7 Things To Do On The Reykjanes Peninsula Near Keflavík, Iceland Airport
The Reykjanes Peninsula is one of the most overlooked areas in Iceland, and it just happens to be right next to Keflavík Airport.
Most people either rush straight to Reykjavik or only stop for the Blue Lagoon, but there’s actually a lot more to see here, from geothermal areas and volcanic craters to rugged coastlines and random landscapes that feel straight from another planet!
This is the perfect area to explore on your first or last day in Iceland, especially if you don’t have time for a longer road trip but still want to see a mix of what the country is known for.
Here are the best things to do on the Reykjanes Peninsula, all easy to visit in a day with a simple drive or tour.
Quick Lowdown on Reykjanes:
If you want to see the highlights of the Reykjanes Peninsula without renting a car or figuring out a route, this half-day tour hits most of the main stops for you.
👉 Check availability for the Reykjanes Peninsula tour here
It includes places like:
- Kleifarvatn Lake
- Seltún’s geothermal area
- Gunnuhver hot springs
- Reykjanesviti lighthouse
- Bridge Between Continents
- all with transport and a guide!
TIPS:
- If the Blue Lagoon is a must-visit for you, don’t forget to grab your official ticket beforehand:
- This is the cheapest airport bus to Reykjavik
- You can compare rental cars and campervans here if you plan to drive around yourself.
Where to stay:
Campervanning? Grindavík Campsite or Vogar Campsite.
Not campervanning? Check hotel options near Keflavík/Reykjanes.
1. Blue Lagoon
Let’s start with the obvious one.
The Blue Lagoon is Iceland’s most famous geothermal spa, known for its bright blue water, lava rock surroundings, and that whole “this doesn’t look real” vibe. It’s definitely more built-up and touristy than other hot springs in Iceland, but it’s also really well done.
If you’re looking for a relaxing start or end to your trip, this is a great place to unwind after a flight or before heading home.
TIP: Book in advance. This is not a “just show up” kind of place.
👉 GET AN OFFICIAL BLUE LAGOON TICKET:
Blue Lagoon without transport
Blue Lagoon with transport from Reykjavik
2. Seltún Geothermal Area
Seltún is one of the easiest places to see Iceland’s geothermal activity up close.
You’ll walk along wooden boardwalks past bubbling mud pots, steaming vents, and bright mineral-stained hills in shades of orange, yellow, and green. It’s a quick stop, but there’s a lot to look at packed into a small area.
It feels very “Iceland” without needing a long hike or detour.
3. Kleifarvatn Lake
Kleifarvatn is a large, moody lake that you’ll pass right near Seltún, and it’s worth a quick stop.
There’s not a ton to “do” here, but that’s kind of the point. The lake is surrounded by dark hills and often feels quiet and a little eerie, especially if the weather is cloudy or windy.
Pull over, walk down toward the shore, take it in for a few minutes, and keep going.
4. Gunnuhver Hot Springs
This is one of the most intense geothermal areas on the peninsula.
Gunnuhver is all steam, bubbling earth, and dramatic landscapes, with huge plumes rising up from the ground and boardwalks guiding you through the area. It feels raw and a bit wild compared to Seltún.
There’s also zero “pretty spa” energy here, just straight-up geothermal power.
TIP: The only way to see these spots is to take a tour or drive yourself. Which one is for you?
5. Reykjanesviti Lighthouse
This is Iceland’s oldest lighthouse, set on a rugged stretch of coastline with cliffs and crashing waves.
It’s a quick stop, but worth it. Wide open views, dramatic ocean, and few crowds. Good place to stretch your legs and take a few photos.
6. Brimketill Lava Rock Pool
Brimketill is a natural lava rock pool right along the coastline, and it’s one of the more unique stops in this area.
You can’t swim here, but the real draw is watching waves crash into the pool and surrounding rocks. On a windy day, it gets pretty dramatic.
It’s a short stop, but a really cool one if you catch it at the right moment.
7. Stampar Craters
Stampar is an easy volcanic stop where you can walk around a series of old craters.
The trail is short and flat, making it a quick but worthwhile way to see another side of Iceland’s landscape. You’ll get views over the surrounding lava fields and coastline while walking the loop.
It’s a nice final stop to round out the mix of geothermal, coastal, and volcanic spots on the peninsula.
Are you driving or taking a tour? Check out prices and availability here:
Where To Stay
For this area, staying near Keflavík or the Reykjanes Peninsula keeps things easy, especially for early flights.
Campervanning? Try Grindavík Campsite or Vogar Campsite.
Not campervanning? Browse hotel options near Keflavík/Reykjanes.
More Iceland
Read more about destinations in Iceland:
- 7 Things To Do On The Reykjanes Peninsula Near Keflavík, Iceland Airport
- Snaefellsnes Peninsula In One Day (What To See + How To Plan)
- 8 Best South Coast Iceland Stops (From Reykjavik To Vík)
- Golden Circle Iceland Itinerary (Self-Drive Or Tour From Reykjavik)
- 13 Worth-It Day Trips From Reykjavik, Iceland
- Iceland 7-Day Itinerary: West And South Coast Route
Read more about campervanning in Iceland + tips:
- Renting a Campervan in Iceland: What to Know
- Driving In Iceland: 11 Things To Know Before You Go
- Visiting Iceland in September: Is It a Good Time to Visit?
- Iceland Packing List: What to Wear in Iceland
- How Much Does a Trip to Iceland Cost? (Real Budget Breakdown)
- Is Iceland Actually Worth It?
- 12 Iceland Travel Tips You Need to Know Before You Go
