The following list highlights some of the best beaches in Iceland. So if you are in Iceland, I recommend visiting the following:
Djupalonssandur Beach, Djupalonssandur
Address – Djupalonssandur Beach, Djupalonssandur, Iceland
Google Maps Link – 64°45’07.7″N 23°54’05.8″W
Djupalonssandur Beach is located in Djupalonssandur, in West Iceland. A black sand beach, scattered and backdropped with volcanic rock, and grassy areas, offering breathtaking views over the sea. The sound of waves crashing against the rock is so relaxing that some people visit only to sit on the shore and listen. There is a shipwreck at the beach, and walking trails, some leading to nearby black sand beaches. The beach is part of a national park, but there are not many facilities in the area.
Reynisfjara Beach, Vik, Iceland
Address – Reynisfjara Beach, Vik, Iceland
Google Maps Link – 63°24’14.8″N 19°02’45.9″W
Reynisfjara Beach is located in Vik, in South Iceland. A long and wide black sand beach, with black pebbles, towering cliffs and strong waves hitting the rocks. The naturally formed basalt columns and other rock formations are a fascinating sight that attract tourists all year long. This beach is all about otherworldly views, with enormous caves that make you feel too small. There is a restaurant in the parking lot offering warm food and drinks. Avoid getting close to the water since the waves are really strong and dangerous.
Nautholsvik Geothermal Beach, Reykjavik
Address – Nautholsvik Geothermal Beach, Reykjavik, Iceland
Google Maps Link – 64°07’16.7″N 21°55’45.5″W
Nautholsvik Geothermal Beach is located in the capital city of Reykjavik, in Southwest Iceland. This small sandy beach, with warmer waters than other beaches in Iceland and hot tubs, is a great spot for swimming and a favorite among locals. With geothermal water pumped into the sea, the beach is clear and slightly more suitable for swimming, but still too cool for some people. However, relaxing on the hot tubs as you admire the stunning sunset is a must. There is a snack bar at the beach and restaurants nearby.
Raudasandur Beach, Saurbær
Address – Raudasandur Beach, Saurbær, Iceland
Google Maps Link – 65°27’52.1″N 24°01’18.9″W
Raudasandur Beach is located in Saurbaer, in the WestFjords of Iceland. An isolated, small beach, with golden sand that turns reddish at sunset. During high tide, the beach is not really accessible, but at low tide you can walk miles into the water, and even get to spot seals laying around. It is pretty difficult to get to the beach, which is why you can find it empty and quiet at almost any time of the year. There is a cafe nearby where you can get warm drinks and desserts; bring your own food if you plan on staying for longer.
Skardskvík Beach, Iceland
Address – Skardskvík Beach, Iceland
Google Maps Link – 64°52’52.8″N 23°59’11.7″W
Skardsvik Beach is located in West Iceland. This secluded, golden sand beach, surrounded by steep rock formations and spots of green grass, is perfect to relax and admire nature. With the sand being so soft, taking a long walk and seeing the blue waves crashing against the rocks is an experience on its own. The beach can be hard to reach, so it never gets crowded and the atmosphere is always quiet and relaxing. There are no facilities or places to dine nearby; bring your own supplies and food for a picnic.
Budir Beach, Budir
Address – Budir Beach, Budir, Iceland
Google Maps Link – 64°49’14.7″N 23°22’47.3″W
Budir Beach is located in Budir, in West Iceland. A golden sand beach, with grassy areas, volcanic rock formations, and beautiful views over far-off hills. With only one hotel and a small church in the area, the beach feels otherworldly and it is never crowded. Some days, seals come to this beach, and you can see them lying and walking around the sand. Offering the perfect scenery for photography, you can bring food and have a picnic on the sand.
Black Beach, Sauðárkrókur
Address – Black beach, 744, Sauðárkrókur, Iceland
Google maps link – 65°44’42.2″N 19°37’40.0″W
Black Beach is located in Sauðárkrókur, in North Iceland. Just like the name states, this lovely yet dramatic beach is a narrow strip of black sand, with stunning mountainous views and a peaceful atmosphere. The water is too cold for swimming, but the sound of the waves is relaxing and perfect to take a walk and clear your mind. There are no facilities or places to eat at the beach, but you can bring your own food if you plan on having a picnic with a serene and quiet atmosphere. Black Beach is unspoiled and perfect for nature lovers, without touristy spots making it an isolated beach all year long.
Thorli Beach, Þorlákshöfn
Address – Thorli beach, Iceland
Google maps link – 63°51’58.9″N 21°22’32.2″W
Thorli Beach is located in Porlakshofn, in South Iceland. This long stretch of both dark and golden sand is the perfect getaway to enjoy time for yourself, with stunning views and a peaceful atmosphere. Taking a walk along the narrow sandy strip is a must, admiring the natural, unspoiled scenery, and taking unique photos. There are no places to eat or facilities at the beach; for this reason, Thorli Beach is mostly frequented by locals, and it never gets busy or crowded.
Seal Beach, Illugastadhir
Address – Seal beach, Iceland
Google maps link – 65°35’05.6″N 20°55’29.7″W
Seal Beach is located in Illugastadir, in North Iceland. Unspoiled and wild, this beach is a great option for nature lovers, and those with a passion for wildlife photography. Just like the name states, Seal Beach is a popular spot for seal watching, and you can see them lying on the rocks and swimming far from the shore; besides, birdwatching is also a highlight. Chances of spotting seals are higher on sunny days, and most visitors arrive during these days.
Diamond Beach, Eastern Region
Address – Diamond Beach, Iceland
Google maps link – 64°02’36.1″N 16°10’40.1″W
Diamond Beach is located in the Jökulsárlón lagoon, in East Iceland. This unique beach offers some of the most stunning views in Iceland, with pristine diamond-like icebergs washing ashore, contrasting against the dark volcanic sand. The beach is remote and rather difficult to reach; however, the scenery and photography options attract tourists and locals to this spot daily. There are restaurants in the area, and a few tour agencies offering unforgettable experiences and journeys around the glaciers.