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If you’re dreaming of soaking in Iceland’s famous hot springs, chances are Sky Lagoon, Iceland is already on your radar. This oceanside spa opened in 2021 and quickly became one of the must-do experiences near Reykjavík.
Perched on the edge of Kársnes harbour, Sky Lagoon feels like it’s suspended between sea and sky. From the edge of its infinity pool, you’ll almost feel like you’re soaking in the Atlantic Ocean itself.
Add a swim-up bar and a 7-step Ritual that’ll leave you floating on cloud nine, and you’ll quickly see why it’s earned the hype.
Read on to find out why Sky Lagoon is worth visiting, along with insider tips on what to expect, spa etiquette and more.
- Pamper yourself at Sky Lagoon on a relaxing Icelandic spa break
Where is the Sky Lagoon in Iceland?
You’ll find the Sky Lagoon in Kópavogur, a small town just 15 minutes from Reykjavík’s city centre. This makes it one of the closest premium spas to the capital, and an easy experience to tick off if you’re only here on a short city break.
You’ll get to soak in one of Iceland’s top geothermal pools, yet you’re still close enough to be back in town for dinner.
You can also easily tie in a visit with other activities, like a classic Golden Circle tour. After chasing waterfalls and geysers, sink into the lagoon and watch the sun melt into the ocean.
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How to get to Sky Lagoon from Reykjavík
If you’re exploring Iceland on a road trip, getting to the lagoon is easy. It’s a short drive from downtown Reykjavík, with free parking on site, plus charging stations if you’ve got an electric car.
Otherwise, it’s also easy to reach Sky Lagoon using public transport. Take bus number 4 from Hlemmur Square to Hamraborg, then hop on bus 35 to Hafnarbraut. From here, it’s only a short walk to the spa. But always remember to check routes before you go.
During the warmer summer months, you could even cycle there. The route’s straightforward and the total distance is roughly 6 kilometres (3.7 miles).
When you visit Sky Lagoon with Nordic Visitor, a shared transfer to the spa is included in your package. Think of it as one less thing to think about when you’re planning the perfect spa day – no planning, no stress, just straight to the lagoon.
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Is Sky Lagoon natural?
At first glance, you’d swear Sky Lagoon was carved straight from the coastline. In truth, it’s man-made, but built to trick your senses.
The spa was designed to feel like you’ve stumbled onto some hidden natural wonder. The pool’s infinity edge blends with the horizon, and the turf walls look like they’ve been there for centuries.
What is natural, though, is the water. It’s geothermal, heated to a toasty 38-40°C (100-104°F) by the Earth’s own energy. That means you still get the real benefits of soaking in natural hot springs. The minerals in geothermal water are said to detoxify, relax muscles and leave your skin refreshed.
So while the setting is carefully designed, the experience you’ll have is as authentically Icelandic as it gets.
Should I book Sky Lagoon in advance?
Yes, we definitely recommend booking in advance. Planning ahead guarantees your spot, especially during the busier summer months of June, July and August.
When you reserve your visit, you’ll choose between 2 main packages. Both include access to the lagoon and one journey through the 7-step Ritual.
The Saman Pass gives you entry with shared changing facilities, while the premium Sér Pass comes with a private changing room, your own vanity, and use of the spa’s Sky Body Lotion.
If you’re visiting with a loved one, you might like the Sky Lagoon for Two package. You’ll each get a drink and share a tasting platter at Smakk Bar. There are also different versions of this package, including morning and festive options, so you can choose the one that suits you best.
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What to bring to Sky Lagoon
Sky Lagoon has world-class amenities, so you really don’t need to pack much for your visit. That said, it’s worth having a few essentials in your bag:
- Swimwear
- Wallet or payment card
- Toiletry bag to freshen up with afterwards
- Sunglasses (for sunny days)
- Reusable water bottle
It’s important to stay hydrated when you’re soaking in warm, geothermal waters. You’ll find water fountains to refill your bottle in the changing room and at the lagoon itself.
If you’re visiting the spa on your way to or from the airport, there’s a luggage storage service for a small fee.
- Find out what to pack for your trip to Iceland in this handy travel guide
Is Sky Lagoon accessible?
Yes, Sky Lagoon is wheelchair accessible. The spa has put thought into making the experience welcoming for everyone. You’ll find accessible changing rooms, showers, and a chairlift to help you get into the lagoon safely.
And if you need extra privacy while changing, they also offer individual changing spaces.
For visitors with health conditions, like epilepsy, high-visibility wristbands are available at reception. This lets the safety staff know to keep an eye out for you during your visit.
A gentle heads-up: If you have cardiovascular conditions, high or low blood pressure, or other underlying health concerns, please consult your doctor before your visit.
What can I expect when I visit Sky Lagoon, Reykjavík?
When you arrive, you’ll be handed a towel and a waterproof wristband. This clever little band works as both your locker key and your payment method. So, if you fancy a drink from the swim-up bar or a snack later on, you won’t need to fumble with cash.
Next, it’s time to get changed. No matter which pass you’ve purchased, all changing rooms come equipped with:
- Secure lockers
- Private showers stocked with shower gel, shampoo, and conditioner
- Fresh towels
- Blow dryers
- Plastic bags for your wet swimwear
What’s the etiquette at Sky Lagoon?
Geothermal bathing is part of daily life in Iceland, a tradition going back generations. And like most traditions, there’s a little etiquette worth knowing.
As with all spas in the country, you’ll need to remove your shoes before entering the changing areas. You’ll also need to shower before putting on your swimwear and going into the lagoon.
From the showers, you’ll step straight through a cave-like entrance and into the lagoon itself. Grab a drink at the swim-up bar, head to the infinity edge and soak up the endless ocean views.
Top tip: If you take a break from the water or use the toilet in the changing area, remember to shower again before returning.
- Related: Nordic spa and wellness traditions
What is the Sky Lagoon Ritual?
Sky Lagoon isn’t just about the soak. During your visit, you can experience something called Skjól (pronounced sh-ool), a 7-step Ritual inspired by Icelandic bathing culture.
I always recommend clients take their time to enjoy the 7-step Ritual and not to rush. – Viðja, Iceland-based Manager
Here’s what the 7 stages of the ritual involve:
1. Laug (“lagoon”)
Your journey starts in the geothermal pool. Take your time to soak in the mineral-rich waters, and when you’re ready, make your way to the cold plunge pool.
2. Kuldi (“cold”)
Next, brace yourself for a brisk 5°C (41°F) dip that jolts every cell awake. Don’t worry – it’s quicker than you think, and gives you a natural energy boost.
3. Ylur (“warmth”)
Afterwards, head inside a traditional grass-roofed turf house. There, you’ll warm up in a sauna with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. Take in the surreal views while the dry heat opens your pores.
4. Súld (“drizzle”)
Cool down in a cloud of cold mist. Locals have been doing this dance between hot and cold for centuries. They swear it gets your blood pumping and boosts your immune system.
5. Mýkt (“softness”)
Exfoliate with the spa’s signature Sky Body Scrub. Your skin will thank you later – seriously, you’ll glow.
6. Gufa (“steam”)
Take a seat in the steam room infused with essential oils, and let the body scrub’s minerals work their magic.
7. Saft (“juice”)
On your way back to the lagoon, enjoy a shot of juice made from krækiber. These are the wild crowberries that grow scattered across Iceland’s lava fields.
By now, you’re deeply relaxed, your skin is glowing and you’re already planning your next visit.
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How long do people stay at Sky Lagoon?
There’s no time limit at Sky Lagoon, so you can stay as long as you want. We recommend planning for at least 1.5 to 2 hours to enjoy the full spa experience. This gives you enough time to first soak in the geothermal pool and move through the Skjól Ritual at your own pace.
If you want to stretch the experience even longer, the spa has 2 tempting spots for food and drink. At Smakk Bar – “smakk” means “taste” in Icelandic – you can sample a platter of locally-sourced flavours. Think creamy cheeses, freshly baked rye bread and slices of smoked lamb.
If you prefer something lighter, head to Keimur Café for a warm drink or a quick bite to eat. Just remember you’ll need to be fully dressed to dine at either.
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When are the best times to visit Sky Lagoon?
Sky Lagoon is open daily, year-round, so you can add it to your plans anytime you’re in Iceland. Just check the official Sky Lagoon website for opening hours, as they can change seasonally.
For a quieter experience, aim to visit early morning. You’ll often find fewer people, especially on a weekday, and have more of the lagoon to yourself.
Visit Iceland between June and August to pair your spa experience with the magical phenomenon of the midnight sun. You can soak in the golden light late into the evening, with the sun still visible across the water. It’s surreal in the best possible way.
Outside of the summer months, we recommend timing your visit for sunset. Imagine watching the sky turn amber and rose from the edge of the infinity pool. That’s the kind of moment you’ll remember long after you’ve dried off.
I usually recommend going in the afternoon or evening to catch the sunset – though keep in mind this doesn’t apply during the midnight sun months. – Viðja, Iceland-based Manager
If you’re here in winter, come after dark and you might catch the northern lights shimmering above the lagoon. From October to March, the nights are long enough to give you the best chance at spotting them.
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Sky Lagoon or Blue Lagoon: What’s the difference?
Because they’re 2 of Iceland’s most luxurious spas close to Reykjavík, Sky Lagoon and Blue Lagoon often get compared.
The truth is, both geothermal spas are worth experiencing. It really just depends on the vibe you’re after. And if you’ve got the time, why not try both?
The Blue Lagoon is the country’s oldest and most famous man-made spa, known worldwide for its iconic milky-blue waters surrounded by lava fields.
Sky Lagoon, on the other hand, offers drama of a different kind. Its infinity-edge pool seems to spill straight into the Atlantic, and the 7-step Ritual is a must-try experience.
Like Sky Lagoon, you’ll find lots of world-class amenities at the Blue Lagoon: saunas and steam rooms, a swim-up bar and even an in-water mask bar. That’s where you can pamper yourself with their signature silica face mask, which is included with your ticket.
Top tip: Avoid getting your hair wet at the Blue Lagoon. The high-silica water can leave it feeling stiff and dry. At Sky Lagoon, however, your hair is perfectly safe to get wet.
Both spas are close to the capital. But Sky Lagoon is just 15 minutes from the city centre, while the Blue Lagoon is a 45-minute drive out on the Reykjanes peninsula.
If you’re visiting Iceland with kids, the Blue Lagoon is the more family-friendly choice, welcoming little ones over the age of 2. Meanwhile, Sky Lagoon is more adult-focused, with entry from 12 years and up.
Bottom line? You can’t go wrong with either. Both give you that quintessential Icelandic spa experience. But Sky Lagoon is perfect if you want something more sleek and modern, close to the city and ocean-facing.
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- Related: Your complete guide to Iceland’s Blue Lagoon
Enjoy the Sky Lagoon experience with Nordic Visitor
There’s a specific moment at Sky Lagoon that stays with you. Steam rising off the water, the sea stretching out ahead, the sky changing colours above.
You’ll step out feeling refreshed and ready to continue your adventure, exploring waterfalls, glaciers and all the wonders Iceland has in store.
With Nordic Visitor, you can add a moment of R&R to any of these Icelandic spa vacation packages.
If you want to travel independently, you could add a Sky Lagoon visit to a self-drive tour of Iceland. Prefer not to drive? Join a small group tour or multi-day trip. Or explore Iceland with your very own private guide.
No matter how you choose to travel, your Reykjavík-based travel consultant will make sure Sky Lagoon is seamlessly built into your Iceland trip.
Contact our travel experts today and start planning your Icelandic getaway.
