Nautholsvík: Reykjavík’s Geothermally Heated Beach
Nauthólsvík is Reykjavík’s city-operated geothermal beach. The man-made lagoon receives warm water; the sea beyond it is a different swimming environment. Choose between the lagoon, hot tubs and sea with that distinction in mind.
Check the facilities before leaving
The official Nauthólsvík site gives current admission and opening hours. When checked on September 10, 2026, facilities were listed for Tuesday–Friday, 11 am–7 pm, and Saturday, 11 am–4 pm, with Monday and Sunday closed. Changing rooms, showers, steam baths and hot tubs are listed; bring swimwear and a towel or check rental charges.
Read the temperature label
A published summer average for the lagoon does not tell you today’s sea temperature. The website labels its sea reading separately and timestamps it, so check both before interpreting the number.
For sea swimming, the operator says never swim alone and warns that staff cannot ensure guests’ safety in the sea. A visit to a managed beach does not remove the risks of cold-water swimming.
If you prefer a different bathing setting, compare Iceland’s hot springs and geothermal baths before choosing an outing.
Planning help
Questions before you go
Quick answers with safety notes where it matters.
Is Nauthólsvík free?
The operator’s tariff checked September 10, 2026 lists adult admission at 1,500 ISK, ages 10–17 at 400 ISK and ages 0–9 free. Recheck the tariff for your visit.
Are the swimming facilities closed all winter?
The operator publishes operating hours outside summer as well. Use the current hours on its website, not a fixed May-to-September assumption.
Is the sea as warm as the geothermal lagoon?
No. The operator’s 15–19°C summer average refers to the heated lagoon. The sea reading is a separate measurement and neither figure is a live temperature guarantee.
Country reference: Iceland statistics.