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Blue Lagoon’s geothermal wonders | A must-see in Iceland

Blue Lagoon Iceland | Immerse yourself in a geothermal paradise

Picture this: you are sinking into milky-blue waters, warm steam curling around you as Iceland’s rugged lava fields stretch into the horizon. The Blue Lagoon isn’t just an ordinary spa, it’s a geothermal playground straight out of a dream. Soak in the soothing waters, treat yourself to a silica mud mask, and let the minerals work their magic on your skin.

Whether you're capping off your Golden Circle adventure or making it a luxurious pit stop, the Blue Lagoon is the kind of relaxation you will want to bottle up and take home (don’t worry, you can bring back some of their unique face masks!).

Things to consider before booking Golden Circle and Blue Lagoon tours

  • All Golden Circle and Blue Lagoon tours include transfers from Reykjavik and offer convenient pick-up services from your hotel. 
  • The Blue Lagoon offers a range of ticket options to suit your needs. For a simple, relaxing experience, opt for the basic entry ticket that includes essentials like a silica mud mask, a towel, and a drink of your choice. If you want to treat yourself, the premium package offers extra perks like a second drink, upgraded bathroom access, and multiple face masks for a more indulgent experience.
  • Blue Lagoon tours are designed for a more personal and relaxed experience, with group sizes limited to just 19 guests. With smaller groups, you can easily connect with your guide, ask questions, meet like-minded individuals, and soak in the sights without feeling rushed. 
  • If you are visiting between August and April, choose the Icelandic Super Combo for the ultimate sightseeing experience. It covers all the must-see sights, including Thingvellir National Park, Geysir Geothermal Springs, and Gullfoss Falls, and also offers an unforgettable Northern Lights chase to add to your itinerary. Keep in mind that you must be at least 14 years of age to join a Northern Lights and Blue Lagoon tour.
  • Gear up for a full day of adventure and sightseeing with Blue Lagoon day trips from Reykjavik, lasting anywhere from 11 to 15 hours. While lunch isn’t included, you will have the chance to stop between Geysir and Gullfoss to enjoy some delicious regional specialties like grilled Arctic char and roasted lamb shanks.
  • Children under 5 years of age are not allowed inside the lagoon. Guests aged 5 to 8 must wear floaties (provided free of charge). We recommend parents keep a close eye on their children to ensure they stay safe and enjoy a comfortable experience in the water.
  • The Blue Lagoon features elevators and automatic doors to provide a comfortable and accessible experience for guests with mobility challenges. Specially designed wheelchairs are also available for easy access to the lagoon.

Find the best Blue Lagoon tour for your Icelandic adventure

Experience
Transfers
Inclusions
Add-ons
Duration
Included (with pick-up)
Towel, silica mud mask, a drink of your choice
A second drink, bathroom rentals, and three skin treatment masks. (Optional with premium access)
Clock icon
11 hours
Included (with pick-up)
Sightseeing in and around top Golden Circle attractions with an English-speaking tour guide.
Small-group Northern Lights chase (between August and April)
Clock icon
15 hours

What awaits you at the Blue Lagoon? | A complete visitor’s guide

Benefits
On-site amenities
Shopping
Benefits at the blue lagoon
  • Your skin will thank you: Visiting the Blue Lagoon feels like treating yourself to the ultimate natural spa day. The warm, mineral-rich waters work their magic, unclogging your pores, while the silky silica mud mask leaves your skin feeling irresistibly soft, smooth, and glowing. It's self-care at its finest-straight from nature!
  • The ultimate de-stress zone: Whether you have been trekking across rift valleys, chasing waterfalls, or simply navigating the chaos of everyday life, Blue Lagoon offers a perfect escape. Slip into the warm, soothing waters and let your stress melt away. Your only dilemma? Choosing between their unique face masks, silica mud, algae, or lava scrub!
  • In-water drinks and refreshments: It is no secret that self-care tastes better with a drink in hand. At the Blue Lagoon, you don’t even have to leave the waters to grab a drink. With an in-water bar, you can sip on a smoothie or a glass of sparkling wine while you relax.
Amenities at the blue lagoon

The Blue Lagoon offers a range of premium facilities to enhance your geothermal spa experience. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect with a standard entry ticket. 

  • In-water beverage bar: Enjoy a selection of smoothies, juices, soft drinks, beer, and wine without leaving the comfort of the warm waters. 
  • In-water skincare bar: While soaking at the Lagoon, you can apply complimentary silica and algae masks, renowned for their skin-nourishing properties.
  • Sauna and steam rooms: Relax in facilities that harness geothermal heat, providing a soothing and detoxifying experience.
  • Massage waterfall: Let the cascading warm water relieve muscle tension and promote relaxation.
  • Lava Restaurant: Sample a variety of regional Icelandic specialties made from fresh, local ingredients in a unique setting built into a lava cliff.
Shopping at the blue lagoon

At the Blue Lagoon, you can browse through a range of skincare products, made from all-natural ingredients like silica, algae, and minerals. Perfect as souvenirs or keepsakes, these products let you take a piece of the spa’s magic home with you.

  • Masks: Deep-cleansing silica mud mask and hydrating algae mask to revitalize your complexion.
  • Moisturizers: Hydrating creams and mineral moisturizing creams that provide lasting hydration and promote skin health.
  • Cleansers: Foaming cleansers and lava scrub masks to gently purify and exfoliate your skin.
  • Eye and lip care: Targeted treatments to address specific concerns around the eyes and lips.
  • Body care: Nourishing lotions, hand creams, and silica-purifying shampoos to care for your skin and hair.
  • Serums and oils: Advanced formulations with algae bioactive concentrates to add to your skincare routines.

Plan your visit to the Blue Lagoon

Opening hours
Getting there
What to bring
Accessibility
Visitor tips
Plan your visit to the Blue Lagoon
  • June 1 to August 20: 7am to 12am
  • August 21 to May 31: 8am to 10pm
  • Christmas Eve: 8am to 4pm
  • New Year’s Eve: 8am to 6pm

Last entry: 30 minutes before closing time

Best time to visit: November to March is the best time to experience the warm waters against the chilly temperatures. It is also a prime time to catch sightings of the Northern Lights while you enjoy a relaxing soak. The shoulder seasons, April to May and September to October bring less crowds and between June to August, the midnight sun bathes the lagoon in soft, golden light, making it a dreamy experience for those who love long days. To avoid crowds, aim for early morning or late evening when the lagoon is less busy. 

Duration of visit: 1 to 1.5 hours

Address: Norourljosavegur 9, 240 Grindavík, Iceland

Find on maps

The Blue Lagoon is located in southwestern Iceland, approximately 45 minutes from Reykjavik and just 20 minutes from Keflavik International Airport. While it is not directly on the Golden Circle route, its proximity makes it a convenient and popular addition to a Golden Circle tour. Combining the Blue Lagoon with a Golden Circle tour is the best way to enjoy the best of Iceland’s natural wonders without the hassle of separate trips.

Plan your visit to the Blue Lagoon
  • Swimsuit: Required for entry, so don’t forget one! If you don’t have one, rentals are available on-site.
  • Towel: Towels are included in the ticket, but you can bring your own if you prefer.
  • Waterproof phone case: Perfect for snapping photos in the lagoon without worrying about water damage.
  • Flip-flops or sandals: Not mandatory, but useful for walking around the facility comfortably.
  • Reusable water bottle: While you can easily get water from the in-water beverage bar, it’s always a good idea to bring your own reusable water bottle to stay hydrated.
Plan your visit to the Blue Lagoon

The Blue Lagoon in Iceland is committed to providing an inclusive and accessible experience for all guests. 

  • Wheelchair accessibility: The main building is equipped with automatic doors and elevators, ensuring smooth access for wheelchair users. Additionally, there are accessible parking spots in the main lot, and wheelchairs can be borrowed from reception.
  • Accessible changing rooms: A private changing room is available on the ground floor, designed to accommodate guests with special needs, providing ample space and necessary facilities. 
  • Lagoon access: A ramp extends into the water, allowing for easy entry and exit. A shower chair is also available to assist guests with mobility challenges.
Plan your visit to the Blue Lagoon
  • Shower first: Icelandic spa etiquette requires all visitors to shower thoroughly before entering the lagoon. Don’t skip this step!
  • Protect your hair: The Lagoon’s water is naturally heated and tends to strip away your hair’s natural oils. Tie up long hair and apply plenty of conditioners to minimize the effects of the lagoon’s minerals.
  • Take care of your skin: Do not overdo your time in the water. Limit your soak to about 2 to 4 hours to avoid skin dehydration. After leaving the lagoon, wash your hair and skin well to remove any lingering silica or minerals.
  • Be careful in the water: The deepest part of the Blue Lagoon is 1.4 meters, with most areas being shallower. However, the bottom of the lagoon is naturally uneven, so it’s best to exercise caution.

The history of the Blue Lagoon | From geothermal spa to global icon

The Blue Lagoon’s journey from an unexpected byproduct of a geothermal plant to one of the world’s most renowned wellness destinations is a story of innovation, nature, and sheer serendipity. Here’s a detailed look at how it all began and evolved into the iconic attraction it is today.

  • The beginnings (1976): In 1976, the Svartsengi geothermal power plant was established to harness the region's geothermal energy. The mineral-rich runoff water, instead of being absorbed back into the ground, began pooling in a nearby lava field, creating a natural lagoon. 
  • The first swimmers and a medical discovery (1981): Initially, the lagoon was seen as a curious byproduct, but locals couldn’t resist its warm, inviting waters. A psoriasis patient named Valur Margeirsson bathed in the lagoon and discovered that its mineral-rich waters alleviated his skin condition. 
  • Official opening as a bathing facility (1987): Recognizing the lagoon's potential, a public bathing facility was constructed. The geothermal waters, enriched with silica, algae, and minerals, quickly gained attention for its rejuvenating properties.
  • A shift towards wellness and tourism (1990s): The Blue Lagoon underwent significant development, transforming from a simple local attraction to a premier wellness destination. 
  • Global recognition and expansion (2000s): The Blue Lagoon gained global recognition as a must-visit Icelandic attraction, thanks to its luxurious spa experiences. In 2005, the Blue Lagoon Clinic was established to offer specialized treatments for psoriasis patients, blending medical research with wellness.

Frequently asked questions about the Blue Lagoon in Iceland

How far is the Blue Lagoon from Reykjavik?

The Blue Lagoon is approximately 50 km from Reykjavik, about a 45-minute drive. It's also close to Keflavik International Airport, making it a convenient stop for travelers arriving or departing Iceland.

What ticket options are available for the Blue Lagoon?

When booking Blue Lagoon tickets, choose between basic entry tickets and premium tours. Silica mud masks, towels, and drinks of your choice are included in every package. If you opt for the premium package, you can get a second drink of your choice from the in-water bar and try unique face masks with algae, lava scrub, or minerals.

Are there day tours to the Blue Lagoon from Reykjavik?

Yes, we recommend you book Golden Circle and Blue Lagoon day tours from Reykjavik to save money and make the most of your trip. After a full day of sightseeing, unwind in peace at the Blue Lagoon and make use of their premium spa facilities.

Can I visit the Blue Lagoon at night?

Yes, the Blue Lagoon is open until 10pm, and visiting at night offers a unique experience with its illuminated waters under the Icelandic night sky. It is particularly magical during the winter months when the surroundings are dark.

Can I see the Northern Lights from the Blue Lagoon?

During the winter months, you might catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights while relaxing in the Blue Lagoon. However, sightings depend on clear skies and solar activity.

Can I combine a Blue Lagoon trip with other attractions?

Yes, we recommend pairing your visit to the Blue Lagoon with a Kerid Crater tour or a Northern Lights chase. These combo tours are an excellent way to maximize your day trip from Reykjavik, allowing you to experience some of Iceland’s most iconic attractions in a single day.

Is the water good for your skin?

The Blue Lagoon’s geothermal seawater is rich in minerals, silica, and algae, which are known for their nourishing properties. However, be sure to step out within 2 to 4 hours to avoid dehydration.

Are there any restrictions for visiting the Blue Lagoon?

If you have open wounds or contagious skin conditions, please do not bathe in the lagoon water. Children under 2 years of age are not allowed to enter the Blue Lagoon.

Is it suitable for families?

Yes, the Blue Lagoon is family-friendly, and children aged between 5 and 13 can enter for free when accompanied by an adult. Floaties are provided for kids to ensure their safety when enjoying the lagoon.

Is it wheelchair accessible?

The Blue Lagoon is wheelchair accessible, with ramps, elevators, and dedicated changing facilities. There are pathways directly leading to the water to ensure you can navigate around the lagoon comfortably.