Thing to do
Sky Lagoon
Geothermal lagoon on the Kársnes shore just outside Reykjavik, with an infinity edge facing the Atlantic and a seven-step bathing ritual of hot, cold, sauna and…
Blue Lagoon
Iceland's famous milky-blue geothermal spa in a lava field on the Reykjanes peninsula, a popular half-day trip from Reykjavik and close to Keflavík Airport.
At a glance
- Type
- Geothermal spa day trip
- Area
- Reykjanes Peninsula (Grindavík), Reykjavik, Iceland
- Official site
- bluelagoon.com
Good to know
- Milky-blue geothermal lagoon
- Silica mud
- Retreat Spa
- Seasonal opening hours
Why we recommend it
The Blue Lagoon, Bláa lónið, is Iceland's best-known geothermal spa, set in a lava field on the Reykjanes peninsula about five kilometres from the town of Grindavík, in front of Mount Þorbjörn. It lies around 20 kilometres from Keflavík International Airport, so many travellers visit on the way to or from a flight, while others go on a half-day trip from Reykjavik, which is further away along the main road to the airport.
The lagoon is man-made. Its water is a by-product of the nearby Svartsengi geothermal power plant, which uses superheated water from deep underground to drive turbines and heat the regional water supply before the water flows into the lagoon. The famous milky-blue colour comes from the high silica content, which also forms the soft white mud on the lagoon floor, and the water contains salts and algae as well. Bathing water averages 37 to 39 degrees. The story began in 1976, when pools formed from the power plant's runoff; bathing facilities opened in 1987, and the lagoon has grown into a large spa complex, with the more exclusive Retreat Spa alongside the main lagoon.
The lagoon has been affected by the volcanic eruptions on the Reykjanes peninsula since late 2023. It closed several times during eruptions, and in November 2024 lava reached the site and destroyed its car park. It has since reopened, but closures at short notice remain possible, so check the official website for the latest information before you travel.
Opening hours are seasonal: from 08:00 to 20:00 between January and May, longer in summer, with the latest closing time of 23:00 between mid-June and late August, and 08:00 to 22:00 from late August to the end of the year. Guests are asked to leave the water 30 minutes before closing. Booking ahead is the norm, and day-visit tickets and spa packages are sold on the website.
The Blue Lagoon suits couples, friends and anyone wanting a classic Icelandic experience, especially as a relaxing first or last stop of a trip. Shower before entering, as required at all Icelandic pools, protect your hair from the minerals, and drink water. Coach tours, including those run by Reykjavik Excursions, combine transport with entry, which avoids driving.
Blue Lagoon FAQs
Where is the Blue Lagoon?
It is in a lava field on the Reykjanes peninsula, about five kilometres from Grindavík and around 20 kilometres from Keflavík Airport.
Is the Blue Lagoon natural?
No. It is man-made, filled with water from the Svartsengi geothermal power plant.
Why is the water blue?
The milky-blue colour comes from the high silica content of the water.
How warm is the water?
The bathing area averages 37 to 39 degrees.
Has volcanic activity affected the Blue Lagoon?
Yes. It closed several times during eruptions from late 2023, and lava destroyed its car park in November 2024. Check the official website before travelling.
What are the opening hours?
Hours are seasonal, from 08:00 to 20:00 between January and May and up to 07:00 to 23:00 in high summer. Guests must leave the water 30 minutes before closing.
Do I need to book?
Yes, booking ahead on the official website is recommended.
Can I visit on the way to the airport?
Yes. Its location about 20 kilometres from Keflavík Airport makes it a popular stop on arrival or departure.