Jökulsárlón
Ideal: Ideal for nature, photography, glacier scenery, and epic Iceland routes.
The lagoon did not exist before the 1930s: as the Breiðamerkurjökull glacier retreated, the depression in front filled with water and the lake became Iceland's deepest at more than 248 meters — and it is still growing. Ice masses calving from the glacier drift in the lagoon for years, shrinking, then pass through a short channel to the sea and are thrown back onto black sand by the waves; the glittering ice chunks on Diamond Beach are the final step in that cycle. The landscape has served as a location in several James Bond films and Batman Begins.
Did you know?
How new is this lagoon?
It did not exist in the 1930s. It formed during the 20th century as the glacier retreated and has grown so fast that it is now Iceland's deepest lake, over 250 m.
Why is the beach opposite called Diamond Beach?
Ice that drifts from the lagoon to the sea is washed back onto the black sand. Those clear blocks glinting in the sun gave the beach its name.
Why are some icebergs blue?
Compressed ice that has lost its air bubbles absorbs red wavelengths and reflects blue. The ones with black stripes carry volcanic ash.
Why go?
- To see Iceland's most distinctive glacier lagoon scenery
- For floating ice masses and dramatic nature photography
- Because it pairs with Diamond Beach for a strong South Iceland route
Travel tip
The drive is long, so a day trip from Reykjavik can be exhausting; an overnight route works better.
