Sky Lagoon
Sky Lagoon
geothermal · Capital Region
Hotter than 10% of Iceland springs (n=20).
More acidic than 25% of Iceland springs (n=20).
Mineral profile
Bar width reflects listing order, not measured concentration.
Suitability
At a glance
Getting there
Easy — under 1km from a station
Cost
High
About this spring
This luxury oceanfront geothermal spa features a dramatic seventy-meter infinity edge overlooking the cold waters of the Atlantic Ocean. The architectural design incorporates traditional Icelandic turf walls to replicate the aesthetic of historical coastal homesteads. A multi-step wellness ritual takes guests through steam rooms and cold plunges cut into artificial volcanic rock walls.
Highlights
History
The lagoon was engineered directly onto an industrial peninsula in Kópavogur and opened its doors to the public in the spring of 2021.
It was designed to merge the classic, centuries-old traditions of communal Icelandic bathing with upscale, modern urban design. The signature turf-wall structure honors ancient building techniques that protected early Nordic settlers from the harsh North Atlantic winters.
Local guide
Arriving at this modern oceanfront oasis reveals an incredible architectural fusion of old and new. The entrance features dramatic stone walls wrapped in traditional Icelandic turf thatch. As you pass through the corridors, you emerge into a massive infinity pool that seems to drop directly into the North Atlantic Ocean. The urban skyline of Reykjavík glimmers faintly in the distance.
The bathing experience centers around a signature seven-step wellness ritual. You move from the warm embrace of the main lagoon into a freezing cold plunge before entering a massive glass-fronted sauna. Looking through the largest single window in Iceland while the heat opens your pores is unforgettable. The cool ocean breeze kisses your face while your body remains fully submerged in the steaming water.
A swimsuit is required, but premium thick towels are included with your admission ticket. If you book the premium package, you will have access to private, spacious changing suites equipped with luxury local botanicals. Bring a waterproof camera to capture the seamless line between the hot lagoon and the wild sea.
Plan your visit for the late evening hours if you want a chance to spot the Northern Lights dancing above the ocean during winter. The lagoon features an in-water bar serving local elixirs, draft beers, and sparkling wines. After finishing your ritual, stop by the Smakk Bar to try their curated platters of traditional Icelandic cheeses and cured meats.
Mineral chemistry
Water character inferred from mineral type — verify on site.
Simple thermal springs have lower dissolved mineral content but are valued for the pure therapeutic effect of heat immersion itself — easing muscle tension and improving circulation. Considered the gentlest introduction to hot spring bathing.
Standard precautions apply: avoid bathing within 30 minutes of eating, keep soaks to 10–15 minutes for first-timers, and hydrate before and after.
Similar springs
This world-famous geothermal spa features striking milky-blue waters rich in silica and sulfur. The massive lagoon is surrounded by a dramatic, pitch-black mossy lava field on the Reykjanes Peninsula. Modern architectural facilities seamlessly blend luxury wellness with the raw volcanic environment.
This beautiful alkaline bathing complex overlooks the volcanic terrain and craters of the Lake Mývatn region. The steaming blue pools are supplied with mineral-rich water drawn from depths of up to 2500 meters. Visitors can enjoy sweeping panoramic vistas of the surrounding geothermal landscapes while they soak.
This historic open-air pool utilizes a continuously flowing natural hot spring that feeds a stone-lined basin. A small active geyser erupts nearby every few minutes, casting thin plumes of steam across the pastoral landscape. The water remains perfectly warm year-round and maintains an authentic, old-world Icelandic atmosphere.
This sleek, architectural spa features multiple geometric black marble hot tubs fed by Europe's most powerful hot spring. The boiling geothermal water is cooled to safe bathing temperatures by mixing it with pure, glacial water sourced from the nearby Ok mountain. Two wood-fired steam baths and a relaxation room centered around an open wood fireplace complete the minimalist sanctuary.
Amenities
Getting there
Drive ten minutes south from downtown Reykjavík through Kópavogur, following the coast along Vesturvör road until reaching the industrial point.
Location & nearby
Vesturvör 44-48, 200 Kópavogur
Make a day of it
Pair your soak with these nearby spots.
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Gerðarsafn
1.6km away
Common questions
What is the water temperature at Sky Lagoon?▾
The water temperature at Sky Lagoon ranges up to 40°C (minimum around 38°C).
Is Sky Lagoon free to visit?▾
Sky Lagoon charges an entrance fee in ISK.
Is Sky Lagoon a public or private bath?▾
Sky Lagoon is a public bathing spring.
Are tattoos allowed at Sky Lagoon?▾
Yes, Sky Lagoon welcomes visitors with tattoos.