Reynisfjara Beach
Reynisfjara Beach
4.5
About
This stunning black sand beach along the South Coast of Iceland is located beside the small fishing village of Vik i Myrdal. It's known for its dramatic natural landscapes: hexagonal basalt columns, the Halsanefshellir Sea Cave, and large rock formations that rise out of the sea. But be careful when visiting though—the spot is prone to sneaker waves that can crash ashore unexpectedly. Try to keep a safe distance of at least 100 feet from the shoreline, and avoid turning your back towards the waves. This spot is often included as a stop on a full-day tour of the South Coast. – Tripadvisor
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- sabrinak136New Orleans, Louisiana1,499 contributionsA Mighty Beach…..Reynisfjara BeachWhen one thinks of the beach our thinking normally is synonymous with beach chairs, swimwear, and beach towels. However, a visit to Reynisfjara Beach will be an experience quite different from a normal beach day but one that is extremely memorable. Reynisfjara Beach is located on the South Coast of Iceland in the town of Vik approximately two and a half hours from downtown Reykjavik. The first rule for visiting Reynisfjara Beach is to remember that there are rules that must be followed due to the sneaker waves which have such magnitude that an individual can be easily swept out into the ocean. It is often said to never turn your back on Reynisfjara Beach and to keep a safe distance of 100 feet. There is also a warning system that is the color of a traffic light to remind tourists to exercise caution at all times. Reynisfjara Beach is a site to behold and I can understand why it was featured in a Season of Game of Thrones. The basalt columns are amazing to behold. Iceland is the land of fire and ice and these columns allow one to see firsthand volcanic rock that is formed from the solidification of molten lava. It is said that basalt is resistant to erosion and weathering. Many people come to this beach to take photographs of the amazing basalt columns and to observe in awe the work of Mother Nature. Visiting Reynisfjara Beach was one amazing moment; however, one must remember that safety is paramount so be careful because the waters along Reynisfjara Beach have the potential to be unpredictable, dangerous, and powerful. Proceed with caution!Visited July 2023Travelled with familyWritten 18 February 2024
- mohzan hKuala Lumpur, Malaysia495 contributionsBlack Beach / Basalt cliffStrong Sneaker waves also known as killer waves , capable of draging you into the deep cool sea to your death if you are too close, the sand looks beautiful n safe but deadly. The peebles are beautiful and soft & shiny with different sizes. The cliff are basalt column. There is a bar/ restaurant , check the prices before you order, a bit expensive.Visited March 2024Travelled with friendsWritten 31 March 2024
- SydneyPerla656 contributionsDangerous but beautifulYes, there are warnings. Yes, there are dangerous sneaker waves. Yes, there are even traffic lights showing the intensity of danger. And what do a lot of tourists? They ignore it and get wer or - die in the current. So the warnings not to turn your back to the ocean is true. For the time we were there (which was about an hour so) three people got very wet, one was fully covered by the wave. Nevertheless the beach is simply beautiful: black pebbles and a stunning stone cave. Maybe you try to avoid the tourist buses which is not easy. But even with them you can find a spot for yourself. You need to pay a parking fee of 1000 ISK, which is about 8 Euros. There are toilets and a restaurant. Maybe Bring some clothes in case you get wet.Visited April 2024Travelled as a coupleWritten 5 April 2024
- Jane BGuildford, United Kingdom442 contributionsGeologically awesomeStill surprised how many people get far too close to the shore line despite it being known for its dangerous sneaker waves. Keep your distance and enjoy the amazing geology on show. As an aside the toilet/cafe block is a fabulous black architectual delight, so in keepign with the surroundings.Visited March 2024Travelled as a coupleWritten 10 April 2024
- maaparMount Pleasant, South Carolina966 contributionsWitness the force of nature hereYou can witness the power of nature here. The sneaker waves are real and, of course, you see people getting way too close to the water. I enjoyed the black sand and rock formations but wonder why you have to pay for parking when there are other black sand beaches that you can visit for free.Visited June 2024Travelled as a coupleWritten 25 June 2024
- JanQQQBraunschweig, Germany1,668 contributionsYou just have to get there early enough...... because there is no other solution to the tourist crowd. Oneself - myself included - is part of the phenomenon when one shows up there. If you get there before 10 a.m. during the week, it goes and you can also find one or the other 10-second window to take a photo of the basalt formations without tourists on it. With a bit of shouting and the request to wait a moment longer with the climbing it is also possible. Parking costs (of course) another thousand. If you walk about 200 meters east or west you are alone. Interesting phenomenon, because everyone apparently just wants to take a crawl photo in the basalt and then disappear again. Good restaurant & cafe and you can sit wonderfully outside on the terrace. When I was there it was windless and no sign of waves, let alone anything with killer waves. But the danger seems real and the problem is the low water temperature of the North Atlantic. Even in summer, in 5 degrees cold in the water, your strength leaves after 15-20 minutes.Visited July 2024Travelled soloWritten 10 July 2024
- jjlukeCalgary, Canada2,046 contributionsGreat rock formations and black beach, can get crowdedThis is a popular beach with black sand and a neat cave with rock formations over to the side. Quick tips: there is a cost to park here, so be sure to factor that in. There is food nearby but it is not cheap. This place can get very busy relative to other spots. Be aware of the dangerous waves when on the beach and exercise caution unlike others who go onto the rocks waiting to be swept in. We barely spent 15 min here which wasn't worth it for us with the paid parking and there are much better things to see, so the second time around we can skip it. Please kindly indicate if you found this review to be helpful!Visited May 2024Travelled as a coupleWritten 21 July 2024
- Blondevoyage94507 contributionsBlack beach with rainRing Road stage: one of my favourite stages. Immense basalt columns. Very black beach. We were there during a bad rainy day unfortunately, but it made everything more suggestive. Parking is charged with the Parka app. Check the traffic lights before going down to the beach! Look up too, despite the rain was full of Puffins!Visited July 2024Travelled with friendsWritten 28 July 2024
- Julie KHowell, Michigan6 contributionsUnique experienceThis is such a unique experience! The basalt columns and cave are very cool to see up close. Climbing up a couple of columns makes for a great photo op! There is some interesting folklore about the basalt rock formations located in the water near the shore. Keep an eye out for puffins, they like to gather on the rocks above the cave. There is a cafe, and restrooms are available.Visited August 2024Travelled with familyWritten 4 August 2024
- Mark L5 contributionsUnique and beautiful beachAbsolutely unique and stunningly beautiful. The black sand, cave, unique rock structures and puffins flying above. Please be aware it can be very dangerous so be aware of the ocean and warning signs to alert you to conditions.Visited August 2024Travelled with familyWritten 9 August 2024
These reviews are the subjective opinion of Tripadvisor members and not of TripAdvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
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blackeberg
Stockholm, Sweden790 contributions
Jun 2023
We went in the middle of the evening after seeing a forecast for severe gales the day that we had planned to go. I imagine that you'd get good photos at most times but the evening sun definitely helped in our case. We'd seen the warnings about sneaker waves in advance and the coloured picture warning boards looked clear enough to us. It didn't stop one large family group taking pictures with their backs to the waves and letting their toddler paddle. Luckily they only got wet shoes.
Written 2 July 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Charlotte E
Sydney, Australia6 contributions
Feb 2024 • Friends
I visited Reynisfjara Beach in Vik this year, and it was one of the most stunning places I've ever experienced! The contrast of the black sand against the ocean, along with the towering basalt columns, created a truly magical atmosphere. The Reynisdrangar sea stacks were breathtaking, and I loved learning about the local legends surrounding them.
While the beach can get crowded at times, it’s easy to find a spot to soak in the beauty and take photos. Just a friendly reminder to be cautious of the waves—they can be surprisingly strong, so it’s best to keep a safe distance.
Overall, Reynisfjara is a must-see in Iceland. It left me in awe, and I can’t recommend it enough!
While the beach can get crowded at times, it’s easy to find a spot to soak in the beauty and take photos. Just a friendly reminder to be cautious of the waves—they can be surprisingly strong, so it’s best to keep a safe distance.
Overall, Reynisfjara is a must-see in Iceland. It left me in awe, and I can’t recommend it enough!
Written 25 October 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
David
317 contributions
Mar 2024 • Family
Witnessing this stunning black sand beach along Iceland’s South Coast was absolutely mesmerizing, the beach is known for its natural hexagonal basalt columns, the Halsanefshellir Sea Cave, and the large rock formations that rise from the sea. I’ve never seen anything quite like this breathtaking natural landscape.
However, be cautious when visiting! The area is known for sneaker waves that can crash ashore unexpectedly as shown in the signs. I experienced one myself it didn’t knock me over, or drag me, but it did soak my wellies! So, my advice is to keep a safe distance from the shoreline to stay dry and safe. I would highly recommend visiting here while in Iceland.
PS: If accessing by car you will have to pay for parking there, there wasn't many signs indicating that so something to bare in mind.
However, be cautious when visiting! The area is known for sneaker waves that can crash ashore unexpectedly as shown in the signs. I experienced one myself it didn’t knock me over, or drag me, but it did soak my wellies! So, my advice is to keep a safe distance from the shoreline to stay dry and safe. I would highly recommend visiting here while in Iceland.
PS: If accessing by car you will have to pay for parking there, there wasn't many signs indicating that so something to bare in mind.
Written 30 December 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Leza H
London, UK664 contributions
Oct 2023 • Couples
This was definitely one of our highlights on our recent trip to Iceland. The black sand, the amazing black shallow cave, the basalt columns and jagged rocks standing in the sea…really beautiful and very dramatic. We visited around 4.30pm and there were still a lot of other visitors even in October. Free parking right next to it. Beware of the sneaker waves, they might look fun but can catch you out…you don’t want to be pulled in to the sea. Look fir the warning light system as you enter the beach. It was amber the day we visited so we didn’t walk too far down the beach. It can get very windy and cold…wear appropriate clothing.
Written 12 October 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Bandit-One
Lucerne, Switzerland10,494 contributions
Oct 2023 • Couples
No trip to Iceland is complete without visiting Reynisfjara beach. The Black Sand Beach. At least for first-timers.
It's a very long stretch of sand. Black in colour because of the volcanic stone/soil. There are also amazing cliffs and stacks/rock formations in the sea.
On the east end you'll find the carpark, the visitor center and all the facilities. Parking comes with a fee, the beach is free to enter. Many folks just rush to the stacks, cliffs and cave. But take your time if possible. Take in the breathtaking scenery. Take a walk towards the west. As far as you like. You could actually walk all the way to the Dyrhólaey útsýnisstaður (the arch). We walked about 45min to the west. Just met two more visitors. It's peaceful and quiet. Most visitors won't walk away further than 3min. It's really too bad, since this is a major attraction and takes time to appreciate.
It really is amazing as people say. Something you need to see. Even though busy and popular it's a must-do. And people come and go quickly, so you will get some nice pics if you're patient. If you don't need a sunny, pic-perfect day, choose a cloudy/rainy one to meet even less visitors.
It's a very long stretch of sand. Black in colour because of the volcanic stone/soil. There are also amazing cliffs and stacks/rock formations in the sea.
On the east end you'll find the carpark, the visitor center and all the facilities. Parking comes with a fee, the beach is free to enter. Many folks just rush to the stacks, cliffs and cave. But take your time if possible. Take in the breathtaking scenery. Take a walk towards the west. As far as you like. You could actually walk all the way to the Dyrhólaey útsýnisstaður (the arch). We walked about 45min to the west. Just met two more visitors. It's peaceful and quiet. Most visitors won't walk away further than 3min. It's really too bad, since this is a major attraction and takes time to appreciate.
It really is amazing as people say. Something you need to see. Even though busy and popular it's a must-do. And people come and go quickly, so you will get some nice pics if you're patient. If you don't need a sunny, pic-perfect day, choose a cloudy/rainy one to meet even less visitors.
Written 24 November 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Antonio J
2 contributions
Sept 2024 • Couples
The contrast between the jet black, soft sand and the foaming ocean waves is very dramatic. When we went the ocean waves were raging which added to the experience. It was very crowded but most people hang out near the rock face and don't venture too close to the water so if you step out, get near the incoming waves, you have more space to yourself. Easy drive from Vik.
Written 20 September 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Tibor V
Dunajska Streda, Slovakia237 contributions
Sept 2024 • Friends
Black beach, not sand, white foamy waves, amazing sculptures made of stone. Just beautiful. However, one must be very cautious about the sneaker waves warning system before entering the beach. Those waves are really dangerous!
Written 26 September 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Natalie K
San Jose, CA35 contributions
Jun 2022
If you are comparing black sand beaches in Iceland, this one is better than the one in Vik. It has everything: black sand, sneaker waves, basalt columns, plenty of parking. There is a restaurant there (we didn't go in) with a pay toilet attached that appeared to take only coins. Was a little crowded in mid-June, so I'm sure it gets worse as the summer progresses.
Written 25 June 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
BrakiWorldTraveler
Belgrade, Serbia20,037 contributions
Oct 2023 • Family
I rarely use "must see" in my reviews, but Reynisfjara is that for sure.
It's located in the middle of the southern Iceland coast, almost at the most southern tip. You can easily reach it by paved road at which end is a paying big parking lot.
Have in mind it's one of the most tourist places on entire island so expect huge crowds.
The beach is just amazing, no wonder it's voted one of the worldwide top ten.
And, I say that after visiting it on the worst day we had in Iceland.
It was raining all day, clouds to ground with very strong winds putting black sand into our faces and clothes and roaring crushing big waves. But, that also left a deep impression of mother nature power. So, no matter how's the weather do come here and visit. Just follow the rules many others pointed out in terms of approaching the sea and dangerous sneaker waves.
I can only imagine (and see from pics of other travelers how it's on a sunny day).
Reynisfjara is one of reasons we'll be back in Iceland, hopefully in better weather.
It's located in the middle of the southern Iceland coast, almost at the most southern tip. You can easily reach it by paved road at which end is a paying big parking lot.
Have in mind it's one of the most tourist places on entire island so expect huge crowds.
The beach is just amazing, no wonder it's voted one of the worldwide top ten.
And, I say that after visiting it on the worst day we had in Iceland.
It was raining all day, clouds to ground with very strong winds putting black sand into our faces and clothes and roaring crushing big waves. But, that also left a deep impression of mother nature power. So, no matter how's the weather do come here and visit. Just follow the rules many others pointed out in terms of approaching the sea and dangerous sneaker waves.
I can only imagine (and see from pics of other travelers how it's on a sunny day).
Reynisfjara is one of reasons we'll be back in Iceland, hopefully in better weather.
Written 28 November 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Rudi Rudi
Washington DC, DC2,086 contributions
Aug 2021
How often can you see something you had never imagined?
These black towering basalt formations will inspire the feeling of awe and wonder.
Driving from the main road follow the sign along a curvy side road, past a picture perfect church, which will lead you to a crowded parking lot. There is a cafe and bathrooms. The restaurant requests you pay for the restrooms if you are not a patron.
It is a short walk to the black sand beach. Crawl onto the columns. Attempt self-ies. No need to hurry in August.
Reynisfjara is not Reynisdrangur or Reynisfjall or the geothermal river named Reykjadalur. Be careful when programing GPS in your rental. Or double check your entry on your cell phone. An auto-fill feature can be disastrous.
It is a 2.5 hour drive from Reykjavik. However, it actually took me 4 hours to arrive because I stopped at Dryholaey and several waterfalls on my way. After visiting these grand natural temples, I was disappointed visiting the beach at Vik. Dryholaey, Vik and Reynisfjara are all different, yet, very close together. They seem to share the same shore on the south of Iceland.
The hardest part of this adventure is trying to take a picture to truly capture its magnificence.
These black towering basalt formations will inspire the feeling of awe and wonder.
Driving from the main road follow the sign along a curvy side road, past a picture perfect church, which will lead you to a crowded parking lot. There is a cafe and bathrooms. The restaurant requests you pay for the restrooms if you are not a patron.
It is a short walk to the black sand beach. Crawl onto the columns. Attempt self-ies. No need to hurry in August.
Reynisfjara is not Reynisdrangur or Reynisfjall or the geothermal river named Reykjadalur. Be careful when programing GPS in your rental. Or double check your entry on your cell phone. An auto-fill feature can be disastrous.
It is a 2.5 hour drive from Reykjavik. However, it actually took me 4 hours to arrive because I stopped at Dryholaey and several waterfalls on my way. After visiting these grand natural temples, I was disappointed visiting the beach at Vik. Dryholaey, Vik and Reynisfjara are all different, yet, very close together. They seem to share the same shore on the south of Iceland.
The hardest part of this adventure is trying to take a picture to truly capture its magnificence.
Written 22 August 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Is it possible to walk from the town of Vik to reynisfjara beach?
Written 27 December 2020
Did you drive up from the "Cave" side of the cliffs or from the Vik side? Can anyone drive or hike up above the sea stacks? Where does this road/trail begin?
Written 17 April 2019
It is possible to hike up on the west side of Reynifsfjall mountain, and east side.
There is a road on the east side (where the village is). The road is closed to traffic but you can hike up. The road links to the Ring road.
There is a narrow road on the western side (closer to Reykjavik), this path goes up near near the church.
Be careful at the top!
Written 18 April 2019
Any hotels on the beach near here?
Written 18 November 2018
Hello! I didn’t see any hotels nearby, and when we were planning our trip, every hotel in Vik was booked! We headed back west that evening and stayed in a charming bed and breakfast in Stokkseyri called Heba Guesthouse. I highly recommend it! The traditional Icelandic breakfast is phenomenal, and the guesthouse is on the ocean. Stunning view!
Written 18 November 2018
Hello! How much time would you say you need to explore the beach? How far is it from the parking lot? Just want to make sure we plan accordingly!
Thanks!!
Written 29 August 2018
Sorry, but it’s not letting me answer
Written 31 August 2018
You mention going at "off times," but do you know when that would be. Since we'll be staying near there overnight, I'm wondering if we're better going late in the evening (since still light)?
Written 21 July 2018
Anytime before 10am and after 6pm are great. Mostly day tours come from Reykjavik so they get there during peak hours
Written 24 August 2018
How far away is this location from Reykjavik? Is it possible to drive here in a car?
Written 28 February 2018
It’s about 3-31/2 hours from Reykjavík depending on the weather. You can drive right up to the beach which is near Vik.
Written 3 March 2018
What is considered "early" morning to have the best chance to see puffins? 0600? 0700? 0800? etc.?
Written 28 July 2017
Local people said that 7 a.m. should be OK. Or between 20-21 evening Puffins come back from fishing
Written 29 July 2017
Is it possible to walk to Reynisfjara Beach from the beach at Vik or what is the best way to get here? We will have a 2 WD. Thank you.
Written 1 July 2017
The two beaches are separated by water, so you have to drive. The road is fine for all vehicles.
Written 1 July 2017
Are there washroom and restaurant facilities at the beach?
Written 20 March 2017
There is a bathroom. You put your credit card into a machine and it charges you and gives you a ticket with a bar code to use to open the bathroom door. Some bathrooms are cheap, some are expensive and some are very expensive.This bathroom was very expensive, I cannot remember the exact amount but it was well up in dollars. We were however happy that it was available.
There was a restaurant but it was not yet open as we were there about 10am. This area is close to the town of Vik where there are also restaurants.Generally if you are using the store or restaurantin town you are not charged at these places to use the bathroom.This is great if you are driving.(:
Written 21 March 2017
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