Given Iceland’s abundance of hot springs and thermal baths, it may seem that there’s little need for swimming pools. However, Iceland has over 100 stunning public pools, most of which harness the island’s geothermal heat! These pools are often open year-round, attracting locals, families with kids, and travelers. Not simply a place to swim some laps, Iceland’s swimming pools offer a sense of community.
At Ice Guardians Iceland, we know that a dip in one of these swimming pools is the perfect way to relax after one of our Iceland Adventure Activities, whether that’s a glacier hike or an ice cave tour. We’ve created this guide to the top 10 swimming pools on the South Coast of Iceland so you know exactly where to go after your explorations. Keep reading for our suggestions, or feel free to get in touch with any questions about our tours.
Let’s dive in!
Gamla Laugin
How about a swim in Iceland’s oldest swimming pool? Gamla Laugin, most commonly known as the Secret Lagoon, was constructed in 1891 and is fed by warm water from surrounding hot springs. Located in Flúðir, the Secret Lagoon has been a central part of the community, with some of the first swimming lessons being held here in 1909.
Today, it’s popular among locals and tourists, so it’s always recommended to book your visit in advance. The water temperatures average between 38 and 40 degrees Celsius year-round, and you can even witness geysers spouting nearby!
Höfn Swimming Pool
With its 25×8-metre swimming pool, children’s pool, three slides (two of which adults can use), jacuzzi, hot tubs, steam room and cold pool, the Höfn Swimming Pool is perfect for the whole family. Located in the centre of the town, you’ll feel just like one of the locals here. The pools range in temperatures from four to 41 degrees Celsius, giving you plenty of choices in both summer and winter.
You’ll pay a small entrance fee to swim, but it’s the perfect place to relax after an adventure on the South Coast. Check out our Iceland South Coast Itinerary: Best Places to Visit for ideas on what to see and do here.
Laugarvatn Fontana
If you’re looking for more of a spa experience, you can’t go wrong with Laugarvatn Fontana. With a series of geothermal pools and steam rooms, you can soak up the mineral waters while overlooking the lake. While it’s pricier to visit these pools, few things beat swimming in the rejuvenating natural waters Iceland is known for. It’s even said that Icelandic chiefs wished to be baptized in the Laugarvatn waters! For an additional cost, you can also join a tour of the Geothermal Bakery, where bread is baked in the ground.
Laugardalslaug
In the Laugardalur district of Reykjavik, you’ll find Iceland’s largest pool. The Laugardalslaug complex is home to both a 50-meter outdoor and indoor swimming pool, as well as a children’s pool, hot tubs and steam room, alongside wheelchair-accessible pools. Whether you want to loosen up in the saltwater tub or go slipping down the water slide, just about everything you could want from a swimming experience is here.
Vesturbæjarlaug
In easy walking distance of Reykjavik city centre, Vesturbæjarlaug is where all of the locals go. No matter the season you’ll find people milling about in the outdoor geothermal pools. With its evening opening hours, it’s the ideal place to go for a dip after a day of work or out adventuring. Spend some time here and you’re sure to strike up a conversation with an Icelander!
Sundhöll Selfoss
In the town of Selfoss, the Sundhöll Selfoss swimming pool provides everything you could need, including a 25-metre-long outdoor pool, and 18-metre-long indoor pool, a children’s pool, water steam bath, and hot tubs. With waterslides and a sauna, it’s perfect whether you’re looking to have fun or kick back.
Sundhöllin
Located near the centre of Reykjavik, Sundhöllin provides clean facilities alongside its two main pools. With a 25-metre indoor pool and a comfortable temperature of 28 degrees Celsius, Sundhöllin is a great choice in the cooler weather if you’re looking to get in some laps. Kids can also splash around in the children’s pool, and you can take advantage of both a hot tub and a cold tub.
Árbæjarlaug
On the outskirts of Reykjavik, the Árbæjarlaug pool complex has a total water surface of 670 square metres, providing plenty of space to swim. With pools of varying temperatures, as well as a whirlpool and beach volleyball, the whole family will be entertained here for hours on end. The indoor and outdoor pools also connect and offer stunning views of Reykjavik — you may not want to get out of here quickly!
Sundlaugin Laugaskarði
The Sundlaugin Laugaskarði is an underrated gem, situated beneath the mountains outside Hveragerði. With a geothermally-heated, 50-meter-long outdoor pool, you can swim backstroke while looking up at the hills. A children’s pool, jacuzzi, and natural steam bath make this swimming pool complex a favourite among locals on the South Coast.
Seljavallalaug Swimming Pool
Imagine floating in a warm pool of water in a mountainous valley in Iceland, far from the crowds of the city. At Seljavallalaug Swimming Pool, this is reality! Tucked off the Ring Road, approximately a 40-minute drive east of Vik, Seljavallalaug is one of the most secluded pools on the South Coast. Park your car and take a short walk to this tranquil pool, which has warm water running through and the occasional algae for a natural dip. With no entry fee and gorgeous surroundings to explore, Seljavallalaug is easily one of the best pools in Iceland.
We hope this guide to the top swimming pools on the South Coast of Iceland gives you plenty of ideas of where to go during your travels! Whether you’re looking to connect with the local culture or relax after one of our Iceland Outdoor Activities, the swimming pools on this island are not to be missed! And should you have any questions about our tours before you visit, feel free to contact us.
