What is the arch at Dyrhólaey?

Dyrhólaey is a 120-meter-high promontory with a massive natural rock arch at its seaward end. The name means 'door hole island' in Icelandic, referring to this arch, which is large enough for small boats and aircraft to pass through. The arch was formed by wave erosion over thousands of years.

Can I see puffins at Dyrhólaey?

Yes, Atlantic puffins nest on the cliffs of Dyrhólaey from approximately mid-May through mid-August. The upper viewpoint area is closed to visitors during peak nesting season (typically mid-May to late June) to protect the breeding birds. Even outside the closure period, puffins can often be seen from the lower areas.

When is the upper road at Dyrhólaey closed?

The upper road and viewpoint at Dyrhólaey are typically closed from mid-May to late June to protect nesting puffins and other seabirds. The lower area and Kirkjufjara beach remain accessible during this time. Exact dates vary by year — check with local authorities or visitor centers for current closure information.

Can I walk between Dyrhólaey and Reynisfjara?

No, you cannot safely walk between Dyrhólaey and Reynisfjara along the beach. The tidal conditions at Kirkjufjara beach (below Dyrhólaey) are extremely dangerous with powerful waves and rockfall risk from the cliffs. Drive between the two sites — they are about 15 minutes apart by car.

Dyrhólaey: Dramatic Rock Arch & Puffin Colony

A dramatic 120-meter promontory on Iceland's South Coast featuring a massive natural rock arch, puffin colonies, and sweeping views of black sand beaches and glaciers.

Updated February 1, 2026By the Iceland.org Travel Team

Location

Near Vík

South Iceland • Off Route 218

Dyrhólaey is a 120-meter-high promontory of volcanic origin jutting out into the North Atlantic near the village of Vík on Iceland's South Coast. The headland's defining feature is a massive natural rock arch at its tip — large enough for small boats and even aircraft to pass through — which gives the place its name: "door hole island" in Icelandic. From the top, visitors are rewarded with panoramic views stretching east along the endless black sand beach toward Reynisfjara and the Reynisdrangar sea stacks, north to Mýrdalsjökull glacier, and west along the rugged coastline. The cliffs host significant Atlantic puffin colonies from May through August, making Dyrhólaey one of the most accessible puffin-watching locations in Iceland. A lighthouse has stood on the promontory since 1910, guiding ships past the treacherous coast.

Safety + sourcing

Last updated: 2026-02-01

This guide is for trip planning, not emergency guidance. Conditions in Iceland can change quickly—always check official alerts and road conditions before you drive or hike.

Sources to check

Height

120 meters

Volcanic headland with massive natural rock arch at the tip

Puffin Season

May–August

Atlantic puffins nest on the cliffs — upper area closed mid-May to late June

Region

South Iceland

Near Vík, about 190 km from Reykjavik via Route 1

What to Expect

The Rock Arch

A massive natural stone arch at the tip of the promontory, carved by wave action and large enough for boats to pass through

Puffin Colony

Atlantic puffins nest in burrows on the cliff edges from May to August — bring binoculars for close-up views

Panoramic Views

360-degree views of black sand beaches, Reynisdrangar sea stacks, Mýrdalsjökull glacier, and the Atlantic

Dyrhólaey Lighthouse

A lighthouse in operation since 1910, perched on the headland and visible from great distances along the coast

Kirkjufjara Beach

A dramatic black sand beach at the base of the cliffs — be aware of rockfall and dangerous waves

Reynisdrangar Views

Iconic views of the Reynisdrangar sea stacks rising from the ocean to the east, framed by the black sand coastline

Getting There

From Route 1 (Ring Road), turn south onto Route 218, signposted for Dyrhólaey, approximately 10 km west of Vík. The road forks into upper and lower viewpoint roads. The upper road is steeper and may be closed for puffin nesting season (mid-May to late June). The drive from Reykjavik takes approximately 2.5 hours (190 km). Parking is available at both viewpoint levels. The site is about 15 minutes' drive from Reynisfjara beach.

Best Time to Visit

Summer is the prime season for Dyrhólaey, offering puffin sightings (late June through August once the upper road reopens), long daylight hours, and the mildest weather. Sunset from the upper viewpoint is spectacular. Winter brings dramatic skies and potential northern lights but shorter days and possible road closures. The site is wind-exposed year-round, so bring warm layers regardless of season. Check road conditions and seasonal closures before visiting.

Planning help

Dyrhólaey FAQs

Quick answers with safety notes where it matters.

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