjoying the fjord under a clear summer sky, surrounded by mountains.Hvammsvik Hot Springs is a peaceful and scenic place to relax in warm geothermal water surrounded by nature. There are eight natural hot pools, each with different temperatures, offering beautiful views of the ocean and mountains.

Unlike many other hot springs, these pools change with the tides, making the experience feel even more connected to nature.

You can book basic Hvammsvik Hot Springs admission or choose admission with transfer from Reykjavik for an easy trip.

Myvatn Nature Baths

Panoramic view of Myvatn Nature Baths in North Iceland with steaming geothermal waters and scenic volcanic landscapes.The Myvatn Nature Baths in North Iceland are somewhat comparable to the Blue Lagoon. These baths have the same blue color as the Blue Lagoon and have modern showers, changing facilities, a sauna, and a restaurant/cafe on site.

The Myvatn Nature Baths are much smaller than the Blue Lagoon, receive fewer guests, and are more affordably priced. So, if you are looking for an alternative in the North of Iceland, it’s a good idea to book your Myvatn Nature Baths admission ticket while exploring the region.

The Secret Lagoon

Locals and tourists bathing in the Secret Lagoon geothermal hot spring in Iceland, surrounded by lush green hills and steam vents on a sunny summer day.The Secret Lagoon is found on the South Coast of Iceland, in the Golden Circle area. The water here is nice and toasty but doesn't have the same opaque blue, milky waters as the Blue Lagoon and Myvatn Nature Baths. It does, however, have an adjacent geothermal area.

It's inside a human-made structure, although the water comes straight from the ground. Next to the water, there's a small, bubbling hot spring to remind you of exactly where the hot water originates.

If you are driving through the Golden Circle area, make sure to book your admission to the Secret Lagoon in advance to secure your spot.

History of the Blue Lagoon

Geothermal steam rising from the Svartsengi power plant in Iceland at sunset, with dramatic clouds and volcanic moss-covered lava fields in the foreground.

The Blue Lagoon was originally formed in 1976 but its story really begins in 1981, when Valur Margeirsson, seeking relief for psoriasis, bathed in the geothermal waters near the Svartsengi Power Plant.

Seeing its benefits, he named it "Bláa Lónið," and by 1987, basic public bathing facilities opened, attracting locals. Initially simple, with a few showers and a small beach, the lagoon quickly became popular.

In 1999, it was moved further from the plant, adding modern amenities like changing rooms, a cafe, a hotel, and a skincare shop. Walking paths, small bridges, and saunas were also added.

The Blue Lagoon is continually growing, recently expanding from 53,819 square feet (5,000 square meters) to 93,646 square feet (8,700 square meters). Now expanded to accommodate thousands of visitors, the Blue Lagoon is one of Iceland’s top attractions.

FAQ About Iceland’s Blue Lagoon

Blue geothermal water winding through mossy volcanic rock formations near the Blue Lagoon in Iceland, with misty mountains in the background on a cloudy day.

Here are some of the most common questions about the Blue Lagoon to help you plan your visit!

How Much Does It Cost To Enter the Blue Lagoon?

Blue Lagoon tickets start at around 103 USD (12,990 ISK) for adults (14+). Prices may vary depending on the time of day, the season, and the type of ticket you choose.

Where Is the Blue Lagoon Located?

The Blue Lagoon is located in the Reykjanes Peninsula, about 14 miles (23 kilometers) from Keflavik Airport and 30 miles (49 kilometers) from Reykjavik. The lagoon is surrounded by stunning volcanic landscapes and geothermal areas.

Is the Blue Lagoon natural?

The Blue Lagoon's history dates back to 1976, when it formed next to a geothermal power plant, Svartsengi. Contrary to many people's belief, the lagoon is not a natural hot spring but a pool created by a human-made structure. It's wastewater from a power plant drilling for steam and hot water.

But don't worry; the water is completely clean and does not contain any harmful chemicals, only natural minerals that have been proven to be very good for people's skin. Since the water continuously streams into the lagoon, it's renewed in 48 hours, ensuring it always stays clean.

Why did People Start Bathing in the Blue Lagoon?

People started bathing in the Blue Lagoon in 1981 when Valur Margeirsson, seeking relief for his psoriasis, discovered the geothermal water’s healing properties. As word spread, others with skin conditions followed, leading to the opening of public bathing facilities in 1987.

Why Is the Water in the Blue Lagoon Good for People With Psoriasis?

No one knows exactly why the Blue Lagoon water is so good for the skin. Some believe it's due to the mix of the dissolved minerals in the water, the blue-green algae that thrive in the water, and a type of bacteria only found in the Blue Lagoon.

The algae are the reason for the water's milky blue color, but it lends the lagoon a more greenish tinge when it blooms on sunny days.

Some of the water's dissolved minerals include chloride and natron (which form sea salt), as well as calcium. There are also some traces of sulfur, carbonate, and magnesium.

Since 1994, the Blue Lagoon has offered skin treatments for people who have psoriasis. The Blue Lagoon Skin Treatment is one of the few natural therapies available to people with psoriasis that can also be done at home.

In 2005, the Blue Lagoon Clinic opened for in-house treatments in a private lagoon, supported by UV light therapy and select skincare products.

What is the Design of the Blue Lagoon?

The Blue Lagoon is celebrated for its simple architecture reflective of Icelandic Modernism. The parking lot is 0.25 miles (400 meters) away from the lagoon entrance, so you need to walk along a path carved from the lava before reaching it.

As a result, you'll never see a car or a bus or hear noise from traffic at the lagoon itself. The walk is a beautiful preparation for what's to come.

The buildings are low and in harmony with the surrounding landscape, using primarily natural materials, such as wood and lava. The on-site restaurant, Lava Restaurant, is even built around a lava cliff. 

Explore the Wonders of Iceland’s Blue Lagoon

Aerial view of the Blue Lagoon geothermal spa in Iceland, surrounded by black lava fields and steaming hot pools with turquoise water, showcasing the popular wellness destination near Reykjavik.The Blue Lagoon is a must-see destination for anyone visiting Iceland. Whether you're looking to unwind in the warm waters, enjoy a therapeutic mud mask, or indulge in an in-water massage, the Blue Lagoon caters to all kinds of visitors.

With easy access from both Reykjavik and Keflavik Airport, it’s the perfect stop during your Icelandic adventure. Whether you explore with guided multi-day tours, day tours, or a self-drive experience, the Blue Lagoon is an experience you won’t want to miss.

We hope our ultimate guide to the Blue Lagoon proved helpful to you in ensuring you make the most of your visit to Iceland. There are many hot springs in Iceland to explore, but the Blue Lagoon should be high on your list. We'd love to hear your questions and comments below!

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