Plan the perfect trip to the famous Blue Lagoon in Iceland!
Ah yes, the famous Blue Lagoon in Iceland! Most of us come across the most gorgeous pictures of this beautiful place for years online before actually visiting!
Imagine this - you’ve just landed in Iceland, the land of fire and ice, and you’re ready to dive straight into an adventure. But first, why not start your trip with something extraordinary? Enter the Blue Lagoon, a surreal, steamy paradise where the water is bluer than the sky and relaxation is basically mandatory. Whether you’re a jet-lagged traveler looking to soak your stress away or a seasoned explorer ticking off your Iceland bucket list, the Blue Lagoon is such a fun way to kick start your trip. It’s not just a dip in the water; it’s a full-on experience you’ll be talking about for years. Trust me, there’s a reason this place is on everybody’s must-visit list! Let’s dive in (pun intended) and make sure your visit is as magical as it looks!
Getting to the Blue Lagoon
Getting to the Blue Lagoon is a breeze, whether you’re a DIY traveler or someone who loves a stress-free ride! I opted to rent a car (highly recommend if you’re exploring Iceland’s stunning landscapes), and the drive was quick and easy—just 20 minutes from Keflavík International Airport and about 45 minutes from Reykjavik. If driving isn’t your thing, no worries! There are plenty of bus tours that take all the planning off your plate. These tours usually include round-trip transportation, often scheduling your pick-up and drop-off times so you can just sit back, relax, and focus on soaking up the Blue Lagoon magic. Choose the option that fits your style, and you’re golden!
2. Timing is everything
The Blue Lagoon is a popular spot, so it’s essential to book in advance. Slots fill up quickly, especially during peak travel seasons. Pro tip: schedule it as your first Icelandic activity! It’s only a 20-minute drive from Keflavík International Airport and the perfect way to relax after a long flight—or a dreamy goodbye before you head home. If you do decide to do this, I would suggest booking this with a couple buffer hours because we all know flying these days is anything but on time!
3. Know before you go
Book Ahead: Seriously, don’t wing it. You’ll need to book a time slot, and trust me, you don’t want to miss out.
Arrival Time: Arrive at least 30 minutes early to check in, grab your locker key, and soak in the vibe. If you do plan this to be one of your first activities in Iceland (heading there straight from the airport) you can hang out in their cafe on site. Note - the cafe isn’t huge & can be quite pricey. SO, if you are looking for a better bang for your buck on a filling meal, check out another local cafe or restaurant nearby. There aren’t many things super close to the Blue Lagoon, so do your research beforehand!
What to Pack: Bring a swimsuit, flip-flops, and a reusable water bottle—you’ll want to stay hydrated. I was amazed by how many things there are to use on site. Lockers, towels, robes, soaps, shampoos, blowdryers, you name it - they got it!
Pre-Shower Ritual: Be prepared to shower before entering the lagoon. You will be chilly for a few steps but the moment you step into the lagoon, you will be good to go!
4. Face masks
The Blue Lagoon isn’t just about relaxation—it’s also a mini spa day! While you’re floating around, head to the mask bar for complimentary silica masks. Slather it on, snap a selfie, and let that mineral magic work wonders on your skin. You can even upgrade to additional masks for an extra boost of glow! If you have sensitive skin, I would recommend asking. a couple of questions before applying.
5. Hair care
While the lagoon is a blessing for your skin, it can be less kind to your hair. The high silica content will leave your locks feeling like hay if you’re not prepared. Here’s how to avoid that:
Use conditioner generously before and after your dip.
Tie it up if you have long hair—keeping it out of the water helps.
If you do get it wet, don’t panic! The Blue Lagoon’s showers are fully stocked with conditioner to bring your hair back to life.
6. Make the most of your visit
Pair It With a Spa Day: Splurge on the retreat spa for access to quieter, more private areas and additional treatments.
Try Lava Restaurant: This on-site restaurant offers incredible views and dishes that pair perfectly with the lagoon’s relaxing vibes.
7. Don’t forget!
Stay hydrated! You’ll be warm and relaxed, but the heat can sneak up on you.
Be mindful of the time limit—most tickets have a set amount of hours to enjoy the lagoon.
Don’t wear jewelry into the lagoon; silica can tarnish certain metals.
Bring a Waterproof Phone Case: Because you’re going to want those steamy, otherworldly selfies!
Xoxo, Shivani
