Don’t Miss These 5 Blue Lagoon Alternatives (Free and Paid Options)

Soaking in a hot thermal bath and dipping in a swimming pool are integral to Icelandic culture. In Reykjavík (Iceland’s capital), there are 18 public swimming pools, but nearly every Icelandic town has at least one. The Blue Lagoon is a popular destination known for its milky-blue water. However, it might not be the right option for everyone. Some cons include costs, limited reservation flexibility, and crowds. But did you know that there are many Blue Lagoon alternatives, including natural hot springs and swimming pools scattered all across the island?

If you’re looking for Blue Lagoon alternatives, this guide will show you various possibilities. But first, let’s set expectations by highlighting the key differences between Icelandic swimming pools and hot springs, so you can decide which option is right for you.

Iceland Swimming Pools vs. Hot Springs

Iceland is renowned for its natural geothermal waters, including geothermal swimming pools and hot springs with mineral baths.

While both offer opportunities for relaxation and rejuvenation, they each provide distinct experiences.

Whether you prefer the communal atmosphere of a local public swimming pool or the secluded tranquility of a natural hot spring, Iceland offers many options for soaking.

Fun Fact: In Iceland, children ages 6-14 must learn to swim.

Iceland Hot Pots

Natural hot springs (hot pots) in Iceland are sourced from geothermally heated groundwater. Some hot springs are boiling, while others are perfect for bathing.

While some hot springs in Iceland are easy to find, others may require a hike off the beaten path.

Hot springs range from free to an entry fee, which usually includes access to on-site changing rooms and showers.

Iceland Swimming Pools & Thermal Pools

Swimming pools (sundlaugs) are open year-round.

They are often outdoors and heated with geothermal water.

Although some lack spa-like amenities, many feature hot tubs and cold tubs, water slides, wave pools, steam baths, a jacuzzi, and saunas.

Fun Fact: Research shows that swimming pools are cleaner than natural hot springs since they use chlorine.

Healing Powers Beneath the Surface

Soaking in Iceland’s natural hot springs isn’t just about enjoying warm waters and stunning surroundings (all things we love), it’s a time-tested form of natural therapy.

Iceland’s mineral-rich waters are packed with elements like silica, sulfur, and magnesium, which can soothe aching muscles, ease inflammation, and promote better blood circulation.

Whether you’re recovering from a long day of hiking or simply seeking to unwind, they offer a holistic wellness experience that goes far beyond a simple dip.

Reasons To Skip Blue Lagoon

While the Blue Lagoon is undoubtedly a popular attraction, there’s much more to explore beyond this well-known bathing spot. I’ve skipped visiting four times and instead checked out other spots that really show off Iceland’s unique beauty.

Touristy

The Blue Lagoon attracts many tourists, especially during high season.

If you are hoping for a relaxing dip in a quiet and secluded setting, this might not be the spot.

Manmade

The Blue Lagoon is a man-made spa offering geothermal pools and extras like in-water massages and float therapy. But if you’re after a more natural, down-to-earth Icelandic soak, you’ll want to look elsewhere. You won’t be soaking in moss-covered lava fields like you would at real hot pots.

Less Convenient

While the geothermal spa is open every day of the year, it only starts welcoming guests between 7 and 8 a.m.

Logistically, the easiest time to visit is either right after you land at Keflavík International Airport or on your way out of the country.

Depending on your arrival time, you might have to decide if waiting around to get in is worth it.

On one of our trips, time was tight, so we skipped it altogether. And trying to squeeze it in before our early 8:30 a.m. flight? That didn’t work out either. Plus, since you have to book in advance, the best time slots can fill up fast, so plan ahead if you want to go.

Pricey

Blue Lagoon is more expensive than lots of other Iceland pools. Plus, they keep raising the prices.

The cheapest package, which includes admission, a towel, a non-alcoholic drink, and a silica face mask, costs $112 – $124 USD.

Premium, which includes additional masks and bathrobe, costs $137 – $149 USD.

In addition to admission, consider the cost of lockers, drinks, and a bathrobes. Plus, transportation to/from.

The good news: children under 11 are a reduced rate. The minimum age is two years old.

Hair Concerns

While great for your skin, the high levels of minerals can make hair stiff and difficult to manage. What a headache!

Even with a swim cap, the conditioning process can take days – load up on conditioner before and after your session.

The Wyld Family confirms our dry hair concerns. If you’re traveling to Iceland with your family, this adventurous family of four offers great tips for visiting Iceland with kids.

Is the Blue Lagoon worth it?

Ultimately, your decision to visit or skip the Blue Lagoon will be influenced by your preferences, priorities, and practical considerations.

After all our research, we decided to skip this must-see attraction because it doesn’t suit our interests. 

With so many incredible Blue Lagoon alternatives, blowing our travel budget just to say, “We’ve been there,” doesn’t make sense. So, you’re not wrong if you want to skip the Blue Lagoon, too.

Inexpensive Blue Lagoon alternatives include finding open-air natural hot springs like Reykjadalur Hot Springs (free) or a local swimming pool in town (less than $10 USD).

After traveling to Iceland four times, we have no regrets about skipping the Blue Lagoon each time.

Best Blue Lagoon Alternatives

Where can you go to experience a relaxing geothermal location instead of the Blue Lagoon?

If you plan to experience Iceland on a budget, but don’t want to miss out on a warm outdoor soak, plan to visit these less expensive (but quality) Blue Lagoon alternatives.

Here, you can unwind, socialize, and admire the landscape.

But remember, soaking in these mineral-rich hot springs is more than just a warm dip; it’s a natural therapy that can ease stress, reduce inflammation, and boost overall well-being.

Local Etiquette and Customs

Before you dive in, a heads-up on Icelandic pool etiquette: it’s customary (and mandatory) to shower naked before entering any pool or hot spring.

That means no, swimsuits in the showers.

Why? Well, this keeps the water super clean, and it’s part of the culture.

And unlike some places where pools are all about laps or workouts, Iceland’s pools are social hubs where locals hang out, chat, and unwind together.

Embracing these customs will help you fit right in!

1. Vesturbæjarlaug

Vesturbæjarlaug is a traditional outdoor, thermally heated swimming pool in a suburban neighborhood just outside Reykjavík.

Although it’s a lot smaller than the other popular swimming pools in town, it offers plenty, including two outdoor pools, six hot tubs, one cold tub, two saunas, and a steam room.

Highly recommended by my CityWalk Reykjavik guide, Vesturbæjarlaug is where locals hang out.

Less than half an hour’s walk from the city center, I enjoyed Vesturbæjarlaug’s hot tubs and steam baths for 900 ISK ($8 USD).

Since there were no curtains before entering the pool, we showered naked in an open setting with other female patrons.

Although this was one of the most relaxing experiences I had in Iceland, I must warn you: be ready to run for your life when you get out of the water. Yes, it’s that cold!

2. Sky Lagoon

Only a 15-minute drive from Reykjavík, Sky Lagoon invites you to immerse yourself in a luxurious geothermal spa experience with breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean.

Celebrating Icelandic bathing culture, the seven-step ritual is a must-try.

The swim-up bar serves up to three drinks per person, and the in-spa waterfall adds another layer of tranquility.

Keep in mind, like the Blue Lagoon, the Sky Lagoon requires a reservation, so plan ahead to secure your spot.

Overall, the Sky Lagoon is our top pick for unforgettable Blue Lagoon alternatives and should not be missed!

Read my Sky Lagoon review for honest thoughts about my experience.

Ready to book? Lock in your spot ahead of time. Reserve your Sky Lagoon pass here.

Sky Lagoon vs. Blue Lagoon: A Side-by-Side Comparison

3. Landbrotalaug Thermal Pool

by The Pink Backpack

Tucked away in the Snæfellsnes peninsula, the Landbrotalaug thermal pools are an affordable and secluded alternative to the infamous Blue Lagoon.

Only 40 km away from Borganes and a stone’s throw from the Gerðuberg Cliffs, you will find the road to Landbrotalaug.

At first glance, the hot pool appears to be a communal spring with a pipe feeding water into it. However, what makes Landbrotalaug unique is its hidden, smaller hot pot on the opposite side of the parking lot.

Since the pool fits two or three people, this hidden Iceland hot pot is the perfect size for solo travelers, making it a great option to unwind after a long day of driving or warm up before bed while watching the Northern Lights. During my first visit to Iceland, I enjoyed it so much I went again on my second visit.

Since Landbrotalaug is a natural Iceland thermal hot pot, there is no fee to access the area.

Bring water shoes because it can get very muddy. Also, be mindful of preserving the area and leaving it as you found it.

4. Seljavallalaug Pool

by Travel Hacker Girl

Swimming in the Seljavallalaug pool has been on my bucket list for a long time. It’s a fantastic Blue Lagoon alternative because it has a 5-star hotel view, yet it is free to visit.

You will need to get off the main Road 1 and drive on 242 for a short while until you find a small parking place. It will be a bumpy ride, but well worth the effort.

Parking is paid based on time spent.

From there, you can set off on a 15-minute hike to the pool. You will be amazed by the scenery. A gorgeous river is flowing next to the trail, and you are surrounded by mountains and numerous waterfalls.

There are some changing rooms at the pool, where men and women change in the same room. Unfortunately, these changing rooms were in terrible condition. Lots of rubbish and mud. But do not let this deter you from having a dip in the pool.

Helpful Tip: Change into your swimsuit before the visit so you don’t have to get dressed initially.

It was a rainy day on our visit, and it was quite chilly; however, the water was a pleasant temperature. We splashed around for 30 minutes. It was great fun in a magical spot. I highly recommend visiting Seljavallalaug pool. It is a truly unique experience.

Be careful getting in and out, as the surrounding areas are slick with algae.

Follow the footpath past the pool to see the canyon.

For those who like plunge pools, the river beside the pool can be an excellent place for a cold dip.

Both Landbrotalaug and Seljavallalaug require a car – public transit won’t get you there. If you haven’t booked one yet, compare rental car prices for your Iceland trip.

5. Reykjadalur Hot Springs or the Reykjadalur Valley

by I’ve Been Bit 

A hike to Reykjadalur, the “Steam Valley,” rewards you with the opportunity to bathe in natural hot springs surrounded by breathtaking scenery.

Just 30 minutes east of Reykjavík lies Hverager∂i, a quaint little town known for its greenhouses.

Take the main road of Brei∂amörk to the end, where you’ll come upon the Reykjadalur trailhead. The route is mainly gravel, so be sure to have hiking shoes or some solid runners on your feet. It’s a bit of an uphill hike, approximately 40 minutes, but trust me – it’s worth every step and stumble.

The 3 km trail (round-trip) winds you through beautiful landscapes with a new breathtaking view at every turn. You’ll also spot a little waterfall along the way. Eventually, you’ll come upon the amazing natural hot springs, and if you’re lucky, you might have them to yourself. The higher up the river you go, the warmer the water is from the springs.

Quickly peel off your clothes and hop in, as the wind can be chilly in Iceland, depending on the time of year. Oh, and bring an extra towel, as it’ll make changing a little easier later on since there are no change rooms here. Trust me, though. You won’t mind as you enjoy the beautiful nature that surrounds you.

What To Bring

• Hiking shoes
• Water
• Snacks
• Swimsuit
• Flip-flops or sandals
• Quick-dry towel
• Bag for wet clothes
• Water shoes
• Shampoo and conditioner
• Hair tie or scrunchie
• Swimming cap

Final Thoughts: You’ve Got Options!

When visiting Iceland, you do not want to miss out on the bathing scene.

Sure, Blue Lagoon gets a lot of attention, but there are tons of other incredible geothermal pools and hot springs, each with its own vibe and charm.

So, if, for whatever reason, you’re not feeling the Blue Lagoon, don’t fret—there are lots more options to choose from!

Which Blue Lagoon alternatives are you most excited to check out?

Prepare for your Icelandic adventure by pinning this article!

Danielle Desir Corbett

Danielle Desir Corbett is an award-winning and 6x grant-funded travel writer and podcast host who went from financial struggle to visiting 27+ countries all without waiting until retirement. Her story is proof that budget doesn’t limit adventure. Tune into The Thought Card Podcast for practical strategies to travel smarter and live on your terms. Say hello: thethoughtcard (at) gmail (dot) com.

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