The Blue Lagoon is located in the heart of an 800-year-old lava plain on the Reykjanes Peninsula. It is one of Iceland's most popular attractions and offers an extraordinary experience. The lagoon has been named one of 25 wonders of the world. So it comes as no surprise that a visit to the lagoon is usually at the top of visitors' list of things to do during their stay in Iceland. A visit to the Blue Lagoon is just a wonderful way to relax, connect with nature,  and experience something absolutely unique. 

Before you go to the Blue Lagoon, here’s what you should know

 
Is the Blue Lagoon in Reykjavik?

No. The Blue Lagoon is not in Reykjavik. It’s in Grindavík, close to the airport and about 45 minutes drive from Reykjavik.

 
Is the Blue Lagoon a natural spring?

No. While Iceland is a country brimming with natural hot springs, the Blue Lagoon as such isn't one of them. The lagoon is man-made and was formed in 1976. That being said, the water in the lagoon is absolutely natural as geothermal seawater is being pumped into the man-made lagoon. Two thousand meters within the earth, ocean water and freshwater converge in a tectonic realm of searing heat and extreme pressure, creating geothermal seawater. Drawn to the surface through geothermal extraction wells, the water emerges enriched with silica, algae, and minerals—the bioactive elements that endow this unique fluid with its healing, rejuvenating, nourishing abilities.

 
When is the best time to go to Blue Lagoon?

The best time to visit is in the evening to enjoy the midnight sun in summer or the Northern Lights in winter.

 
How warm is the Blue Lagoon?

The average temperature of the water is 39°C (102°F) all year round. 

 
Things to keep in mind before visiting the Blue Lagoon in Iceland

Make sure to book early

The Blue Lagoon is a very popular attraction and people often don't realise that you must book your ticket in advance to be guaranteed an entrance to the spa. Please make sure to book early if you don't want to wait in a long line and maybe have to exit without being able to enter the lagoon. That could totally ruin your day. The facility also offers wonderful spa treatments and luxury entrance packages, all of which you can book in advance online. 

Your Hey Iceland travel agent will book you a spot in the Blue Lagoon that fits best into your Iceland itinerary

A unique experience

The Blue Lagoon is the perfect place to treat yourself and be pampered for a day. Soak in the warm geothermal water and wash away your worries and stress. The milky-blue water is rich in blue-green algae, minerals, salts and fine silica mud, which exfoliate and condition your skin. The lagoon is located in the heart of an 800-year-old lava plain which makes the surrounding landscape truly magical. The lagoon is the perfect location for a romantic getaway and you can enjoy high-end cuisine in world-class restaurants. 

 
Family-friendly

Kids of all ages will enjoy swimming around in the rather large pool, sensing the different temperatures in different places, feeling the sand between their toes, discovering the cave and the standing under the waterfall. Smearing your faces with the white silica mud will be the cherry on top of this family experience.

 
Highlights of the Blue Lagoon

• Floating in the milky blue water
• Enjoying a natural face mask of silica and algae
• Receiving a soothing massage
• Beautiful modern architecture
• Exotic surroundings
• World-class restaurants
• Rooftop viewpoint
• A relaxing visit to the wonderful Blue Lagoon Retreat spa
• Accommodation in boutique hotels

 
If you enjoyed this article you might want to read more articles from our blog with information, tips and tricks for planning your best possible trip to Iceland. Hey Iceland also has a network of over 160 accommodation partners all around Iceland and we can also help you book day tours and activities.