South Coast Iceland: The Complete Travel Guide

Iceland's South Coast is the most-driven stretch of Route 1 outside the Golden Circle, and for good reason. Within 300 kilometres between Selfoss and Jökulsárlón, you'll encounter waterfalls, black sand beaches, glacier tongues, and one of the most photographed lagoons on Earth.

The Route at a Glance

Starting from Reykjavík, the South Coast follows Route 1 east:

Seljalandsfoss (130 km from Reykjavík): Walk behind the waterfall
Skógafoss (150 km): One of Iceland's most powerful falls
Vík í Mýrdal (180 km): Iceland's southernmost village
Reynisfjara (185 km): Black sand beach with basalt columns
Skaftafell (330 km): Gateway to Vatnajökull National Park
Jökulsárlón (370 km): Glacier lagoon with floating icebergs
Diamond Beach (370 km): Icebergs washed ashore on black sand

If you're planning to self-drive, the entire route is paved and accessible in a standard car year-round, though winter driving requires extra caution.

Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss

These two waterfalls are often grouped together, but they offer entirely different experiences. Read our detailed guide to both waterfalls for timing, parking, and photography tips. They're among Iceland's most majestic waterfalls, but far from the only ones worth visiting.

Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach

Reynisfjara is stunning but genuinely dangerous. Sneaker waves (unexpected large waves) have killed visitors. Stay well back from the waterline, never turn your back on the ocean, and follow all posted warnings. Our Vík guide covers safety in detail.

Skaftafell and Vatnajökull

Skaftafell sits within Vatnajökull National Park and serves as the main gateway for glacier hikes. The Svartifoss waterfall (framed by basalt columns) is a 45-minute hike from the visitor centre. For more on the glacier itself, see our Vatnajökull guide.

Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon

The lagoon has grown dramatically as Breiðamerkurjökull glacier retreats. Boat tours (amphibian and zodiac) run from May to October. Read our Jökulsárlón guide for the best viewing times. Nearby Diamond Beach is best visited at golden hour.

Hidden Gems

The South Coast has plenty beyond the headline attractions. Our hidden gems of the South Coast guide covers the stops most visitors drive past, including lesser-known waterfalls and quiet hiking trails.

Driving Tips

The South Coast is doable as a very long day trip (14+ hours), but we recommend at least 2 nights
Winter driving can be treacherous; check road.is and carry provisions
Fuel up at every opportunity; distances between stations can be long east of Vík
Check our packing checklist for seasonal essentials

Where to Stay

Vík: The main hub with hotels, hostels, and restaurants
Kirkjubæjarklaustur: Quieter midpoint option
Höfn: Eastern anchor if continuing around the ring road

Want the full South Coast itinerary with timing, costs, and hidden stops? The Iceland Blueprint has a day-by-day breakdown.