Iceland’s South Coast is one of the most popular areas of the country to visit—and for good reason! With so many beautiful natural and cultural sites to explore, and considering its only hours by car from the capital of Reykjavik, it isn’t difficult to see why. Here’s your guide to South Coast Iceland.
What is the South Coast of Iceland?
The South Coast of Iceland is a geographical area in, you guessed it, the south of the country. A 200-mile stretch of coastline, sandwiched between Reykjavik and East Fjords, Iceland’s South Coast is a concentrated chunk of gorgeous landscapes that the Land of Fire and Ice is best known for.
Geography and Landscape of Iceland’s South Coast
From hot springs, black sand beaches to basalt columns and lagoons glittering with icebergs and glaciers, Iceland’s South Coast packs a punch when it comes to awe-inspiring scenery.
Here, waterfalls are seemingly around every corner, each more beautiful than the next, and volcanic rock formations like lava fields help tell the island’s geologic story. If you’re visiting Iceland for landscapes alone, you’ll love this condensed snippet of all the country has to offer.
What are the Key Attractions on Iceland’s South Coast?
Iceland’s South Coast is full of famous attractions, from gushing waterfalls to the largest glacier in the country. Here are the key sites to add to your itinerary for a trip to the South Coast of Iceland.
Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon
Possibly the most famous site in the South of Iceland, the Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon is tucked between the sea and the largest glacier in the country, Vatnajökull. Formed by meltwater that comes from Vatnajokull’s outlet glacier, Breidamerkurjokull, huge chunks of ice float on a sea of turquoise water. Visitors can explore the lagoon by boat or kayak from May to October.
Skógafoss waterfall
One of the largest and most impressive waterfalls in the country, Skogafoss is a must see for South Iceland visitors. Over 82’ tall and dropping over 197’, this natural wonder is sure to leave an impression. Visitors will also find that Skogafoss is extremely easy to reach, tucked just off the Ring Road.
Seljalandsfoss Waterfall
Another famous waterfall along Iceland’s South Coast, Seljalandsfoss is extra special. This is one of the only waterfalls in the country that you can actually hike behind! Reached via a short hike from the car park, be sure to bring your hiking boots and waterproof jackets for this waterfall as you’re likely to get wet.
Vik
A quintessential village near the famous Reynisfjara black sand beach, Vik is situated right on the adjacent Vikurfjara black sand beach. If you’re looking to spend the night along Iceland’s South Coast, this is a wonderful option as there are several guest houses scattered around town. You’ll also find Lava Show, the famous Vik i Myrdal Church, and the oceanfront Vik Swimming Pool. Don’t forget to grab a slice at Black Crust Pizzeria.
Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach
Possibly the most famous site in all of Iceland, Reynisfjara is a sprawling black sand beach known for its dangerous sneaker waves. Either side of the beach offers unique rock formations as well, including basalt columns and the rock arch, Dyrholaey.
Diamond Beach
Another striking stretch of sand in Southern Iceland, Diamond Beach is littered with sparkling chunks of ice, hence its name. Set against the black sand, these huge icebergs break off from the nearby Vatnajokull glacier and float through the Jökulsarlon Lagoon out to the sea.
Skaftafell Nature Reserve
A small nature reserve inside the confines of the larger Vatnajokull National Park, the Skaftafell Nature Reserve is a must stop for those who are short on time and can’t venture deeper into Vatnajokull National Park. Visitors will find the Svartifoss Waterfall, surrounded by black basalt columns, and the Skaftafellsjokull glacier along with lots of hiking trails.
Eldhraun Lava Field
Formed during the eruption of the nearby Lakagiger crater, the Eldhraun lava field is the largest lava flow in the world, stretching 220 square miles. The eruption that created these sprawling acres of frozen lava lasted for a year in the 18th century. Eldhraun is situated just off the Ring Road.
Skogar Museum
Brush up on Icelandic history at the Skogar Museum, located just off the Ring Road about 30 minutes north of Vik. Visitors will find an open air museum that displays traditional Icelandic houses, over 15,000 artifacts, and the Freya Cafe.
Solheimasandur DC-3 Plane Wreck
The remnants of a U.S. Solheimasandur is a unique experience on the South Coast of Iceland. Despite crashing on the beach in 1973, all passengers survived the accident. The plane was left here and now serves as an eerie attraction along the Ring Road.
Vatnajökull National Park
The largest national park in Iceland, this area encompasses the entire Vatnajökull glacier, the largest in Iceland and all of Europe. Visitors will find dramatic landscapes, waterfalls, lava fields, rushing rivers, and glacial lagoons. Fun activities also take place in the park, from glacier hikes to ice caving, no matter the time of year.
Activities and Tours on the South Coast of Iceland
Here are some of the activities and tours you can experience on the South Coast of Iceland – and when you can experience them!
Glacier Hiking – All Year
Glacier hiking is one of the most unique things to do along the South Coast of Iceland thanks to the area’s proximity to the Vatnajökull glacier. You’ll have the chance to step foot on the largest glacier in Europe, trekking across its undulating surface with a local guide. This is an activity you can do year-round.
Vatnajökull Ice Caves – Winter Only
The Vatnajökull ice caves form every winter in Iceland which means you could visit them each year and each experience would be different! Certified guides go in search of the ice caves as they begin to harden in freezing temperatures. You’ll have the chance to explore these frozen subterranean wonderlands if you brave the weather of Iceland’s South Coast in winter.
Jökulsarlon Boat Tour – Summer
While you can visit the Jökulsarlon Lagoon on foot, sailing across this turquoise lagoon of glittering icebergs is an otherworldly experience. If you’re visiting Iceland in summer, don’t miss your chance to hop on a boat (or kayaking) tour of the Jökulsarlon Lagoon!
Katla Ice Cave – All Year
Explore another of Iceland’s glaciers, the Myrdalsjokull glacier, on a tour of the Katla ice caves. Unlike the Vatnajokull ice caves, these ice caves can be explored year-round. Tours to the Katla ice caves typically also include the chance to walk on the glacier with crampons, take a Super Jeep, and go underground to witness the black and blue ice.
Ring Road Sightseeing – All Year
Sightseeing along the Ring Road can be done at any time of year. The South Coast of Iceland has one of the largest concentrations of attractions that are close to the road itself, making it extremely easy to hop between them. Keep in mind that road conditions can deteriorate in bad weather during the winter months.
Glacier Snowmobiling – All Year
Snowmobiling is another unique way to experience the South Coast of Iceland’s glaciers. You’ll hop aboard a snowmobile with your local guide, zooming across the top of Europe’s largest glacier. This activity can be done at any time of year.
Planning Your Trip to Iceland’s South Coast: Best Way of Getting to the South Coast of Iceland
Another huge draw for visiting Iceland’s South Coast? Most sites are accessible by paved roads! While this popular area of Iceland can be accessed on an organized tour, having your own set of wheels gives you the freedom to tailor your trip exactly as you imagine.
Renting a car is one of the best ways to explore the South Coast of Iceland and this is one of the easiest areas of the country to navigate by car. The famous Ring Road, also known as Route 1, drives right along the South Coast and this is your best bet for reaching most of the region’s famous sites.
Like all roads in Iceland, the South Coast’s are more easily navigated in the summer months. Winter brings a whole new set of challenges due to snow and ice. There’s also a chance you’ll encounter lingering snow and ice in the shoulder seasons. Prepare for your trip by checking the current road conditions in Iceland before heading out.
Why Choose Firefly Iceland Car Rental?
We’ll go ahead and toot our own horn—Firefly Iceland has some of the least expensive car rentals in the country! Not only that, our vehicles are reliable, we offer fuel discounts with our handy dandy gas station loyalty cards on every set of keys, and our staff are available to give advice on your trip and provide assistance throughout your adventures.
Whether you’re planning a quick jaunt through Iceland’s South Coast or you want to complete the entire Ring Road trip, renting a car with Firefly Iceland is your best option on a budget!
Conclusion
There’s no better way to explore the South Coast of Iceland than with your own set of wheels.Be sure to book your rental car with Firefly Iceland well in advance of your trip and get started planning today!
