Jökulsárlón is a lagoon filled with icebergs that have broken off from Breiðamerkurjökull, an outlet glacier of Vatnajökull. Across the road, Diamond Beach is where those icebergs wash out to sea and land on black volcanic sand.
Visiting the lagoon
A short walk from the car park brings you to the lagoon’s edge, where icebergs in shades of blue, white, and ash-streaked black drift slowly toward the sea. The lagoon has grown significantly over the past century as the glacier has retreated — it’s one of the more visible signs of climate change in Iceland.
Diamond Beach
Cross under the bridge to reach Diamond Beach, where chunks of ice of all sizes sit on the sand, often catching the light. Be careful: large waves can pull you toward the water faster than expected, and ice chunks can be heavier and more slippery than they look.
Boat tours
Amphibian boat tours and (in summer) zodiac tours run directly on the lagoon, getting you close to the icebergs and sometimes seals. They’re a worthwhile add-on if your schedule and budget allow, but the lagoon and beach are also fully rewarding on foot, free of charge.
When to go
Iceberg numbers and shapes vary by season — late summer and autumn tend to have the most ice on the beach. Early morning light is quieter and often better for photos.
About Erika Sand
Erika has spent the last decade driving, hiking, and hot-spring-hopping across Iceland in every season. She writes NRF.is’s itineraries, guides, and trip reports to help travelers see the country safely, affordably, and without the tourist-trap detours.