Top 8 Lakes in Reykjavík

Due to the inflow of warm water from geothermal springs, the bathing temperature in the bay is comparatively pleasant.

An urban lake in the heart of the city, surrounded by parks, trails, and historic buildings like City Hall. It's home to ducks, swans, and geese year-round, and in winter its surface often freezes, turning into an improvised skating rink. An ideal place for strolling, birdwatching, and enjoying the tranquility in the heart of the city.

Lautholsvík Beach is a fascinating place in Reykjavik, captivating with its unique combination of nature, water, and geothermal activity. Located in the Lautholsvík district, roughly west of Reykjavik, the beach is known for its impressive scenery and unique water. What makes this beach so special is its proximity to geothermal springs, which heat the water to a pleasant temperature. The water is often warm, making Lautholsvík Beach a popular spot for locals and visitors alike who want to enjoy a relaxing swim in warm water, even when the weather is cool outside. The beach itself consists of black sand and small pebbles, which is typical of many Icelandic beaches. The surroundings are wild and untouched, with impressive cliffs and breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean. The nature here is rugged and beautiful, perfect for nature lovers and photographers.

It's fun to hear and watch the ducks and geese quacking wildly.

Geothermal Beach

Incredibly many ducks, geese, swans in the city area.

The "Little Lake" gives city people the opportunity to stay in touch with nature. The winter ice is visited by about 40 bird species. Children enjoy feeding them while their parents follow the beautiful path along the shore.

The history of Nauthólsvík is as fascinating as its current appearance. Where today golden sand lines the shore and warm, geothermal water invites you to linger, the Nauthóll farm once stood, which was destroyed by a tragic fire during a typhus epidemic. During the Second World War, this area served as a landing site for amphibious aircraft and over the decades has found its importance as a summer excursion destination. However, the area changed over time and the warm water that once flowed naturally into the bay became blocked. But the people of Reykjavík were not discouraged. With a vision in mind to breathe new life into this place, the bank was redesigned towards the end of the 90s. Mighty rock walls protect the bay today, while fine yellow sand covers the bottom. What’s special about Nauthólsvík? Despite Iceland's typically cool sea temperatures, the lagoon offers a pleasant swim at 15-19° C in the summer months thanks to the hot water tank drain from Öskjuhlíð. And the city's passionate sea swimmers? You don't let the cold or wind stop you and enjoy a refreshing swim every day. Open your book and sit on the sand as the gentle waves of the geothermally heated lagoon roll onto the shore. Families will find a paradise here: shallow pools for the little ones and the warming sauna to relax after swimming. At low tide there is even another round pool that partially sinks under water and invites you to explore. The proximity to the center of Reykjavík makes Nauthólsvík an easily accessible destination, be it on foot or by car. And best of all: entry is free. There is only a small fee for lockers.