Blue Lagoon
Bláa lónið
A world-class geothermal spa 20 minutes from the airport. Its milky-blue silica-mud water stays at 38–40°C year-round, making it a classic start or finish to an Iceland trip.
The Blue Lagoon lies on a black lava field on the Reykjanes Peninsula, 20 km from Keflavík Airport and 50 km from Reykjavik. It is Iceland’s best-known geothermal spa. Its water comes from the seawater of the nearby Svartsengi geothermal power station, which is rich in silica, algae and minerals and gives the lagoon its milky-blue color. The water temperature is 37–40°C, and the silica mud mask is the signature experience. Tickets come in two levels. Comfort (from about ISK 9,990) includes a silica mud mask, a drink and a towel. Premium adds an algae mask, a bathrobe and restaurant discounts. Prices vary by time slot. You must book a time slot online in advance, and in peak season slots often sell out weeks ahead. The more upscale Retreat Spa offers private lava hot pools. The complex includes the Lava restaurant, an in-water bar, and two hotels, Silica and Retreat. Tips: schedule your visit on the day you land or just before you leave. Luggage storage is available for ISK 1,100. Two to three hours in the water is enough. If you have long hair, coat it generously with the complimentary conditioner before entering the water, so the silica doesn’t make it stiff. Don’t take valuable electronics into the water. Waterproof phone pouches are on sale. Transport: Destination Blue Lagoon shuttle buses run from both the airport and the city (about ISK 4,000–6,000). Parking is free if you drive. Note: since December 2023 the Reykjanes volcanic system has erupted several times, and the Blue Lagoon has been evacuated and closed on several occasions. Be sure to check the official website before you set out. An alternative is Sky Lagoon, an infinity-edge geothermal pool on the outskirts of Reykjavik, which costs about ISK 13,000.
Opening hours
About 08:00–22:00 (extended to 23:00/24:00 in summer; follow the website's booked time slots)
Nearby sights
- Fagradalsfjall Volcano
- Bridge Between Continents
- Gunnuhver Hot Springs
- Reykjanesviti Lighthouse & Valahnúkur
- Krýsuvík – Seltún Geothermal Area
- Kleifarvatn
- Grótta Lighthouse
- Sky Lagoon