Sky Lagoon Iceland — What to Know Before You Soak in Reykjavík’s Newest Spa

Perched on the edge of the North Atlantic, Sky Lagoon remains one of Iceland’s most spectacular geothermal retreats, even as new destinations like Laugarás Lagoon continue Iceland’s spa evolution. Opened in 2021, Sky Lagoon invites guests to soak in mineral-rich waters while gazing over endless horizons, glowing sunsets, or even the Northern Lights.

Just 15 minutes from downtown Reykjavík, it blends contemporary Icelandic design with ancient bathing traditions through its signature 7-Step Ritual. Whether you’re seeking wellness, warmth, or wonder, this oceanfront sanctuary offers an unforgettable way to experience Iceland’s elemental beauty before or after your city adventures.

In this section, we will dive deeper into what makes Sky Lagoon a truly unique and rejuvenating experience.

Where Is Sky Lagoon and How to Get There

Sky Lagoon is located in Kársnes Harbour, Kópavogur, a peaceful coastal area just 15 minutes south of downtown Reykjavík. Its oceanfront setting gives visitors panoramic views of the North Atlantic while remaining easily accessible from the city.

Travelers can reach the lagoon by car, taxi, or shuttle bus, with free on-site parking for self-drivers. Public transport is available via Strætó bus routes stopping nearby. Many Reykjavík hotels and tour operators also offer transfer services for added convenience.

For those arriving from Keflavík International Airport, the drive takes about 40 minutes, making Sky Lagoon a perfect stop either before flying out or after landing — an effortless blend of urban convenience and natural serenity on Iceland’s dramatic coast.

What Makes Sky Lagoon Special?

• Unmatched Location: Perched at the edge of the North Atlantic Ocean, Sky Lagoon offers breathtaking, uninterrupted views — where the horizon seems to merge with the infinity pool.
• Modern Icelandic Design: Built into the coastal cliffs, the spa reflects Iceland’s natural palette with lava rock, turf roofs, and warm, minimalist architecture inspired by local heritage.
• Ocean-Edge Infinity Pool: The lagoon’s signature feature creates the illusion of floating in the sea, with spectacular sunsets and, in winter, occasional Northern Lights displays overhead.
• The 7-Step Ritual: A signature wellness journey that combines geothermal bathing, sauna, cold plunges, body scrubs, and steam rooms to restore body and mind.
• Intimate Atmosphere: Compared to the busier Blue Lagoon, Sky Lagoon offers a quieter, boutique-style experience focused on mindfulness and relaxation.
• Convenient Location: Only 15 minutes from Reykjavík, perfect for travelers short on time but seeking authentic Icelandic tranquility.
• Sustainable Experience: Powered by geothermal energy and designed with eco-friendly materials, Sky Lagoon embodies Iceland’s commitment to harmony between luxury and nature.

The 7-Step Sky Ritual — A Complete Wellness Journey

The 7-Step Sky Ritual at Sky Lagoon is the heart of the entire experience — a transformative wellness journey designed to restore balance, rejuvenate the senses, and reflect Iceland’s deep connection to the elements.

Rooted in traditional Icelandic bathing culture, each stage blends temperature contrast, texture, and scent to awaken both body and mind. Here’s what makes this ritual so special.

Step 1: Geothermal Lagoon Soak

The ritual begins in the warm embrace of Sky Lagoon’s geothermal waters. As your muscles relax and your breathing deepens, the combination of mineral heat and ocean air melts away tension. The panoramic horizon — sometimes lit by golden sunsets or the Northern Lights — sets the tone for mindfulness and calm.

Step 2: Cold Plunge

Next comes a brief but invigorating dip in an icy plunge pool. The shock of cold stimulates circulation, tightens pores, and boosts energy. It’s a moment of renewal — a reminder of Iceland’s elemental extremes, where fire and ice coexist in perfect harmony.

Step 3: Ocean-View Sauna

From the cold plunge, guests step into a spacious sauna featuring a floor-to-ceiling glass wall overlooking the North Atlantic. The heat draws toxins from the body while deep breathing restores inner rhythm. The panoramic window connects you to nature, letting you gaze out over crashing waves and volcanic coastlines as your body unwinds.

Step 4: Cold Mist Experience

After the dry heat, a cool mist fills the air, enveloping the skin in fine droplets that refresh and balance. This subtle temperature shift reawakens your senses and preps your body for exfoliation, bridging warmth and chill with grace.

Step 5: Sky Body Scrub

This signature step introduces Sky Lagoon’s unique sea salt body scrub, infused with natural oils and minerals. Guests apply the scrub in circular motions, stimulating skin renewal and improving texture. It’s both energizing and grounding — a tactile reminder of Iceland’s connection to sea, salt, and stone.

Step 6: Steam Room Detox

Following exfoliation, guests enter a steam-filled chamber where warm, mineral-rich air opens pores and enhances absorption of the scrub’s nutrients. The dense humidity encourages deep breathing, hydration, and total relaxation — a quiet retreat for both skin and spirit.

Step 7: Warm Shower and Return to the Lagoon

The ritual ends with a cleansing shower, washing away remaining scrub and releasing impurities. Returning to the lagoon’s soothing waters completes the cycle — your body renewed, your mind calm, your senses alive.

Each step of the 7-Step Ritual is intentional: alternating hot and cold to stimulate blood flow, using natural minerals to heal the skin, and incorporating quiet moments for mindfulness. The result is a full-body reset — a spa experience that captures Iceland’s essence through contrast, purity, and serenity. Whether you visit for wellness or wonder, the Sky Ritual transforms a simple soak into a holistic journey of rejuvenation and peace.

What Are the Ticket Options and Prices?

Ticket Options

• Saman Pass: This is the “standard” pass. It includes entrance to the lagoon, a towel, access to public changing facilities, and full participation in the 7-Step Ritual.
• Sér Pass: The premium option. Everything in the Saman Pass plus private changing rooms and upgraded amenities like signature body lotions.
• Passes with Transfer / Packages: Some versions of the Saman or Sér pass include round-trip transfer from Reykjavík, which simplifies transport.
• Multi-visit / Combo Passes: For repeat visits, there are “multi-pass” options (e.g. 6 visits) in both Saman and Sér formats.
• Couple / Date Packages: These include two passes, complimentary drink(s), and sometimes the Sky Platter (a food item) at Smakk Bar.

Pricing (Estimated / Starting Rates)

• Saman Pass: starts around 10,490 ISK per person (≈ $76 USD) for public changing.
• Sér Pass (private change rooms + extras): starts around 13,490 ISK per person (≈ $98 USD)
• Pass with Transfer: Depending on inclusion of transport, pricing is higher.
• Packages for Two: e.g., two Saman passes + perks (drink, food) — pricing is higher per pair.
• Multi-Passes: e.g., six Sér passes from ~ 44,970 ISK or similar.

What’s Included in All Passes

• Admission to the lagoon
• Participation in the 7-Step Ritual
• Towel
• Changing facilities (public or private depending on pass)

When Is the Best Time to Visit Sky Lagoon?

Daytime Visits: Bright Skies and Coastal Views

During daylight hours, especially late morning through mid-afternoon, Sky Lagoon is bathed in natural light, offering fully illuminated views of the North Atlantic coastline. This is ideal for guests who want to soak in the water while enjoying the rugged ocean vistas and dramatic skies.

The clear distinctions between sea, horizon, and spa structures make it especially photogenic in daylight. If you want a relaxed, visually rich soak without worrying about darkness, daytime is a perfect choice.

Sunset & Twilight: Golden Hours and Reflections

Visiting around sunset or during the twilight hours can be magical. As the sun dips, the sky often fills with warm pinks, oranges, and purples that reflect off the lagoon and amplify the spa’s infinity-edge effect.

The gradual shift toward dusk adds an element of serenity, bridging day and night. This window also tends to have fewer guests than peak midday hours. For photographers, this time offers soft light, subtle contrasts, and dramatic composition possibilities.

Evenings & Northern Lights Season (September–April)

In the darker months (roughly September through early April), evening visits open the possibility of witnessing the Northern Lights dancing overhead while soaking in warm geothermal water.

Because Sky Lagoon is close to Reykjavík, light pollution is less extreme than in urban centers, giving patrons a chance at aurora sightings without leaving the city. For many, the dreamy combination of steam, dark skies, and shimmering auroras makes an evening soak an unforgettable experience.

Off-Peak & Shoulder Seasons: Less Crowds, Flexible Atmosphere

If your schedule permits, aim for shoulder months (April–May, August–September). The weather is still cool enough to enjoy the lagoon, but crowds are lighter and ticket prices may be lower. Midweek afternoons during non-holiday times are often the calmest. In these off-peak windows, you can enjoy more peace, flexible booking, and perhaps even upgrade opportunities.

Dining and Refreshments

After your soak, Sky Lagoon invites you to indulge in Icelandic flavors inspired by local ingredients and tradition. The on-site Smakk Bar offers tasting platters featuring delicacies like smoked salmon, cured lamb, rye bread, and creamy skyr — a delicious way to sample the country’s culinary heritage.

Guests can also enjoy fresh salads, soups, and pastries in a relaxed, scenic setting overlooking the ocean. Inside the lagoon, a swim-up bar serves craft cocktails, Icelandic beers, wine, and refreshing juices, allowing you to sip while floating in warm geothermal water.

Every item emphasizes sustainability and seasonal sourcing, reflecting the same connection to nature that defines the spa itself. Whether you’re sharing snacks with friends or enjoying a quiet drink alone, Sky Lagoon’s dining adds the perfect finishing touch to your wellness experience.

What to Bring and Know Before You Go

• Swimsuit: Required for entry — bring your own or rent on-site.
• Towel: Included with all passes, but you can bring an extra for convenience.
• Footwear: Flip-flops or sandals are helpful for walking between facilities.
• Hair care: Apply conditioner before entering to protect hair from minerals.
• Jewelry: Remove rings, watches, and earrings to prevent discoloration from geothermal water.
• Lockers: Available and included in all passes for secure storage.
• Showers: Mandatory before entering the lagoon — a standard Icelandic spa practice.
• Cameras: Permitted in designated areas; avoid flash and respect other guests’ privacy.
• Timing: Arrive 30 minutes early to check in, change, and begin your 7-Step Ritual calmly.

Is Sky Lagoon Suitable for Children?

Sky Lagoon is primarily designed as a tranquil, adult-oriented spa experience. The minimum age for entry is 12 years old, and all guests under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. The lagoon focuses on quiet relaxation, wellness, and mindfulness, making it ideal for older teens but less suited to young children.

For families with younger kids, Reykjavík offers many alternative geothermal pools — such as Laugardalslaug — that are more family-friendly and playful in atmosphere.

Insider Tips for the Best Experience

• Visit at off-peak hours: Early mornings or late evenings offer a more peaceful atmosphere and fewer crowds.
• Book the Sky Pass: It includes private changing rooms and the full 7-Step Ritual — worth the upgrade for comfort and privacy.
• Arrive early: Get there at least 30 minutes before your scheduled time to enjoy the full experience without rushing.
• Go makeup-free: Steam and minerals are best enjoyed with clean skin for better absorption.
• Bring a waterproof phone pouch: Ideal for taking photos without risking your device.
• Stay hydrated: Alternate between spa drinks and water to avoid dehydration.
• Check weather and aurora forecasts: For sunset colors or Northern Lights, time your visit in the evening.
• Relax slowly: Take your time between ritual steps — Sky Lagoon is designed for mindfulness, not speed.

FAQs

What should I bring for my visit?

Bring a bathing suit and keep personal belongings in lockers near the private changing facilities. You’ll find private showers, free water, and towels provided. The Sky Lagoon experience also includes hot water, a cold plunge pool, and fresh air access for full rejuvenation.

What’s included in the Seven Step Ritual?

The seven-step ritual features a cold water dip, steam room, exfoliating sesame seed oil, almond oil, and krækiber berry elixir, ending with a refreshing drink from the Gelmir Bar or in-water bar.

What makes Iceland’s Sky Lagoon unique?

Iceland’s Sky Lagoon offers a luxurious Icelandic geothermal spa experience just minutes from the city centre. Built into lava fields with views of the cone-shaped volcano, it blends Icelandic nature and design inspired by Iceland’s early settlers. Many Sky Lagoon Iceland reviews praise its seven-step ritual, turf architecture, and peaceful relaxing soak.

When is the best time to visit Sky Lagoon?

Open year-round, the lagoon offers serenity under the midnight sun or a clear night sky. Pair it with Reykjavík excursions or visits to nearby hot springs before your recent trip ends at Keflavík Airport for an unforgettable geothermal spa finale.

Conclusion

Sky Lagoon captures the essence of Icelandic wellness — where the elements of fire, water, and sea air unite in one serene experience. Just minutes from Reykjavík, it offers travelers a luxurious yet authentic way to unwind while staying close to the city’s heart.

Whether you’re drawn by the 7-Step Ritual, the ocean-edge infinity pool, or the soothing geothermal warmth beneath open skies, Sky Lagoon delivers peace and renewal in every moment. It’s not just a spa visit — it’s a modern reflection of Iceland’s timeless connection to nature.

Traveler’s Tip: While Laugarás Lagoon is now Iceland’s newest spa, Sky Lagoon continues to define urban luxury just outside Reykjavík — ideal for those who want world-class relaxation without leaving the capital area.