Attractions in South Coast

A striking black volcanic sand beach where crystal-clear icebergs wash ashore from Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon, creating a natural display that resembles scattered diamonds. One of Iceland's most iconic photography locations and part of Vatnajokull National Park.

Dverghamrar is a cluster of small but perfectly formed basalt column formations along Route 1. These symmetrical hexagonal pillars, protected as a natural monument, look like they were crafted by the dwarves of Icelandic folklore.

A striking museum built around an excavated house buried by tephra during the 1973 Eldfell eruption on Heimaey island. Often called the Pompeii of the North, Eldheimar preserves the moment an entire neighbourhood vanished beneath volcanic ash in a single night.

Foss á Síðu is a graceful waterfall that drops from the edge of a cliff alongside a historic farm on Route 1. In strong winds, the water blows upward before it can reach the ground — a phenomenon that makes this roadside stop unforgettable.

A 30-metre waterfall hidden in the Kvernugil gorge, just east of Skogafoss. One of few Icelandic waterfalls where you can walk behind the cascade, without the crowds.

The world's first open-water sanctuary for beluga whales, located in Klettsvik Bay on Heimaey island in the Westman Islands. Home to Little Grey and Little White, two belugas relocated from captivity in Shanghai, the sanctuary also houses Iceland's only Puffin Rescue Centre and a native species aquarium.

One of Iceland's oldest swimming pools, built in 1923 and tucked into a narrow valley beneath Eyjafjallajokull volcano. This free, geothermally heated 25-meter pool is reached by a scenic 15-minute hike and remains a beloved piece of Icelandic swimming culture.

One of Iceland's largest and most iconic waterfalls, plunging 60 metres over a former sea cliff on the south coast. Famous for its rainbows, a Viking treasure legend, and the staircase leading to views from the top.

A national forest in the Fljotshlid valley of South Iceland, established in 1944 as a reforestation station. Tumastadir features an arboretum with dozens of tree species, easy walking trails through Sitka spruce woodland, and a picnic area beneath the historic Republic Grove.