Iceland · Things to do
5 things to do in Iceland with kids
The five best things to do in Iceland with kids are walking a black-sand beach, seeing a glacier lagoon full of icebergs, watching for the northern lights, soaking in a geothermal pool and standing beneath a waterfall. Most are on the south coast within a day's drive of Reykjavik, and all need weather-proof clothing and attention to safety near water.
What to do, in order
- 1
Walk a black-sand beach
Reynisfjara, near the village of Vik, has black volcanic sand, a cliff of basalt columns that look like stacked pillars, and sea stacks standing offshore. Children enjoy climbing on the lower columns and exploring the cave at one end. It is also dangerous: powerful sneaker waves can run far up the beach with no warning and have swept people out to sea. Follow the posted warnings, keep well back from the waterline, and never turn your back on the ocean. Keep young children by the hand throughout your visit.
- 2
See the glacier lagoon
Fjallsarlon is a glacier lagoon in the south-east, where ice from the Vatnajokull ice cap breaks off and floats in a still, grey-blue lake. It is smaller and quieter than its famous neighbour, Jokulsarlon, a few minutes up the road, and the two make an easy pair. You can walk the shoreline for free or take a boat tour. Children are often fascinated by the clear blue ice and the sounds it makes. Keep back from the edge, and never climb on icebergs washed up on the shore, since they can roll.
- 3
Chase the northern lights
From about late September to March, the sky is dark enough for the aurora. Families have the best chance by choosing a dark spot away from town lights, checking the aurora forecast and the cloud cover, and staying out for a few hours rather than a few minutes. Guided tours move to wherever the sky is clear, and some offer hot chocolate and a place to warm up. Bring a hat, gloves, a thermos and warm boots for children. For young children, an early-evening outing can be easier than midnight, but the display is often later.
- 4
Soak in a geothermal pool
Iceland's heated water is a family activity. Every town has a municipal swimming pool with hot tubs, slides and shallow areas, and locals use them daily. The rules are strict: shower without a swimsuit before entering. The Blue Lagoon, near the airport, is the best known spa and needs booking in advance. The Secret Lagoon at Fludir and other natural pools are smaller options. Pools are warm in winter and a cheap, good way to unwind after a long drive. Bring a swimsuit and a towel, and check age rules for the deeper hot pots.
- 5
Stand under a waterfall
Skogafoss drops about sixty metres in a single curtain, close to the Ring Road on the south coast, and you can walk to the edge of the spray at its base. On sunny days there is often a rainbow, sometimes two. A staircase beside the falls leads to a viewing platform at the top. Wear waterproof jackets, because the mist will soak you, and expect slippery rocks. Nearby Seljalandsfoss has a path that goes behind the water in warmer months, but it can be closed when icy. Visit early or late to avoid crowds.
Plan it
- Best time
- June to August has long days, mild weather and open roads, and is the best time for waterfalls, beaches and pools. September to March is the season for northern lights and ice, with short days and winter driving conditions.
- How long
- Four to five days covers the south coast sights in this list, with the glacier lagoons at the far end. A week lets you add the Golden Circle and slower days.
- Getting around
- A rental car is the most flexible way to reach the south coast, and the main road is paved. In winter, check road conditions each day, and consider guided tours for the aurora and glacier trips if you are not confident driving in snow.
Good to know
- Pack swimsuits whatever the season. Pools are open year round and are a highlight for children.
- Take a flask of hot drinks and snacks. Services are sparse between towns on the south-east coast.
- Keep children close at every waterfall, beach and lagoon. Edges are slippery and conditions change fast.
Frequently asked
Is Iceland good for kids? +
Yes, for children who enjoy outdoor adventures. There are waterfalls, beaches, hot pools and wildlife, and the country is safe and well organised. The weather and the long drives need planning, and several natural sites need close supervision.
Is Reynisfjara beach safe for children? +
It can be dangerous. Sneaker waves wash far up the beach without warning. Stay well back from the water, follow all posted signs, and keep children close by the hand. Do not turn your back on the sea.
Can you swim in Iceland's geothermal pools with kids? +
Yes. Municipal pools welcome families, with shallow areas and hot tubs. You must shower without your swimsuit before entering. Natural lagoons and spas have their own age rules, so check before you go.
What is the best month to see the northern lights in Iceland? +
From late September to March, with the darkest nights in the middle of that range. You need clear skies and aurora activity, so give yourself several nights rather than relying on one.
