a body of water with rocks and a surfboard

Iceland’s Blue Lagoon, a thermal spring spotted with turquoise waters amid lava fields, is one of the most visited visitor spots in Iceland.

Moreover, it has become one of the fundamental activities to participate in nearby Reykjavik, owing to its location, which isn’t far from the capital of Iceland.

We have only toured the Blue Lagoon once, despite traveling to the island annually to direct our Iceland photography tour. However, there are plenty of geothermal pools in Iceland besides the Blue Lagoon, so we attempt to visit a new one each year to avoid repeating experiences.

a large body of water with mountains

While we will discuss whether visiting the Blue Lagoon is worthwhile or not later, I can tell you that it`s an exceptional place that has been highlighted in various international travel publications and it`s extremely popular on social media. It`s no surprise that it has become one of the most favored activities in Iceland.

If you intend on visiting the island, book half a day to spend at Blue Lagoon and unwind in its warm springs. So you know precisely what to anticipate, in this guide I will explain all you need to understand about Iceland’s Blue Lagoon: how much the entry fee is to Blue Lagoon, nearby hotels, how to get to Blue Lagoon from Reykjavik, and much more.

Specifically, in this guide providing key details about exploring the Blue Lagoon in Iceland, you will obtain the following key facts and tips:

What is the Blue Lagoon in Iceland?

The Blue Lagoon is a thermal pond situated around 40-45 minutes from Reykjavik and about 20 minutes from the airport. Its waters are renowned for their healing properties, thanks to their high material content such as silica and sulfur, which are advantageous for treating some skin conditions such as psoriasis.

Furthermore, when silica dissolves in water in high concentrations, it reflects blue light, giving the Blue Lagoon a beautiful milky blue appearance. Were you wondering the reason why the Blue Lagoon in Iceland looks blue? Well, that is the cause, and the colour has made the Blue Lagoon the most popular spa in Iceland. However, nowadays few visit it for medical purposes. Most of us go to this lagoon to relax in its blue waters while being surrounded by an incredible volcanic landscape.

a wooden bench sitting on top of a body of water

Iceland’s Blue Lagoon was featured in the 25 organic wonders of the world by National Geographic and is also seen as one of the 10 top spas globally by Condé Nast Traveler. And despite these accolades, the Blue Lagoon is human-made. Are you let down? You don’t need to be. The Blue Lagoon is worthwhile.

It was formed in the 1970s to reuse water from the nearby Svartsengi geothermal generators. This seawater, naturally heated underground by volcanic activity 6,500 feet down, is used to drive the power station’s turbines. When directed towards the lagoon, the water filters out the silica and minerals from the surroundings and cools until the water in the Blue Lagoon is between 98 and 106 °F.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (800) 551-6949 | Cove Palisades State Park Website | Hours: 24 hours

Tickets and prices for the Blue Lagoon Spa

Some of the most frequent inquiries we are asked are “ how much is the Blue Lagoon” and “ what is incorporated in the Blue Lagoon ticket.“

To assist you in choosing the Iceland Blue Lagoon ticket that best fits your needs, I will briefly outline what each package contains. Bear in mind that the price of Iceland Blue Lagoon access may vary subject to season and time booked, so the following details could differ for your dates.

a man and a woman laying in the water

Comfort: Blue Lagoon

The Comfort: Blue Lagoon package is the most basic of all and the one that we opted for. It incorporates entrance to the lagoon, a silicon face mask, towel, and a beverage of your choosing. The cost of this ticket is $76.

While this is usually how people access the Blue Lagoon, the cost may be more than anticipated compared to other local hot springs. However, if funds allow, I think experiencing and savoring this relaxing bath even once is worthwhile.

Premium: Blue Lagoon

The Premium: Blue Lagoon package offers excellent value. In this option, in addition to entrance fees, a silica facial mask, towel, and beverage of your choice, it also incorporates a second mask, slippers, bathrobe, reserved seating at the Lava restaurant, and a glass of wine should you ultimately opt to dine at this establishment.

The admission charge to the Blue Lagoon is $97 with this package. Taking into consideration that it’s one of the most popular visitor attractions in Iceland, it isn’t too costly if you value everything it incorporates and opt to dine at Iceland’s Blue Lagoon.

Luxury Retreat Spa

The entrance to the Blue Lagoon Luxury Retreat Spa is the best accommodation available, however it comes at a significantly higher price than other options. For $560, in addition to all that is covered under the Premium package, you will have access to a private changing area, various skin treatments, and different bathing locations, such as the Retreat Lagoon, where you can relax and unwind surrounded by volcanic canyons while taking an intimate bath.

This is maximum definitely the best entrance to the Blue Lagoon that you can purchase if you want to experience the full experience, but I’ll acknowledge that the price is quite tall, and not everybody can afford it.

If more information is desired regarding tickets to the Blue Lagoon, checking the official website is recommended, where significantly more detailed information will be found. .

Blue Lagoon Geothermal SPA opening hours

Public access to the Blue Lagoon is not permitted around the clock, even though it`s open every day of the calendar year. If you don`t wish to miss a visit to the Blue Lagoon during your trip to Iceland, I advise examining the schedule throughout your dates, as the opening hours of the Blue Lagoon vary across the year, in addition to changing from one year to the next.

a large body of water with a swimming pool

Currently, the primary opening hours of the Blue Lagoon on its official site are:

  • From January 1 to May 24: 8:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.
  • From May 25 to June 28: 7:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m.
  • From June 29 to August 19: 7:00 a.m. to 12:00 a.m.
  • From August 20 to November 30: 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.
  • From December 1 to December 30: 8:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.
  • December 24: 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
  • December 25 and 31: 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m .

Best time to visit the Blue Lagoon of Iceland

The ideal time to visit the Blue Lagoon of Iceland depends on your preferences. If you would like to see idyllic scenery and swim in the steaming Blue Lagoon, surrounded by snow, it’s best to visit the Blue Lagoon in winter. Summer is also a good time to visit, since it isn’t hot outside and the water stays at the same temperature throughout the year, so bathing is just as pleasant.

When the weather is sunny, the Blue Lagoon will look much more blue in color, therefore to capture photos within the Blue Lagoon, I suggest avoiding overcast days.

a large body of water surrounded by rocks

As for the ideal hours to visit the Blue Lagoon, this also relies on what you are seeking. In the central hours of the day, the sun will be higher and, therefore, the silica content in the water will reflect more azure light. However, if you travel during peak tourist season, crowds may form in certain regions of the Blue Lagoon.

If you want to avoid large crowds, the best times to go are first thing in the morning or late in the day. Remember what time it gets dark during your trip dates since it changes quickly during the year. Going to the Blue Lagoon at night means you will not be able to appreciate its milky blue color.

Check our guide on the weather conditions in Iceland for more recommendations on when to travel there.

Blue Lagoon at night – Northern Lights in the Blue Lagoon

During winter, it gets dark very soon in Iceland. For numerous months, it is entirely dark at 5 p.m., and considering that the lagoon remains open until 9:00 p.m. from December to May, this allows us many hours to enjoy the Blue Lagoon at night.

Moreover, witnessing the Northern Lights in Iceland is a experience everyone should have at least once. I assure you it`s one of the best things you can do here, and seeing them from the Blue Lagoon is stunning. The colors in the sky combined with those of the lagoon create a spectacular landscape. This is another reason I believe visiting the Blue Lagoon in winter is the best choice.

an aerial view of a lake filled with water

However, seeing Northern Lights in the Blue Lagoon can sometimes be difficult, as the hotel’s light pollution makes it difficult to see them unless there is a fairly strong solar storm.

If experiencing the Blue Lagoon and Northern Lights are on your list of things to do for your excursion to Iceland, reserve this tour, where you can invest the day relaxing in the Blue Lagoon and afterwards venture to an area where the likelihood of seeing the Northern Lights is elevated.

What is a visit to the Blue Lagoon SPA like?

Visiting the Blue Lagoon isn’t low-cost, so before booking your ticket, I want to provide my perspective on if the Blue Lagoon is worthwhile or not and tell you exactly what it is similar to visiting the Blue Lagoon for the initial time.

Things to know before visiting Iceland’s Blue Lagoon

Firstly, do not visit the Blue Lagoon without a reservation ahead of time. All times book up months in advance, so if you want to soak in the Blue Lagoon, schedule your ticket in advance.

There is free auto parking available at the Blue Lagoon, so those who have rented a vehicle can drive there directly. After checking in, they will provide a wristband for everything from ordering a drink to acquiring a silica mask or securing your locker. Rentals are also available for swimsuits and slip-ons if forgotten to bring your own.

What are the Blue Lagoon facilities like?

After going to the locker room, which is separated by sex, and storing your belongings, you will arrive at the indoor pool, where there is also a store where you can buy snacks or a waterproof case for your phone if you forgot to bring one.

Make the most of all amenities accessible with your type of admission to the Blue Lagoon such as enjoying refreshments from the bar while bathing. I assure soaking in the geothermal waters there alongside an alcoholic drink is truly special. Be sure to pick up your complimentary facial covering at the kiosks centrally found within the lagoon.

a large body of water with mountains

You will also find several eateries, the Moss Restaurant, the Lava Restaurant, and the Spa Restaurant, so you have several options to dine in the Blue Lagoon.

My suggestion when visiting the Blue Lagoon is to remain away from the primary building. The Blue Lagoon is extensive, and if you wander a bit, you can appreciate a relaxing experience without so many individuals around.

Is the Blue Lagoon worth it?

Many photos of the Blue Lagoon you may have seen were in fact captured at Retreat Lagoon instead, which consists of secluded volcanic canyons you will only have access to if you paid for the Blue Lagoon Luxury Retreat Spa package.

If you spend the cost of that ticket, I can guarantee you will leave there thinking it was worthwhile. However if you go with the basic entrance and have those dreamy landscapes in mind, the Blue Lagoon may disappoint you somewhat.

a large body of water with a mountain range

If you are comfortable in very crowded places and sharing space and water with hundreds of others, I think experiencing the Blue Lagoon is worthwhile, even if you only pay the basic entrance fee.

I didn’t regret visiting it, but, in my case, it’s not something I think I will do again, since there are many other hot springs in Icelandthat I still have to visit. However, if you’ve never done it before, I think visiting the Blue Lagoon is the best thing to do in Iceland.

Where in Iceland is the Blue Lagoon? Is the Blue Lagoon in Reykjavik?

For anyone wondering about the location of the Blue Lagoon, there is no need to fret as I will provide all the important details needed to get there. The Blue Lagoon is situated very near to Grindavík, on the Reykjanes peninsula in the southwest of Iceland. From Reykjavik, it takes approximately 40-45 minutes by automobile, and from the airport, it takes about 20 minutes.

a pool of water with a dog swimming in it

Now that you know what the Blue Lagoon of Iceland represents, I assure you that bathing there is very calming, and despite its being a very touristy place, it’s worth visiting at least once in your lifetime. The Blue Lagoon is huge, at 7000 m2 (75,000 ft2); you can definitely find a place where you can be practically alone, even in peak tourist season.

How to get to the Blue Lagoon hot spring in Iceland

If you intend to rent a vehicle in Iceland, reaching your destination will be simple, as signage is clear and parking is free.

However, if you are traveling through Iceland without a car, don’t worry. You can reach the Blue Lagoon from Reykjavik via bus.

If you have already obtained a ticket to visit this resort and want to travel from Reykjavik to the Blue Lagoon, I suggest booking this transfer service, as it incorporates both the outbound and return trips. Best of all, departures from the BSI bus terminal and from the Blue Lagoon occur every hour. If you prefer a private transfer, this option is available.

Note that neither of these two options includes admission to the Blue Lagoon SPA, but if booking a Blue Lagoontour from Reykjavik, quite a savings can be realized, as you will see below .

Blue Lagoon Tours from Reykjavik

If self-driving isn`t part of your plans while in Iceland, then I will outline the best tours to the Blue Lagoon from Reykjavik that you can pre-book.

1. Blue Lagoon Entry with Roundtrip Transfers

This included tour involves entrance and travel to the Blue Lagoon of Iceland from Reykjavik and assists in saving compared to booking the entrance to the Blue Lagoon and transportation independently.

A bus will pick you up at the hotel where you are staying in Reykjavik and will take you to the Blue Lagoon, where you will have about four hours to enjoy yourself before returning to Reykjavik. The ticket included in this tour is the basic one, the Comfort and Relaxation: Blue Lagoon package.

a large body of water surrounded by mountains

  • The noteworthy parts include: Easy access to the Blue Lagoon and round-trip transportation from Reykjavik.
  • Duration: Roughly 5 hours.

    • Another beach located in the town of Corralejo is Playa de Corralejo Viejo, which can be found in front of the port. This area is busy since it`s where you can take this ferry to Lobos Island.

  • Description: take a dip at the Blue Lagoon with your Comfort ticket and enjoy a relaxing soak surrounded by a spectacular volcanic landscape. Transportation will select you up at your hotel and take you to the spa entrance. Then, they will drop you off at the hotel again.

2. Small-Group Golden Circle & Blue Lagoon Tour with Admission

If, besides the Blue Lagoon, you have interest in seeing other attractions near Reykjavik, I suggest taking this tour where you will also visit some of the key Iceland Golden Circle stops.

In addition to taking a relaxing dip in the Blue Lagoon, you will visit the key tourist attractions of the Golden Circle, places like Thingvellir National Park, the active Strokkur geyser, the magnificent Gullfoss waterfall, and Kerid Crater.

a black and white photo of a sunset on a beach

  • Highlights: Thingvellir National Park, Strokkur Geyser, Gullfoss Waterfall, Kerid Crater, and Blue Lagoon.
  • Duration: approximately 11 hours.
  • Cost: $ 229.16 ( check availability)
  • Description: Experience the main attractions of the Golden Circle, such as Thingvellir National Park, the active Strokkur Geyser, Gullfoss waterfall, and Kerid Crater. Then, access the Blue Lagoon with a Comfort entrance. The tour occurs in small groups, with a maximum of 18 people.

3. From Reykjavik: Blue Lagoon and Northern Lights Tour

The tour featuring the Blue Lagoon and potential Northern Lights observation is another of the best excursions from Reykjavik involving the Blue Lagoon that you can book and I recommend doing so here. If it’s your first time in Iceland and, in addition to seeing the Blue Lagoon, you want to experience a phenomenon of nature like the northern lights, I recommend taking this tour. Also, so that you can document the moment, I recommend reviewing our guide on how to photograph the northern lights.

a sunset scene with a lighthouse in the distance

  • Highlights: visit with admission to the Blue Lagoon and participate in a tour seeking the northern lights.
  • Duration: Around 8 hours.
  • Price: $178.83 ( check availability)
  • Description: With this tour, in addition to transfers, you will have access to the Blue Lagoon with the Comfort package. Later, with a local guide, you will take a sightseeing trip to view the northern lights .

Iceland Blue Lagoon Hotel and other places to stay nearby

If you are wondering where to lodge in the Blue Lagoon of Iceland to be near this wonderful spa, then check out the best hotels in the Blue Lagoon that you can find.

1. The Retreat at Blue Lagoon Iceland

The Retreat at Blue Lagoon is undeniably considered the premier hotel located within Iceland’s Blue Lagoon. It represents a luxury hotel established directly in the Blue Lagoon itself. In addition to 62 suites, a fitness center, and an authentic Icelandic restaurant, the hotel provides an array of activities ranging from yoga to hiking. There is no doubt that this hotel stands above the rest within the Blue Lagoon area, given guests will have unlimited access to the Blue Lagoon, Blue Retreat, and different spa treatments. However, only a small number of fortunate individuals can afford staying there a small boat floating on top of a small body of water

2. Northern Light Inn

The Northern Light Inn is a family hotel with spa facilities, a fitness center, and a lounge with a fireplace that provides incredible panoramic views. It is 0.5 miles from the Blue Lagoon, making it perfect and very comfortable for visitors who want to experience the lagoon early or later in the day. Most importantly, it offers free transport to the Blue Lagoon, contributing to its status as one of the finest hotels near the Blue Lagoon.

a large body of water with a lighthouse in the distance

3. Mar Guesthouse

The option we selected was to stay further out on the northeastern edge of the park in a town such as Tūrangi, which is around 30 minutes from Whakapapa Village and about an hour from the southern boundary of the park.

The rooms are perfectly equipped, some even have a kitchen, and it’s in the center of Grindavík, a town that I love because it has a lot of good restaurants. It’s certainly a good place to stay in the Blue Lagoon. In addition, since it’s somewhat more modest than the previous hotels, it is perfect if you are traveling on a budget.

a kitchen that has a table and chairs in it

FAQS and other Iceland Blue Lagoon SPA Facts

The Blue Lagoon, known for its warm blue-colored waters of geothermal origin, is found in the southwest region of Iceland, specifically on the Reykjanes peninsula, very nearby to Grindavík and forty minutes from the capital city Reykjavik.

The Blue Lagoon was artificially formed to take advantage of the water utilized by the Svartsengi Geothermal Power Plant.

The azure hue of the Blue Lagoon is due to its high concentrations of silica, sulfur, and other minerals that, dissolved in the water, give the Blue Lagoon its distinguishing color.

The average water temperature of the Blue Lagoon is usually between 98 and 106 degrees Fahrenheit.

The Blue Lagoon has a complete surface area, accounting for the lagoon, the hotel, and restaurants, of 950,000 ft2. Even in peak tourist season, you can enjoy privacy in the remotest areas from the Blue Lagoon facilities.

The 9 million liters of water in the Blue Lagoon are naturally renewed every 40 hours, ensuring it remains continually clean without requiring chlorine or other disinfectants.

There are several ticket types, and prices vary according to the period of the year and the schedule. The cost of the Blue Lagoon is roughly $76 for the Comfort package, which is the most basic of all, $97 for the Blue Lagoon Premium package, and $560 for the Luxury Retreat Spa.

The finest time to visit the Blue Lagoon is in winter, since the landscape surrounding the lake is much more lovely and the steaming water invites you to swim in it. In summer, the Blue Lagoon tends to be more crowded with tourists, especially in the months of July and August, but the outside temperature is more pleasant.

It would be preferable to initially visit the Blue Lagoon in the morning hours, since there will be less tourists at that time. At noon, the Blue Lagoon may appear more beautiful because if it’s a sunny day, you can see intense azure hues in the water. If you visit the Blue Lagoon at night, you may see the Northern Lights.

For initial visits to the Blue Lagoon, daytime is best to view its attractive colors in daylight, although winter visits may spot the northern lights illuminating the Blue Lagoon at night due to decreased sunlight.

Indeed, one can view the northern lights in the Blue Lagoon, although a fairly strong solar storm, with a kp greater than 5, is needed for the light pollution of the Blue Lagoon to permit sighting them.

The changing rooms at the Blue Lagoon offer contemporary facilities with private lockers accessible by personal bracelets, showers, soap, gel, and hairdryers. The Blue Lagoon locker rooms are segregated by sex. You also have the choice of a secluded changing area in the Blue Lagoon if booking the Luxury Retreat package.

Yes, showering is compulsory before entering the swimming area of the Blue Lagoon.

Within the Blue Lagoon exist three dining establishments: the Moss Restaurant, the Lava Restaurant, and the Spa Restaurant. Additionally, there is a cafeteria.

Bringing food to the Blue Lagoon isn’t allowed. In the facilities, there are restaurants to eat, and you can also purchase snacks.

Bringing a swimsuit and slippers to the Blue Lagoon is essential, although if forgotten, they can also be rented there. Additionally, it`s advisable to carry a waterproof case for your phone.

Yes, towels are offered free of charge as part of the Blue Lagoon ticket price, regardless of the type of ticket purchased.

Indeed, visitors are required to wear protective flip-flops when accessing the Blue Lagoon, so it`s wise to bring a pair from home.

Yes, you can use eyeglasses in the Blue Lagoon, but make an effort to keep them away from the water as the minerals within could potentially soil or deteriorate them. Wearing contact lenses in the Blue Lagoon is more comfortable.

It is prudent to not wear cosmetics when bathing in the Blue Lagoon, as the water could become soiled. In truth, this is one of the principal causes why showering before entering the Blue Lagoon is obligatory.

Yes, prolonged contact with the water from the Blue Lagoon can damage hair. It is advised not to submerge one`s head in the water, as prolonged exposure could result in hair appearing dull. Hair treated with keratin will also be harmed.

No, soaking in the Blue Lagoon water won’t damage your swimsuit, even though it`s advised to thoroughly clean it later to remove any mineral components that may have remained on the fabric.

Yes, photography is permitted at the Blue Lagoon but not in or within the changing rooms. The user alone is accountable for any harm that his/her camera, phone, or any electronics may endure at the Blue Lagoon.

Yes, children aged two and up can access the Blue Lagoon. As for expectant women, they are not prohibited from entering, but each woman is responsible for her own health, considering she will be bathing at a temperature that can reach 106 oF.

Yes, free parking is available for Blue Lagoon customers.

Any of the entrance packages allow you to remain inside the Blue Lagoon for an unlimited time on the equivalent day. Most visitors stay in the Blue Lagoon for 2-3 hours.

The deepest region of the Blue Lagoon is 4.5 feet, and the shallowest is 2.6 feet.

Yes, taking time to visit the Blue Lagoon and immerse in the experience would be worthwhile. There are also other naturally occurring warm springs where bathing is possible, but they tend to have fewer tourists and allow appreciating spectacular scenery alone.

And with that, the comprehensive guide to the Blue Lagoon of Iceland is complete. Book your ticket or tour soon after deciding on travel dates. As noted earlier, it`s a vastly popular spot and tickets may fill up for your planned timeframe.

I also suggest exploring our article on the top rated maps of Iceland to aid your trip planning and gain understanding of everything to do near the Blue Lagoon in more depth. You can even discover additional hot springs in Iceland in case you have not been able to book admission for your intended dates.

Now I can only wish you a happy trip, and I hope you enjoy your dip in Iceland’s well-known Blue Lagoon. Please feel free to leave me a comment if you have any questions.