Water Temp
~15–19°C summer
Geothermally heated seawater in the sheltered lagoon
Nautholsvík Beach: Reykjavík's Geothermally Heated City Beach
Reykjavík's beloved geothermally heated city beach where locals and visitors swim in warm ocean water, soak in beachside hot tubs, and enjoy Iceland's capital from the shore.
Updated February 1, 2026By the Iceland.org Travel Team
Location
Central Reykjavík
Capital Region • Near University of Iceland
Nautholsvík is a man-made geothermally heated beach on the southern shore of Reykjavík, created in 2001 by pumping hot geothermal water into a sheltered cove along the Reykjavík coastline. The result is a unique urban beach where the seawater reaches a swimmable 15–19°C in summer — remarkably warm for a subarctic capital. Golden sand was imported to create the beach area, and hot tubs heated to 30–39°C are built right into the shoreline. With free admission, changing facilities, lifeguards during swimming season, and views across Faxaflói bay to Mount Esja, Nautholsvík has become one of Reykjavík's most popular summer gathering spots for families, swimmers, and sunbathers alike.
Safety + sourcing
Last updated: 2026-02-01
Swimming season mid-May to mid-September. Free entry. Lifeguards on duty during season.
Sources to check
Cost
Free
No entrance fee — changing rooms and showers included
Location
Central Reykjavík
Walkable from downtown or a short bus ride
What to Expect
Geothermally Heated Water
Hot geothermal water is pumped into the cove, warming the seawater to swimmable temperatures
Swimming in Iceland
A rare opportunity to swim in the ocean in Iceland — warm enough for a genuine dip in summer
Hot Tubs on Beach
Several beachside hot tubs heated to 30–39°C for soaking while watching the ocean
Changing Facilities
Free changing rooms with hot showers, restrooms, and lockers available to all visitors
Family Friendly
Shallow, sheltered water, a sand play area, and lifeguards make this ideal for children
City Beach
Walking distance from downtown Reykjavík with views across Faxaflói bay to Mount Esja
Getting There
Nautholsvík is on the southern coast of Reykjavík, near the University of Iceland campus and Öskjuhlíð hill. From downtown Hallgrímskirkja, walk south along the coastal path (about 20 minutes, 1.5 km) or take Strætó bus routes 5 or 16 to the Nauthólsvík stop, then walk 5-10 minutes to the beach. By car, follow Bústaðavegur south from Miklabraut and look for signs to Nauthólsvík; a small free car park is located near the beach entrance but fills quickly on sunny days. The beach is also accessible by bicycle via Reykjavík's coastal cycle path, which connects to the Sæbraut waterfront. The Perlan museum and observation deck on Öskjuhlíð hill is a 10-minute walk uphill from the beach, making for a convenient combination visit.
Best Time to Visit
The swimming season runs from mid-May through mid-September, with lifeguards on duty during this period. June through August is prime season with water temperatures reaching 15-19°C in the lagoon and air temperatures of 10-15°C. Sunny weekends in July and August draw the largest crowds of Reykjavík locals, so arrive before 11 AM for a more relaxed experience. The beach occasionally hosts summer events, barbecues, and the annual Beach Party in mid-June. May and September are quieter with cooler water but still pleasant for hot tub soaking. From October through April, the beach area is open for coastal walks but swimming facilities are closed and the geothermal heating is off. Winter visitors can still enjoy the coastal path with views toward Mount Esja across the bay.
Planning help
Nautholsvík FAQs
Quick answers with safety notes where it matters.