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When I started planning our trip to Iceland, soaking in a geothermal lagoon was high on our bucket list, but with so many options, I wasn’t sure which one to choose. We opted for Sky Lagoon Iceland, a newer oceanfront spa just minutes from Reykjavik, and it ended up being one of the most peaceful, rejuvenating parts of our trip. With dramatic coastal views, steamy geothermal waters and a unique seven-step ritual rooted in Icelandic tradition, Sky Lagoon completely blew me away! In this post, I’m sharing our experience, what to expect, tips to make the most of your visit and whether I think it’s worth the hype.

What is Sky Lagoon?

Sky Lagoon is a geothermal spa located in southwestern Iceland, not far from the capital of Reykjavik. Sky Lagoon opened in 2021 and the design was inspired by Icelandic geography and heritage. The lagoon is heated primarily by geothermal energy from deep below the Earth’s surface which keeps the water temperature at about 100 to 104 degrees Fahrenheit (38-40 degrees Celsius).

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We chose to visit Sky Lagoon over the more famous Blue Lagoon or the rustic Secret Lagoon for a few reasons. Sky Lagoon feels more boutique and serene with fewer crowds and more emphasis on Icelandic traditions, especially with its signature 7-step ritual. The Blue Lagoon is larger, more commercial and closer to the airport, making it convenient for travelers and often quite busy. Secret Lagoon is more rustic and off the beaten path. For me, Sky Lagoon struck the perfect balance: modern, luxurious, and rooted in Icelandic culture with a stunning oceanfront view.

Our Experience at Sky Lagoon Iceland

We visited Sky Lagoon in the end of March. The end of March is a wonderful time in Iceland because the days are getting longer, the weather is slightly milder but it is still the prime Northern Lights viewing Season. We arrived at Sky Lagoon around 5:00pm as we heard from a few people that it is beautiful at sunset.

Sky Lagoon has a variety of different packages to choose from. The 2 main packages are the Ser and Saman. Both of these packages include the 7-step ritual but differ in the changing room options. The Ser package costs more but gives you access to a private changing room. The Saman package gives you access to the public changing room. Think of a gym locker room. Every one is in one open room and you all get changed near your locker. These locker rooms are divided by gender.

I personally do not mind the public changing rooms. The room was big and had many aisles of lockers. There also were private bathrooms in the locker room. One cultural note: Europeans tend to be more relaxed about nudity than the average American. The public changing rooms are not for everyone, so if you feel more comfortable in a private locker room, then the Ser package is for you!

We purchased the Saman package for two. This included 2 Saman passes (public changing rooms), 1 drink per guest and a Sky Platter from the Smakk Bar. We really enjoyed this pass and I would highly recommend it to anyone heading to Sky Lagoon.

After check in, we were given a bracelet that serves multiple functions: It is your ticket in, it is how you lock and unlock your locker and also works as your payment method (including at the in-water bar).

Entering the Lagoon

The entrance to the lagoon is cave-like and instantly sets the tone. As you walk down steps into the warm lagoon water, the space opened up to reveal jagged lava rocks. As you follow the path around, it opens up to the infinity edge pool with breathtaking views of the Atlantic ocean. It was so peaceful. It was truly such a relaxing time enjoying the water, sipping drinks from the swim-up bar, spending time with friends, and just enjoying the moment.

The 7-Step Ritual

The 7-Step Ritual known as Skjol, is what truly sets Sky Lagoon apart. Rooted in Iceland’s historic bathing culture, it’s an experience designed to rejuvenate the body and mind. The 7-step ritual was made as a way for people to experience the traditions of Icelandic bathing culture.

1. Laug – Begin by relaxing in the warmth of the geothermal lagoon while taking in the views of the ocean and the ocean air.
2. Kuldi – A cold plunge into icy waters. The cold plunge is inspired by theresilient nature of Iceland’s ancestors and is meant to stimulate your immune system, decrease blood flow and boost happiness. 10 seconds is the recommended time for the cold plunge.
3. Ylur – Step into the sauna (either classic or phone-free) where you will relax with gorgeous views of the ocean through the floor to ceiling window. 5-10 minutes is the recommend time frame. The sauna is meant to open your pores and detox your skin.
4. Suld – After the heat of the sauna, step through a cold mist. This is inspired by the ancient winds and gentle rain that shaped Iceland.
5. Mykt – Apply Sky Lagoon’s signature body scrub meant to exfoliate and detoxify your skin.
6. Gufa- Step into the steam room to help your body absorb the scrub’s benefits
7. Saft – After a quick rinse in the shower, your journey ends with a Kraekiber Berry elixir. This drink is meant to symbolize renewal and vigor.

Overall, the 7-step ritual is something I highly recommend everyone experiences. My personal favorite steps were the cold mist and the body scrub. I am not a huge fan of sauna’s or steam rooms as they tend to make me feel very anxious. Because of this I did not spend the full time in these steps. No one is making you stay at each step for a certain amount of time. The whole ritual is taken at your own pace and allowing you to tailor it to your comfort level while still experiencing the whole process.

Dining at Sky Lagoon

Since we purchased the for 2 package, our ticket came with a Sky Platter from the Smakk Bar. This was located not far from the exit of the changing rooms so was nice and easy to stop at after we left the lagoon.

The Sky Platter consisted of cheese, bilberry jam, wild game pate, Gravlax (graved Salmon) with mustard and dill sauce, rhubarb pie and freshly baked bread. The bread, cheese and jam were delicious! The wild game pate was not my favorite but overall the platter was a perfect taste of the food they offer and a nice treat after a few hours at the lagoon.

Related post: Iceland food guide

If you are wanting a full meal, I recommend getting that before or after Sky Lagoon. The food at Sky Lagoon was delicious but was consisted of mostly platters meant for light bites and sampling.

Frequently Asked Question’s about Sky Lagoon Iceland

How do you book Sky Lagoon Iceland?

It is strongly recommended that you book Sky Lagoon online ahead of time. There are times when the lagoon is sold-out and you will be denied entry if you do not have a prebought ticket.

What should you bring to Sky Lagoon?

You should bring a bathing suit to change into for the lagoon as well as a clean pair of clothes to put on after the lagoon. I felt weird putting the same clothes I was wearing before the lagoon back on since I was now feeling so clean! If you want to bring your phone into the lagoon, I recommend a waterproof phone pouch. I also highly recommend bringing a hair brush so you are able to brush your hair out after rinsing off in the shower.

What is provided for you at Sky Lagoon?

You are provided with a towel, locker and basic shower products so you are able to take a shower before you get dressed.

How long should you plan to be at Sky lagoon?

I would say 2-3 hours is the typical amount of time people spend at the lagoon.

How old do you have to be to go to Sky Lagoon?

You must be 12 years old to visit. Visitors between the age of 12 and 14 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian for the duration of their visit.

Tips to Make the Most of Your Visit

• Go right before sunset for the perfect ambiance
• Don’t skip the cold plunge! It’s Invigorating!!
• Bring a hair tie so you can keep your hair mostly out of the water to protect it
• Bring a fresh pair of clothes to change into after the lagoon
• The lagoon makes the perfect activity to do on your last night in Iceland

Is Sky Lagoon Iceland Worth it?

100% yes!! Sky Lagoon Iceland was one of the most relaxing and memorable experiences of our entire Iceland trip. From the dramatic ocean views to the warm geothermal waters, everything about this spa felt thoughtfully designed and rooted in Icelandic traditions. Whether you’re ending a day of adventure or simply looking to slow down and soak it all in, Sky Lagoon offers the perfect balance of luxury and nature. Sky Lagoon is perfect for couples, a girl’s trip, family trip or even a solo experience.

If you’re planning a trip to Iceland and wondering if Sky Lagoon is worth it, the answer is absolutely yes! And if you need help booking your trip to Iceland, I’d love to help you plan your Iceland adventure!  I offer services ranging from hotel bookings to full service itinerary planning to ensure you have a great trip! Review my services HERE.