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…
Nauthólsvík Geothermal Beach
City-run beach on the southern shore of Reykjavik where geothermal water warms a sheltered sea lagoon, with hot tubs, a steam bath and golden imported sand.
At a glance
- Type
- Geothermal beach and sea bathing
- Area
- Nauthólsvík / Öskjuhlíð, Reykjavik, Iceland
- Official site
- nautholsvik.is
Good to know
- Hot tubs
- Steam bath
- Geothermally warmed lagoon
- Changing rooms and showers
- Golden sand beach
Why we recommend it
Nauthólsvík Geothermal Beach is one of the most unusual places to swim in Reykjavik. On the southern coast of the city, below the wooded slopes of Öskjuhlíð and Perlan, the City of Reykjavik has created a beach of golden sand, imported when the beach was built, and a sheltered lagoon protected by sea walls. Hot water is pumped into the lagoon, raising the temperature of the sea water, which averages around 15 to 19 degrees in summer.
That may not sound very warm, but on a sunny summer day the beach has something of a seaside feel. For much of the year, the hot tubs and steam bath on the shore are the main attraction, a place to warm up after a quick dip in the sea. Changing rooms and showers are provided, and the beach is run alongside the Siglunes sailing club.
Opening hours are seasonal. In summer, from mid-May to mid-August, the facilities are open every day from 10:00 to 19:00. In winter they are open from Tuesday to Friday from 11:00 to 19:00 and on Saturday from 11:00 to 16:00, and closed on Sunday and Monday, with special hours on public holidays. Check the city's website before you go, as times can change.
The beach suits families on summer days, adventurous swimmers who want to try cold-water bathing in a safe setting, and anyone looking for a local experience off the main tourist trail. If you are new to cold water, enter slowly, stay in only briefly, and warm up in the hot tub afterwards. As at all Icelandic bathing places, shower without a swimsuit before entering the hot tubs.
Cold-water bathing has become popular in Iceland, and the combination of a short sea swim followed by a long soak in a hot tub is part of its appeal. It is still the open sea, so never swim alone beyond the lagoon and follow any signs or instructions from the staff.
Nauthólsvík is about a 30-minute walk from the centre through Öskjuhlíð, or a short bus or bike ride along the coastal path. Combine it with a visit to Perlan on the hill above, or with a walk or cycle along the shore. Bring a towel, swimsuit and warm clothes for afterwards, even in summer.
Nauthólsvík Geothermal Beach FAQs
What is Nauthólsvík?
It is a geothermal beach on Reykjavik's southern shore, where hot water warms a sheltered sea lagoon, with hot tubs and a steam bath.
How warm is the water?
The lagoon averages around 15 to 19 degrees in summer, while the hot tubs are much warmer.
What are the opening hours?
In summer, from mid-May to mid-August, it is open daily from 10:00 to 19:00. In winter it is open Tuesday to Friday 11:00 to 19:00 and Saturday 11:00 to 16:00, and closed on Sunday and Monday.
Are there changing rooms?
Yes. There are changing rooms and showers.
Is the sand natural?
No. The golden sand was imported when the beach was built.
Who runs the beach?
The beach is operated by the City of Reykjavik.
Is it good for children?
Yes, especially on sunny summer days, though children should be supervised in the sea.
How do I get there?
It is about 30 minutes' walk from the centre through Öskjuhlíð, or a short bus or bike ride.