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Set in a desolate landscape strewn with black lava boulders covered in moss, the Blue Lagoon steams ethereally in an otherworldly setting. Its milky-blue waters and ghostly cloud of mist are broken only by the bobbing heads of leisurely bathers.
The lagoon is artificial, its waters superheated by thermal vents, exploited by the nearby Svartsengi Power Station and then fed into the water as they cool to a bath-like 99°F (37°C). It’s Iceland’s most popular attraction, but visitor numbers are limited so it never feels too busy, but you’ll need to book in advance.
Basic thermal baths are an everyday facility throughout Iceland, but the Blue Lagoon is a complete complex with a spa, bars, restaurants and hotels. Its composition of 70% seawater and 30% freshwater contains a rich mix of blue-green algae, mineral salts and fine silica mud, all of which give it its milky pallor.
Bathers liberally smear their skin with the pale lagoon mud, which is said to cure skin disorders. A hot-water waterfall pummels your back, but you’ll emerge with softer-feeling skin even if you only lounge by the in-water bar.
The water stays a constant temperature year-round, so you can still visit in midwinter, when clouds of billowing steam rise off the water. An indoor entrance to the lagoon provides a more comfortable introduction to the pool, especially if you’re put off by the thought of full immersion in the winter air.
General admission to the lagoon includes entry to the main pool, but we recommend opting for admission to the Retreat Spa. A hidden section of the lagoon, it offers a more exclusive experience with private changing rooms, dimmed indoor relaxation spaces, and access to a sauna and steam room. It also includes the Blue Lagoon Ritual: a self-applied series of silica and algae masks and mineral salt rubs to rejuvenate your skin. You could also opt to have an in-water treatment or a massage.
Only an hour’s drive from Reykjavík and close to Keflavík International Airport, the Blue Lagoon is a great place to while away a few hours before or after a flight. If you have more time, you can easily explore the coastline, geothermal fields, natural hot springs and lava fields of the surrounding Reykjanes Peninsula, a UNESCO Global Geopark.
Best time to visit the Blue Lagoon
The Blue Lagoon is open all year, with the water temperature staying a constant 99°F (37°C). In summer, the surrounding lava fields are covered in bright-green moss and the lagoon stays open late to make the most of the long daylight hours. In winter, the steaming water and long twilight hours give your visit an extra dimension.
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Suggested itineraries featuring Blue Lagoon
Our itineraries will give you suggestions for what is possible when you travel in Blue Lagoon, and they showcase routes we know work particularly well. Treat them as inspiration, because your trip will be created uniquely by one of our specialists.
Places near Blue Lagoon
- Southwest Iceland 5 kilometers away
- ¸é±ð²â°ìÂá²¹±¹Ã°ì 39 kilometers away
- West Iceland 79 kilometers away
- Golden Circle 111 kilometers away
- Westman Islands 119 kilometers away
- Snæfellsnes Peninsula 120 kilometers away
- ³¢²¹²Ô²µÂáö°ì³Ü±ô±ô 142 kilometers away
- South Coast 151 kilometers away
- South Iceland 162 kilometers away
- Flatey 168 kilometers away
- Vatnajökull National Park 273 kilometers away
- Akureyri 289 kilometers away
- Troll Peninsula 302 kilometers away
- North Iceland 305 kilometers away
- ´³Ã¶°ì³Ü±ô²õá°ù±ôó²Ô 307 kilometers away
- Lake Mývatn 322 kilometers away
- Dettifoss 359 kilometers away
- Eastfjords 414 kilometers away
Photos of Blue Lagoon
Our expert guides to exploring Blue Lagoon
Written by our specialists from their own experiences of visiting Blue Lagoon, these guides will help you make the most of your time there. We share both our practical recommendations and the best ways to appreciate Blue Lagoon at its best.
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Iceland is shaped by fire, ice and folklore. Whether you’re a summer or winter visitor, you’ll find lots to experience here, from whale watching to hiking through ice caves and even bathing in beer. Iceland specialist Katy shares her highlights.
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Accommodation choices for Blue Lagoon
We've selected a range of accommodation options for when you visit Blue Lagoon. Our choices usually come recommended for their character, facilities and service or location. Our specialists always aim to suggest properties that match your preferences.
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Silica Hotel
Blue Lagoon
Ideas for experiencing Blue Lagoon
Our specialists seek out authentic ways to get to know the places that could feature in your trip. These activities reflect some of the experiences they've most enjoyed while visiting Blue Lagoon, and which use the best local guides.
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Retreat Spa at the Blue Lagoon Retreat Spa at the Blue Lagoon
Retreat Spa at the Blue Lagoon
Iceland’s Blue Lagoon has become one of its most popular attractions, but access to its exclusive Retreat Spa ensures a more serene and relaxing experience. With private pools, a series of treatment options and private changing rooms, it offers complete relaxation in memorable surroundings.
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