The Blue Lagoon in Iceland often finds its way onto most traveler’s must-do list. However, there may be some facts you aren’t aware of that can be helpful before you plan your trip. This guide will explore Iceland’s Blue Lagoon resort and everything you need to know about enjoying your time at this one-of-a-kind hot spring.
Iceland’s Bathing Culture
The first thing you should know before booking the Blue Lagoon is that bathing in geothermal springs is deeply embedded in Icelandic culture. You’ll find local pools throughout the country where residents gather to socialize and soak. These practices date back to the original settlers and have continued to appeal to modern Icelanders.
Before diving into the specifics of the Blue Lagoon spa, it’s vital to understand the rules of bathing in these and other hot springs. It doesn’t matter if you choose the Blue Lagoon in Iceland, other tourist lagoons, or local pools, the same rules apply.
Remove Your Shoes
Before entering the locker room, you must remove your shoes. This is the same rule you will encounter in Icelandic homes. Removing shoes keeps dirt and bacteria out of the locker room space.
Do Not Take Pictures
While in the locker room, please leave your phone off and put away. You may be tempted to capture every aspect of your journey, but leave the picture-taking to the outdoors. Respect everyone’s privacy and wait to take pictures and videos later.
Be Prepared for Communal Areas
Iceland is more open to nudity, which is why you will find locker rooms to be relatively communal spaces. However, Blue Lagoon does offer private changing cubicles for those who prefer a little more privacy.
You Must Shower Naked
One rule that many tourists overlook is showering naked. You will find illustrations with instructions in several languages indicating that you should wash thoroughly without a bathing suit. While Blue Lagoon does offer private showering cubicles, other bathing locations in the country may only have communal showering options, though they are always separated by gender.
Leave Your Towel
There is no place to leave your towel at the edge of the Blue Lagoon. Instead, there are cubicles to store your towel outside the shower area so you can pick it up when you’re done.
Dry Off Thoroughly Before Entering the Locker Room
When you shower after using the lagoon and grab your towel, make sure you dry yourself thoroughly before returning to the changing area of the locker room. This procedure keeps the floor dry.
What Exactly Is the Blue Lagoon?
In short, the Blue Lagoon is a geothermal spa that has been named a UNESCO World Heritage location. The geothermal seawater is rich in silica, algae, and other minerals, giving it the milky-blue color for which it is known.
The Blue Lagoon was initially formed in 1976 when wastewater was released from the Svartsengi power plant. It didn’t become a bathing spot until 1981. Once Icelanders realized the benefits of the milky water, they began developing the area, ultimately creating what we all know today as the Blue Lagoon.
At a shallow depth between 1.2 and 1.5 metres, most people can comfortably use the Blue Lagoon. Children are required to wear flotation devices for safety. Lagoon temperatures range between 37 and 39 degrees Celcius, ensuring visitors can use the lagoon year-round, regardless of the outdoor temperatures.
Where Is the Blue Lagoon?
The Blue Lagoon in Iceland is located near Svartsengi, one of the largest geothermal power plants in the country. The water in the lagoon is sourced from the run-off from the power plant, giving it the milky-blue appearance and mineral-rich makeup. The lagoon is about a 20-minute drive from Keflavík airport where most people arrive and 45 minutes from Reykjavík.
Getting to the Blue Lagoon
Once you have booked your time at the Blue Lagoon, your next question is likely how to get there. If you’re staying in one of the Blue Lagoon hotels discussed below, you will find yourself right in the center of the action with no need to book transportation. Many guests arrive via their rental cars as a self-drive or book a transfer with one of several companies offering the service.
Free onsite parking is available for visitors who self-drive to the Blue Lagoon. Transfers typically have flexible arrival times, allowing guests to arrive on time. However, if you are delayed, the Blue Lagoon offers entry up to one hour after your chosen time.
When Should I Book Blue Lagoon?
Many visitors book the Blue Lagoon in Iceland to coordinate with their arrival due to its proximity to Keflavík airport. However, others prefer to leave the Blue Lagoon until the end of their trip. Still other travelers choose a Blue Lagoon tour, typically including the Golden Circle, to make a full day of it.
The answer to when you should book the Blue Lagoon is entirely up to your personal preferences. It is, however, advised to book ahead to ensure you can get a spot. Walk-ins can be challenging to get due to the popularity of this destination. You don’t have to worry about booking ahead as the lagoon offers a generous cancellation policy with a full refund available with at least 24 hours ’ notice.
It doesn’t matter if you visit the Blue Lagoon in the summer or winter. Icelanders bathe in the geothermal waters found throughout the country throughout the year and in any weather. Some individuals prefer to visit first thing in the morning when crowds are low, while others opt to book the Blue Lagoon at night with the hopes of seeing the northern lights.
Blue Lagoon bookings are available between 7:00 and 23:00 from June 22 until August 20. Winter hours last from August 21 until June 21, with openings from 8:00 until 22:00. Special hours may occur on holidays, including Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve.
How Much Is the Blue Lagoon?
The Blue Lagoon price can vary depending on the season and which package you purchase. The Comfort Package starts at around €65, the Premium Package is around €86, and the Signature Package begins at €110. Children 13 and under are free.
The Comfort Package includes entry to the Blue Lagoon, one silica mud mask, a towel for use, and one drink. The Premium Package adds an extra drink, two additional masks, and a bathrobe to use during your visit. The Signature Package provides guests with two iconic masks to take home. All guests can also use the sauna and steam room during their visit.
What Should I Wear?
While showering without a bathing suit is expected before entering the Blue Lagoon, guests are expected to wear swimwear while using the lagoon and the other amenities. All types of swimwear are allowed, from bikinis to burkinis. Swimsuit rentals are also available for those who have either forgotten theirs at home or don’t wish to use them in the silica-rich water.
Guests are welcome to bring flip-flops, sandals, or watershoes, but footwear is not a requirement and visitors will spend little time out of the water. Bathrobes are included in some packages for guests to use when taking a break from the lagoon or enjoying food at one of the restaurants or cafes.
What to Expect When Visiting the Blue Lagoon
After you complete the showering process and are in your bathing suit, it’s time to enjoy the lagoon. Upon entering the lagoon, you can find your ideal spot. The temperature can vary in different areas of the lagoon, so you may find some areas too cool or warm for your liking. A visit to the in-water bar allows you to enjoy your complimentary drink, along with any others you wish to purchase.
In addition to the lagoon itself, you can add on various amenities to enhance your experience. In addition to the in-water bar, there is an in-water mask bar. Since all packages include at least one mask, don’t forget to stop by. You can also book an in-water massage or float therapy for extra relaxation.
The Blue Lagoon’s silica-rich water is known for its healing properties, particularly for those with skin conditions like psoriasis. However, the minerals can be tough on hair. Many people recommend lathering your hair with conditioner and keeping it out of the water as much as possible to protect it from drying out.
Take the Blue Lagoon Home with You
After enjoying your time in the lagoon, you can purchase Blue Lagoon skincare items to take the benefits home with you. You’ll find a vast selection of skincare products like mud masks, eye serums and creams, moisturizers, cleansers, hair treatments, and more. These products are also available at the Blue Lagoon stores with locations at the airport and in Reykjavík.
Where Should I Stay When Visiting the Blue Lagoon?
Determining where to stay when visiting the Blue Lagoon depends on your preferences and budget. Many people commute to the Blue Lagoon while staying in one of Reykjavík’s many hotels. However, you will find several options close to the lagoon if you prefer to stay close by.
The Blue Lagoon itself offers several hotel options at varying price points. The Silica Hotel is a boutique hotel offering a private lagoon experience to its guests. A gourmet breakfast is included. For those who have a higher budget, The Retreat Hotel is a more luxurious experience with access to the exclusive lagoon and the spa with various spa treatments available. This hotel offers a gourmet breakfast, Icelandic coffee time, and morning yoga.
In addition to the onsite hotels, there are other hotels near the Blue Lagoon in Iceland. These hotels often book fast, so it’s important to book as early as possible to ensure you can stay close to the lagoon.
Where Can I Eat at the Blue Lagoon?
There’s no shortage of places to eat while you visit the Blue Lagoon. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack before or after your swim or you want a luxurious dining experience to celebrate a special occasion, there’s something for everyone.
The Lava Restaurant offers a gourmet dining experience with fresh local ingredients. This beautifully designed restaurant feels as if you’re dining inside a lava cave. Diners can choose from various items from the a la carte menu or consider the Icelandic tasting menu to get a taste of Icelandic cuisine.
The Moss Restaurant is a Michelin-star restaurant offering delectable Icelandic dishes. The restaurant features a set seven-course menu with or without wine pairing options. Their menu changes with the season and is also available with a vegan menu to accommodate everyone.
The Spa Restaurant offers a more casual dining experience at the Blue Lagoon. In fact, you are welcome to dine in your robe and return to the lagoon afterward. The menu offers a selection of light dishes that make a perfect snack or small meal while enjoying everything the Blue Lagoon offers.
Finally, Blue Café provides various snacks and refreshments with no reservations required. The cafe is open at the same hours as the Blue Lagoon and allows visitors to enjoy breakfast, lunch, or a quick snack whenever they wish.
Blue Lagoon Facts
Here are a few interesting facts you should know about the Blue Lagoon:
- Children as young as two years are allowed in the lagoon.
- You are welcome to stay as long as you like up until closing.
- Luggage storage is available at the entrance for those who need it.
- The Blue Lagoon is wheelchair accessible.
- Psoriasis treatments are available and may even be covered by insurance.
- Booking ahead is highly recommended to avoid being turned away.
- The water in the lagoon renews about every 48 hours.
- The milky-blue color comes from the silica, algae, and other minerals in the water.
Is Blue Lagoon Safe?
The biggest question visitors today have about the Blue Lagoon in Iceland is whether it is safe to visit. In recent years, several volcanoes have erupted in the nearby area, leaving guests wondering if they can still visit the Blue Lagoon or Iceland in general.
The quick answer is yes, the Blue Lagoon has been deemed safe for visitors. While the Blue Lagoon does close immediately following an eruption, once the eruption has calmed and the authorities have cleared the area, the Blue Lagoon will reopen as usual. However, guests should be aware that evacuations can occur unexpectedly at any time of day or night.
Are You Ready to Enjoy the Thrill of the Blue Lagoon?
If rest and relaxation is part of your ideal Iceland journey, the Blue Lagoon is a must-do. It’s in the perfect location to enjoy on your first or last day or as part of a longer tour. Even if you book the best campervan rental, you can visit the Blue Lagoon at your leisure and enjoy this iconic geothermal spa.
