What is the Best Time to Visit Iceland Blue Lagoon?
Are you trying to determine the best time to visit Iceland and the Blue Lagoon? Read on for a detailed comparison of the pros and cons for each season.
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Overall Best Time to Visit Iceland Blue Lagoon?
Visiting in the Spring (Pros and Cons)
Keep in mind as you read these pros and cons that they may not apply to you at all. If you can only travel to Iceland in the spring, then that time is what you will have to work with. Spring becomes the best time to visit Iceland and the Blue Lagoon for you. No questions asked. The pros and cons are all suggestions only. You be the final judge.
Pros
There are several pros to visiting Iceland’s Blue Lagoon during the spring season. These pros are quieter crowds, more pleasant weather, and the scenic beauty during springtime.
✅Spring is considered to be the shoulder season in Iceland. The Blue Lagoon is likely to be less crowded than during the peak summer season. This can make for a more relaxed and peaceful experience.
✅While Iceland can be cold year-round, the spring season typically sees milder temperatures compared to the winter months. Nicer weather can give a more comfortable experience when enjoying the warm waters of the Blue Lagoon.
✅Spring is when Iceland’s landscape starts to come alive again after the winter months. The surrounding hillsides and countryside may be dotted with wildflowers and greenery, which can only enhance your visit to the Blue Lagoon.
Cons
Just as there are some pros for the spring visits, there are always some cons to keep in mind. These can be unpredictable weather, limited daylight, and possible construction work at the site.
❌While the weather can be milder during the spring season, it can also be unpredictable. Look out for sudden changes in temperature, wind, and precipitation. Visitors should be prepared for all weather conditions and pack accordingly.
❌Iceland experiences long periods of daylight during the summer months, but in the spring, the days are still relatively short. This can impact the amount of time to enjoy the Blue Lagoon and other outdoor activities during daytime hours.
❌As with many tourist destinations, the Blue Lagoon may undergo maintenance or construction work during the quieter spring season. This can impact certain areas of the facility and limit access to certain amenities. Visitors should check ahead to see if any work is scheduled during their planned visit.
If you’re thinking of glamping while in Iceland, check this blog post out for more info. Glamping can be an amazing complement to a visit to the Blue Lagoon.
Is Summer the Best Time to Visit Iceland Blue Lagoon? (Pros and Cons)
Summertime is peak vacation season in Europe. People are ready to travel and explore the beauty of Iceland in its full-blown summer greenery.
Pros
The Blue Lagoon is a popular tourist destination year-round, but even more so in the summer. The longer days, more comfortable temperatures, and stunning scenery all add to the popularity of the summer season.
✅During the summer, Iceland experiences almost 24 hours of daylight, which means you can spend more time in the Blue Lagoon and explore other areas of Iceland during your trip.
✅The summer temperatures in Iceland range from 10-20°C (50-68°F), which can make soaking in the warm waters of the Blue Lagoon more comfortable.
✅The surrounding landscapes are green and lush during the summer, which can enhance your overall experience at the Blue Lagoon.
Cons
For every pro, there is always a con waiting behind the scenes. Crowds from the busy tourist season and the higher prices they bring are a few of the cons. The weather can also be a bit unstable.
❌The summer months are the busiest tourist season in Iceland, and the Blue Lagoon can get very crowded, especially during peak hours. This can make it harder to fully enjoy the experience.
❌With the increase in demand during the summer season, the prices for accommodations, transportation, and activities can be higher than during other times of the year.
❌Despite the comfortable temperatures, Iceland’s weather can still be unpredictable during the summer months, with rain and wind being common. The temperatures can also occasionally soar quite high, making a day in the hot springs unbearable.
Visiting in the Fall (Pros and Cons)
Fall can be an amazing season, or some people call it Autumn, but is it best to visit then? Let’s review some pros and cons no matter what you call this season.
Pros
There are several advantages to visiting the Blue Lagoon in Iceland during the autumn. These can include fewer crowds, lower prices, nice weather and autumn colors, and the potential to see the Northern Lights.
✅The autumn season is considered to be a shoulder season in Iceland, which means fewer tourists visit during this time. This translates to fewer crowds at the Blue Lagoon, allowing for a more relaxing and peaceful experience.
✅Visiting during the autumn season can be more affordable, as many hotels and attractions offer lower prices during this time. This can make your trip more budget-friendly.
✅The autumn season in Iceland brings with it stunning fall colors. The landscape around the Blue Lagoon will be awash in hues of gold, red, and orange, providing a breathtaking backdrop for your visit.
✅While Iceland is known for its cold and harsh weather, the autumn season is relatively mild. The temperature is usually around 5-10°C (41-50°F), making it more comfortable to enjoy the outdoor pool.
✅The autumn season in Iceland is also a good time to catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights, as the nights get darker. The Blue Lagoon is an excellent place to view the Aurora Borealis while soaking in the warm waters.
Cons
❌One potential con of visiting the Blue Lagoon during the autumn months (September to November) is that the weather can be quite unpredictable and harsh. The temperature can drop significantly, and there may be more rain and wind than in the summer months. This can make the experience of being in the warm, mineral-rich waters of the Blue Lagoon less enjoyable, particularly if you have to brave cold, wet weather to get in and out of the lagoon.
❌Additionally, the shorter daylight hours in the autumn can limit the amount of time you have to enjoy the scenery and take advantage of the outdoor activities offered in the area.
Is Winter the Best Time to Visit Iceland Blue Lagoon?(Pros and Cons)
When you think of Iceland, you think of cold and snow. There is plenty of that in the winter season in Iceland. Here are some pros and cons for you to consider.
Pros
The pros during the winter are balanced out by the cons. You decide if any of these reasons will prevent you from going there during the winter months.
✅Visiting the Blue Lagoon during the winter months can mean fewer crowds and a more relaxed atmosphere. This can make for a more enjoyable and peaceful experience.
✅The contrast between the icy winter landscape and the warm, steamy waters of the lagoon can create a unique and stunning visual experience.
✅The winter months in Iceland offer better chances to see the Northern Lights. The Blue Lagoon can be a great place to watch the colorful lights dance across the sky while relaxing in the warm waters.
✅The cold winter air can make the warm waters of the Blue Lagoon even more inviting. Visitors can enjoy the spa experience to the fullest, soaking in the mineral-rich waters and enjoying a range of treatments.
✅Iceland is known for its winter activities, such as snowmobiling and dog sledding. Visitors to the Blue Lagoon can combine a relaxing spa experience with exciting winter activities.
Overall, visiting the Blue Lagoon in the winter can offer a unique and memorable experience that is different from visiting during the warmer months. I visited in early December and thought the contrast between cold and snow with the swirling steam from the lagoon was enchanting.
Cons
While visiting the Blue Lagoon in the winter can be a wonderful experience, there are also some potential cons to keep in mind.
❌The winter temperatures in Iceland can be extremely cold, especially for those who are not used to it. Getting in and out of the water can be uncomfortable if not properly prepared for the cold.
❌During the winter months, the days are much shorter, with fewer hours of daylight. This can limit the time visitors have to enjoy the lagoon and other outdoor activities.
❌Iceland’s winter weather can be unpredictable, with snow, ice, and strong winds. This can make it difficult to travel to and from the Blue Lagoon and other attractions in the area.
❌The peak season in Iceland is wintertime. This means that prices for accommodation, transportation, and activities can be higher than during the off-season.
❌While the winter scenery can be beautiful, some visitors may miss out on some of Iceland’s natural scenery. Many of the popular tourist destinations, such as glaciers and waterfalls, can be more difficult to access due to the winter conditions.
While the Blue Lagoon can be a great winter destination, visitors should be prepared for the cold temperatures, shorter days, and challenging weather conditions that come with the season.
The Blue Lagoon closed for safety reasons after the volcanic eruptions in late 2023. January 2024 saw the reopening of the area to tourism. Please check the news for any possible issues before finalizing your plans, or speak with your travel agent. If you don't have an agent already, I'm available for booking your trip! 😉Click here to get in touch.
Worst Time to Visit
The Blue Lagoon is one of the most popular geothermal spas in Iceland. The best time to visit can depend on your preferences and interests. However, there are certain times of the year when visiting the Blue Lagoon might be less enjoyable due to weather conditions or crowds.
The winter months (December to February) can be very cold and dark in Iceland, with limited daylight and potentially challenging driving conditions. However, if you are interested in seeing the Northern Lights, this can be a good time to visit as the long nights increase your chances of spotting them.
The summer months (June to August) are the busiest time of year in Iceland, with more tourists and higher prices. This can mean longer wait times at the Blue Lagoon and more crowded conditions. However, the summer months also offer the best weather for exploring Iceland’s natural beauty and outdoor activities.
In general, shoulder seasons (April to May and September to November) can be a good time to visit the Blue Lagoon as they offer a balance between crowds and weather conditions. However, weather can still be unpredictable during these months, so it’s important to be prepared for cooler temperatures and rain.
There isn’t necessarily a “worst” time to visit the Blue Lagoon, as each season has its pros and cons. It really depends on your personal preferences and what you hope to experience during your visit. It is an amazing place to visit all throughout the year. Know your priorities and do the best you can with your planning.
How to Get to the Blue Lagoon
The Blue Lagoon is located in the Reykjanes Peninsula in southwestern Iceland, approximately 20 km (12 miles) from Keflavik International Airport and 50 km (31 miles) from Reykjavik.
Here are some ways to get to the Blue Lagoon:
🚗Renting a car is the most convenient way to get to the Blue Lagoon. You can rent a car from Keflavik International Airport or Reykjavik and drive to the Blue Lagoon. The drive takes approximately 20-30 minutes from the airport and 50 minutes from Reykjavik. Click here to look over rental cars in Iceland.
🚌The Blue Lagoon offers a shuttle bus service that runs from Reykjavik to the Blue Lagoon and back. The shuttle bus service is available several times a day, and the journey takes approximately 45 minutes each way. You can book the shuttle bus service on the Blue Lagoon’s website.
🚙You can also arrange a private transfer from your hotel or from the airport to the Blue Lagoon. Private transfers can be booked through various tour companies or directly through the Blue Lagoon site. Check out private transfers here.
Note that you must book a ticket in advance to visit the Blue Lagoon as it is a popular attraction and tends to get busy. You can book tickets on the Blue Lagoon’s website.
Process for Getting Into the Water
Once you have your ticket, then it’s time to get into that warm water. Here are the steps you take to finally reach the water outside.
Booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak season, as it can get busy and sell out quickly. You can purchase tickets in advance on the Blue Lagoon’s website or on-site at the entrance.
When you arrive, you’ll need to check in at the reception desk and provide your ticket or booking confirmation. You’ll receive a wristband that serves as your locker key and payment method for any additional services you may want to purchase.
Then you’ll be assigned a locker to store your belongings, including your clothes and any valuables. You can also rent a towel, bathrobe, and slippers if you don’t have your own.
Before entering the lagoon, you’re required to shower without a swimsuit on. This is to ensure that the water stays clean and hygienic for all visitors.
You can enter the lagoon via the designated entry points. The water temperature is around 37-40°C (98-104°F), so take your time and ease into the water. There is a separate shower and entry point for handicapped visitors.
Once in the lagoon, you can relax, swim, and explore the various areas, including saunas, steam rooms, and in-water massage services. The Blue Lagoon also offers optional extras such as silica mud masks and massages for an additional fee.
When you’re ready to leave, simply return your locker key and wristband, shower again, and collect your belongings.
Taking Care of Your Hair While in the Water
If you are planning to visit, it is generally not recommended to put conditioner in your hair before entering the water. This is because the Blue Lagoon contains silica and other minerals that can leave a residue on your hair and make it difficult to wash out.
Instead, tie your hair up or wear a swimming cap to protect it while you soak in the water. After you leave the lagoon, you can rinse your hair thoroughly with clean water and use a gentle shampoo to remove any residue.
It’s also important to note that the Blue Lagoon recommends that you don’t submerge your head underwater during your visit. This is to avoid any potential irritation to your eyes, nose, or mouth from the minerals in the water.
When is the Best Time to Visit Iceland Blue Lagoon: FAQs
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In Conclusion: The Best Time to Visit Iceland Blue Lagoon
The absolute best time to visit Iceland Blue Lagoon is when you can physically get there. Hours of operation run year-round and this is a destination you don’t want to miss. Make your plans, be prepared for everything, and don’t forget to take lots of pictures to share your amazing adventure.