Located in the heart of the Reykjanes UNESCO Global Geopark and surrounded by moss-covered lava fields, the Blue Lagoon Iceland is a wonderland.
Named one of the 25 Wonders of the World by National Geographic in 2012, everywhere the eye looks brings forth a sense of wonder. Gleaming silica. Fragmented lava. Steaming water. Vibrant moss. Extinct volcanoes.
Once perceived as little more than an unusable byproduct of geothermal energy production, the Blue Lagoon’s serene water is now known for its healing, rejuvenating, and nourishing qualities. The sky above the Blue Lagoon Iceland is equally enchanting. The Northern Lights in the Arctic sky will draw your eyes to the heavens.
What Is the Blue Lagoon?
The Blue Lagoon is a geothermal spa in Grindavík, southwestern Iceland. Located between Keflavik Airport and the capital of Reykjavik, the Blue Lagoon is the perfect stop on the way in or out of Iceland.
Contrary to popular belief, the lagoon is man-made. It was formed when discharged water from Svartsengi geothermal power station failed to seep through the lava because of its high silica content. In fact, the lagoon is a milky blue shade because of the way silica reflects sunlight. Today, the Blue Lagoon is one of the major tourist attractions in Iceland.
What Makes the Blue Lagoon Iceland Special?
The answer lies in its unique geothermal seawater, which:
- Is naturally renewed every 40 hours
- Has temperatures averaging between 37°C and 40°C all year round
- Is a mixture of 30% fresh water and 70% seawater
- Is enriched with silicon, algae, and minerals, which are good for the skin
What’s more, research has shown that Blue Lagoon’s unique geothermal seawater is a natural remedy for the psoriasis skin condition.
Things to Do While at the Blue Lagoon
Whether you’re on a day visit or are staying for several days, there’s plenty to experience at the Blue Lagoon
Before you venture into the lagoon, note that:
- To maintain the waters’s cleanliness and purity, guests must shower naked before entering the lagoon
- Due to the high mineral content in the water, the minimum age allowed into the Blue Lagoon is 2 years
- Children aged 2—13 years enjoy free admission
While at the Blue Lagoon, there are many activities to keep you busy.
Visit Blue Lagoon Skin Treatment Clinic
The Blue Lagoon has a psoriasis treatment clinic with a dermatologist on site. The treatment is based on 3 elements:
- Bathing regularly in the Blue Lagoon
- Use of Blue Lagoon psoriasis skincare products
- UV light therapy
After the visit, you can maintain the benefits by using a prescribed home treatment.
Enjoy the Powers of Silica and Algae at the In-Water Mask Bar
The Blue Lagoons silica cleanses and strengthens your skin, giving you a fresh, pure, and radiant appearance.
Blue Lagoon algae is extraordinarily dynamic. It renews, nourishes, and moisturizes your skin. The uniquely potent array of minerals has energizing effects on your mind and body—exfoliating your skin and stimulating your circulation.
Quench Your Thirst Without Leaving the Water at the In-Water Bar
Choose from an enticing selection of smoothies, juices, soft drinks, beer, and wine. The first drink is included in the entrance fee.
Experience the Luxury of the Retreat Spa
The Retreat Spa has a lot to offer:
- A chance to experience the waters of the Blue Lagoon in the more secluded Retreat Lagoon.
- Private changing room.
- Access to chambers where you can cover your entire body with silica, algae and minerals.
- An elevated terrace to enjoy the surrounding landscape.
Get an In-Water Massage
Conducted with Blue Lagoon mineral massage oil, this massage takes place in a private area of the lagoon. Massage therapy while you float in the geothermal seawater is a truly unique and relaxing experience.
Dining at the Blue Lagoon in Iceland
Go on an Icelandic culinary journey at the Blue Lagoon. Whether you prefer fine dining or want to grab a quick snack, the lagoon has three restaurants and a cafe to satisfy you.
Lava Restaurant
Built into an 800-year-old lava cliff on the banks of the Blue Lagoon, you’ll have an unforgettable dining experience. Their menu features Icelandic delicacies made from fresh local ingredients—promising to delight your taste buds.
Moss Restaurant
Its location at the highest point at Blue Lagoon Iceland will afford you stunning views of the volcanic horizon as you enjoy your dish. The menu changes with the seasons to guarantee the freshest ingredients. Moreover, this restaurant has a one-of-a-kind wine cellar in a volcanic chamber below the earth’s surface.
Spa Restaurant
Feast on the restaurant’s light delicacies before, during, or after your spa experience. No reservations are needed and you can either dine in your robe or fully clothed.
Café
The spacious café combines a variety of snacks and refreshments with stunning views of the Blue Lagoon. You can grab a quick bite here before heading back into the lagoon.
Blue Lagoon Accommodation
Discover the wonder of the Blue Lagoon by staying at one of its hotels.
Blue Lagoon Silica Hotel
Silica Hotel combines comfort and hospitality. The rooms have incredible views of stunning mountains and lava flows, and the room fee includes complimentary breakfast. Additionally, it has its own private but smaller lagoon. So you need not compete for space in the larger public lagoon.
Retreat Hotel
Apart from being home to the Retreat Luxury Spa, it features modern, exclusive suites and an unforgettable cuisine. This 62-suite hotel provides each of its guests with personalized service, creating an environment of relaxation and rejuvenation.
How to Get to the Blue Lagoon
If you’re visiting Iceland, you can get to the Blue Lagoon by taxi, car, or bus.
Taxis and cars for hire are available from both Keflavik Airport and Reykjavik. Blue Lagoon is easily accessible from the main highway that connects Keflavík to Reykjavík.
The Blue Lagoon has partnered with a bus service company—known as Destination Blue Lagoon—for transfers to both Keflavík and Reykjavík. This service runs all year round, following the seasonal opening hours of the Blue Lagoon.
Blue Lagoon Opening Hours
The Blue Lagoon in Iceland is open all year round. However, the opening hours vary by season. Currently, these are the 2021 opening hours listed on the official website.
| Month | Blue Lagoon Opening Hours |
| May | Thursdays & Fridays 15:00–22:00
Saturdays & Sundays 10:00–21:00 Note: Holiday opening hours May 13th: 10:00–20:00 May 24th: 10:00–20:00 |
| June | Daily, from 10:00 to 21:00 |
| July – December | Daily, from 09:00 to 20:00 |
How to Book Your Stay at the Blue Lagoon
If you’re planning a visit to the Blue Lagoon, pre-booking is a must through the Blue Lagoon website. You have the freedom to change or cancel your reservation.
You can select one of 3 packages:
| Package | Comfort: Blue Lagoon | Premium: Blue Lagoon | Retreat Luxury Spa |
| Cost | From ISK 6 990 | From ISK 8 990 | From ISK 49 000 |
| What’s Included |
|
Enjoy what’s included in the Comfort package plus:
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5-hour exclusive entry to the Retreat Spa. It includes:
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You want to make the most of your trip to Iceland. Apart from the Blue Lagoon, there are other must-see attractions. Discover more wonders in Iceland today.
