Reykjanes Peninsula: Volcanoes, Hot Springs, and the Blue Lagoon

The Reykjanes Peninsula is the first piece of Iceland most visitors see. Keflavík International Airport sits on its northern coast, and most people drive straight through on their way to Reykjavík without stopping. That is a missed opportunity. This compact peninsula packs an extraordinary amount of geology into a small area: active volcanic fissures, steaming geothermal fields, dramatic coastal cliffs, lava-encrusted lighthouses and some of the most raw, otherworldly landscapes in the country.

Since late 2023, Reykjanes has also become home to Iceland's most active volcanic zone, with eruptions along the Sundhnúkur crater row near Grindavík drawing global attention. Far from making the peninsula less interesting, the volcanic activity has added a new layer of geological drama to an already extraordinary region.

Getting There and Around

The entire peninsula is within an hour's drive of both Keflavík airport and Reykjavík. Route 41 runs along the north coast, and Route 43/425/427 loops through the interior and south coast. A 2WD car is fine for all main roads year-round.

The peninsula makes an excellent half-day or full-day trip from Reykjavík, or a perfect first or last day activity when flying in or out of Keflavík.

The Blue Lagoon

The most famous attraction on the peninsula (and in Iceland) is the Blue Lagoon, a geothermal spa with milky-blue water set in a black lava field. It is a genuine bucket-list experience, though it comes with a genuine bucket-list price tag. Tickets start at around 12,990 ISK and must be booked in advance.

The Blue Lagoon has been periodically affected by the nearby volcanic activity since late 2023. Check their website for current operating status, and see our volcanic activity guide for the latest on the Reykjanes eruptions.

For timing and crowd advice, see our best time to visit the Blue Lagoon guide.

Volcanic Activity and Grindavík

The Reykjanes Peninsula has experienced a series of volcanic eruptions since December 2023, centred on the Sundhnúkur crater row near the town of Grindavík. These eruptions have created fresh lava fields, damaged infrastructure and led to the evacuation of Grindavík's 3,800 residents.

For visitors, the important things to know are:

• The eruptions are localised and do not affect Keflavík airport, Reykjavík or most of the peninsula
• Some roads near Grindavík may be closed during active eruptions
• The volcanic activity is closely monitored and you will receive alerts through the 112 Iceland app if there is any risk

For a complete overview of the situation, see our detailed Grindavík volcanic activity guide. For the full story of Grindavík's community during the crisis, read Amidst Ash and Fire.

Geothermal Areas

Beyond the Blue Lagoon, the peninsula has several geothermal areas that are free to visit and far less crowded.

Gunnuhver hot springs: Iceland's largest mud pool and one of the most aggressively geothermal spots you can visit. The ground literally shakes, and the steam vents hiss with a volume that is startling. A boardwalk keeps you at a safe distance. Named after a ghost (Gunna) who was supposedly trapped here by a priest. Free access, well signposted off Route 425.

Seltún (Krýsuvík): A colourful geothermal area with bubbling mud pots, steaming vents and mineral-stained earth in vivid yellows, reds and greens. A well-maintained boardwalk loops through the area. Free access and less visited than Gunnuhver. Located on Route 42.

Reykjanesvirkjun power plant: The Svartsengi geothermal power plant (whose runoff water feeds the Blue Lagoon) is visible from the road. You cannot tour the plant itself, but viewing areas show the scale of Iceland's geothermal energy production.

Coastal Highlights

Reykjanestá and Valahnúkamöl: The southwestern tip of the peninsula, marked by the Reykjanes Lighthouse (Iceland's oldest, built 1878). The coastline here is battered by North Atlantic waves and the basalt cliffs are dramatic. Valahnúkamöl is a wave-pounded pebble ridge where you can feel the raw power of the ocean. Check conditions before walking near the edge, as waves can be unpredictable.

Bridge Between Continents: A small footbridge spanning a fissure between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates. It is a bit of a tourist gimmick (the actual plate boundary is a zone, not a line), but the symbolism is fun and the surrounding lava field is photogenic. Free access.

Brimketill: A natural rock pool where waves crash in from the ocean. The viewing platform above it provides a dramatic perspective. Not safe for swimming (the waves are violent), but visually stunning.

Inland Attractions

Lake Kleifarvatn: A large, deep lake surrounded by dark mountains and lava fields. Geothermal vents bubble at the southern shore (you can feel warm sand at the waterline). The lake has no visible outlet and its water level fluctuates mysteriously, dropping several metres after earthquakes and gradually refilling. A popular location for hiking and photography.

Bláfjöll ski area: About 30 minutes from Reykjavík, this is where locals go skiing and snowboarding in winter. Not world-class slopes by alpine standards, but a fun, affordable winter activity. Operates from roughly December to April depending on snow conditions.

Practical Tips

How much time? A half-day covers 2 to 3 highlights comfortably. A full day allows you to explore the entire peninsula at a relaxed pace. Combined with a Blue Lagoon visit, plan for a full day.

Best strategy for arrival/departure day: If you are landing at Keflavík in the morning, drive the peninsula highlights before heading to Reykjavík. If you have a late flight, spend the morning at the Blue Lagoon or exploring the peninsula before heading to the airport.

Food: Limited options on the peninsula itself. The Blue Lagoon has a restaurant (Premium ticket or above). There are a few cafés and restaurants in Grindavík (when accessible) and Keflavík. Bring snacks.

Weather: The peninsula is exposed to Atlantic weather and can be extremely windy. Secure your car doors carefully (wind damage is one of the most common rental car claims in Iceland).

Safety around geothermal areas: Stay on marked paths at all times. The ground can be thin and boiling water sits just beneath the surface. This is not a theoretical risk. People have been seriously burned at geothermal areas in Iceland.