Things to Do in Nauthólsvík Geothermal Beach

Nauthólsvík Geothermal Beach sits on Reykjavík's southern shore, where the city meets the North Atlantic in what might be Iceland's most unexpected attraction. This artificial beach, created in the early 2000s, uses geothermal water to warm both a lagoon and the surrounding golden sand, making it possible to sunbathe and swim comfortably even when the air temperature hovers around 10°C. The contrast is genuinely striking - you'll find families building sandcastles and people lounging in bikinis while snow-capped mountains form the backdrop. What makes Nauthólsvík particularly interesting is how locals have embraced it as a legitimate beach destination. On summer days, it actually gets crowded with Reykjavík residents treating it like any seaside resort, complete with beach volleyball and barbecues. The facilities include changing rooms, hot tubs, and a small café, though the real draw is the surreal experience of warm-water swimming with views of the Reykjanes Peninsula stretching across the bay.

The beach has a small café serving basic snacks, coffee, and light meals, though options are limited and prices reflect the novelty location. Most visitors either pack a picnic or plan to eat elsewhere - the nearby Nauthóll area has a few local restaurants, but you'll find much better variety back in central Reykjavík. Interestingly, many locals treat visits here as barbecue opportunities, bringing portable grills and making it a proper beach party experience. If you're planning a longer visit, the grocery store in nearby Hlemmur offers picnic supplies and is much more affordable than the on-site café.

Summer months from June through August offer the warmest air temperatures and longest daylight hours, making the beach experience most comfortable and allowing for evening activities. That said, visiting during shoulder seasons or even winter can be magical in its own way - there's something genuinely surreal about soaking in hot water while snow falls around you. The beach tends to be busiest on weekend afternoons during summer, so weekday visits or early mornings offer a more peaceful experience. Weather can change quickly regardless of season, so checking conditions before heading out is always wise.