15 Best Southern Iceland Attractions You Can’t Miss

Southern Iceland is a magical part of the country that every traveler should explore. Known for its breathtaking landscapes, black sand beaches, expansive glaciers, and charming fishing villages, this region offers some of the most stunning natural wonders in the world.

Whether you're on a road trip along the Ring Road or taking a Golden Circle tour, you'll find endless beauty and adventure. Here are 15 of the best southern Iceland attractions you can’t miss.

Top 15 Best Places to Visit on Iceland’s South Coast

1. Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon

Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon is one of the most famous places in Southern Iceland. It’s a large lake filled with icebergs that have broken off from the Vatnajökull Glacier, the biggest glacier in Europe. The icebergs slowly float in the lagoon and eventually drift out to sea.

The lagoon is connected to the Atlantic Ocean, and you can sometimes see seals swimming around the ice. The view here is absolutely stunning, especially during sunrise or sunset when the light makes the ice glow.

Visitors can take boat tours that get them up close to the floating ice. If you prefer to stay on land, you can walk along the edge of the lagoon and take in the peaceful, icy scenery. Whether you choose to explore by boat or on foot, Jökulsárlón is a must-see destination when traveling through Southern Iceland.

2. Diamond Beach

Diamond Beach is located just a short walk from Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon. It gets its name because the icebergs that drift from the lagoon wash up on the shore and look like giant sparkling diamonds lying on the black sand.

The beach is made of volcanic black sand, and the bright, clear ice sitting on it creates a beautiful and unusual contrast. Some ice pieces are small and shiny, while others are large and shaped in strange and interesting ways. It's a perfect place for taking amazing photos or just enjoying the peaceful, otherworldly scenery.

Because of the nearby ocean, the ice is always changing, so no two visits are ever the same. Whether it's sunny or cloudy, Diamond Beach is a breathtaking stop on your journey through Southern Iceland.

3. Vatnajökull National Park

Vatnajökull National Park is one of the most amazing places to visit in Southern Iceland. It covers a huge area and includes the largest glacier in Europe, the Vatnajokull glacier. This park is great for people who love nature and adventure.

You can go glacier hiking, try ice climbing, or take guided glacier tours. These activities let you walk on the ice, explore cracks and caves, and see stunning frozen landscapes up close. It's truly a special experience.

The park is also home to beautiful waterfalls, volcanoes, and "glacier tongues," which are long arms of ice stretching from the main glacier. One popular spot is the Skaftafellsjökull Glacier, where there are easy hiking trails and beautiful views of the ice and mountains.

4. Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach

Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach is one of the most popular and photographed spots in Southern Iceland. It is located near the village of Vík and is known for its stunning black sand, which comes from volcanic ash. The beach has a wild and mysterious beauty that makes it unforgettable.

One of the most unique features of Reynisfjara is the basalt columns that look like a staircase made of stone. These tall, dark columns were formed by cooling lava and are amazing to see up close. Many visitors love to take photos here because the landscape looks so otherworldly.

Just off the shore, you can see the Reynisdrangar sea stacks. According to local legend, these rock formations were once trolls who were turned to stone. The crashing waves of the Atlantic Ocean make the scene even more dramatic.

Visitors should be very careful here, as the waves are strong and can be dangerous. Always stay a safe distance from the water. Despite the powerful waves, the beauty of Reynisfjara makes it a must-see stop on your South Iceland trip.

5. Skogafoss Waterfall

Skogafoss Waterfall is one of the biggest and most beautiful waterfalls in Iceland. It falls from a height of 60 meters (about 200 feet) and creates a powerful, thundering sound as the water crashes down.

The waterfall is very easy to visit. There is a parking lot nearby, and from there, it's just a short walk to the base of the waterfall. You can stand very close to the water, and if it’s a sunny day, you might even see a rainbow in the mist.

For a different view, you can climb the staircase next to the waterfall. It’s a bit of a workout, but once you reach the top, you’ll be rewarded with a great view of the waterfall and the surrounding area. On clear days, you can even see far out across the green landscape.

Skógafoss is a favorite stop for photographers and nature lovers. Whether you’re looking to take amazing pictures or just enjoy the beauty of Iceland’s nature, this waterfall is a must-see.

Check Out, Glacier Hike and South Coast Private Tour

6. Seljalandsfoss Waterfall

Seljalandsfoss is a stunning waterfall located right off the main Ring Road in South Iceland. It drops from a height of about 60 meters (almost 200 feet) and is one of the most visited waterfalls in the country.

What makes Seljalandsfoss truly special is that you can actually walk behind the waterfall. A small path leads you around and behind the curtain of water, offering a unique and magical view from inside the waterfall itself. It feels like stepping into a fairytale.

You will definitely get wet from the mist, so bring a raincoat or waterproof clothes, and be careful on the path, as it can be slippery. The best time to visit is on a sunny day or at sunset, when the light shining through the water creates a beautiful glow.

7. Golden Circle

The Golden Circle is one of the most famous sightseeing routes in Iceland. It is a loop that starts from the capital city, Reykjavík, and takes you to three of the country’s top natural wonders. This makes it a perfect day trip if you want to see a lot in a short amount of time.

The first stop is Þingvellir (Thingvellir) National Park. This is a UNESCO World Heritage Site where you can see the spot where two tectonic plates meet. It's also where Iceland's first parliament was founded over 1,000 years ago. You can walk through deep cracks in the earth and enjoy the beautiful landscape.

Next, you visit the Geysir geothermal area. Here, you can see bubbling hot springs and watch the famous Strokkur geyser shoot boiling water into the air every few minutes. It’s an exciting and fun sight for all ages.

The final stop is Gullfoss, or the "Golden Falls." This massive waterfall is powerful and breathtaking. You can walk close to the edge and feel the mist on your face as the water crashes into the canyon below.

8. Sólheimajökull Glacier

Sólheimajökull is a large glacier outlet located between the towns of Skógar and Vík in Southern Iceland. It stretches out from the bigger Mýrdalsjökull ice cap and is one of the easiest glaciers to visit.

This glacier is a popular spot for glacier hiking and ice cave tours. Local tour companies offer guided trips where you can safely walk on the ice with special gear like crampons and helmets. These tours are suitable for beginners as well as more experienced hikers. Along the way, guides will show you deep crevasses, blue ice formations, and sometimes even small caves made of ice.

The area around Sólheimajökull is peaceful and full of natural beauty, with black volcanic ash often covering parts of the ice, giving the glacier a dramatic appearance. Even if you don’t want to hike, you can still enjoy the view from the base of the glacier after a short walk from the parking lot.

9. Dyrhólaey Arch

Dyrhólaey is a beautiful and unique place on the south coast of Iceland. It is a small peninsula with a large, natural arch-shaped rock that stretches out into the ocean. The name "Dyrhólaey" means "door hill island," and the rock arch looks like a giant door carved by nature.

From the top of Dyrhólaey, you get amazing views of the black sand beaches, the Atlantic Ocean, and nearby cliffs. On clear days, you can see all the way to the Mýrdalsjökull glacier. It’s a great place to take photos and enjoy the peaceful, wide-open views.

In the summer months, Dyrhólaey is also one of the best places in Iceland to see puffins. These cute seabirds nest on the cliffs, and you can often watch them flying around or resting in the grass.

Be prepared for strong winds at the top, and wear a jacket even in summer. The road to Dyrhólaey can be a bit rough, but the incredible views and chance to see puffins make it well worth the trip.

10. DC Plane Wreck

The DC plane wreck is one of the most unusual and interesting attractions in Southern Iceland. It sits on Sólheimasandur Beach, a wide and flat black sand area that looks like another planet. The U.S. Navy plane crashed here in 1973. Thankfully, everyone on board survived, but the wreck was left behind.

Now, the broken silver body of the plane lies in the open with no buildings or trees around, creating a very eerie and dramatic scene. It has become a popular spot for photographers and travelers who want to see something different.

To get to the plane wreck, you have to walk about 45 minutes from the parking lot since cars are not allowed to drive to the site. The walk is flat but can feel long, especially in bad weather, so wear good shoes and bring water.

Even though it takes some effort to reach, seeing the plane wreck up close is an unforgettable experience and a cool part of your Iceland adventure.

11. Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon

Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon is one of the most beautiful and magical places in southeast Iceland. The canyon is about 2 kilometers long and up to 100 meters deep. It was formed thousands of years ago by flowing water from glaciers during the Ice Age.

A small river runs through the bottom of the canyon, winding around steep, moss-covered walls. The green moss and the shape of the canyon make it look like a scene from a fantasy movie. It’s no surprise that this place became famous after being featured in music videos and on social media.

There is a walking path along the top of the canyon that gives you amazing views from above. It’s an easy walk and very family-friendly. You can take photos from several viewpoints and enjoy the peaceful nature around you.

Fjaðrárgljúfur is easy to visit as it's close to Ring Road and has a parking lot nearby. Whether you're a photographer or just love nature, this canyon is a must-see stop on your trip through Southern Iceland.

12. Westman Islands

The Westman Islands, also known as Vestmannaeyjar, are a group of small islands just off the south coast of Iceland. You can reach them by taking a short drive from the Ring Road and then hopping on a ferry. The boat ride itself is enjoyable and offers beautiful views of the ocean and surrounding cliffs.

The biggest island in the group is Heimaey, which is the only one with people living on it. Heimaey is known for its volcanic history, especially the eruption in 1973 that forced everyone to leave their homes. Today, you can still see the lava fields and even visit the Eldheimar Museum to learn more about the eruption and how the town recovered.

The Westman Islands are also famous for their birdlife. In summer, they become home to thousands of puffins. These cute birds nest in the cliffs, and you can see them up close during hikes or boat tours.

Besides wildlife and history, the islands offer great hiking trails with ocean views, green hills, and volcanic rocks. It's a peaceful place that feels far away from the busy tourist spots. Visiting the Westman Islands gives you a unique chance to explore a different, quieter side of Iceland.

13. Lava Centre

The Lava Centre is an exciting and educational museum located in the town of Hvolsvöllur, right along the main road through Southern Iceland. It focuses on the powerful volcanoes and earthquakes that have shaped Iceland’s landscape over time.

The museum uses modern technology and hands-on displays to show how lava flows, earthquakes happen, and how Iceland sits on two moving tectonic plates. You can see interactive exhibits, short videos and even feel simulated earthquake shakes. It's a fun way to learn for both kids and adults.

There is also a viewing platform where you can see nearby volcanoes and the beautiful surrounding area. The Lava Centre is a perfect stop for families, students, and anyone curious about Iceland's fiery natural forces. It's not only informative but also entertaining, making it a great break from outdoor sightseeing.

14. Secret Lagoon

The Secret Lagoon is a cozy natural hot spring located in the small town of Flúdir in Southern Iceland. It is one of the oldest man-made swimming pools in the country and has been around since 1891. Unlike the more famous Blue Lagoon, the Secret Lagoon feels more quiet, local, and natural.

The water in the lagoon stays warm all year round, around 38–40°C (100–104°F), and comes from nearby hot springs. You can relax in the warm water while watching steam rise around you, especially magical on cool or snowy days. There are also small bubbling geothermal spots and a tiny geyser near the pool that erupts every few minutes.

The area is simple and peaceful, making it a great place to unwind after a long day of exploring. There are changing rooms and showers, and everything is clean and easy to use.

Because it is located in the Golden Circle area, the Secret Lagoon is a perfect stop during a day trip. Whether you visit in summer or winter, it offers a quiet and relaxing experience in the middle of Iceland's stunning nature.

15. Northern Lights Viewing

Seeing the Northern Lights, also called the aurora borealis, is one of the most magical experiences you can have in Iceland. These colorful lights appear in the night sky, usually between September and April, when the nights are long and dark.

Southern Iceland is a great place to watch the Northern Lights because there are many wide, open areas with little or no light pollution. Places like Vík, Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, and areas near the Vatnajökull ice caps are perfect for this. The darker and clearer the sky, the better your chances of seeing the lights dance across it.

To increase your chances, check the aurora forecast and choose a night with clear skies. It helps to get away from city lights and be patient—sometimes the lights appear quickly, but other times you may have to wait a while.

Be sure to dress warmly, as it can get very cold standing outside for a long time. Bring a camera with a tripod if you want to capture the lights, as they can move quickly and change colors. Watching the Northern Lights in Southern Iceland is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that you'll never forget.

Wrapping Up Your South Iceland Adventure

Southern Iceland is packed with unforgettable places that are easy to reach and full of natural beauty. Whether you're into photography, hiking, or just enjoying peaceful scenery, the South has something for every type of traveler.

From ice caves to volcanoes, waterfalls to black sand beaches, this region offers a perfect mix of adventure and relaxation. Plan ahead, take your time, and enjoy each unique stop along the way.

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