South IcelandArchipelago
Vestmannaeyjar (Westman Islands)
Volcanic archipelago of 15 islands off the south coast. Rich in puffins, volcanic history, and dramatic coastal scenery. Reached by ferry from Landeyjahöfn or domestic flight.
Islands
Islands of Iceland: Westman Islands, Grímsey, Flatey & More
Volcanic archipelagos, Arctic Circle outposts, and puffin colonies—Iceland's offshore islands offer some of the country's most unique experiences.
Updated February 1, 2026By the Iceland.org Travel Team
Wildlife
Puffin season: Apr–Aug
Heimaey hosts one of the world's largest Atlantic puffin colonies.
Safety + sourcing
Last updated: 2026-02-01
This guide is for trip planning, not emergency guidance. Ferry schedules can change due to weather and sea conditions—always confirm departure times and have a backup plan.
Sources to check
South IcelandInhabited island
Heimaey
Largest and only inhabited island of the Westman Islands (pop. ~4,500). Site of the 1973 Eldfell eruption that nearly buried the town. World-class puffin watching in summer.
South IcelandUNESCO site
Surtsey
UNESCO World Heritage volcanic island born from an eruption in 1963–67. Strictly off-limits to visitors—only researchers allowed. Studied for natural ecological colonization.
West IcelandHistoric island
Flatey
Tiny island in Breiðafjörður bay with colorful restored houses and a rich literary history. Summer-only ferry from Stykkishólmur. The Flateyjarbók manuscript originated here.
Capital RegionCultural island
Viðey
Island in Reykjavík harbor home to Yoko Ono's Imagine Peace Tower (lit Oct–Dec). Historic buildings, art installations, and walking paths. Short ferry ride from Reykjavík.
North IcelandArctic Circle island
Grímsey
Small island straddling the Arctic Circle, 40 km off the north coast. Famous for puffins and the midnight sun. Reached by ferry from Dalvík or domestic flight.
North IcelandBird cliff island
Drangey
Dramatic flat-topped island rising 180m from Skagafjörður. Important bird cliff and connected to Grettir's Saga. Boat tours from Reykir with cliff climbing to the top.
North IcelandInhabited island
Hrísey
Second-largest island off Iceland's coast, in Eyjafjörður near Akureyri. Known as the 'Pearl of Eyjafjörður.' Quiet village life, ptarmigan habitat, and short ferry ride from Árskógssandur.
East IcelandHistoric island
Papey
Small island off the east coast named after Irish monks (papar) who may have lived there before Norse settlement. Puffin colony and Iceland's oldest surviving wooden church (relocated). Boat tours from Djúpivogur.
South IcelandPuffin island
Lundey
Small island near Reykjavík known as 'Puffin Island.' Whale and puffin watching tours from Reykjavík pass by or stop here in summer. One of the closest puffin viewing spots to the capital.
Planning help
Iceland islands FAQs
Quick answers with safety notes where it matters.