Sky Lagoon Iceland: How does it compare to Blue Lagoon?

Why should you choose Sky Lagoon over the popular Blue Lagoon or vice versa? What else does it have to offer? And if you can only choose one, which one suits you best? Find out all this and more in this guide to Sky Lagoon Iceland.

Most people are familiar with the Blue Lagoon in Iceland. The geothermal pools make it one of the most popular attractions in the entire country. But in 2021, a new geothermal lagoon opened only minutes from downtown Reykjavik that rivals the spa experience of Blue Lagoon, and it’s called Sky Lagoon Iceland.

While both lagoons share some similarities, there are features that set them both apart and make them unique. Sky Lagoon is incredibly easy to access from Reykjavik and offers beautiful views out over the North Atlantic Ocean. You can even watch the sunset directly over the water while soaking in the thermal baths and may even get lucky enough to see the northern lights.

the view from sky lagoon Iceland

Table of content

you can visit the new spa in iceland with your friends

About Sky Lagoon Iceland: Where is sky lagoon? How much are the passes? What experiences are available? 

Sky Lagoon Iceland is located less than 20 minutes from central Iceland in Kársnes Harbour. This geothermal lagoon is the perfect place to relax, unwind, and stay warm while listening to the crashing of the waves while enjoying beautiful vistas over the ocean. Many of the travelers love the sky lagoon experience especially after a whole day of touring around the city.

A brief history of Sky Lagoon 

As early as the 1980s, local Icelanders were already bathing in the therapeutic waters of the Blue Lagoon. And up until recently, it was the go-to geothermal bath in the Reykjavik area. But in the spring of 2021, Sky Lagoon opened in Kársnes Harbour.

The modern design incorporates historical elements to create a setting that is quintessentially Icelandic. They’ve paid special attention to ensure that Sky Lagoon highlights the natural beauty of Iceland while offering the amenities that make the spa experience more luxurious.

visit the sky lagoon in reykjavik

Where is Sky Lagoon? Address, Map and FAQ

Sky Lagoon is in Kópavogur, near the capital city of Reykjavik. It is specifically located on the edge of the ocean, providing an immersive experience into Iceland’s natural beauty. The address is Sky Lagoon, Vesturvör 44-48, 200 Kópavogur, Iceland.

How far is sky lagoon from Reykjavik?

Sky Lagoon is approximately 7 kilometers (about 4.3 miles) from the center of Reykjavik. Depending on the mode of transport, it typically takes around 10-15 minutes to drive there from the city center.

how far is sky lagoon from airport?

Keflavík International Airport, the main international gateway into Iceland, is located about 50 kilometers (around 31 miles) from Sky Lagoon. By car, it takes roughly 45 minutes to an hour to reach Sky Lagoon from the airport, depending on traffic conditions.

the sky lagoon is close to the reykjavik downtown

How to get to Sky Lagoon Iceland?

As with every location in Iceland, the best way to get around the country is by rental car. Even though Sky Lagoon is so close to downtown Reykjavik, the taxis can be pricey, and they won’t give you the opportunity to explore the rest of the island. Public transportation is also limiting if you intend to use it as your only means to get around since it won’t allow you to reach all the attractions you want to see. 

Renting a car in Iceland gives you the flexibility to adapt your itinerary however you choose and make adjustments based on what your group wants to experience in Iceland. Check out some great self-drive Iceland itineraries here, and pop in Sky Lagoon during your time in Reykjavik. You can easily get from your accommodation in Reykjavik city center to Sky Lagoon in about 15 minutes. And from there, you can explore the rest of Iceland! 

the land cruiser is a 4WD car that is favorable by locals and tourists

What car you should rent to vist Sky Lagoon? 

The best rental car for your trip to Sky Lagoon will depend on when you’re visiting and what the rest of your trip looks like. If you’re visiting Iceland during the winter, then we always recommend a 4X4 rental vehicle, even if you just plan a short trip around The Golden Circle. Even though the roads are well maintained throughout the year, they can still become slippery and snow-covered during the winter months as the Iceland weather is unpredictable. 

During the summer months, the Route 1 Ring Road is almost always clear, meaning that you can get by with a 2WD compact or intermediate-size car. That said, if you plan to visit the fjords or drive any F-roads, then you will need a 4X4.

While the season is a big indicator of what rental vehicle you will need, you’ll also need to consider how many people you have in your group and how much luggage you plan to bring. An economy or compact car is really only suited for small groups of 2 to 3 people. So you’ll need an intermediate or full-size if you have 3 or more people. 

4WD cars are the best rental options for the Iceland winter road trip

The different passes at Sky Lagoon: types and prices 

The Sky Lagoon has three main passes to choose from:

Pure Lite PassPure PassSky Pass
Price: ISK 7,990 (≈ 55 USD)

What’s included? The Pure Lite pass includes admission to the Sky Lagoon, access to public changing facilities, and a towel. 
Price: ISK 9,990 (≈70 USD)

What’s included? The Pure Pass includes admission to the Sky Lagoon, access to public changing facilities, a towel, and the Icelandic signature seven-step ritual. 
Price: ISK 13,900 (≈97 USD)

What’s included? The Sky Pass includes admission to the Sky Lagoon, access to private changing rooms and complimentary Sky Body Lotion, a towel, and the Icelandic signature seven-step ritual. 

Table info updated in 2023. please refers to the sky lagoon official website for prices updates

Sky Lagoon also offers packages for 2, which are perfect for couples. These passes start at ISK 28,490 (199 USD) and offer the same as the Pure and Sky passes but also include a drink and food platter. 

With all of the packages, guests have access to the three on-site drink and snack bars. 

the view in Sky Lagoon Iceland

What special experiences are available at Sky Lagoon

Sky Lagoon is more than just a geothermal pool. It offers some unique experiences that you won’t find at the Blue Lagoon Iceland. Here are some of the things you can expect when you visit the Sky Lagoon:

1. The 7 steps spa Ritual

The most notable experience at Sky Lagoon is their seven-step ritual that is included with all passes except the Pure Lite. The Ritual has been used for many years in Iceland to harness the power of water in a seven-step system that promotes both inner and outer healing. The Ritual includes:

  1. Soaking in the geothermal hot water of Sky Lagoon.
  2. A cold plunge pool- very cold water, which helps stimulate blood flow and supports a healthy immune system. 
  3. Detox and warm up in the sauna for 15 minutes overlooking the ocean, which opens your pores and encourages the release of toxins. 
  4. Refresh your skin with a cold mist. 
  5. Scrub your body and exfoliate your skin with the Sky Body Scrub. 
  6. Take a steam bath in the steam rooms to help your skin absorb the benefits of the Sky Body Scrub. 
  7. Finish with a cleansing warm shower to end The Ritual.
sea view sauna in Sky lagoon

2. Infinity pool

The Sky Lagoon is a geothermal infinity pool that seemingly flows straight into the Atlantic Ocean. It’s the only thermal infinity pool in the entire country, allowing you to look out over the stormy ocean from the warmth and comfort of the lagoons’ warm waters. 

the view from Sky lagoon infinity pool in Iceland

3. See the northern lights during the winter and the midnight sun in the summer

From Sky Lagoon; visitors have the potential to see the northern lights Iceland. If you visit the Sky Lagoon during the winter season, there is a chance of seeing the northern lights from within the pools themselves. And if you’re visiting during the summer, you can enjoy the unique experience of the midnight sun, as the lagoon is open until 11 pm. 

the midnight sun view in sky lagoon

4. Ocean views vs. lava field 

While the Blue Lagoon is located in a lava field, providing otherworldly views of the landscape, Sky Lagoon features unparalleled views over the North Atlantic Ocean. While there are many places in Iceland that offer views out over the ocean, there’s nowhere else where you can enjoy them from a peaceful haven of tranquility and warmth like Sky Lagoon. 

the unique view in sky lagoon

5. On-site beverage and snack bars 

Sky Lagoon has three on-site beverage and snack bars. The Lagoon Bar is a swim-up bar built into the side of a cave right inside the lagoon. They offer Icelandic beers and other local drinks for you to enjoy while you’re in the main lagoon. There’s also the Sky Cafe, where you can purchase soups, sandwiches, and local classics, and Smakk Bar, which features tasting platters of local cheeses, seafood, pates, and more. 

you can get a drink inside the sky lagoon at the swim-up bar

Blue Lagoon Iceland: a Quick intro

The Blue Lagoon in Iceland is a must-visit geothermal spa known for its stunning milky blue waters and rejuvenating properties. This man-made lagoon, created from geothermal power plant runoff, is rich in minerals that provide therapeutic benefits, especially for skin conditions. Located on the Reykjanes Peninsula, it’s easily accessible from Reykjavik and Keflavik Airport, making it a convenient stop on any Iceland itinerary. Visitors can enjoy various amenities, including spa treatments, luxurious accommodations, and fine dining.

But it is known for being quite pricey. Entry fees can be substantial, especially during peak times, and additional costs for spa treatments, dining, and luxury packages can add up quickly. However, many visitors find the unique experience and therapeutic benefits worth the investment.

visit the blue lagoon with family and kids is good option

Should you visit Sky Lagoon or Blue Lagoon? Is Sky Lagoon worth it?

Are you still stuck between choosing Sky Lagoon or Blue Lagoon? Is Sky Lagoon worth it, or should you stick with the more popular Blue Lagoon? We wouldn’t say that one is better than the other, they are just different. Let’s break down the pros and cons of both geothermal pools to help you determine which one you should visit as part of your self-drive trip to Iceland. 

First, here are some similarities. Both Sky Lagoon Iceland and Blue Lagoon are man-made geothermal pools. They contain geothermal seawater, which is enriched with ocean minerals that are good for the skin.

Sky Lagoon is closer to central Reykjavik, so it’s more accessible for those staying within the capital. But Blue Lagoon is closer to KEF Iceland airport, meaning you can visit it on your way to or from the airport. 

Sky LagoonBlue Lagoon
Pros
Close to Reykjavik
Cheaper entry fee
Ocean views
Sunset views
Infinity pool
Seven-step ritual included
World famous
Bigger in size
Accommodation available on-site
More formal dining options
ConsSmaller in size than Blue Lagoon
Dining options are more casual
More expensive
Farther from Reykjavik
Can get crowded
guide to sky lagoon iceland
sky Lagoon
full guide to blue lagoon iceland spa
Blue Lagoon

Sky Lagoon Iceland

Sky Lagoon Iceland may not be as well known as Blue Lagoon, but that doesn’t make it any less enjoyable. With its close proximity to Reykjavik city center and the seven-step ritual that is inspired by Nordic traditions and Icelandic bathing culture, the Sky Lagoon is definitely worth visiting. The price point means it’s accessible for everyone to enjoy as part of any self-drive itinerary in Iceland.

Sky Lagoon is open all year round, so regardless of when you travel to Iceland, you can include the relaxing spa experience in your trip. The best way to get to Sky Lagoon is with a rental car, and you can pick it up directly from the airport. Always book your rental car online and in advance with Hertz to get the best price, and the most well-suited vehicle for your trip! 

Recommended rental cars in Iceland

rent a hyundai Tucson in Iceland

Hyundai Tucson Plug-in Hybrid or similar | Automatic | 4×4

IFAI | Group: N3 (IFAI)

  • 5 Seats
  • Automatic
  • Airconditioning
  • 5 Doors
  • 3 Large Luggage
  • Hybrid

This vehicle is NOT allowed in the highlands F-roads. NOTE: Allowed on roads no.35 and 550. You must be 23 years of age to drive this vehicle.

Additional Features
  • 4 Wheel Drive
  • 46 C02 g/km
  • Adjustable Steering
  • Cruise Control
  • Electronic Stability Control
  • ABS
  • Bluetooth
  • USB
  • Power Steering
  • Power Windows
  • Remote Locking
  • Airbags
Rent a Kia Sorento PHEV in Iceland

Kia Sorento Plug-in Hybrid or similar | Automatic | 4×4

SFDI | Group: O6 (SFDI)

  • 5 Seats
  • Automatic
  • Airconditioning
  • 5 Doors
  • 4 Large Luggage
  • Hybrid

This vehicle is NOT allowed in the highlands F-roads. NOTE: Allowed on-road no.35 and 550. You must be 23 years of age to drive this vehicle.

Additional Features
  • 4 Wheel Drive
  • 38 C02 g/km
  • Adjustable Steering
  • Cruise Control
  • Electronic Stability Control
  • ABS
  • Bluetooth
  • USB
  • Power Steering
  • Power Windows
  • Remote Locking
Rent the 4wd land rover defender in Iceland

Land Rover Defender Plug-in Hybrid or similar | Automatic | 4×4

PFAI | Group: L6 (PFAI)

  • 5 Seats
  • Automatic
  • Airconditioning
  • 5 Doors
  • 3 Large Luggage
  • Hybrid

Suitable for highlands, Please read the Terms & Conditions. You must be 25 years of age to drive this vehicle.

Additional Features
  • 4 Wheel Drive
  • 77 C02 g/km
  • Adjustable Steering
  • Cruise Control
  • Electronic Stability Control
  • ABS
  • Bluetooth
  • USB
  • Power Steering
  • Power Windows
  • Remote Locking
rent a tesla model Y in Iceland

Tesla Model Y or similar | Automatic | 4×4

UGDC | Group: V1 (UGDC)

  • 5 Seats
  • Automatic
  • Airconditioning
  • 5 Doors
  • 4 Large Luggage
  • Electric

This vehicle is NOT allowed in the highlands F-roads. You must be 23 years of age to drive this vehicle.

Additional Features
  • 4 Wheel Drive
  • Adjustable Steering
  • Cruise Control
  • Traction Control
  • ABS
  • Bluetooth
  • USB
  • Power Steering
  • Power Windows
  • Remote Locking
KIA Sportage or similar| automatic | 4x4

KIA Sportage or similar | Automatic | 4×4

IFAR | Group: O (IFAR)

  • 5 Seats
  • Automatic
  • Airconditioning
  • 5 Doors
  • 3 Large Luggage
  • Petrol or Diesel

Suitable for the highlands. Please read Terms & Conditions. You must be 23 years of age to drive this vehicle.

Additional Features
  • 4 Wheel Drive
  • 156 C02 g/km
  • Adjustable Steering
  • Cruise Control
  • Electronic Stability Control
  • ABS
  • Bluetooth
  • USB
  • Power Steering
  • Power Windows
  • Remote Locking
  • Airbags
Rent a Kia Sorento PHEV in Iceland

KIA Sorento or similar | Automatic | 4×4

SFAN | Group: O2 (SFAN)

  • 5 Seats
  • Automatic
  • Airconditioning
  • 5 Doors
  • 4 Large Luggage
  • Petrol or Diesel

Suitable for the highlands. Please read Terms & Conditions. You must be 23 years of age to drive this vehicle.

Additional Features
  • 4 Wheel Drive
  • 164 C02 g/km
  • Adjustable Steering
  • Cruise Control
  • Electronic Stability Control
  • ABS
  • Bluetooth
  • USB
  • Power Steering
  • Power Windows
  • Remote Locking
  • Airbags