The Westman Islands, or Vestmannaeyjar, are an archipelago of 15 islands and 30 rock stacks off the South Coast of Iceland. In addition to a fascinating history and abundant natural beauty, the islands host the world’s largest population of nesting puffins, the first beluga whale sanctuary, and a dormant volcano.
The volcanic archipelago of Vestmannaeyjar (the Westman Islands) is known for its gorgeous scenery and diverse wildlife. Every year, thousands of visitors come to explore the islands, with many joining exciting Westman Island tours.
The largest island of the archipelago is Heimaey, the only inhabited island of the Westman Islands and the site of the 1973 Eldfell Volcano eruption that reshaped its landscape.
The islands make a fantastic day trip destination from mainland Iceland. You can reach the islands on self-drive tours or with flights from Reykjavik, spending the night at one of the available hotels and accommodations in Heimaey.
Bird lovers from around the globe visit for the islands’ wide variety of birds. The wildlife conservation efforts on the archipelago are also well-known: the world’s first beluga whale sanctuary, a puffin rescue center, and a local aquarium are all located on Vestmannaeyjar.
Read on for our best tips to make the most out of your Vestmannaeyjar visit.
Key Things To Know About Vestmannaeyjar
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Travel to the Westman Islands year-round by ferry from Landeyjahofn or by a short flight from Reykjavik.
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The world’s largest puffin colony in summer, as well as other seabirds and marine life, inhabit or migrate through the Westman Islands.
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Highlights include Eldfell Volcano, the Eldheimar Museum, SEA LIFE Trust Beluga Whale Sanctuary, puffin watching, hiking, golfing, and exploring the stunning coastline.
Why Visit the Westman Islands
Visitors flock to the Westman Islands to learn more about volcanic activity in Iceland and to hike to the summit of Eldfell Volcano. Many also visit the Eldheimar Museum, which details the events of the 1973 volcanic eruption.
Beyond the volcano, however, the islands offer plenty more to see and do.
Puffin Watching on the Westman Islands
The Westman Islands attract bird watchers as one of the best places to see puffins in Iceland. Ten million puffins nest in Iceland between May and September, and more come to the Westman Islands than anywhere else. Nesting in cliffs, crags, and sea stacks, puffins can be easily seen on a hike or a boat tour.
Towards the end of the season, many young puffins (“pufflings”) get confused by the lights of the town as they make their way to the ocean. Some end up in the streets. It is thus a local tradition among the children to collect pufflings and throw them in the sea. Some children used to stockpile pufflings and “sell” them to tourists to release.
The puffins are one of 30 or so species that nest in the islands, but they are by far the most abundant.
Whale Watching on the Westman Islands
The Westman Islands offer some of the best whale-watching opportunities in the country, with fin, minke, and humpback whales seen often in summer and orcas throughout the year.
Heimaey hosts the world's first beluga whale sanctuary. In exchange for a charity donation included in the admission, visitors can meet Little White and Little Grey in their homes in Klettsvik Bay.
Golfing on the Westman Islands
Golfing in Iceland is possible on Vestmannaeyjar, which hosts one of the country's courses. Open from May to September, the 9-hole course spreads out over a lava field, adding to its unique character and challenge.
How To Get to the Westman Islands
Reaching the Westman Islands is relatively easy and well worth the effort. There are two main ways to reach the islands: by ferry and by air. Here’s a breakdown of your options:
Visiting the Westman Islands by Ferry
A ferry offers the shortest way to the Westman Islands from the town of Landeyjahofn on the South Coast of Iceland. Landeyjahofn is located 86 miles (138 kilometers) southeast of Reykjavik.
The ferry Herjolfur departs seven times per day. The sailing time is only about 35 minutes. In poor conditions, particularly between November and March, the ferry may instead leave from Thorlakshofn.
Guided Day Tours on the Westman Islands
The Westman Islands can be visited as part of a guided day tour. Travelers wishing to depart from Reykjavik without driving might prefer this option. Consider these options:
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Westman Islands Super Jeep Day Tour — Hop aboard a Super Jeep to explore the Westman Islands. Highlights include a visit to Herjolfsdalur Valley, the Elephant Rock, and the ruins of a typical farmhouse from the first settlers of the Westman Islands.
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1.5-Hour ATV Tour of Vestmannaeyjar — Embark on a thrilling journey to see an iconic volcano and abundant wildlife on this ATV tour of the Westman Islands.
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2-Hour RIB Boat Tour of the Westman Islands — Depart from the harbor of Heimaey to explore the wildlife, history, and spectacular geology of the Westman Islands.
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12-Hour Private Tour to the Westman Islands — Discover the beauty of one of Iceland’s most stunning archipelagos on this captivating private tour. The journey includes volcanic landscapes, iconic cultural attractions, and the celebrated Seljalandsfoss Waterfalls.
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8-Hour Vestmannaeyjar with a RIB Boat Ride — Starting from the town of Hvolsvollur, explore these unique islands up close and witness the incredible seabird life along the cliffs with a RIB boat ride.
The itinerary of this scenic 3-day sightseeing guided tour exploring South Iceland and the Icelandic Highlands also includes the Westman Islands.
Domestic Flights to Heimaey Island
Travelers can also fly to the islands from the Reykjavik Domestic Airport. The flight takes about 25 minutes.
Transfers to and From Reykjavik
A transfer to Landeyjahofn Harbor is available from Reykjavik and back if you don't have a rental car, don't want to fly, or take a guided tour.
History of the Westman Islands
The Westman Islands have a fascinating history of Irishmen, pirates, and volcanic activity dating back to Iceland’s first settlement in 874.
The islands were named after two unfortunate Irishmen, the slaves who attempted to escape to the archipelago after murdering one of the first settlers of Iceland. Norse settlers referred to Irish people as "Westmen" at the time, and the name Westman Islands has remained ever since.
In 1627, Barbary pirates from Algiers invaded Heimaey, occupying it for three days and kidnapping 237 captives. The pirates released some of them in 1638, but most remained in captivity as slaves for the rest of their lives. This remains one of the most devastating pirate attacks in Icelandic history.
A defining moment in more recent times came on January 20, 1973, when the Eldfell Volcano, previously undiscovered, began to erupt on the island of Heimaey. In a matter of hours, it tore across the island, shooting out fountains of lava and pouring poisonous gases into the atmosphere.
The entire island population escaped to safety thanks to an emergency plan already in place. NATO forces then stationed in Iceland assisted by pumping seawater into the great lava fronts to cool the molten rock, slow down the flow, and change its direction. This innovative, previously unused technique protected the harbor from being closed off entirely.
By the time the eruption ended, about a fifth of the buildings on the island had been destroyed. The town found itself with a long stretch of new land on which to build a runway and a volcano in its center to draw in guests. Following the eruption, the island slowly grew to about 85 percent of its previous population and reinvented itself as a tourist destination.
Top Things To Do on the Westman Islands
Here are some of the most popular activities and things to do on the Westman Islands.
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Hike to the summit of Eldfell Volcano on Heimaey Island — This volcano, which caused the 1973 island evacuation, offers visitors a chance to see the crater up close and enjoy spectacular views of the surrounding landscape.
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Visit the Eldheimar Museum — This museum tells the story of the 1973 volcanic eruption and its impact on the local community. It features exhibits on island history and the eruption.
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See puffins on the Storhofdi Peninsula — This is the southernmost point of the island and a popular spot for birdwatching, where you can see puffins, guillemots, and other seabirds nesting on the cliffs.
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Visit the SEA LIFE Trust Beluga Whale Sanctuary — This sanctuary is home to a variety of waterfowl and marine animals, including puffins, seals, and various fish species. It also recounts the history of fishing in the area, emphasizing the local marine environment.
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Travel to the Herjolfsdalur Valley — Located on the west side of the island, this scenic valley offers several hiking trails and the chance to explore an old farmstead and a historic church.
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Enjoy the local Westman Islands cuisine — The islands are known for their fresh seafood, especially langoustine and cod. Several restaurants on the island offer local dishes as well as traditional Icelandic cuisine.
Where To Stay on the Westman Islands
If you plan to visit the Vestmannaeyjar for several days, you will stay on Heimaey Island, the only inhabited island of the archipelago. The town of Heimaey welcomes guests with several attractive accommodation options, including hotels and guest houses:
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Hotel Vestmannaeyjar — This hotel offers chic and spacious rooms with lovely views in a central location on Heimaey.
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Vestmannaeyjar Hi Hostel — This affordable and comfortable hostel is an ideal choice for travelers on a budget, with dorms and private rooms available.
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Arny Guesthouse — This warm and inviting guesthouse provides an escape in the town of Vestmannaeyjabaer on Heimaey.
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Guesthouse Hamar — This beautiful, family-owned and operated hotel is located just 820 feet (250 meters) from the harbor of Heimaey.
Lodging is in high demand, so reserve your stay well in advance to ensure the availability of your travel dates.
FAQs About the Westman Islands, Iceland
Here are some frequently asked questions about the Westman Islands to help you plan your visit.
What are the Westman Islands known for?
The islands are known for their dramatic volcanic history, beautiful landscapes, and rich birdlife, especially puffins. The 1973 eruption of Eldfell and the annual Thjodhatid festival of music, bonfires, and fireworks also make them special.
When is the best time to visit the Westman Islands?
Summer (June–August) is the best time to visit for good weather, puffin watching, and outdoor activities. However, the islands are open year-round, and visiting during winter has its own unique charm.
Can you visit all of the Westman Islands?
You can visit 15 islands in total, including Heimaey. Some of the uninhabited islands can be explored by boat or on guided tours, especially during the summer months, for activities like birdwatching.
What are some fun activities to do in the Westman Islands besides hiking and birdwatching?
Take a boat tour to explore sea caves, go golfing with incredible ocean views, visit the Saeheimar Aquarium, or check out natural rock formations like "Elephant Rock" on Heimaey.
Is it possible to visit the Westman Islands as a day trip?
Yes, many people take the ferry in the morning and return in the evening. However, staying overnight allows you to experience more of the island’s charm.
Are there restaurants and accommodations on Heimaey?
Heimaey offers several hotels, guesthouses, and restaurants serving fresh seafood and local Icelandic dishes.
Is it easy to get around Heimaey Island?
Yes, Heimaey is small and walkable, but renting a bike, scooter, or car can make exploring easier. Guided tours are available.
What is special about the Westman Islands' lava fields?
The 1973 eruption created a massive lava field, burying parts of the town. Today, you can walk on the cooled lava, see half-buried houses at the Eldheimar Museum, and even feel heat still rising from some areas.
Are there other animals besides puffins on the Westman Islands?
You can see seals, whales, and many seabirds, including guillemots and fulmars. Boat tours offer great wildlife spotting opportunities.
Is the weather on the Westman Islands different from mainland Iceland?
The Westman Islands often have milder winters but can be windier and experience fast-changing weather, so we recommend dressing in layers.
Visit the Westman Islands
The Westman Islands offer beautiful volcanic landscapes, great opportunities for wildlife spotting, and many outdoor activities in scenic surroundings, including hiking and golf. If you enjoyed learning about this hidden gem of Iceland, you might be interested in exploring other fascinating destinations and attractions across Iceland.
Check out our guide on the top 5 islands in Iceland to plan your next adventure.
