Iceland in the summertime feels like a completely different country compared to the winter months. I was blown away by how drastically the landscape shifts with the seasons, each one offering its own kind of magic. Winter brings icy stillness and northern lights, while summer lights up the island with the most vibrant energy, endless daylight, and it’s absolutely surreal beauty everywhere you go.

You won’t see the aurora in the summer there’s just too much daylight. The shift is wild: from just 5-6 hours of sunlight in the depths of winter to nearly 24 hours of daylight in June and July. But what you do get is this dreamy, drawn-out golden hour that lasts for hours and hours, casting a warm glow over waterfalls, mountains, and lava fields. Around the summer solstice the sun just barely sets. You can hike, road trip, or sit by the ocean at 2 a.m. with light still in the sky, and you can watch the colors of the sunset and sunrise for hours. It’s absolutely worth flipping your sleep schedule to soak in the midnight sun. We found it was the most perfect time to explore, hike, take photos, or just wander the incredible Icelandic landscapes.

But remember it’s still Iceland. The weather has a mind of its own, so pack for everything. Sun, wind, and rain can all show up in the same afternoon. Embrace it that unpredictability is part of what makes Iceland feel so alive!

Our Responsibility

Through our platform, we hope to provide tools and help you create a connection with these wild places that fuels a shared responsibility to protect and cherish them. Together, we have the responsibility of taking care of the outdoors and leaving it better than we found it. Always respect and follow Leave No Trace principles. By committing to LNT, we contribute to the preservation of these landscapes, ensuring they remain pristine for future generations to come.

Visiting in Winter? Check out my favorite things to do on a winter trip to Iceland!

Iceland Winter Guide

Best time to visit for Summer conditions:

We spent 16 days in Iceland during the summer, and we only had about 3-4 days of sunshine, with a couple days of 100km/hr winds. During our winter trip, it was sunny every single day! So you really never know what kind of weather you are going to get, and it’s best to be as prepared as possible, as well as being open to any conditions.

Mid-June to late August is the sweet spot when the country truly comes alive. During this time, you’ll have full access to the Highlands and remote regions, endless daylight, and the best weather of the year. It’s also peak puffin season, wildflowers are in bloom, and waterfalls are at their most powerful thanks to the late spring snowmelt.

Average Temperature: Temperatures are at their warmest (around 10–15°C / 50–59°F, sometimes higher) and conditions are most stable. That being said, make sure you prepare for ANY weather, as it can be unpredictable.

The Icelandic Met Office is the best tool for weather in Iceland.

What to Pack:

Packing for Iceland in the summer is all about layers, versatility, and being ready for anything—because even in the warmest months, the weather can change in a heartbeat. Bring a waterproof and windproof jacket, a warm insulating layer like a fleece or lightweight down, and moisture-wicking base layers to stay comfortable in shifting conditions. Quick-dry or water-resistant pants are great for hiking, and sturdy hiking boots or waterproof shoes are a must for exploring Iceland’s rugged terrain. You’ll also want a hat and gloves yes, even in summer as it can get cold and windy, especially in the Highlands or near the coast. Don’t forget a swimsuit for soaking in hot springs or geothermal pools, and a pair of sandals or slip-ons for relaxing after a long day.

A small daypack, reusable water bottle, travel towel, and sleep mask are super handy for day trips and overnights the midnight sun means it stays bright almost 24/7, which can throw off your sleep. Also pack sunscreen, lip balm with SPF, and bug spray, especially if you're heading north where midges can be a nuisance. Bring a power adapter (Iceland uses Type C/F, 230V outlets), and if you're camping or road tripping, don’t forget dry bags, a waterproof phone case, and basic camping or cooking gear. A camera (or phone with plenty of storage) is a must as you’ll want to capture everything from puffins to waterfalls. Snacks are also smart to bring along, especially for longer drives or remote areas where food options can be limited. Also note that grocery stores often don’t open until 11am, so make sure you plan your food accordingly.

Driving conditions in summer:

Driving in Iceland during the summer is generally easy and enjoyable, but always look out for weather conditions before leaving for the day. We were driving along the South Coast towards Stokksnes and found that the road was closed due to high winds. There were apparently cars blown off the road, which is super rare in summer but it still happens! Always check road.is for current road conditions!

Be aware of gravel roads outside major routes, which require caution, and F-roads in the Highlands, which are only open in summer and require a 4x4 vehicle. Not all rental car companies allow you to drive on F Roads, so make sure you are aware of your limitations when booking a car. These mountain roads often involve river crossings and can be challenging. Keep an eye out for sheep on the road, especially in rural areas, and remember that strong winds can make driving tricky.

Check road.is for real-time road conditions, fuel up regularly (especially in remote areas), and drive slowly on gravel roads to avoid skidding or damaging your tires. Lastly, always respect the terrain and don’t drive off-road or on mossy areas, as it’s both illegal and damaging to the environment.

I highly recommend getting added tire and windshield insurance on car rentals especially if your visa doesn’t have car rental coverage. Make sure you take pictures of your rental car when you pick it up, so you do not get charged fees for any pre existing scratches. We had scratches on our rental car (we thought they were there before) and a cracked windshield from a car passing by, and were given a hefty bill to cover it. When we asked about the high cost, they simply said ‘this is Iceland’. So needless to say, make sure you are covered for everything.

Stokksnes

In the summer months, Stokksnes is a magical place to be! This is one of my favourite places in Iceland, as you’re surrounded by gorgeous mountains and a massive black sand beach. We visited here between 2-3am, and had it all to ourselves.

How to get there via car and where to park:

To reach Stokksnes by car, follow Route 1 (the Ring Road) to the town of Höfn. Approximately 10 km south of Höfn, turn onto Route 99, a gravel road that leads directly to the Stokksnes peninsula. This unpaved road is in good condition and usually accessible to most vehicles during summer months. Continue along Route 99 until you reach the Viking Café and parking area.

Price:

At the Viking Café, you can pay the entrance fee of 1,000 ISK per adult, which grants access to the beach, hiking trails, and the Viking village. The café is open daily from 7:30 AM to 10:00 PM, and if you arrive outside of these hours, an automated ticket machine is available for payment. After paying, proceed to the white gate where you’ll scan your ticket's QR code. The parking area is sometimes closed in the middle of the night, so if you want to visit during midnight sun, you would need to park next to the Viking Cafe and walk down the road to the beach. In our case it was closed at 2am, so we walked about 15 minutes to the beach.

Points of interest/things to note:

While Stokksnes is slightly off the beaten path, it's still a very popular spot for those exploring Iceland’s southeastern coast. During the summer, it’s less crowded than many other famous Icelandic spots, but i’d suggest arriving early in the morning or for the midnight sun!
The drive to Stokksnes involves a stretch of gravel roads (Route 99), which are in good condition during the summer months. However, it’s always a good idea to drive cautiously, especially if you're not used to gravel roads. A 4x4 vehicle is recommended, though not strictly necessary during summer unless you’re venturing off-road. Be careful with rental cars, I’d recommend getting insurance that also covers you for gravel!
Due to changing weather, I’d recommend bringing a windproof jacket and waterproof gear, especially when exploring along the beach or hiking.

favourite boots and fleece

2. Seljalandsfoss

Seljalandsfoss is definitely one of the most memorable stops along Iceland’s south coast. Just off the Ring Road, this 60-meter waterfall draws crowds in for the very unique path that lets you walk behind the cascading water—an experience that truly feels like pure magic, especially during golden hour, when the light hits just right and misty rainbows fill the air!! Just a short walk away, hidden inside a narrow canyon, is Gljúfrabúi, a lesser-known waterfall that feels like a secret tucked into the cliffs. Together, they make for an absolutely mystical and in my opinion a must see stop along your Iceland road trip.

How to get there via car:

From Reykjavík, it’s about a 2-hour drive (128 km) along Route 1 (the Ring Road) heading southeast. Just after passing through the town of Hvolsvöllur, keep an eye out for the turnoff onto Route 249—Seljalandsfoss is well-marked. There is a designated parking lot. From there, it’s a short walk to the base of the falls.

Price:

Entrance is free but the parking lot has a fee of around 800 ISK.

Points of interest/things to note:

Don’t forget a waterproof jacket…you will get wet! I’d also recommend waterproof sturdy shoes or sandals that still have good grip, you’ll be walking on wet, sometimes muddy paths with lots of mist. This also means protecting your camera, a lens cloth, rain cover, or even a plastic bag will do!
Seljalandsfoss is popular, especially with tour buses. For fewer crowds and better light, go early in the morning or late in the evening.
Don’t forget about the hidden second waterfall, Gljúfrabúi, just a short walk north along the cliff. You’ll need to navigate a shallow stream to reach it, so bring water shoes or surrender to wet feet!
We visited around 11pm for golden light!

**READ NEXT:**

**5 Best Hiking Trails Near Vancouver**
Some of the most incredible hikes in the world can be found near Vancouver Canada, and I am excited to share 5 of my favorites!

read here

3. Dyrhólaey Lighthouse

High upon the cliff’s along Iceland’s dramatic south coast, you’ll find the dreamy red-and-white Dyrhólaey Lighthouse which is a quiet gem that offers some of the most breathtaking views in the region. Built in 1927, this charming lighthouse sits atop the Dyrhólaey promontory, famous for its wide-open views, crashing waves, and the dramatic arch-shaped rock that juts out into the sea. In the summer months, Dyrhólaey becomes even more magical with 24 hour bright skies, and cliffs coming alive with puffins, who nest here between May and August. To the east, you’ll take in the famous black sand beach of Reynisfjara and its sea stacks, and to the west, miles of coastline that fill the horizon. On very clear days, you can get a glimpse of Mýrdalsjökull glacier in the distance.

How to get there via car:

Dyrhólaey is just a short detour off the Ring Road (Route 1), about 2.5 hours from Reykjavík and just 20 minutes from Vík. You’ll find parking for the upper one by the lighthouse here which is accessible via a steep, gravel road (manageable without 4x4, but recommended), and the lower beachside area which is more accessible and has incredible views of Reynisfjara Beach and Arnardrangur. You can drive or walk (about 25-minutes) between them.

Price:

Both parking options offer free access to the site. The bathroom facilities in the lower parking area require a 200 ISK fee, payable by card only.

Points of interest/things to note:

This is one of the best places in Iceland to see the puffins up close. Bring your camera or binoculars to get an even closer look at these cuties! Keep in mind, they nest at Dyrhólaey from mid-May to mid-August, and the area near the lighthouse may be restricted during this period to protect the birds. Check for signs on-site or review local updates on road conditions or access limitations before visiting. Do not go past any fence lines that are protecting the Puffins.
The road leading up to the lighthouse is quite steep and gravelly, so while a 4x4 isn’t strictly required in summer, we found it helpful. Please drive carefully and check road conditions if it's recently rained!
Be sure to bring snacks and water, especially if you're planning to spend time exploring the cliffs or hiking to the lighthouse. The closest food options can be found by car in Vík, about 20 minutes away.
Icelandic nature is fragile! The cliffs and surrounding area are home to various types of wildlife, including the puffins, so please respect your environment.

4. Vik

Not too far from Dyrhólaey Lighthouse you can visit Vík, an absolutely charming coastal town on Iceland’s south coast, known for its dramatic cliffs and black sand beaches. It’s the southernmost village in Iceland and a popular stop along the Ring Road. In the summertime, Vík comes alive with lush green hills, the most vibrant lupines, and puffin-filled cliffs. The view from the hilltop church is one of the most iconic in the country!

How to get there via car:

Vík is located along Iceland’s Ring Road (Route 1) on the south coast, approximately 2.5 hours southeast of Reykjavík. The village is easily accessible by car, and there are several parking areas available for visitors.

Price:

The Ice Cave Bistro is a good place to park in town which offers free parking for visitors, or you can park directly at the photogenic Church, where you can often find lupins. If you are looking to visit the black sand beach at Vik, park at the beach here.

Points of interest/things to note:

Conditions can shift quickly…always bring layers, a rain jacket, and good walking shoes—especially if you plan to take your time to wander!
Vík is a small village but has a pretty good selection of cafes, restaurants, and even a gas station and supermarket to refill your road trip necessities!
If you are booking accommodation Vík makes a lovely overnight stop or base for exploring Skógafoss, Seljalandsfoss, Dyrhólaey, and Fjaðrárgljúfur canyon.

5. Reynisfjara Beach

Like much of Iceland’s landscape, visiting Reynisfjara Beach feels like stepping onto another planet. It is considered one of Iceland’s most iconic and dramatic natural spots, for good reason. Located just outside of Vík, this black sand beach is framed by towering basalt columns, sea caves, and the jagged Reynisdrangar sea stacks that rise from the ocean. In the summer, you’ll spot puffins on the cliffs above, and the contrast between the dark sand, vibrant green hills, and dramatic waves is absolutely striking. It’s such an incredible place to explore and photograph.

How to get there via car:

To get to Reynisfjara Beach from Reykjavík by car you’ll follow Route 1 (the Ring Road) southeast. After approximately 2.5 hours, take Route 215 south toward the beach. The parking lot is located at the end of this road, which is just a short walk from the beach.

Price:

For parking you’ll pay 1,000 ISK for the lower lot and 750 ISK for the upper lot. Payment can be made via the Parka app or at on-site machines.

Points of interest/things to note

Please, please, please approach this beach with caution and be mindful when exploring and photographing here—sneaker waves here are no joke, they are very powerful and incredibly unpredictable. The waves have caught many people off guard. Always stay well back from the water, even if it looks calm and never turn your back on the ocean here. This is not a beach for swimming!
During the summer months, you’ll see puffins nest in the cliffs above the beach. Bring binoculars or a zoom lens for a better look, but please keep your distance to avoid disturbing them.
Restroom facilities are available near the parking area, and depending when you go the Black Beach Restaurant is an option if you are looking for food and drinks.

6. Skogafoss

When I first laid eyes on Skógafoss, I was completely awestruck. The waterfall’s sheer size—at 60 meters tall—makes the roar of the water breathtaking, and depending on the light the mist often creates a magical rainbow. It’s one of those places that feels unreal in person. In the summer, the surrounding landscape is lush and green, and you can get up close to the falls, which means you should prepare to most definitely get wet! You can choose to continue on and follow a staircase that leads to the top for a different perspective and a stunning view over the Skógá River. Whether you're admiring it from below or above, Skógafoss is an incredibly dreamy spot and another must see along Iceland’s south coast.

How to get there via car:

From Reykjavík, follow Route 1 (the Ring Road) southeast for approximately 156 km (97 miles). You’ll pass through the towns of Hveragerði, Selfoss, and Hella, and then you’ll continue towards the village of Skógar. Look for signs directing you to Skógafoss and then turn left onto the road leading to the parking area. You won’t miss it as you’ll be able to see the waterfall from the road.

Price:

The parking lot is free access, though there is a small fee for restroom access.

Points of interest/things to note:

I highly recommend experiencing standing at the base of Skógafoss, but be prepared to get soaked from the mist of the waterfall, especially on windy days.
While it’s a very busy spot, the area around Skógafoss is still wild and natural, so be mindful of the environment. Stick to marked paths and avoid getting too close to the edge.

7. Diamond Beach

In the summer, Diamond Beach has massive icebergs that wash up on the black sand from the nearby Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon that sparkle like diamonds in the sunlight. The beach can be less crowded than in winter, giving you space to explore and photograph the glistening ice. While the beach can still be windy and the weather always unpredictable, summer here can be so lovely for taking more time to explore, so you can really soak in the otherworldly landscape.

Keep in mind, that there may not always be ‘diamonds’ on the beach, it changes depending on temperature and time of year!

How to get there via car:

To reach Diamond Beach by car, follow Route 1 (the Ring Road) southeast from Reykjavík for approximately 370 km (230 miles). This can take about 5 hours without stops. From Vík, it's about a 2.5-hour drive east along Route 1. The parking is located just off Route 1, directly across from the Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, and is clearly signposted. Here you’ll come to the main parking lot. There is also a free alternative parking lot 600–1,400 meters from the beach, on the west side of the river. You can park here and enjoy the walk along the lagoon to the beach.

Price:

The main parking lot will cost 1,000 ISK. This fee covers access to both Diamond Beach and the nearby Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon. You can pay by card at designated machines or through the Parka App. Like I mentioned above, there is also a free alternative parking lot on the west side of the river.

Points of interest/things to note:

Ice constantly changes. The size and number of ice chunks vary from day to day depending on glacier activity and tides. Some days the beach is full of massive, sparkling pieces, and other times some have mentioned that it’s more subtle or not many to be seen.
Stay safe near the water. The Atlantic waves here are incredibly powerful. Avoid climbing on or standing too close to large icebergs, as they can shift suddenly or be pulled out by the tide.
There are toilets and a small café across the road at Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, just a short walk from the beach.
Pair a stop at this beach with Jökulsárlón, since the beach is right across from the lagoon, it’s easy to combine the two.
Although orca whales aren’t as commonly spotted in the summertime, Diamond Beach is a great place to see Icelandic seals from the shore, along with birds and various wildlife.

8. Sky Lagoon

Visiting Sky Lagoon felt like a perfect mix of modern luxury and Icelandic tradition. Just a short drive from Reykjavík, you’ll find this absolutely breathtaking oceanfront geothermal spa with views of the Atlantic and a peaceful, relaxing atmosphere. Soaking in the infinity-edge lagoon with the sea stretching out in front of me was such a relaxing and very much appreciated part of our trip. You can get a package that includes a Seven-Step Ritual—from the warm waters to the cold plunge, sauna, and salt scrub—which was so soothing and a real highlight for us as we lost track of time in the long, golden hours of Iceland summertime.

How to get there via car:

Due to it’s close proximity to downtown Reykjavík, I found this to be a perfect stop to relax at the end of our trip in Iceland. Sky Lagoon is located at Vesturvör 44-48, 200 Kópavogur, Iceland, which is approximately a 15-minute drive from downtown Reykjavík.

Price:

While the lagoon offers free parking on-site with no time limit, accommodating both standard and electric vehicles, their is a cost to enjoy the spa. Sky Lagoon tickets start from approximately 12,990 ISK and go up from there depending what package you get.

You can book your tickets HERE.

Points of interest/things to note:

I highly recommend to book the spa in advance as time slots can fill up very fast.
Sky Lagoon offers a few different ticket types. If you want the full Seven-Step Ritual (which includes the sauna, cold plunge, steam, and salt scrub), make sure to choose the Sky Pass or Sky Package, not the Pure Lite option.
You’ll need to bring your own swimsuit, though towel rentals are included in most tickets. Swimwear is required in all areas of the lagoon.
During summertime at the Sky Lagoon, opening hours are 9 a.m. to 11 p.m. every day from June 1st to August 31st. The lagoon area itself closes 30 minutes before the stated hours, and the Seven-Step Ritual and Lagoon Bar close an hour before.

9. Reykjadalur Hot Spring Thermal River

Reykjadalur, otherwise known as “Steam Valley,” ended up being one of our favorite spots in Iceland. Here you’ll find a natural hot spring river where you can soak in warm, mineral-rich waters amongst stunning volcanic landscapes. Not far from Reykjavík, we parked near the little town of Hveragerði and set off on a hike that quickly became as much a part of the beautiful experience as the hot spring itself. The 45-minute trail winds through rolling hills, past steaming vents and bubbling mud pools, all surrounded by idyllic Icelandic greenery. The path is well-marked and moderate difficulty, with a total elevation gain of about 320 meters. At the end of the walk, you’re rewarded with the warm, winding thermal river. We got to sit and enjoy the gorgeous warm water, which got hotter the further upstream we went. Soaking in that warm river, with steam rising into the air and mountains holding us, felt like an absolute dream. It’s the most lovely mix of adventure and relaxation—and honestly, one of my favourite day hikes in the country.

How to get there via car:

To reach Reykjadalur from Reykjavík, you’ll take Route 1 (the Ring Road) southeast for about 40–45 minutes to the town of Hveragerði. Turn left onto Breiðamörk Road and follow signs to the trailhead. The parking area is located near the Reykjadalur Café. The hike to the hot springs takes approximately 45–60 minutes, depending on your pace.

Price:

The cost of hiking Reykjadalur Hot Spring Thermal River is free, but you do have to pay for parking. The cost of parking is per hour and is determined by the cameras in the parking lot. It cost us about 950 ISK for parking. Paying for the parking gives access to the bathrooms that are attached to the Cafe where you can pay for parking via the EasyPark app or at the machine using your license plate number.

Points of interest/things to note:

There are no changing facilities at the river, if you don’t want to get changed in front of everyone wear your swimsuit on the walk up there. There are benches and a few wooden partitions at the top, but no facilities so bring your own water and snacks!
Wear appropriate hiking boots/ footwear as the trail can be fairly rocky and uneven.
Stick to marked trails and don’t wander into off-limits geothermal areas. Some of the springs and mud pots are dangerously hot.
I recommend early morning or late evening during the midnight sun. This means fewer crowds and a quieter, even more magical experience!

10. Múlagljúfur Canyon

Arriving at Múlagljúfur Canyon felt like we had uncovered one of Iceland’s best-kept secrets. We almost skipped it, but pulling off the Ring Road and hiking up the winding trail ended up being one of the most memorable moments of the trip. The trail itself feels quiet and wild, with moss-covered cliffs rising around you and barely another soul in sight. The trail to the canyon is approximately 3 km (1.8 miles) each way, with an elevation gain of about 240 meters (787 feet), and took us around 45 minutes to hike one way. As you climb higher, the canyon opens up to two absolutely incredible waterfalls—Múlafoss and Hangandifoss. It honestly felt like stepping straight into a fantasy novel. Depending on the weather and what time you go, you can catch this incredible golden glow drenching the landscape. It’s one of those places that makes you feel really small in the best kind of way. If you’re road-tripping through the southeast and want a peaceful detour with truly jaw-dropping views, this adventure is 100% worth it!!

How to get there via car:

From Reykjavík, you’ll drive approximately 4.5 hours southeast along the Ring Road (Route 1). About 180 km east of Vík and 92 km west of Höfn, look for an unmarked gravel road branching off from Route 1, approximately 3.4 km before the access road to Fjallsárlón Glacier Lagoon. The turnoff is not marked with signs. You’ll drive down this gravel road for about 2 km until it ends at a small parking area near the glacier river dam. The parking lot is unmarked, but you'll know you've arrived when you can't drive any further.

Price:

The gravel parking area is free.

Points of interest/things to note:

The turnoff to the gravel road to the parking area is not signposted and can be easy to miss. Use GPS coordinates or a map app to guide you.
I would recommend a 4x4 vehicle if it has rained recently.
The trail has some steep sections and loose gravel so I would also recommend appropriate hiking footwear.
The area is quite exposed and weather even in summer can shift quickly. Pack extra layers and check the weather conditions before heading out on the trail!
Múlagljúfur can be fairly quiet, especially if you go early or late in the day.
As always… please help keep the area as wild and pristine as it is by packing out all trash and respecting the natural landscape.