Nauthólsvík is Iceland’s only beach suitable for bathers. Located on the southern coast of Reykjavik, the water at Nauthólsvík is a relatively comfortable temperature thanks to naturally hot water being pumped in to keep the chill at bay in two ‘hot pots’ for swimmers. The majority of the cove has water around 30ºC, and the hot pots are kept around 38ºC. This means most people are quite comfortable going for a swim at Nauthólsvík in the Icelandic summer months.
While it lacks the flash and spa services of the more famous Blue Lagoon, Nauthólsvík showcases Iceland’s natural wonder just as well. The Nauthólsvík thermal beach is open during the summer months from 10am to 8pm. There are limited services for those interested in exploring the yellow sandy beach and basaltic cliffs. That said, there is plenty of scope for practically all beach activities, from volleyball games to sand castle building.