Region
Capital Region
Peninsula west of Reykjavik center
Seltjarnarnes: Peninsula at Reykjavik's Western Tip
A quiet coastal peninsula in Greater Reykjavik, home to Grotta lighthouse and good Northern Lights viewing minutes from the capital.
Population
~4,800
Capital Region • Coastal peninsula
Quick Answer
Seltjarnarnes, a peninsula of about 4,800 people at Greater Reykjavik's western tip, is known for Grotta lighthouse, its tidal causeway, and northern lights.
Seltjarnarnes is a quiet residential area surrounded by ocean on three sides, yet only minutes from Reykjavik's center. Grotta lighthouse is one of the capital area's best spots for Northern Lights.
Sources and page update
Updated: 2026-09-10
Seltjarnarnes is easily accessible from Reykjavik by bus or car.
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Official sources to check
Population
~4,800
Quiet residential community
Known for
Grotta Lighthouse
Popular Northern Lights viewing spot
Check the return tide as well as the way out
Grótta’s narrow crossing disappears at high tide. Use the municipality’s monthly tide tables to plan both directions before setting foot on the causeway. Low tide is only one condition: the reserve also closes during the birds’ nesting season. Check the current access notice and signs, particularly for a visit in May, June or July.
If you want warm water after the coastal walk, Kvika is a small foot bath, created by Ólöf Nordal in 2005. For swimming and hot tubs, choose Seltjarnarneslaug instead. The foot bath and public pool are separate facilities.
Top Attractions in Seltjarnarnes
Grotta Lighthouse
Tidal island, sunsets, and Northern Lights
Bakkatjorn Pond
Birdwatching and peaceful walks
Coastal Walking Path
Scenic route around the peninsula
Kvika Foot Bath
Geothermally heated foot bath by artist Ólöf Nordal
Seltjarnarneslaug Pool
Modern geothermal swimming
How to Get to Seltjarnarnes
From Reykjavik: Check Strætó’s journey planner for your departure point and allow a walk from the bus stop to Grótta; the bus does not take you across the tidal causeway.
Best Time to Visit Seltjarnarnes
Winter: Best for Northern Lights at Grotta (September-March).
Summer: Midnight sun and coastal walks.
Planning help
Seltjarnarnes FAQs
Quick answers with safety notes where it matters.
What is the population of Seltjarnarnes?
Seltjarnarnes has approximately 4,800 residents and is one of the smaller municipalities in the Capital Region.
Where is Seltjarnarnes located?
Seltjarnarnes is a peninsula on the western tip of the Greater Reykjavik Area, surrounded by ocean on three sides.
What is Grotta Lighthouse?
Grótta is a tidal island with a lighthouse. The crossing is exposed at low tide and covered as the tide rises. Check both the tide table and nesting-season access restrictions before crossing.
Is Seltjarnarnes good for birdwatching?
Yes, the coastal areas and Bakkatjorn pond are excellent for birdwatching, especially during spring and autumn migrations.
How far is Seltjarnarnes from Reykjavik?
Seltjarnarnes directly borders Reykjavik, about 5 km from the city center (10 minutes by car or bus).
What is the character of Seltjarnarnes?
Seltjarnarnes is a quiet, affluent residential area with ocean views, coastal walks, and a peaceful atmosphere while being close to Reykjavik.
Does Seltjarnarnes have swimming pools?
Yes, Seltjarnarneslaug is a modern geothermal pool with hot tubs and an outdoor area.
Is Seltjarnarnes good for Northern Lights?
Yes. The Grotta lighthouse area has less light pollution than central Reykjavik and is a popular spot for aurora viewing.
For national population totals and trends to put local figures in context, see our Iceland statistics.