The Secret Lagoon is a popular geothermal bathing destination for travelers seeking a calmer, more intimate experience, a stone's throw from the Golden Circle landmarks. This guide covers everything you need to know before visiting the Secret Lagoon in Iceland, with practical tips and local insights to help you plan the perfect trip.
The Secret Lagoon is part of the geothermal area of Hveraholmi, next to the village of Fludir in southern Iceland. Naturally occurring hot springs feed the pool, the oldest of its kind in Iceland. The Secret Lagoon has amenities like changing rooms, showers, lockers, and swimwear and towel rentals for a memorable day trip experience.
Often touted as the hidden gem alternative to the Blue Lagoon, the Secret Lagoon is nonetheless very popular among locals and travelers, so it's wise to pre-book your admission, especially during the summer. Read on for details and insider tips to make your visit worry-free.
Key Things To Know About the Secret Lagoon
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The Secret Lagoon is open year-round, including weekends and holidays.
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Admission costs vary by the age of the bather and don't include towel or swimwear rental, although both are available for an extra fee.
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Facilities at the Secret Lagoon include lockers, changing rooms, and a snack bar. There is also an on-site guesthouse available for bookings.
History of the Secret Lagoon
The Secret Lagoon pool is officially the oldest swimming pool in the entire country, having been built in 1891. Icelanders often call it "the old pool" or "gamla laugin."
Before the 1900s, few Icelanders knew how to swim, despite living on an island surrounded by the sea. In 1909, the Secret Lagoon became the site of Iceland’s first swimming lessons, which continued until 1947 before moving to a newer pool in Fludir.
After the new pool opened in Fludir, the country all but forgot about the Secret Lagoon, which fell into disrepair. Eventually, new ownership conducted extended renovations and allowed the pool to undergo a renaissance, maintaining its natural charm and an air of old country mystery. Today, it attracts many visitors daily, especially in peak season.
The Secret Lagoon Surroundings
The Secret Lagoon neighbors the Golden Circle, one of the most popular tourist routes in Iceland that includes iconic landmarks like Gullfoss Waterfall, the hot spring of Geysir, the Kerid Crater, and more.
The nearby village of Fludir uses geothermal energy for sustainable farming, with greenhouses growing vegetables year-round. The area is dotted with natural hot springs, but many are too small to handle large crowds, such as the nearby Hrunalaug Hot Spring. These more fragile spots are best left untouched to protect the local environment.
Thankfully, the Secret Lagoon accommodates large groups of visitors with ease. It makes use of its natural terrain and geothermal heating that keeps the water temperature at 100° F (38-40°C) year-round.
The pool is set in a scenic landscape of moss-covered lava fields, steaming vents, and natural hot spots. A small geyser erupts every five minutes, adding to the tranquil atmosphere and offering great photo opportunities.
Secret Lagoon vs Blue Lagoon
The Secret Lagoon is often compared favorably to the Blue Lagoon for being cheaper and less busy. While true, the Blue Lagoon has more facilities, such as saunas and steam rooms, and a few distinguishing features like its famous azure waters and silica spa treatments.
The Blue Lagoon is closer to Reykjavik and very near to the Keflavik International Airport, so it is easy to visit to refresh after a long flight or before boarding one.
Both the Secret Lagoon and the Blue Lagoon are in beautiful, serene locations, so if you have time, you should indulge in visiting both!
How To Get to the Secret Lagoon?
The Secret Lagoon does not provide transportation. Here’s how you can visit:
By car – The Secret Lagoon is located here.
By tour – The Secret Lagoon is a stop on many Golden Circle tours. For more information, please contact the available tour operators directly :
Daily tour providers:
By public bus – The bus service between Selfoss and Fludir is very limited. You can take bus 51 to Selfoss and then 73 to Fludir. Please visit Icelandic Bus Company – Straeto for more information.
By taxi – The most luxurious and therefore most expensive way of getting to the Secret Lagoon.
Is There Parking Available?
Private parking is available for Secret Lagoon guests during opening hours only.
Overnight parking and camping are not permitted.
Secret Lagoon Opening Hours and Admission
The Secret Lagoon is open daily, but the opening hours vary with the season. In winter (October to May), it is open from 10 AM to 7 PM, while in summer (June to September), it closes a little later, staying open between 10 AM and 8 PM.
Note that if you intend to visit on Christmas Eve (December 24) or New Year's Eve (December 31), the opening hours are 10 AM to 6 PM.
We highly recommend booking your day ticket to the Secret Lagoon in advance to avoid disappointment.
Admission prices vary depending on age, and swimsuit and towel rentals are available for an extra fee. Tickets often sell out, especially in summer. We highly recommend booking your day ticket to the Secret Lagoon in advance to secure your preferred date and time.
The Secret Lagoon also offers swimsuit and towel rentals for about 8 USD (1,100 ISK) per piece for bathers' convenience.
Best Places To Eat Near the Secret Lagoon
The Secret Lagoon has a cafe offering hot, soft, and alcoholic drinks, along with snacks, cup noodles, sandwiches, and seasonal ice creams or hot dogs.
While there's a cafe, they do not offer hot meals. For a full meal, visit nearby restaurants such as the following:
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The Hill Restaurant
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Fludasveppir Farmers Bistro (reservations required)
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Minilik Ethiopian Restaurant
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Fridheimar Tomato Farm
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Kaffihus Grund
Secret Lagoon Accommodations
If you want to spend the night in the area, you have a few options for accommodation close to the Secret Lagoon. Your best bet is Gardur Stay Inn, which is right on-site, offering access to the pool during opening hours in addition to clean and nicely appointed rooms with private bathrooms.
If you don't mind driving, accommodation in Fludir is also an option, with some cottages and apartments to choose from.
There is also a nearby campsite if you’re interested in camping.
What To Pack for Your Visit to the Secret Lagoon
Bringing the right items ensures a comfortable and enjoyable experience at the Secret Lagoon. Here’s a list of essentials to pack or rent before you soak in Iceland’s oldest geothermal pool.
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Swimsuit and towel: You can rent or buy both at the reception, but bringing your own is more convenient and cost-effective.
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Water bottle: Staying hydrated before, during, and after your soak is crucial. Hot water can dehydrate you quickly, especially if you're not used to geothermal bathing.
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Reusable bag: For wet clothes and swimwear after your soak.
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Hair tie or clip: Optional, but handy if you prefer to keep your hair out of the water.
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Toiletries: The lagoon provides soap for washing your body and hair, as well as hair dryers in the changing rooms. However, you may bring your own if you prefer specific products or have sensitivities.
How To Prepare for Visiting the Secret Lagoon in Iceland
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Shower thoroughly without a swimsuit: This is mandatory at all Icelandic pools and an important part of hot spring etiquette.
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Eat a light meal beforehand: Spending time in hot water on an empty stomach can cause dizziness. Outside food is not allowed, so eat before arriving. The on-site cafe offers snacks and drinks.
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Limit alcohol consumption: Hot water amplifies alcohol’s effects. Avoid heavy drinking before your soak to stay safe and alert.
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Remove jewelry: Sulfur-rich water can tarnish silver, and lost items are difficult to retrieve from the lagoon’s gravel bottom.
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Follow all rules and staff instructions: Respecting guidelines ensures a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone.
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Travel light: Lockers are available, but it’s best to bring only essential valuables.
Secret Lagoon Guided Tours and Itineraries
There are many ways to visit the Secret Lagoon while exploring the Golden Circle and South Iceland, including self-drive tours, guided day tours, and multi-day guided tours. Here are some of our top recommendations:
Top Self-Drive Tours
Experience the freedom of Iceland’s open roads with these self-drive itineraries that let you explore at your own pace.
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7-Day Self-Drive Tour of the Complete Ring Road of Iceland — Travel through epic landscapes and soak in hot springs surrounded by volcanoes and waterfalls in this ultimate self-drive itinerary perfect for summer travel.
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10-Day Northern Lights Winter Self-Drive of Iceland’s South Coast & Snaefellsnes Peninsula — Explore stunning winter landscapes by day and watch for the northern lights at night on this drive through Iceland’s most scenic routes.
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6-Day Summer Self-Drive Tour of the Complete Ring Road of Iceland — Make every day count for visiting Iceland’s top sights, including black sand beaches, glaciers, and hot springs.
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7-Day Budget Self-Drive Tour of Iceland’s Snaefellsnes Peninsula & the South Coast — Explore everything the South Coast has to offer at your own pace and without breaking the bank.
Top Multi-Day Tours
For those looking to experience more of Iceland’s diverse natural beauty without the hassle of planning, these multi-day guided tours offer a perfect mix of structure, comfort, and adventure.
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8-Day Hiking Tour of Laugavegur Trail — Embark on a winter adventure with glacier hiking, scenic waterfalls and volcanoes, geothermal areas, and quaint villages.
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3-Day South Coast Adventure Tour With Golden Circle, Glacier Lagoons, and Waterfalls — Immerse yourself in the natural wonders of Iceland on a private, customizable tour of the South Coast perfect for nature enthusiasts.
Top Guided Day Tours
If you’re short on time but still want to enjoy the best of Iceland—including a rejuvenating soak in the Secret Lagoon—these guided day tours provide an unforgettable snapshot of the country’s highlights.
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9-Hour Day Tour of the Golden Circle and the Secret Lagoon — Catch all of the Golden Circle highlights like Thingvellir National Park and the Geysir area before relaxing at the Secret Lagoon.
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10-Hour Golden Circle Day Tour With Geysers and Waterfalls — Marvel at the Gullfoss Waterfall and visit the remarkable Kerid Crater in addition to the Secret Lagoon.
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8-Hour Extended Day Tour of the Golden Circle — Cover everything the Golden Circle has to offer, including the Geysir area, Thingvellir National Park, Gullfoss Waterfall, and more, with time to soak in the warmth of the Secret Lagoon.
Secret Lagoon FAQs
No matter how and when you decide to visit the Secret Lagoon, you're sure to have a wonderful experience if you keep a few more details and tips in mind.
1. How deep is the Secret Lagoon pool?
The Secret Lagoon features three geothermal pools with varying depths. The main pool is about 1 to 1.2 meters (3 to 4 feet) deep, ideal for standing and relaxing. The smaller pools tend to be shallower, offering a more intimate experience.
2. Does the water at the Secret Lagoon contain chlorine?
No, the water constantly flows from natural hot springs, refreshing every few hours—no chlorine needed.
3. Are there any age restrictions for visiting the Secret Lagoon?
Children 14 years old or younger are welcome but must be accompanied by an adult, with a maximum of three children per parent.
4. Can I visit the Secret Lagoon outside of business hours?
No, entering the Secret Lagoon outside of official opening hours is prohibited and considered trespassing.
5. Can I take photos in the pool?
Yes, but be mindful of others’ privacy, and maybe don’t bring your phone too close to the water unless it's waterproof.
6. Is the Secret Lagoon accessible in winter?
Definitely, the roads are usually well-maintained, and soaking in hot water surrounded by snow is peak Icelandic magic.
7. Is it possible to see the northern lights from the Secret Lagoon?
During the winter months, the Secret Lagoon's location offers a good chance to witness the northern lights while enjoying the warm waters.
Iceland's Secret Lagoon
Beloved by locals and travelers alike, the Secret Lagoon is a geothermal pool not to be missed. Unlike its more famous counterpart, the Blue Lagoon, the Secret Lagoon offers a more tranquil and intimate bathing experience. With amenities such as changing rooms, showers, lockers, and rental options for swimwear and towels, it ensures a comfortable and hassle-free visit.
Located so close to many landmarks of the Golden Circle, it's a memorable addition to any itinerary exploring South Iceland. Browse Golden Circle tours to uncover the best ways to visit the Secret Lagoon.
