Iceland’s South Coast stretches along the Ring Road from Selfoss to Höfn, covering roughly 460 km. It features iconic waterfalls like Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss, the black sand beach at Reynisfjara, Vatnajökull glacier, Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon, Diamond Beach, and Skaftafell Nature Reserve — making it the country’s most scenic coastal drive.
We did our best to create a complete guide to the Icelandic South Coast, but this region is so vast and full of wonders that we might have overlooked some gems. From powerful waterfalls and glaciers to black sand beaches and ice caves, Iceland’s South Coast delivers the country’s most dramatic landscapes in one accessible stretch along the Ring Road.
(Almost) All the Natural Beauty of the Icelandic South Coast from Selfoss to Höfn
Urriðafoss
Urriðafoss marks your first waterfall encounter on the South Coast, located just minutes from Selfoss along Route 1. This powerful waterfall on the Þjórsá river (Iceland’s longest river) spreads wide across the landscape, creating an impressive flow even if it lacks the dramatic drop of later waterfalls. The falls carry the largest volume of water in Iceland, averaging 370 cubic meters per second.
Stop here for a few minutes to stretch your legs and witness raw power before continuing to more famous sites.
Gluggafoss
Gluggafoss translates to “Window Waterfall” due to the distinctive opening in the cliff behind the falling water. This lesser-known 44-meter waterfall requires a short detour from Route 1 but rewards visitors with far fewer crowds than nearby Seljalandsfoss.
The viewing area lets you see through the “window” for a unique perspective. Visit early morning or evening for the best light filtering through the opening.
Seljalandsfoss
Seljalandsfoss ranks among Iceland’s most photographed waterfalls for good reason: you can walk behind the 60-meter cascade. The pathway circles behind the waterfall, creating a natural amphitheater where water crashes in front of you while you remain (relatively) dry.
Visit during golden hour for spectacular lighting as sun filters through the spray. Bring waterproof gear as mist drenches the area regardless of wind direction. The waterfall stays accessible year-round, though ice makes the path behind the waterfall impassable in winter.
Skógafoss
Skógafoss creates one of Iceland’s most powerful visual experiences. The 60-meter-high, 25-meter-wide waterfall produces constant spray that creates rainbows on sunny days. The sheer volume of water falling from Skógá river generates deafening sound and mist visible from kilometers away.
Climb the 527 steps to the top for a different perspective overlooking the coastal plain. The staircase delivers sweeping views of the South Coast and the waterfall’s edge where water plunges into the gorge below.
The waterfall marks the starting point for the Fimmvörðuháls hiking trail connecting to Þórsmörk valley. Even non-hikers should walk a short distance up the trail for additional waterfall views hidden in the gorge.
Kvernufoss
Kvernufoss remains remarkably uncrowded despite sitting just minutes from Skógafoss. This 30-meter waterfall hides in a narrow canyon behind the Skógar Museum parking area. Walk behind the cascade similar to Seljalandsfoss but with virtually no other visitors.
The short trail to reach Kvernufoss winds through an intimate gorge, creating an atmospheric approach. This represents one of the South Coast’s best “hidden gems” for avoiding crowds.
Sólheimajökull
Sólheimajökull glacier tongue extends from Mýrdalsjökull ice cap, providing accessible glacier viewing after a short walk from the parking area. The walk leads to the glacial lagoon where icebergs calve from the glacier face. The dramatic blue ice contrasts with black volcanic ash creating patterns throughout the ice.
This glacier serves as a popular site for glacier hiking tours that equip participants with crampons and ice axes to explore the ice formations up close. Glacier retreat has been dramatic in recent decades: compare current conditions to historical photos displayed at the parking area to understand climate change impacts.
Dýrhólaey
Dýrhólaey peninsula juts into the Atlantic Ocean, creating Iceland’s southernmost point. The massive natural arch allows small boats to pass through during calm conditions. From the lighthouse atop the cliff, panoramic views span Reynisfjara black sand beach, Reynisdrangar sea stacks, and along the coast toward Mýrdalsjökull glacier.
Access to Dýrhólaey closes at night during puffin nesting season (mid-May to late June) to protect birds. Outside nesting season, you might spot puffins on the cliffs from April through August along with other seabirds.
Reynisfjara
Reynisfjara black sand beach features dramatic basalt columns, powerful waves, and the Reynisdrangar sea stacks rising from the ocean. The geometric basalt formations create a natural cathedral effect along the cliff face. Black volcanic sand contrasts sharply with white foam from North Atlantic waves.
February 2026 update: A major landslide beneath Reynisfjall mountain and unprecedented coastal erosion have significantly reshaped Reynisfjara. The Hálsanefshellir cave is currently inaccessible, beach access is restricted to the upper viewing platforms, and much of the sand has been swept away. The Reynisdrangar sea stacks and basalt columns remain intact. Read our full article on the Reynisfjara landslide for the latest conditions and safety advice.
Warning: Reynisfjara experiences dangerous “sneaker waves” that can appear without warning and pull visitors into the ocean. Several drownings have occurred here. Never turn your back on the waves, maintain distance from the waterline, and always check SafeTravel before visiting.
Víkurfjara
Víkurfjara offers a quieter alternative to Reynisfjara just east of Vík village. This black sand beach provides excellent views of Reynisdrangar sea stacks from a different angle with fewer crowds.
The beach extends along Vík’s southern edge, popular with locals and visitors seeking a more relaxed atmosphere. Same wave warnings apply as Reynisfjara.
Fjaðrárgljúfur
Fjaðrárgljúfur canyon stretches 2 kilometers long and reaches 100 meters deep, carved by glacial meltwater over thousands of years. Walkways along the canyon rim provide dramatic views into the serpentine gorge where the Fjaðrá river flows between sheer walls.
The canyon gained fame after appearing in a Justin Bieber music video, leading to temporary closure for environmental recovery. Stick to marked paths to protect the fragile moss and vegetation. The short hike takes 30-45 minutes and ranks among the South Coast’s most photogenic sites.
Eldhraun
Eldhraun lava field emerged from the catastrophic Laki eruption of 1783-1784, one of history’s most devastating volcanic events. The eruption produced the largest lava flow in historical times, covering 565 square kilometers. Toxic gases from the eruption killed over 50% of Iceland’s livestock and caused famine that reduced the population by 25%.
Today, the lava field covers itself in soft moss, creating an otherworldly green landscape stretching for kilometers. Stop at designated viewpoints but never walk on the moss: it takes decades to recover from footprints.
Lómagnúpur
Lómagnúpur cliff rises 767 meters with a sheer face overlooking the coastal plains. This dramatic mountain served as a waypoint for travelers before the Ring Road existed. The cliff face dominates the landscape, visible for kilometers in clear conditions.
Vatnajökull National Park: Skaftafell
Skaftafell serves as the southern gateway to Vatnajökull National Park. This area offers hiking trails ranging from easy walks to challenging mountain routes. The visitor center provides maps, information, and ranger programs about the park’s geology and ecology.
Svartifoss (“Black Waterfall”) and Sjónarnipa viewpoint rank among the most popular short hikes. Svartifoss drops 20 meters surrounded by hexagonal basalt columns that inspired the architecture of Reykjavík’s Hallgrímskirkja church. The hike takes about 90 minutes round trip.
Sjónarnipa viewpoint overlooks Skaftafellsjökull glacier tongue and the surrounding mountains. This 45-minute round trip hike provides excellent glacier views without technical equipment.
Vatnajökull National Park: Svínafellsjökull
Svínafellsjökull glacier tongue extends from Vatnajökull ice cap, creating a popular starting point for glacier hiking tours. The glacier featured in several Hollywood films including Interstellar and Game of Thrones. The access road leads to a viewpoint where you can observe the glacier terminus after an easy walk.
Vatnajökull National Park: Fjallsárlón
Fjallsárlón glacier lagoon remains less crowded than nearby Jökulsárlón while delivering equally stunning views. Icebergs calve from Fjallsjökull glacier, floating in the milky blue water before eventually melting or washing out to sea.
Boat tours on Fjallsárlón take you among the icebergs for close-up views of the ice formations. The glacier creates an impressive backdrop rising behind the lagoon.
Visit Fjallsárlón first before Jökulsárlón to appreciate its unique character without comparison to the larger lagoon.
Vatnajökull National Park: Jökulsárlón
Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon represents one of Iceland’s most iconic sites. Massive icebergs break from Breiðamerkurjökull glacier, floating through the deep lagoon before exiting to the ocean. The lagoon formed as the glacier retreated, creating a dramatic landscape that didn’t exist 100 years ago.
The icebergs display incredible blue hues from compressed ancient ice. Seals frequently swim among the ice, hunting for fish. Boat tours navigate through the icebergs for a different perspective, while the shoreline provides excellent photography opportunities.
Visit during different times of day for varying light conditions. Golden hour creates warm tones on the ice, while overcast conditions emphasize the blue colors.
Vatnajökull National Park: Fellsfjara “Diamond Beach”
Diamond Beach sits directly across Route 1 from Jökulsárlón. Icebergs from the lagoon flow through the outlet channel to the ocean, then wash back onto the black sand beach. Clear ice chunks ranging from small fragments to house-sized blocks scatter across the dark sand, creating the “diamond” effect.
The ice constantly moves with tides and waves, meaning no two visits look the same. Morning light illuminates the ice from behind, while sunset provides warm tones. Stay clear of large ice blocks as waves can shift them suddenly.
Vestrahorn
Vestrahorn mountain creates one of Iceland’s most dramatic profiles with jagged peaks rising 454 meters above the Stokksnes peninsula. The private access road charges a small fee but delivers an outstanding photography location.
The black sand beach and tidal pools create perfect reflections of the mountain. Old Viking village movie set remains on the property, adding an interesting foreground element for photos.
Visit during low tide when shallow water covers the sand, creating mirror reflections. The mountain’s distinctive profile makes it instantly recognizable in landscape photography.
Puffins
From April to August, puffins nest along the South Coast cliffs. Dýrhólaey peninsula serves as one of Iceland’s most accessible puffin viewing sites, though access closes at night during peak nesting (mid-May to late June).
These seabirds spend most of the year at sea, returning to land only to breed. Their distinctive colorful beaks, waddling walk, and ability to carry multiple fish create endearing characteristics that make them Iceland’s unofficial bird mascot.
Bring telephoto lenses for photography as approaching too close disturbs nesting birds. Early morning and evening provide the best viewing times when puffins return from fishing.
Cultural Sites and Activities
The Lava Centre
The Lava Centre in Hvolsvöllur provides interactive exhibits about Iceland’s volcanic and seismic activity. The museum sits beneath Katla volcano, one of Iceland’s most powerful volcanic systems. Earthquake simulators, real-time seismic monitoring, and educational displays explain the geological forces shaping Iceland.
Caves of Hella
Caves of Hella offers a unique cultural experience exploring five ancient man-made caves. These underground chambers may predate Viking settlement, possibly created by Celtic monks. Carved crosses, wall engravings, and stone seats create mysteries about their original purpose and occupants.
Rútshellir
Rútshellir represents another ancient man-made cave along the South Coast. The cave shows evidence of early occupation and provides insight into how people survived in Iceland before modern construction. Access requires a short walk from the parking area.
The Lava Show
The Lava Show in Vík recreates volcanic eruptions indoors using real molten lava heated to 1100°C. The presentation pours glowing lava meters from spectators while explaining volcanic processes. This unique experience operates year-round regardless of weather, making it an excellent backup plan for stormy days.
Activities in Vatnajökull National Park
Boat Tours Among the Icebergs on Fjallsárlón
Boat tours on Fjallsárlón navigate through floating icebergs for close encounters with ancient glacier ice. The smaller lagoon provides a more intimate experience than Jökulsárlón tours with equally impressive ice formations.
Katla Ice Cave
Katla Ice Cave tours explore natural ice caves beneath Mýrdalsjökull glacier. These caves form from glacial meltwater and remain accessible year-round, unlike seasonal ice caves that only exist during winter months. The blue and black ice layers create stunning visual effects.
Ice Cave Tour on Vatnajökull
Natural ice caves form each winter in Vatnajökull glacier as meltwater carves tunnels through the ice. Tours operate November through March when caves remain stable and safe to enter. The crystal blue ice creates an otherworldly environment unlike anything else in nature.
Glacier Hike on Sólheimajökull or Falljökull
Glacier hiking tours equip participants with crampons, ice axes, and safety equipment to explore glacier surfaces. Experienced guides lead groups across the ice, navigating crevasses and explaining glacier formation.
Sólheimajökull near Vík and Falljökull near Skaftafell serve as popular starting points for glacier hiking experiences. Tours range from beginner-friendly walks to advanced ice climbing expeditions.
What About Tours to the Icelandic South Coast?
Private Tours
We offer several private tours to the Icelandic South Coast, depending on what you want to do.
Private South Coast Complete
Private South Coast Complete Adventure covers the main highlights from Reykjavík to Vík and back in one full day. Visit Seljalandsfoss, Skógafoss, Reynisfjara black sand beach, and more with a dedicated guide and customizable itinerary.
Private South Coast and Glacier Hike Tour
Combine South Coast sightseeing with hands-on glacier hiking on Sólheimajökull. This full-day tour provides all glacier equipment and expert instruction for an adventure mixing natural landmarks with active exploration.
Private Two Day Tour South Coast Adventure
Extend your exploration across two days to reach Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon and Diamond Beach. Overnight accommodation near Vík or further east allows a relaxed pace covering more ground without rushing.
Small Group Tours
Through our partner Iceland for You, you’ll find small group tours to the Icelandic South Coast:
South Coast and Caves of Hella
South Coast and Caves of Hella tour combines natural wonders with cultural heritage, exploring waterfalls, beaches, and ancient man-made caves.
South Coast and Glacier Hike
South Coast and Glacier Hike delivers the classic South Coast experience enhanced with glacier hiking on Sólheimajökull.
South Coast Hidden Gems and Lava Show
South Coast Hidden Gems and Lava Show focuses on lesser-known sites along with the indoor lava eruption experience in Vík.
Best Hotels on the South Coast of Iceland
Hotel Kría
Located near Vík, Hotel Kría provides modern accommodation with views toward Reynisfjara and Reynisdrangar sea stacks. On-site restaurant serves Icelandic cuisine and the hotel makes an excellent base for South Coast exploration.
Hotel Katla
Hotel Katla sits near Vík with direct views of Katla volcano. Contemporary design, comfortable rooms, and proximity to Reynisfjara make this a popular choice for South Coast travelers.
Fosshotel Núpar
Fosshotel Núpar near Kirkjubæjarklaustur offers isolated accommodation with views toward Vatnajökull glacier. The location provides a good stopping point for two-day South Coast trips or as a base for exploring Skaftafell area.
Fosshotel Glacier Lagoon
Fosshotel Glacier Lagoon provides the closest major accommodation to Jökulsárlón, just minutes from the glacier lagoon. Modern facilities and strategic location make this ideal for early morning or late evening visits to Jökulsárlón and Diamond Beach. We offer private transfers to Fosshotel Glacier Lagoon from Reykjavík.
Our Favorite: Hotel Jökulsárlón
Hotel Jökulsárlón combines boutique character with unbeatable proximity to Iceland’s most iconic glacier lagoon. The intimate property features excellent service, comfortable rooms, and the convenience of driving to Jökulsárlón and Diamond Beach within minutes. The on-site restaurant serves quality meals using local ingredients.
The location allows you to photograph Jökulsárlón during golden hour and return for dinner easily, then revisit the lagoon after sunset for stargazing or northern lights viewing. We offer private transfers to Hotel Jökulsárlón from Reykjavík.
Conclusion
Iceland’s South Coast concentrates the country’s most dramatic landscapes into one accessible route along the Ring Road. From Selfoss to Höfn, you’ll encounter powerful waterfalls, glaciers calving into lagoons, black sand beaches, ice caves, and cultural sites that span Viking and pre-Viking history.
Plan at least two days to explore without rushing, or extend to three days for including activities like glacier hiking, ice cave tours, or boat tours among icebergs. Summer provides long daylight and warmest temperatures, while winter offers northern lights opportunities and access to natural ice caves that don’t exist in warmer months.
Whether you choose a private South Coast tour with customized itinerary, join a small group adventure, or drive yourself, the South Coast delivers Iceland’s natural wonders in their most concentrated and accessible form. Start early to avoid crowds at popular sites like Jökulsárlón and Reynisfjara, and allow flexibility in your schedule for weather conditions that change rapidly along the coast.
