Your Guide to Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach in Iceland

Iceland is well known for its natural beauty and dramatic landscapes, and the stunning seascapes and coastlines on this rugged volcanic island are no exception. From unique rock formations to towering cliffs and unusual-colored sand, Iceland’s beaches are truly unforgettable. Perhaps Iceland’s most famous beach, Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach, draws visitors from around the world thanks to its volcanic sand and moody atmosphere. 

Rich in folklore and providing a true visual experience, Reynisfjara Beach is well worth a visit. In this guide, we’ll provide you with all the information you need for an unforgettable experience, including how to get there, where to stay, safety information, and more. 

How to get to Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach

Located along Iceland’s south coast, Reynisfjara is located just 15 minutes east of the nearby village of Vik. If departing from Iceland’s capital, Reykjavík, you’ll need to depart the city heading west and join Route 1 (The Ring Road) for roughly 2 hours and 45 minutes. The journey is about 116 miles (188 km) in total. 

Hiring a rental car and making the journey to Reynisfjara is a wonderful way to get out and explore Iceland at your own pace, and it’s important to know that public transport in Iceland is limited. Another option is to join an organized tour, many of which depart Reykjavík for day tours all throughout the year. 

Please note that there is a parking fee at the designated parking lot for Reynisfjara Beach. You can expect to pay between $6-$7 UDS (1,000 ISK) as you enter the lot. 

What to See at Reynisfjara Beach

The unique geological makeup of Reynisfjara means that there’s plenty to soak in when you visit. The dark-as-night sands are not the only stunning feature here, so make sure to bring your smartphone or camera for some amazing photo opportunities. 

Reynisdrangar Sea Stacks

The unusual rocks emerging from the sea just a short distance from the shore at Reynisfjara are called the Reynisdrangar Sea Stacks. The highest of these stacks stands at 217 feet tall (66 m) and is called Langsamur. The rocks are home to many nesting birds throughout the year and form an important part of the ecosystem at Reynisfjara. 

Reynisdrangar Sea Stacks would have originally been part of the main cliff line at Reynisfjara, but due to constant erosion and exposure to crashing waves over many thousands of years, the stacks eventually separated and became the free-standing monoliths we see today. They’re also an important part of Icelandic folklore. It is believed that the formations are the remnants of trolls who worked pulling ships to shore and were caught by the dawn, freezing them forever in the form of the towering columns that fascinate visitors every year. 

Reynisfjara Basalt Columns 

Located at the base of Mount Reynisfjall, where the cliffs meet the sea, you’ll find some of the most amazing basalt columns in all of Iceland. Take the chance to admire the formations, but do not climb on them. There have been a number of small landslides in the area over the years. Admire from a safe distance and snap as many photos as you like! 

Wildlife

Reynisfjara is a great location for glimpsing Icelandic wildlife. For the most part, the cliffs and sea stacks provide perfect nesting areas for many species of birds. From April through August, you’re likely to spot puffins nesting along the cliffs. 

The area is also home to species like the Arctic tern, guillemots, kittiwakes, and fulmars. Pro tip: if you’re interested in Icelandic birdlife, make sure to bring a pair of binoculars to Reynisfjara! 

You might also be lucky enough to spot seals lounging on the black sands or bobbing in the dark waters along the shore. The species you’re most likely to see is the harbor seal, easily identified by its spotted fur patterns, or possibly grey seals, though they tend to prefer more isolated areas. 

Safety Tips for Visiting Reynisfjara

Despite its eerie beauty, Reynisfjara is actually incredibly dangerous. It’s important that when you visit, you follow all advice posted on signs within the area and do not explore areas that are blocked off. 

Most importantly, do not enter the water. In fact, you should always keep a safe distance from the water. This beach is known for its infamous “Sneaker Waves,” which are unpredictable and powerful waves that can surge much further and higher than typical waves. The Sneaker Waves at Reynisfjara are unusually strong due to the powerful Atlantic currents. Even if the waves appear calm, stay well back so that you’re not at risk of any unexpected waves. 

Where to Stay Near Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach

After a day of exploring the area, you may want to spend the night near Reynisfjara. This is a great idea if you’re planning to continue exploring Iceland’s south coast or move on to other regions the following day, and equally as logical if you plan to head back to Reykjavík.

• The nearby village of Vik offers plenty of accommodation options. Popular hotels include Hotel Vik, Hotel Kria, and Hotel Katla. 

• The Barn Hostel also provides modern accommodation at slightly more affordable prices. 

• If you’re looking for something a bit more unique, there are a number of Airbnb options and farm accommodations that you can find with a bit of research. 

• If you’re partial to camping, the Vik Camping Site offers great options at affordable prices. 

Where to Eat Near Reynisfjara

There are plenty of dining opportunities near the beach, no matter what you’re looking for. If you’re just after a quick bite to eat after exploring the beach for a couple of hours before heading on your way, the Black Beach Restaurant is conveniently located right next to Reynisfjara Beach and offers amazing views of the rock formations. Enjoy fresh seafood dishes, a traditional Icelandic fair, and a range of drinks and desserts.

If you’d like to spend more time in the area or plan to stay overnight, venture into the village of Vik for more options, like Halldórskaffi, open for lunch and dinner. On the menu, you will find crowd-pleasers like Icelandic lamb burgers, locally caught fish and chips, soups, pizzas, and more. 

Smidjan Brewery is another popular option, especially with lovers of local craft beers. Enjoy foods that pair perfectly with a pint, like gourmet burgers, loaded fries, and pulled pork sandwiches.  

Other Black Sand Beaches Worth Visiting in Iceland

Reynisfjara may be the most well-known black sand beach in Iceland, but it’s certainly not the only one. The south of Iceland boasts several examples of black sand beaches, thanks to the geological features of the area, a result of volcanic activity. After a volcanic eruption, lava cools and solidifies after flowing into the sea. Over many years, that lava is broken down by powerful waves and churned into the sand and small rocks that make up the shoreline of these incredible beaches. 

If these stunning coastlines call to you, you’ll want to check out Black Lava Pearl Beach at Djúpalónssandur, Diamond Beach, Solheimasandur, and Stokksnes. 

Now you’ve got everything you need to experience the best of Iceland’s Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach. Our team is passionate about Iceland’s sights, so make sure to ask any questions you may have when collecting your rental car! We’ll be happy to assist.

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