What is the arch at Dyrhólaey?

Dyrhólaey is a 120-meter-high promontory with a massive natural rock arch at its seaward end. The name means 'door hole island' in Icelandic, referring to this arch, which is large enough for small boats and aircraft to pass through. The arch was formed by wave erosion over thousands of years.

Can I see puffins at Dyrhólaey?

Yes, Atlantic puffins nest on the cliffs of Dyrhólaey from approximately mid-May through mid-August. The upper viewpoint area is closed to visitors during peak nesting season (typically mid-May to late June) to protect the breeding birds. Even outside the closure period, puffins can often be seen from the lower areas.

When is the upper road at Dyrhólaey closed?

The upper road and viewpoint at Dyrhólaey are typically closed from mid-May to late June to protect nesting puffins and other seabirds. The lower area and Kirkjufjara beach remain accessible during this time. Exact dates vary by year; check with local authorities or visitor centers for current closure information.

Can I walk between Dyrhólaey and Reynisfjara?

No, you cannot safely walk between Dyrhólaey and Reynisfjara along the beach. The tidal conditions at Kirkjufjara beach (below Dyrhólaey) are extremely dangerous with powerful waves and rockfall risk from the cliffs. Drive between the two sites; they are about 15 minutes apart by car.

Dyrhólaey: Rock Arch & Puffin Colony Near Vík

A 120-meter promontory on Iceland's South Coast with a large natural rock arch, nesting puffins, and views over black sand beaches and glaciers.

Last reviewed March 3, 2026By the Iceland.org Travel TeamEditorial policy

Location

Near Vík

South Iceland • Off Route 218

Dyrhólaey is a 120-meter-high promontory of volcanic origin jutting out into the North Atlantic near the village of Vík on Iceland's South Coast. The headland's defining feature is a massive natural rock arch at its tip, large enough for small boats and even aircraft to pass through, which gives the place its name: "door hole island" in Icelandic. From the top, the view stretches east along the black sand beach toward Reynisfjara and the Reynisdrangar sea stacks, north to Mýrdalsjökull glacier, and west along the coastline. The cliffs host large Atlantic puffin colonies from May through August, and Dyrhólaey is one of the easier places in Iceland to watch puffins. A lighthouse has stood on the promontory since 1910, warning ships off this stretch of coast.

Sources and last reviewed

Last reviewed: 2026-03-03

This guide is a travel-planning summary, not emergency guidance. Conditions in Iceland can change quickly; check official alerts, roads, and weather before driving, hiking, or booking around volatile conditions.

Pages are reviewed for practical usefulness, source quality, and volatile claims before publication.

Official sources to check

Height

120 meters

Volcanic headland with massive natural rock arch at the tip

Puffin Season

May–August

Atlantic puffins nest on the cliffs; upper area closed mid-May to late June

Region

South Iceland

Near Vík, about 190 km from Reykjavik via Route 1

What to Expect

The Rock Arch

A massive natural stone arch at the tip of the promontory, carved by wave action and large enough for boats to pass through

Puffin Colony

Atlantic puffins nest in burrows on the cliff edges from May to August; bring binoculars for close-up views

Panoramic Views

360-degree views of black sand beaches, Reynisdrangar sea stacks, Mýrdalsjökull glacier, and the Atlantic

Dyrhólaey Lighthouse

A lighthouse in operation since 1910, standing on the headland and visible from far along the coast

Kirkjufjara Beach

A black sand beach at the base of the cliffs; be aware of rockfall and dangerous waves

Reynisdrangar Views

The Reynisdrangar sea stacks rise from the ocean to the east, set against the black sand coastline

Getting There

From Route 1 (Ring Road), turn south onto Route 218, signposted for Dyrhólaey, approximately 10 km west of Vík. The road forks into upper and lower viewpoint roads. The upper road is steeper and may be closed for puffin nesting season (mid-May to late June). The drive from Reykjavik takes approximately 2.5 hours (190 km). Parking is available at both viewpoint levels. The site is about 15 minutes' drive from Reynisfjara beach.

Best Time to Visit

Summer is the main season for Dyrhólaey: puffin sightings (late June through August once the upper road reopens), long daylight hours, and the mildest weather. Sunset from the upper viewpoint is worth staying for. Winter can bring northern lights, but days are short and roads sometimes close. The site is wind-exposed year-round, so bring warm layers regardless of season. Check road conditions and seasonal closures before visiting.

Planning help

Dyrhólaey FAQs

Quick answers with safety notes where it matters.

Back to Landmarks