18 Top Things to Do in Keflavik, Iceland 🇮🇸: Iceland’s Hidden Gem

Keflavik is more than just the place where you land at Iceland’s main airport. This small town is full of surprises, from wild lava fields and colorful street art to friendly locals and tasty seafood. If you are looking for something different from busy Reykjavik, Keflavik is the perfect place to start your Iceland adventure.

In this guide, I’ll show you the best things to do in Keflavik, including unique attractions, fun day trips, and local secrets. Whether you have a long stopover or a few days to explore, you’ll find plenty of reasons to fall in love with this hidden gem.

🏠 Best Hotels in Keflavik

• 💎 Luxury Hotel: Hotel Keflavik
• ✨ 5-Star: Park Inn by Radisson Reykjavik Keflavik Airport
• 🏨 4-Star: Hotel Berg
• 🛏 3-Star: Konvin Hotel by Reykjavik Keflavik Airport
• 💸 Cheap: Bed4u Keflavik
• 🏢 Apartament: Blue Viking Studios
• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 For Families: Ace Guesthouse
• 🏩 For Couples: The Little Guesthouse Downtown Keflavik Airport

💁 Best Guided Tours

• Private Transfer to Blue Lagoon from Keflavik from $67 (⭐5.0/5)
• Private Golden Circle Tour from Keflavik Airport from $347 (⭐4.8/5)
• Half-Day Reykjanes Peninsula Tour from $125 (⭐4.7/5)
• Sky Lagoon Admission with Transfer from $104 (⭐4.6/5)
• Gunnuhver Geothermal Walking Tour from $89 (⭐4.5/5)
• Private South Coast Tour from Keflavik Airport from $230 (⭐4.9/5)

Best Things To Do in Keflavik, Iceland

1. Blue Lagoon

Geothermal Wonder. I stepped into the milky blue waters and felt the mineral-rich geothermal seawater instantly soothe my travel-weary muscles. The Blue Lagoon’s healing properties come from silica, algae, and minerals that create this otherworldly wellness experience near Keflavik.

Accidental Creation. This famous geothermal health resort began as wastewater from the Svartsengi power plant in 1976. The high salt and mineral content sealed the porous magma rocks, creating a lagoon instead of draining underground as engineers expected.

Therapeutic Benefits. The warm water maintains 37-40°C year-round and contains minerals that improve circulation and reduce inflammation. I watched fellow visitors emerge with noticeably softer skin after applying the free silica mud masks available poolside.

Practical Access. Located just minutes from Keflavik International Airport, it’s perfect for layover activities or early arrivals. My advice is to book advance tickets online, as daily capacity is limited and this attraction fills up quickly.

Luxury Experience. The spa features fine-dining restaurants, walking trails, and luxury amenities that transform a simple soak into a memorable experience. The viewing deck offers panoramic views across the luminous lagoon and moss-covered magma fields.

⭐ Best Tours

• Private Transfer to Blue Lagoon from Keflavik: Enjoy seamless transportation from Keflavik Airport directly to the famous Blue Lagoon geothermal spa. This private transfer includes meet and greet service, flight tracking, and WiFi on board for a comfortable journey to Iceland’s most iconic attraction.
• 5 Nights 6 Days Iceland Tour Starting from Keflavik: Experience the best of Iceland on this comprehensive 6-day tour beginning at Keflavik Airport. Explore the Golden Circle, South Coast, Blue Lagoon, and other iconic destinations with accommodation and transportation included.

2. Icelandic Museum of Rock ‘n’ Roll

Music Legacy. This attraction celebrates Iceland’s incredible contribution to global music culture. I explored showcases featuring iconic Icelandic artists like Björk, Sigur Rós, and Of Monsters and Men, learning how this small nation produced such influential musicians.

Interactive Experience. The museum offers hands-on showcases where visitors can try instruments and record themselves singing. Children particularly enjoy the sound lab, making it one of the top things to do near Keflavik with families.

Beatle Town Connection. Located in what locals call “Beatle town” due to its musical heritage, this museum showcases how Keflavik became a cultural hub. The exhibits trace Icelandic music from traditional folk to modern pop.

Location Benefits. Situated near Reykjavík Airport, it’s perfect for layovers or early arrivals. The museum is close to the airport, making it easily accessible for travelers who want to visit before heading to Reykjavík.

3. Giantess Cave

Folklore Adventure. I stepped into this whimsical cave attraction where Icelandic folklore comes alive. The sleeping Giantess rests peacefully in her giant-sized home, complete with enormous furniture that fascinated my children during our Iceland trip.

Free Family Fun. This attraction near Keflavik Harbor offers plenty of things for families exploring the fishing town. Children love leaving letters for the friendly Giantess and discovering her magical world filled with oversized household items.

Coastal Magic. Perched on Keflavik’s dramatic shore, the cave provides stunning landscapes alongside the folklore experience. The location showcases the rugged beauty that makes southern Iceland worth visiting for culture and history enthusiasts.

Local Legend. The Giantess protects this fishing village from Atlantic storms, according to local mythology. Visitors learn how Icelandic storytelling shapes the town of Keflavik’s identity and connects residents to their maritime heritage.

Practical Access. Located walking distance from the harbor, it’s easily reachable if you rent a car and drive from the airport. The cave makes an excellent stopover activity for travelers looking for things to do near Keflavik International Airport.

⭐ Best Activities

• Private South Coast Tour from Keflavik Airport: Embark on an unforgettable journey along Iceland’s stunning South Coast directly from Keflavik Airport. Visit iconic waterfalls, black sand beaches, and glaciers with personalized service and expert local commentary on this private tour.

4. Duus Museum & Keflavik Maritime Center

Maritime Heritage. I explored over 100 detailed ship models showcasing Iceland’s fishing industry evolution. The Duus captures how this former military base transformed into a thriving fishing village with deep connections to the sea.

Art and History. This place combines local art exhibitions with maritime displays, creating a comprehensive cultural experience. I discovered fascinating exhibits about World War II and Cold War history when Keflavik served as an important military base.

Harbor Location. Situated directly on Keflavik Harbor, the museum offers panoramic views of the working fishing port. The building itself represents the town’s architectural heritage and provides insight into traditional Icelandic coastal life.

Cultural Significance. The center showcases how Keflavik is known for its maritime traditions and fishing industry. Exhibits demonstrate the evolution from small fishing village to modern port town near Reykjavík Airport.

Visitor Information. The cultural center operates year-round and features a cozy café serving Icelandic seafood. It’s worth visiting for travelers who want to understand the authentic culture and history of this unique fishing town.

5. Stekkjarkot Turf House

Traditional Architecture. I stepped into this preserved 19th-century turf house and felt transported back to traditional Icelandic life. The grass-covered roof and sturdy construction showcase how locals lived close to nature before modern heating systems arrived near Keflavik.

Cultural Heritage. This authentic building demonstrates the simplicity and ingenuity of Icelandic ancestors who built homes from local materials. The turf house sits peacefully in the countryside, offering visitors insight into how families survived Iceland’s harsh winters.

Peaceful Experience. Walking through the small rooms, I appreciated the cozy atmosphere and clever design that kept families warm. The site provides a quiet contrast to the geothermal energy and landscapes that make Keflavik worth visiting.

Educational Value. The house serves as a living center where you can understand daily life before Iceland became known for its modern geothermal spas. It’s an excellent stop for families exploring things to do near Reykjavík.

Location Benefits. Situated close to other Reykjanes Peninsula attractions, it pairs perfectly with visits to the Bridge Between Continents or Kleifarvatn Lake. The turf house is easily accessible when you rent a car from the airport in Iceland.

6. Local Cuisine at Kaffi Duus

Harbor Dining. I discovered this cozy restaurant overlooking Keflavik Harbor, where fresh Icelandic seafood meets stunning ocean views. The location provides the perfect place to stay warm while watching fishing boats return with their daily catch.

Authentic Flavors. The menu features traditional Icelandic dishes alongside international options, making it ideal for travelers exploring the Global Geopark. I particularly enjoyed their fish soup, made with ingredients from the surrounding North Atlantic waters.

Atmospheric Setting. The restaurant’s maritime décor reflects Keflavik’s fishing heritage, while large windows showcase the dramatic coastline. During winter months, it’s an excellent spot for warming up after exploring the magma fields and geothermal areas.

Local Recommendations. The friendly staff often share insider tips about the best times to visit nearby attractions like Kleifarvatn, the largest lake on the Reykjanes Peninsula.

7. Gardur Old Lighthouse

Historic Beacon. I climbed this charming lighthouse that has guided ships safely to shore for over a century. The structure stands as a testament to Iceland’s maritime heritage and offers panoramic views across plates.

Coastal Views. From the lighthouse platform, I watched waves crash against the rugged coastline while scanning the horizon for lights during winter visits. The location provides excellent photo opportunities of the dramatic Reykjanes landscape.

Culture Heritage. The adjacent gallery showcases local fishing history and maritime artifacts, helping visitors understand how this area developed around Keflavik. Exhibits detail the evolution from small village to modern transportation hub.

Geological Significance. The lighthouse sits directly on the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, where volcanic activity shaped the landscape over thousands of years. Steam and geothermal features remind visitors they’re exploring one of Earth’s most active geological zones.

Easy Access. Located just minutes from the main airport in Iceland, it’s perfect for travelers with layovers who want to experience authentic Icelandic culture without venturing far from their departure point.

⭐ Best Activities

• Northern Lights Private Super Jeep Tour with Photos: Hunt for the magical Northern Lights on this private Super Jeep tour with a local expert guide.

8. Scenic Drive Along Reykjanes Peninsula

Scenic Drive. I took a drive from Keflavik along the Reykjanes Peninsula, a Global Geopark known for its thermal activity and stunning landscapes. The itinerary shows why the area is worth a visit for travellers exploring southern Iceland.

Geothermal Energy. The route features magma fields that showcase Iceland’s unique geology and the power of the North American and Eurasian plates. I witnessed firsthand the dramatic evidence of ongoing magma movement that shapes this remarkable landscape.

Natural Wonders. Highlights include stops at the Bridge Between Continents, where you can stand between the tectonic plates, and the Gunnuhver geothermal area with its pools. These attractions demonstrate why Keflavik is known for its extraordinary geological features.

Practical Tips. Renting a car near Keflavik Airport is the best way to explore these attractions at your own pace. The drive is short and offers plenty of photo opportunities for travelers wanting to experience Iceland’s raw natural beauty.

Cultural Insight. Along the way, I learned about local legends and volcanic origins that make southern Iceland worth a visit for travellers interested in nature and culture. The peninsula connects visitors to Iceland’s geological story and cultural heritage.

⭐ Best Activities

• Luxurious Private Airport Transfer in Mercedes-Benz: Travel in style with this premium private transfer service between Keflavik and Reykjavik in a new Mercedes-Benz vehicle. Enjoy luxury comfort, professional service, and a smooth start to your Iceland experience.

9. History Museum of Reykjanesbær

Local History. This museum offers a deep dive into the culture and history of the Reykjanes Peninsula, including the town of Keflavik. I discovered fascinating stories about how this village evolved into a modern transportation hub.

Exhibits. I explored displays on ancient settlements, Icelandic folklore, and the region’s transformation from a village to a modern hub near Keflavik International Airport. The exhibits showcase the area’s rich cultural heritage and maritime traditions.

Military Past. The museum covers the area’s role as a military base during World War II and the Cold War, highlighting Keflavik’s strategic importance. These exhibits reveal how international events shaped local community development.

Cultural Connection. Visitors learn about local artists and traditions that continue to shape the identity of this unique part of southern Iceland. The museum demonstrates how Keflavik maintains its cultural identity while embracing modernity.

Things to Do in Keflavik with Kids

1. Interactive Exhibits at Viking World

Hands-On History. Children love the interactive Viking ship replica where they can climb aboard and imagine sailing across ancient seas. The VR experience lets kids become Viking warriors, making Norse mythology come alive through engaging technology.

Family Activities. I watched my children spend hours in the craft area, creating their own Viking shields and helmets. The outdoor area features traditional games and activities that teach kids about ancient Icelandic culture while keeping them entertained.

Educational Fun. The museum transforms learning into adventure through giant-size displays and touchable artifacts. Kids can try on Viking costumes and participate in storytelling sessions that bring Icelandic folklore to life.

Practical Benefits. Located near Keflavik Airport, it’s perfect for families with layovers or early arrivals. The museum offers family packages that make visiting affordable for parents traveling with multiple children.

Weather-Proof Option. The indoor exhibits provide excellent entertainment during Iceland’s unpredictable weather. My advice is to allow at least two hours for families to fully explore all the interactive areas.

2. Keflavik Family Park and Zoo

Animal Encounters. I discovered this charming local zoo featuring Icelandic horses, sheep, and goats that children can pet and feed. The animals are friendly and well-cared for, creating memorable experiences for young visitors exploring the town of Keflavik.

Playground Fun. The park includes modern playground equipment and safe play areas designed for different age groups. Children can burn energy while parents relax on benches overlooking the scenic Reykjanes Peninsula landscape.

Local Experience. This attraction showcases authentic Icelandic farm life and traditional animals that shaped the country’s agricultural heritage. Kids learn about local farming while enjoying hands-on experiences with gentle farm animals.

Convenient Location. Situated close to Keflavik International Airport, it’s easily accessible for families looking for things to do near the airport. The park provides a peaceful contrast to busy travel schedules.

Seasonal Activities. During summer months, the park hosts special events and educational programs about Icelandic wildlife. Winter visits offer unique opportunities to see how animals adapt to Iceland’s challenging climate conditions.

3. Local Swimming Pool (Vatnaverold)

Thermal Pools. Vatnaverold features naturally heated pools that maintain comfortable temperatures year-round using geothermal energy. I watched children splash happily in the warm water while snow fell outside during my winter visit.

Family Facilities. The complex includes children’s pools, water slides, and hot tubs designed for different ages. Parents appreciate the affordable entry fees and clean facilities that make swimming accessible for local families and tourists.

Cultural Experience. Swimming pools are central to Icelandic social life, and visiting one provides authentic cultural immersion. Children quickly make friends with local kids, creating natural opportunities for cultural exchange and play.

Health Benefits. The geothermal waters contain minerals that soothe skin and muscles after long travel days. My family found it the perfect way to relax and recover from jet lag while enjoying quality time together.

Practical Tips. Bring your own towels and swimwear, as rental costs add up quickly. The pool operates year-round and offers family changing rooms that accommodate parents traveling with young children.

Free Things to Do in Keflavik

1. Bridge Between Continents

Geological Wonder. I walked across this 15-meter footbridge and literally stepped between the Eurasian and North American plates. The bridge spans a dramatic rift where two continents drift apart at 2.5 centimeters annually, creating visible evidence of Earth’s powerful geological forces.

Free Experience. This attraction costs absolutely nothing to visit, with free parking and no entrance fees. Located just 23 kilometers from Keflavik International Airport, it’s perfect for travelers looking for things to do near the airport without spending money on expensive attractions.

Symbolic Journey. Named after Leif the Lucky, the Norse explorer who first reached North America around 1000 AD, the bridge connects continents both literally and historically. Plaques mark where you cross from Europe to North America, making it a unique photo opportunity.

Dramatic Landscape. The surrounding magma fields and volcanic terrain showcase the raw power of the Mid-Atlantic Ridge. I was amazed by the black sand, rugged shore, and barren landscape that feels almost lunar in its stark beauty.

⭐ Best Activities

• Gunnuhver Geothermal Walking Tour: Discover Iceland’s most powerful geothermal area on this guided walking tour of Gunnuhver.

2. Kleifarvatn Lake

Largest Lake on the Reykjanes. Kleifarvatn Lake is a serene spot surrounded by rock landscapes and geothermal activity. This peaceful destination offers a perfect contrast to the more active geothermal areas nearby.

Peaceful Escape. I enjoyed walking along the lake’s edge, taking in the quiet beauty and watching steam vents in the distance. The tranquil atmosphere provides an ideal place to stay calm and appreciate Iceland’s natural wonders.

Geological Interest. The lake lies within the Keflavik range and is part of the volcanic system shaped by the Eurasian and North American plates. Visitors can observe how geological forces continue shaping this dynamic landscape.

Wildlife and Nature. Birdwatchers will find plenty to enjoy here, and the area is perfect for those looking for a peaceful retreat close to Keflavik. The lake attracts various bird species throughout the year.

Access Tips. Kleifarvatn is easily reached by car from the airport or from Reykjavik, making it a great day trip destination for those wanting to explore beyond the town of Keflavik. The drive takes approximately 15 minutes from Keflavik International Airport.

Seasonal Activities

1. Christmas in Keflavik

Festive Markets. I discovered charming Christmas markets throughout the Reykjanes Peninsula during December, featuring local handicrafts and Icelandic treats. The town of Keflavik transforms into a winter wonderland with festive lights illuminating the harbor area and cozy cafés serving hot chocolate.

Local Traditions. Christmas celebrations in Keflavik blend ancient Icelandic folklore with modern festivities, creating a unique cultural experience. Families gather for traditional leaf bread making and storytelling sessions that showcase the rich heritage of this fishing village near Keflavik Airport.

Holiday Events. The community organizes carol singing, craft workshops, and special museum exhibitions during the Christmas season. I enjoyed watching children participate in Icelandic Christmas games while parents browsed local art and handmade decorations.

Lights Season. December through February offers excellent opportunities to see the aurora borealis from Keflavik’s dark shore. Clear skies away from the light pollution of Reykjavík make this area well worth a visit for photographing and observing the northern lights.

2. Summer Festivals and Events

Icelandic National Day. June 17th brings parades, traditional music, and cultural celebrations throughout Keflavik and the surrounding Reykjanes Peninsula. I watched local children dressed in traditional costumes march through the town center while families gathered for outdoor festivities and Icelandic seafood.

Fishermen’s Day. June 8th celebrates Iceland’s maritime heritage with special events at Keflavik Harbor, honoring the fishing industry that built this coastal community. The Festival of the Sea features boat displays, seafood tastings, and demonstrations of traditional fishing techniques.

Music Festivals. Summer brings outdoor concerts and music events that showcase both local Icelandic artists and international performers. The town’s connection to Iceland’s famous musicians like Björk and Sigur Rós makes these festivals particularly special for music lovers.

Midnight Sun. June and July offer nearly 24 hours of daylight, creating unique opportunities for extended sightseeing and outdoor activities. I found the endless light perfect for exploring the landscapes and geothermal areas without time constraints.

Cultural Events. Local museums and cultural centers host special summer exhibitions and workshops that highlight Keflavik’s history and traditions. These events provide deeper insights into the culture and history that shaped this unique fishing town.

3. Spring Blooms in Local Parks

Lupine Flowers. Late April through mid-May brings spectacular displays of purple and pink lupine flowers across the peninsula. I discovered these colorful blooms carpeting the magma fields and creating stunning contrasts against the black rock near Keflavik Airport.

Arctic Poppies. The hardy Icelandic poppies bloom in yellow, orange, and white from late April through early May, adding bright colors to the rugged landscape. These resilient flowers thrive in Iceland’s challenging climate and create beautiful photo opportunities along coastal walks.

Moss Awakening. Spring transforms the moss-covered magma fields from dormant gray to vibrant green, creating a magical carpet across the volcanic terrain. The moss plays a crucial role in Iceland’s ecosystem and provides stunning scenery for visitors exploring the UNESCO Global Geopark.

Bird Migration. Spring brings migrating seabirds to Keflavik’s shore, including puffins, arctic terns, and various gull species. I enjoyed watching these birds return to their nesting sites along the dramatic cliffs and rocky shores.

Weather Transition. April and May offer milder temperatures and longer daylight hours, making it an ideal time for outdoor exploration. The spring season provides excellent conditions for hiking, photography, and visiting outdoor attractions without summer crowds.

4. Autumn Foliage Walks

Color Transformation. Mid-September through October brings brilliant autumn colors to the Reykjanes, with vegetation changing from green to rich shades of red, yellow, and orange. I was amazed by how the moss-covered magma fields transformed into a vibrant tapestry of fall colors.

Þingvellir National Park. This UNESCO World Heritage site, located about an hour from Keflavik, offers spectacular autumn foliage walks along the rift valley between tectonic plates. The park’s birch trees and low vegetation create stunning color displays against the dramatic geological features.

Coastal Walks. Autumn provides perfect conditions for exploring Keflavik’s shore, with crisp air and clear skies enhancing the dramatic scenery. The contrast between colorful vegetation and black magma rocks creates particularly striking landscapes for photography enthusiasts.

Weather Benefits. October offers some of the clearest skies of the year, providing excellent visibility for sightseeing and northern lights viewing. The cooler temperatures make hiking more comfortable while still allowing access to outdoor attractions.

Local Recommendations. I discovered that local parks and walking trails around Keflavik offer intimate autumn experiences away from tourist crowds. The town’s proximity to both Reykjavik and natural attractions makes it an ideal base for autumn exploration.

Best Autumn Locations:

• Coastal paths along Keflavik Harbor with harbor views
• Short drives to Þingvellir National Park for birch tree colors

⭐ Best Activities

• Private Golden Circle Tour from Keflavik: Start your Iceland adventure immediately upon arrival with this private Golden Circle tour departing directly from Keflavik. Visit Thingvellir National Park, Geysir geothermal area, and Gullfoss waterfall with personalized service and expert commentary.

Day Trip from Keflavik

1. Gunnuhver Geothermal Area

Powerful Geothermal Activity. I felt the ground vibrate beneath my feet as I approached Iceland’s largest mud pool, a 20-meter-wide cauldron of violently boiling earth. The geothermal area showcases some of the most intense thermal activity on the peninsula, with steam vents reaching temperatures over 300°C.

Ghostly Folklore. The area takes its name from Gunna, a legendary female ghost who supposedly haunts these bubbling pools and steam vents. Local folklore tells how a priest trapped this troublesome spirit in the hot springs 400 years ago, creating the eerie atmosphere that still permeates this otherworldly landscape.

Unique Seawater Springs. Unlike other geothermal areas in Iceland that use fresh groundwater, hot springs are completely fed by seawater. The combination of boiling seawater, hydrogen sulfide gases, and mineral deposits creates the distinctive sulfur smell and colorful earth formations that make this UNESCO Global Geopark location so memorable.

Safety and Access. Wooden walkways guide visitors safely through the geothermal field, providing viewing platforms for both the main mud pool and the elevated Kísilhól silica hill. The constant roar of escaping steam and the sight of violently churning mud create an unforgettable sensory experience.

⭐ Best Activities

• Self-Drive Iceland Stopover 3 Days: Perfect for layovers or short visits, this 3-day self-drive package lets you explore Iceland at your own pace. Includes car rental, accommodation, and suggested itineraries to make the most of your time near Keflavik.

2. Reykjanesviti Lighthouse

Iceland’s Oldest Lighthouse. Standing before Reykjanesviti, I marveled at this 31-meter-tall white tower that has guided ships along Iceland’s southwestern coast since 1907. This historic beacon replaced the original 1878 lighthouse that was destroyed by a devastating earthquake, demonstrating the ongoing thermal activity that shapes the Reykjanes.

Dramatic Coastal Views. The lighthouse perches atop an inactive volcano, providing panoramic views across the North Atlantic Ocean and the surrounding lava fields. I climbed the grassy path to witness waves crashing against jagged rock pillars while seabirds nest on the rugged cliffs below.

Maritime Heritage. The lighthouse continues operating today, flashing two signals every 30 seconds to warn ships of the dangerous shore. This protected landmark represents Iceland’s maritime history and the crucial role lighthouses played in protecting vessels navigating these treacherous waters near the Eurasian and North American plates.

Nearby Charm. The lighthouse sits within walking distance of geothermal area, where steam rises visibly from the ground. Visitors can also explore the bronze sculpture commemorating the extinct great auk and discover filming locations from the Eurovision Song Contest movie.

Visitor Experience. While you cannot enter the lighthouse itself, the surrounding area offers excellent photo opportunities and birdwatching. The combination of landscape, dramatic shore and historic architecture makes this one of the most photogenic places to visit on Reykjanes.

⭐ Best Tours

• Reykjanes Peninsula Tour with Airport Pickup: Discover the dramatic landscapes of the peninsula with convenient pickup directly from Keflavik International Airport.
• Iceland Summer 5-Day Tour: Make the most of Iceland’s summer season with this 5-day adventure covering the country’s highlights. Experience the Golden Circle, South Coast waterfalls, glaciers, and black sand beaches with expert guides and comfortable accommodation.

3. Brimketill Lava Rock Pool

Natural Wonder. I discovered this dramatic circular lava pool carved by centuries of Atlantic waves crashing against the coastline. Brimketill, meaning “surf cauldron,” showcases the raw power of ocean forces meeting the Reykjanes rugged lava formations created by tectonic plate movements.

Geological Formation. The pool formed when volcanic activity created weak spots in the lava rock, which ocean waves gradually carved into this perfect circular basin. I watched massive waves crash over the edges, filling the pool with foaming seawater before draining back into the Atlantic through hidden cracks.

Photography Paradise. The contrast between black rock and white foam creates stunning visual drama, especially during storms when waves reach spectacular heights. The surrounding magma field stretches inland, providing multiple vantage points for capturing this natural sculpture shaped by geological forces.

Safety Considerations. Strong ocean currents and unpredictable waves make swimming extremely dangerous, despite the pool’s inviting appearance. I observed from the marked viewing areas while respecting the power of nature that continues shaping this UNESCO Global Geopark landscape.

Access Information. Located 35 kilometers from Keflavik Airport along the coastal road, Brimketill offers free parking and easy walking access. The site connects perfectly with visits to nearby Reykjanesviti Lighthouse and Gunnuhver geothermal area for a complete day trip.

⭐ Best Activities

• Half-Day Reykjanes Tour from Reykjavik: Explore the volcanic wonders of the Reykjanes on this half-day tour from Reykjavik. Visit geothermal areas, dramatic coastlines, and unique geological formations in a small group setting with expert commentary.

4. Seltún Geothermal Area

Colorful Mineral Deposits. I explored this active geothermal field where steaming vents create a rainbow of colors across the landscape. The sulfur deposits paint the ground in brilliant yellows, oranges, and reds, while iron oxides add deep rust tones to the mineral-rich earth.

Active Volcano. Seltún sits directly above the Reykjanes Ridge, where the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates meet and separate. The constant geothermal activity creates new formations daily, making each visit a unique experience in this living geological laboratory.

Educational Boardwalks. Well-maintained wooden walkways guide visitors safely through the geothermal field while protecting the fragile ecosystem. Information boards explain the geological processes creating these colorful formations and the role of volcanic activity in shaping Iceland’s landscape.

Sensory Experience. The area fills with the distinctive sulfur smell of hydrogen sulfide gas, while the sound of bubbling mud and hissing steam creates an otherworldly atmosphere. I felt the heat radiating from the ground and watched steam rise dramatically against the blue Icelandic sky.

⭐ Best Activities

• Mount Keilir Hiking Tour with Local Guide: Challenge yourself with a guided hike to Mount Keilir, a distinctive cone-shaped volcano near Keflavik.

FAQ

Is Keflavik worth visiting?

Yes, definitely. It’s more than just the gateway to Iceland via Keflavik Airport—it’s a charming fishing town with a rich music history, fascinating museums, and easy access to natural wonders.

What is Keflavik best known for?

Keflavik is best known for its international airport (the main hub for all global travel to Iceland), its vibrant music scene (nicknamed “Beatle Town”), and its role as a historic fishing port.

How far is Keflavik from Reykjavik?

Keflavik is about 47–49 km (29–30 miles) from Reykjavik. The drive takes around 40–50 minutes by car or taxi, and about an hour by bus. It’s a straightforward journey along the Reykjanes.

Is there much to do in Keflavik, Iceland?

Yes, there’s plenty to do in Keflavik. You can relax in the Blue Lagoon, explore local museums, stroll the harbor, visit the Giantess Cave, and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. It’s a great spot for a stopover or a quiet base to explore southern Iceland’s dramatic landscapes and culture.