26 Iceland South Coast Attractions that you must see
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Are you looking for the top Iceland South Coast attractions that will make your time in the country unforgettable? From enchanting lava fields to enormous glacier caves, it’s safe to say this unique northern European destination has it all.
Before you think you’ve seen it all on your Instagram reel, that’s far from true. This alluring region of the country has some hidden gems that will have you experiencing Iceland like a local.
So, pack your bags for an epic south coast road trip, because these Icelandic bucket list items will take your breath away.
26 Iceland South Coast Attractions that are hard to Beat
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South Coast Tour From Reykjavik
Want to see Iceland’s south coast attractions in one day? Book this South Coast Tour from Reykjavik that covers the most popular tourist destinations from waterfalls, cute towns, and more!
With the world-famous Reykjavik city along the south coast, it’s safe to say your hotel or Airbnb in Iceland will be unforgettable. You’re in Iceland for the sights, though, so it’s time to learn all there is to know about the magical attractions sprinkled throughout this coastal haven.
With this epic Iceland south coast itinerary in hand, nothing will stop you from experiencing the country’s best bays and beach-laden bits.
1. Reynisfjara black sand beach
Iceland is notorious for its black sand beaches, and there is none more famous than Reynisfjara. With towering basalt columns creating a natural staircase and the moody Atlantic Ocean crashing against the black sand, its natural beauty is unforgettable.
The unmissable Reynisdranger basalt stacks dominate the skyline and ocean views. For the best photo opportunities of these iconic landmarks, try arriving at sunrise — you’ll most likely have the entire beach to yourself.
This mesmerizing beauty also comes with some dangers, though. Sneaker waves are a regular occurrence accompanied by strong rip currents. So, it is highly advised you don’t swim in these treacherous waters. Rather admire the stunning waves from up to 100 feet (30 meters) away.
Next Read: Read our trip planning guide to Iceland.
2. Vik
The charming village of Vik is nestled between the Myrdalsjokull Glacier and Reynisfjara Beach. This quaint little town has become an iconic landmark on the south coast of Iceland — largely due to its unbelievably beautiful church with a bright red roof resting atop a grassy hill overlooking the sea.
This red and white church is called the Reyniskirkja. It is a wooden church dating back to 1929.
Vik is also home to some of the best seafood in Iceland. You can also shop for Iceland Wear goodies here. Want to do something exciting? Book this Icelandic Lava Show in Vik
Just a short drive from Vik is this natural landmark exclusively found on the south coast: Dyrholaey.
Must read: Best Iceland South Coast Tours to take
3. Seljalandsfoss waterfall
Ring Road has some stunning sights along the way, and Seljalandsfoss waterfall is a stunner that will live long in your memory. It’s a short walk (five minutes) from the car park, and in next to no time, the 196-foot (60-meter) tall waterfall will embrace your gaze.
What makes Seljalandsfoss waterfall an unmissable adventure? For starters, you can do a complete walk around the waterfall. You can go behind, next to, and in front of this magical body of water. It’s also a mere 122 km (76 miles) from Reykjavik, which makes this a fantastic day outing.
Top Tip: With half a dozen streams nearby, you can escape the crowds for a relaxing picnic if you’re looking for a slice of solitude.
4. Gljúfrabúi Waterfall
Of all the famous waterfalls in Iceland, Seljalandsfoss and Gljúfrabúi are amongst the easiest to reach. If you travel along Ring Road, they are about an hour from Reykjavik, and you won’t regret the slight excursion.
Seljalandsfoss is the first waterfall you’ll encounter.
On the other hand, Gljúfrabúi is a smaller fall at only 130 feet (40 meters) and is just a short walk from Seljalandsfoss. This waterfall is hidden within a cave, so it’s a real gem to photograph.
To see these and all the other iconic bodies of water in the region, join this wild waterfalls day trip.
5. Diamond Beach
If there was ever an example of nature’s dazzling beauty at its finest, it’s Diamond Beach along the Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon. As one of Iceland’s many black sand beaches, it’s a must-visit for every first-time traveler.
The glimmering iceberg fragments that wash up to shore add a whole new level of wow. These glistening shards of ice immersed in the sand are where the beach gets its vivid name from, with 18 km (11 miles) of glassy sand for you to admire.
While it’s a really popular spot to visit in summer (June to August), especially at sunrise or sunset, we recommend taking a trip in winter.
At this time, you have an excellent opportunity to see the Northern Lights paint the shards of ice with hues of greens and blues. Need we say more?
Next Read: Discover our ultimate three days in Iceland itinerary.
6. Dyrhólaey lighthouse and Kirkjufjara Beach
Southern Iceland has some truly breathtaking coastal views, which include the captivating Kirkjufjara Beach. The beach has been closed off since 2017 due to dangerous sneaker waves and rockslides, but there are still a variety of ways to enjoy the beach.
At the top of the cliff face (where it’s safe), you can admire the black sand beach and the magical views of the famous Reynisfjara Beach adjacent to Kirkjufjara.
The main feature of the beach has to be the massive basalt arch, showcasing the power of the ocean as it has shaped the landmark over thousands of years.
If you still have the energy you can opt to take the one km (0.6-mile) hike to the lighthouse, which starts from the parking lot. What makes it so unique? Well, it’s a square lighthouse providing some of the best beach views.
7. Eldhraun Lava Fields
South Iceland has a knack for offering visual beauty, and the Eldhraun lava fields will make you feel like you’ve stepped into another world. While you might imagine a desolate plane of black nothingness, these lava-shaped landscapes are full of moss-laden greens within their crevasses.
An eruption between 1783 and 1784, that also formed the Lakagiger crater, created this distinct environment. This field of bumpy bulbous boulders and mossy outcrops stretches for a staggering 565 square km (218 square miles).
Its beauty isn’t just above the surface, though, as the northern region offers the most intricate lava tube system you’ll ever see. With over 200 caves extending for 5 km (3.1 miles), there’s plenty to admire at Eldhraun.
8. Fjadrargljufur Canyon
Admire the beauty of this enigmatic canyon just a couple of miles off the iconic Ring Road. Although its canyon wall only lasts 2 km (1.24 miles), its mystical appearance creates a scenery you may associate with A Game of Thrones (some scenes were shot here, after all).
The sheer 328-foot (100-meter) drop from the viewing platform into the icy blue water below sets a magical scene few canyons can beat.
If you want to capture the meandering canyon walls at most striking, visit between July and August — this is when they’re a kaleidoscope of blues and greens.
Note: The Environment Agency of Iceland closes access to the canyon during the high rain season, between March and June, to preserve the local flora and fauna. This is due to the fact that high foot traffic in muddy weather destroys plant life.
9. Fjallsárlón Glacier Lagoon
Resting on the south end of Vatnajökull — Europe’s largest glacier — the Fjallsárlón Glacier Lagoon is a destination worth its weight in gold.
It’s smaller than its nearby cousin lagoon of Jökulsárlón, but this also allows you to get close to the ice wall, offering a magical glacial experience
The glacier tongue is a sight like no other. The white icebergs glisten in the sunlight and become a stunning pastel rainbow of pinks and purples at sunset. This is especially so if you visit in summer when colorful sunsets are more common.
It’s also the perfect time to book a unique glacier lagoon boat tour to enjoy this activity in style.
10. Glacier hiking at Mýrdalsjökull glacier
The Icelandic south coast is a land of ice and fire, and the unique Mýrdalsjökull glacier is the perfect example. You may have heard of the eruption in 2010 by its neighboring volcano under Eyjafjallajökull, but Mýrdalsjökull actually has the most active volcano in the country.
Katla Vulkan — which is under the 2.460-foot (750-meter) deep glacier — erupts (on average) every 50 years. This volcano is monitored by experts, so you don’t need to worry about an untimely rumble during your visit.
With such a unique landscape, Mýrdalsjökull is the perfect place to go on a glacier hike. We highly recommend this glacier hike day trip for an adventure of a lifetime.
Top Tip: If you still have some time, also visit the natural ice caves created by the Katla Volcano.
11. Hjörleifshöfði Cave
While everyone else is busy visiting an ice cave, why not visit a gargantuan lava cave at 725 feet (221 meters) high? Star Wars fans might recognize the silhouette of the cave, which resembles the famous character Yoda, hence the nickname, Yoda Cave.
While pop culture has made it famous, this beachside cave has a unique link to the first settler in Iceland, Ingólfr Arnarson, and his brother Hjörleifur. It is believed Hjörleifur was buried on top of the hill above the cave after he was killed by his followers.
12. Hot springs and pools
Whether you visit Iceland in October or in the dead of winter, a trip to the world-famous Icelandic hot springs is a must. Take a look at a few of our steamy recommendations:
- Blue Lagoon — This is the most popular of the options, so you can expect lots of visitors to enjoy these misty waters. From the 984-foot (300-meter) lava corridor to the mud mask bar, you’ll have everything you need for a rejuvenating experience.
- Sky Lagoon — Only minutes from Reykjavik, this spa and hot springs destination is just what you need. It’s quieter than the Blue Lagoon and just as spectacular, with the dramatic North Atlantic Ocean stretching before you as you soak your troubles away.
- Secret Lagoon — As the name suggests, you’ll likely have a quiet and secluded experience here. Although it’s not as glamorous as the other options, it offers exactly what you’re after, a muscle-relaxing hot springs experience.
Read: Best geothermal pools in Iceland
13. Hofskirkja
Everyone associates Hobbit homes with New Zealand, but this magical church wouldn’t look completely out of place in J.R.R Tolkien’s fantasy world. Constructed in 1884, Hofskirkja is the last turf church ever built in Iceland, which makes this a truly unique visit.
Its green grass roof seamlessly blends into the surrounding landscape, which is an active and practicing parish. While you can’t enter the church, you can still admire the outside of this ode to the Nordic and Celtic settlers of Iceland.
PS. It’s only one of six turf churches left in Iceland, so it’s definitely worth a short visit.
14. Ingólfshöfði Cape
Calling all animal enthusiasts, if you want to see where thousands of puffins, razorbills, and murres nest, head to Ingólfshöfði Cape. This small isolated island between Jökulsarlón and Skaftafell is the perfect breeding ground for these cute coastal birds.
So, pack your binoculars as there’s plenty to see during your explorations of this 249-foot (76-meter) high cape point. It’s only accessible by booking a boat tour, so join a puffin-watching excursion for a truly spectacular Icelandic experience.
15. Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon
We’ve already touched on Diamond Beach, but it’s high time we talk about Iceland’s deepest lake, which feeds this magical black sand beach. Of all the glacier lagoons in Iceland, Jökulsárlón is the most popular, and for a good reason.
This lagoon connects freshwater and ocean water, which gives the ice a brilliant blue shade.
There are many ways to explore the glacier lagoon, from eclectic ice cave adventures with a boat ride to fabulous glacier hikes on a full-day Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon trip.
Top Tip: Although trips are subject to weather conditions, there are some fantastic Icelandic winter tours where you can admire the Northern Lights dancing over the glacial lake.
16. Kvernufoss Waterfall
Beautiful waterfalls are waiting to be discovered throughout the south coast of Iceland, and there are none prettier than Kvernufoss. It may be less frequented than its neighbor, the Skogafoss waterfall, but there’s a reason we’re including this 98-foot (30-meter) tall fall.
The lovely 20-minute hike is half the fun, starting just behind the Skógasafn museum and leading you through Kvernugil Gorge to the hidden waterfall. It’s another deep-cutting gorge that allows you to venture behind the falls to snap some mystifying photos.
Top Tip: It kicks up a fair bit of mist, so waterproof gear is a great idea if you’re wondering what to wear in Iceland.
17. Nauthúsagil Gorge
Get ready to admire a unique waterfall collection in the mystifying gorge of Nauthúsagil. It’s a one-mile (1.62 km) venture through the wet and wild gorge up to the main waterfall. Be sure to hold onto the guiding chains so you don’t slip during the uphill trek.
The most iconic part of Nauthúsagil is its vegetation. As you hike through the ravine, gaze up at the sycamores as their roots dangle over the top, creating a web of shadow and light.
Another unforgettable plant is the rowan, with its bright red berries and piercing white flowers.
You’ll pass three waterfalls during this hike, each offering a tranquil stop as you make your way through.
18. Raufarholshellir Lava Tunnel
Iceland’s stunning scenery is not only above ground, as the Raufarholshellir lava tunnel is one of the biggest and best in the country.
Being a short 30-minute drive from Reykjavik, it’s the perfect opportunity to see how volcanic eruptions have shaped the unique landscape of Iceland.
Formed during the Leitahraun volcanic eruption roughly 5.200 years ago, this feature is a 4.500-foot (1.360-meter) deep, 98-foot (30-meter) wide, and 32-foot (10-meter) tall lava tunnel.
In winter, organic ice sculptures form near the tunnel entrance, so each visit is as unique as the last. You’ll need an entrance ticket to visit, so why not grab this Raufarholshellir guided tour for a truly immersive experience?
19. Skógafoss Waterfall
With a width of 82 feet (25 meters) and a deep plunge of 196 feet (60 meters), it’s no wonder Skógafoss is the leading attraction of Iceland. This waterfall is fed by two glaciers, Myrdalsjokull and Eyjafjallajokull, giving it a raw power Thor would be proud of.
If you visit on a sunny day, the rushing water creates so much mist that stunning rainbows form regularly. With viewpoints at the base and the top of the waterfall, your camera will work non-stop.
Legend has it that a treasure chest rests behind the waterfall. The chest’s ring is on display at the Skogar Museum, which might be able to convince you of this fable. This is definitely a stop you’ll enjoy on a south Iceland day trip.
20. Skaftafell National Park
Better known as the Skaftafell Nature Reserve, this is a natural wonderland of ice glaciers, green meadows, and magnificent waterfalls. Enjoy a spectacular glacier hike at Svínafellsjökull or traverse your way to the flowering Svartifoss waterfall nearby. It’s also the perfect starting point to scale Hvannadalshnúkur, Iceland’s tallest peak.
If you visit in summer, get ready to admire the Bæjarstaðarskógur woodland’s diverse flora and fauna.
On the other hand, winter has an icy edge as the glaciers creep further down the valley, painting the landscape with a wall of blue.
If this sounds like your type of adventure, you’ll want to book this Skaftafell day trip excursion.
21. Svartifoss Waterfall
If you haven’t had enough of Skaftafell, it’s time to dive into the basalt columns and effervescent water of Svartifoss.
Starting at the Skaftafell Visitor Center, it’s a 1.5 km (0.9-mile) meandering walk through a gorge covered with flourishing vegetation.
It’s a beautiful visit year-round, as summer offers lush greenery, while the gorge has a tapestry of oranges and gold the rest of the year.
Once you reach the viewing deck, the hexagonal basalt columns create a dramatic setting for this 65-foot (20-meter) tall waterfall.
If that wasn’t enough, there are two smaller falls you’ll stumble across as you hike to Svartifoss.
22. Skogar Museum
You already know of the chest ring from Skógafoss waterfall that’s on display, but there’s still a plethora of artifacts to discover at Skogar Museum.
With over 18,000 cultural artifacts across six of Iceland’s historical buildings, you’re in for a real historical treat.
The open-air section showcases Iceland’s rich and eclectic architectural history, from turf farmhouses to the traditional Skál cattleshed-baðstofa. The folk section contains most of the artifacts, with examples of ancient Icelandic fishing practices and handcrafting tools.
The last section of the museum (the technical section) is more modern and was opened to the public in 2002. The technical section tells a story of Iceland’s communication, transportation, and other technological evolution.
Check out the Skogar Museum website to keep up to date with operating hours and tour options.
Read: Iceland 5 day itinerary
23. Stokksnes Peninsula
Venturing to the tip of the eastern south coast of Iceland is way more than just rugged terrain and treacherous seas.
While a vast majority of Iceland’s natural attractions are almost always packed with tourists, Stokksness is the perfect place for avid photographers to lose the crowds.
Vestrahorn Mountain dominates the surroundings, and if you pop over in summer, the violet-colored lupine plant on the peninsula sets an unforgettable scene.
Stokksness also has a magical black sand beach that holds its own against the likes of Diamond Beach. The photo opportunities of Vestrahorn Mountain from this sandy cove are just as impressive as those near the fields of lupine flowers.
Note: There is a small entrance fee of around $6.50 (841 ISK) to visit Stokksness.
Resources: Golden Circle in winter | Silver Circle in Iceland
24. Solheimasandur plane wreck
The US Navy DC plane wreck dates back to the year 1973. Luckily, all six passengers survived, but there’s no denying having to crash land on an ominous black beach would have everyone stressed.
What makes this so interesting is the US Navy decided not to recover the plane’s remains. To this day, the archaic-looking wreck creates one of the most epic photo opportunities in south Iceland.
It’s best to visit in summer, as the winter months have a high potential of snow storms in the area. If you’re staying in winter and want to see the wreck, we recommend joining a professional excursion, such as this south coast highlights tour.
25. Vatnajökull National Park
Vatnajökull National Park has everything, from the enormous Vatnajökull glacier (the largest in Europe) and rumbling volcanoes to several flowing rivers and black sand beaches to view.
As a UNESCO World Heritage Site and 14% of Iceland’s total land area, it’s safe to say you can spend several days exploring this national park. While the jagged surface of Vatnajökull glacier is undeniably beautiful, it’s the stunning blue ice cave tour that’ll have you awestruck.
The monumental glacier is on the decline, but its diminishing size still creates breathtaking scenes, which include those at Diamond Beach. Let’s just say you need to experience everything Vatnajökull has to offer yourself.
Read: Best food tours in Reykjavik Iceland
26. Westman Islands
While north Iceland is better known for islands such as Flatey and Sandvik, the south coast has a secret spot you’ll adore. It’s an island with quirky features, such as skerries and boulders that offer birdlife a natural haven.
Not only does it have one of the largest puffin colonies in the world, but it also has some of the best fish-based restaurants in Iceland.
Peaceful walks on the Westman Islands are a lovely option for travelers looking to explore the Helgafell and Eldfell volcano peaks.
If you opt to visit the island’s northern region, you’ll encounter the Beluga Sanctuary. This is where you can learn about these majestic marine creatures. Overall, the Westman Islands are a fantastic place to visit, so why not make it a stress-free experience with this premium day trip?
Where to Stay on the South Coast of Iceland
Vik is a small town located on the south coast of Iceland and it is perfect for a night’s stay (or two). Known for its stunning views of mountains, glaciers, and black sand beaches, it is a popular destination for tourists looking for an escape from the hustle and bustle of Reykjavik.
Here are some great accommodations options in Vik and nearby:
The Hotel Katla is a cozy hotel located in Vik. It features bright, modern rooms with comfortable beds and private bathrooms. The hotel also offers a restaurant, bar, and lounge area to enjoy your meals and drinks. Book your stay at Hotel Katla
This modern hotel is located in the town of Vik and offers free breakfast, parking, and wifi. Guests can choose from a variety of room sizes and amenities including a restaurant and access to sightseeing spots in South Iceland. Check availability here
Located right next to the iconic Skogafoss waterfall, this hotel has stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Amenities include modern rooms with private bathrooms, a restaurant and bar, a lounge area, and free wifi. Book your stay here
Iceland Travel Tips
When planning a trip to Iceland, there are some important tips to keep in mind. Whether you’re traveling to this northern European country for business or pleasure, these travel tips will help you make the most of your stay.
Visa Requirements:
Iceland is part of the Schengen Agreement, meaning that U.S. citizens do not need a visa to enter the country for trips up to 90 days. For trips longer than 90 days, you may need to apply for a long-stay visa or residence permit through your local Icelandic consulate.
Flight Tips:
Iceland’s main international airport is Keflavik International Airport (KEF). There are several airlines that offer flights to Iceland, including Delta, United, and Icelandair. It is often more cost-effective to book round-trip tickets than one-way tickets, and it’s a good idea to look for discounts on airfare during the off-season in winter.
Currency: Iceland uses the Icelandic Krona (ISK). Most major credit cards are accepted at most businesses, but it is still a good idea to carry cash in case of emergencies.
Tipping: Tipping is not expected in Iceland, but if you receive excellent service it is customary to leave 10-15% as a gesture of appreciation.
Best Time to Visit:
Iceland is a beautiful place all year round, but the best time to visit would be in the summer months of June through August. This is when temperatures are at their highest and there’s more daylight to explore the country.
For those looking for cheaper accommodations and fewer crowds, winter can also be a great time to visit Iceland.
Weather:
Iceland is known for its cold climate and winter temperatures can range from -1.1 degrees C (mid-30s F) to 4.4 degrees C (low-40s F). Summers are milder, but it’s still important to pack warm clothing and rain gear.
Driving Tips:
Iceland has some of the most scenic roads in the world, so it’s a great choice for road trips. It is important to know that many of the roads are unpaved and can be difficult to navigate. It’s best to rent a 4×4 vehicle if you plan on driving in Iceland, as it will give you more control over your car when navigating these roads.
It is also important to note that some roads in Iceland are closed during the winter months, so it is best to check road conditions before embarking on your journey.
Gas Prices:
Gas prices in Iceland are significantly higher than in other countries due to government taxes on fuel. It is best to plan ahead and budget for these costs when planning your trip.
Sightseeing Tips for Iceland:
If you are in Iceland for only a few days, then the south coast attractions are a MUST add to your itinerary. These sites include major waterfalls, the seafront village of Vik, the black sand beach of Reynisfjara, and the basalt columns Reynisdrangar.
Another must-do activity is to head out on the Golden Circle route and explore the Thingvellir National Park, Geysir geothermal area, and the beautiful waterfall – Gulfoss.
With extra days in hand, you have to visit Diamond Beach, Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon site, and go on a sightseeing cruise to see floating icebergs. If you love adventure, add an ice climbing excursion to your sightseeing agenda!
Next Read: Follow our journey through the land of ice and fire with this epic Iceland travel blog.
What to pack for Iceland?
When exploring the south coast, you will be embarking on uneven walking paths and driving on gravel road areas, so ensure you are carrying and wearing the right gear!
Plus with its notoriously unpredictable weather, packing the appropriate items can make or break your trip. So, here is a list of what to pack when traveling to Iceland:
Clothing:
Weather in Iceland can be extreme and unpredictable, so it’s important to pack layers.
- Lightweight long underwear is a must-have for any season.
- Pack warm sweaters, t-shirts, leggings, shorts, and waterproof raincoats to prepare you for cold days or sudden downpours.
Shoes:
Bring sturdy walking shoes with good traction that can keep your feet dry and warm. Waterproof boots are also a great option for exploring Iceland’s many waterfalls and glaciers.
I LOVE my North Face boots for winter. Buy it here
Accessories:
- A universal adaptor and/or converter is necessary to use any electronics in Iceland since the outlets are different than those in the United States or Canada.
- Furthermore, cellular service can be spotty depending on where you travel, so it is recommended that you bring a local SIM card or purchase a tour package with wifi access.
Other useful items to pack include toiletries, sunscreen, sunglasses, and hats. If you’re planning on camping in the Icelandic wilderness, don’t forget a tent and camping gear.
Lastly, if you plan on visiting more rural parts of Iceland it is important to bring cash since many places do not accept credit cards.
By following this list, you’ll be well-prepared for your trip to Iceland! From clothing and shoes to adaptors and cash, these items will help you make the most of your experience in one of Europe’s most stunning countries.
So grab your suitcase, don’t forget your passport, and get ready to explore the beauty of Iceland!
Read more of our Iceland travel guides:
Pin: Places to see and Things to do in South Coast Iceland
