Iceland: Blue Lagoon vs Sky Lagoon

Blue Lagoon and Sky Lagoon are great additions to your getaway and a top recommendation to my clients. If time and budget permits, I highly recommend visiting both during your visit. If you can only visit one, here is my breakdown of the differences between them.

Blue Lagoon

Noted as one of Iceland’s most famous geothermal spas, it is known as a Wonder of the World by National Geographic. The Blue Lagoon is a surreal experience and was one of my favorite all time unique experiences.

Location: It is located in the Reykjanes Peninsula, close to Keflavík International Airport - A short 20–25 minute drive from the airport and on your way to Reykjavik.

Best Suited For: Families, couples, girlfriend getaways or solo travelers.

The Vibe: The milky-blue, mineral-rich waters of the Blue Lagoon are renowned for their healing properties and are surrounded by lava fields. The lagoon is quite large so even when there are many visitors you still get the feeling of having your own space. The geothermal water is 98-104°F which feels like the temperature of a hot tub or a warm bath.

Package Overview: The packages are broken down into three options: Comfort, Premium or Retreat Spa. To sum it up - the biggest difference between Comfort/Premium and Retreat Spa is public vs private. The Retreat spa package is more expensive but offers its guests a more luxe experience. Enjoy a more intimate area of the lagoon, private changing rooms and up to five hours in the retreat spa with your significant other or friends with this package. When we were there, it was 100% adults by nature. The package can be purchased for kids 12+ but has a more adult vibe.

Pro Tip: Blue Lagoon is the perfect starting or ending point for your Iceland adventure. It is close to the airport and is one of the best activities after landing from a red eye or on your last day prior to a late afternoon flight home.

Versus...

Sky Lagoon

Opened in 2021, Sky Lagoon is a man-made outdoor pool naturally heated by geothermal activity overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. It is the perfect spot to relax and unwind from your trip.

Location: The Sky Lagoon is located just outside of Reykjavik about 10-15 minutes by car/taxi.

Best Suited For: Couples, girlfriend getaways or solo travelers (Note: Children under the age of 12 are not permitted at Sky Lagoon.)

The Vibe: Sky Lagoon is not as large as Blue Lagoon and the density of guests is higher which can make it feel like it is crowded at times.

Package Overview: The packages are broken down into 3 options which include: Sky, Pure & Pure Lite. Sky package: Includes private dressing rooms and the Seven-Step Ritual.
Pure package: Most booked; Includes public dressing rooms and the Seven-Step Ritual. Pure Lite package: Does not include the Seven-Step Ritual. Includes public dressing rooms only.

Pro Tip: Book the Sky package which includes the Seven-Step Ritual and private changing facilities. The ritual is a fun way to enjoy all the aspects of the Sky Lagoon in combination with the cold plunge, sauna, body scrub + more.

If you are still contemplating which lagoon to add to your list here are some quick recs:

• Traveling with kids? Book Blue Lagoon Comfort or Premium package

• Want to indulge? Book Blue Lagoon Retreat Spa package

• Staying in Reykjavik? Book Sky Lagoon Pure or Sky package

I highly recommend this beautiful country as a top pick destination. It can be perfect for a couple’s trip, family vacation or girlfriend getaway. Dreaming of Iceland? Reach out and I can help make this bucket list trip a reality for you.

As you plan your trip to Iceland, advance reservations are highly recommended for these experiences. The timeslots can book up months in advance so don’t delay in the planning or you could miss out.

This trip report is part of our ongoing series on travel to Iceland. In need of further inspiration? Check out Rabia Malik’s guide, 5-Day Itinerary to Explore Iceland’s Natural Beauty.