Blue Lagoon in Iceland - guide for your visit

Writer: Helena Bergström

Updated: August 2026 | The Blue Lagoon in Iceland, or Bláa Lónið, is one of the country’s most famous attractions – a geothermal spa with warm, milky blue water in the middle of the black lava field on the Reykjanes Peninsula. I first visited the Blue Lagoon back in 1992 and have since returned several times, most recently with Peter. Much has changed over the years, but the feeling of sinking into the warm water while the Icelandic wind blows across your face is still special.

Blue Lagoon - for the fourth time

The first time I (Helena) visited the Blue Lagoon was in 1992. I don't have any photos from that visit, but as I remember it, the pool itself was about the same size. The building, however... a lot has happened there!

This time we went directly from Keflavik airport to the Blue Lagoon, and got a little presentation before it was time for swimming. There were more people this time, but still it was just as relaxing. Soooo nice to lie in the warm water, while feeling the cool winds in your face.

There is a bar in the bath, and here you can easily order a drink using the bracelet you get when you check in. When we were here, a drink was included in our package, and we easily ordered it at the bar using the bracelet.

Is the Blue Lagoon open after the volcanic eruptions?

The Reykjanes Peninsula has experienced a period of recurring volcanic activity since 2021, and the area around Grindavík and Svartsengi has been affected by several eruptions. The Blue Lagoon has therefore had to temporarily close or change access routes and procedures on various occasions.

The facility is open when the safety situation allows, but the situation is subject to change, so if you are planning a visit, it is wise to check current information from the Blue Lagoon before departure, especially regarding opening hours and the route to the facility.

What is the Blue Lagoon in Iceland?

The Blue Lagoon is a geothermal spa on the Reykjanes Peninsula in southwest Iceland. The facility is located in the middle of a barren lava field near Grindavík and Svartsengi, about 20 minutes by car from Keflavík International Airport and just under an hour from Reykjavík.

In Icelandic, the lagoon is called The Blue Lagoon and in English Blue Lagoon. The characteristic milky blue water and the contrast against the dark lava have made the place one of Iceland's most famous tourist attractions.

How was the Blue Lagoon created?

The Blue Lagoon was created in connection with the Svartsengi geothermal power plant. When the power plant began using geothermal water from deep boreholes, a lagoon was formed in the lava field from the mineral-rich water that came from the plant.

People gradually began to bathe in the warm water, and their effects on the skin were also noticed. During the 1980s and 1990s, the business gradually developed, and today's Blue Lagoon is something completely different from the simple bathing spot I encountered when I first came here in 1992.

The water in the Blue Lagoon

The water in the Blue Lagoon is geothermal seawater that comes from great depths underground. It is first used by the Svartsengi power plant for the production of energy and heat before being channeled to the lagoon.

The bathing water is approximately 37–40 degrees and is rich in silica, minerals and algae, among other things. It is the silica in particular that contributes to the water's characteristic milky blue appearance.

Sauna and treatments

Adjacent to the lagoon are a sauna, steam room and other areas for relaxation. At the Mask Bar out in the water you can also pick up the classic silica mask that is included in the entrance fee.

Do you have to book the Blue Lagoon?

Yes, it is best to book the Blue Lagoon in advance. Visits are sold with specific arrival times and popular times can be fully booked. The Blue Lagoon also explicitly states that advance booking is necessary.

Prices are dynamic and vary depending on date, time and demand, so it may be worth comparing different times if you have the opportunity to be flexible.

Protect your hair in the Blue Lagoon

The water in the Blue Lagoon is great for your skin, but the silica can make your hair stiff and unmanageable. So, soak your hair in the shower and work in conditioner before you go into the lagoon. Leave the conditioner on while you swim and tie up long hair if you want to avoid dipping it.

Our experience of the Blue Lagoon

The Blue Lagoon is now a large and modern spa facility. When you arrive, you check in at the time you have booked and have access to changing rooms and a private locker. What is included depends on which entrance package you have chosen, but all regular packages include a towel, silica mask and access to the lagoon.

The water in the Blue Lagoon is supposed to be healthy and good for the skin, and I must say that my skin felt very smooth in the evening after the bath. Above all, the bath offers a lovely, relaxed and even a little exotic feeling.

More to see and do around Reykjavik

There is of course much more to see and experience in and around Reykjavik. Here you will find tips and reports for your trip:

• Things to do in Reykjavik
• Food & Fun Reykjavik
• Ön Viðey
• Gullfoss
• Strokkur and Geysir

This trip was a press trip, organised by the Food and Fun Reykjavik festival and Icelandair. All texts, photos (unless otherwise stated) and opinions are, as usual, our own.