Southern Peninsula, Iceland

State guide with cities, regions, and key information.

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Introduction
The Southern Peninsula (Suðurnes) is the Reykjanes Peninsula — a volcanic, wind-swept strip of land between the Capital Region and the open Atlantic. Keflavík International Airport sits here, making it the first and last landscape most visitors experience. The Blue Lagoon, Iceland's most famous single attraction, is located on the peninsula amid a moss-covered lava field. Since 2023, a series of volcanic eruptions near the town of Grindavík has added a dramatic and ongoing geological dimension to the region.

Travel Types

Blue Lagoon

The milky-blue geothermal spa set in a black lava field is Iceland's most iconic attraction. Book well in advance (especially summer). Options range from the standard Comfort package to the Retreat Hotel. Best visited en route from the airport or on the last day before departure — it is only 20 minutes from Keflavík.

Volcanic geology and geothermal activity

Gunnuhver hot springs (boiling mud, steam columns), the Seltún/Krýsuvík geothermal area (colourful mineral deposits), the Bridge Between Continents (tectonic rift), and the ongoing eruption zone near Grindavík. The entire peninsula is a UNESCO Global Geopark — every lava field, fissure, and steam vent is part of a living volcanic system.

Coastal birdlife and lighthouses

Reykjanesviti (Iceland's oldest lighthouse) sits above dramatic sea cliffs. Coastal walks along the peninsula's southern edge pass seabird colonies, wave-battered stacks, and the Valahnúkamöl pebble beach with its crashing surf.

Southern Peninsula Travel Notes
  • •Book Blue Lagoon in advance — it regularly sells out, especially in summer. Walk-in availability is not guaranteed. The facility is 20 minutes from Keflavík airport, making it ideal for arrival or departure day.
  • •The 2023-2024 volcanic eruptions near Grindavík have affected road access in parts of the peninsula. Check safetravel.is and road.is for current conditions before visiting.
  • •Do NOT step on the Icelandic moss (Racomitrium lanuginosum) covering the lava fields — it grows only 1 cm per year and takes decades to recover from foot traffic. Stay on marked paths.
  • •The peninsula is extremely windy. Car doors can be ripped open by gusts — open slowly while bracing. Rental car damage from wind is the most common insurance claim in Iceland.
  • •The drive from Keflavík airport to Reykjavik takes about 45-50 minutes via Route 41. The Blue Lagoon turn-off is roughly halfway.