Blue Lagoon (geothermal spa)

The Blue Lagoon is a large geothermal spa on the Reykjanes Peninsula in southwestern Iceland, formed from the warm, mineral-rich outflow waters of a nearby geothermal power facility. The milky-blue, silica-rich waters are kept at bathing temperatures and are used for bathing and skin treatments in purpose-built facilities.

The lagoon’s warm waters, silica mud and algae are marketed for skin benefits and the site includes saunas, steam rooms and paid spa treatments, plus restaurants and hotel accommodation adjacent to the water. Access is managed by timed tickets and the site is busiest during daytime and summer months.

The Blue Lagoon is located near the town of Grindavík, about 20 km from Keflavík International Airport and roughly 50 km from central Reykjavík, making it a common stop for incoming or outgoing travellers.

• Geothermal origin and water properties: Formed from the outflow of a nearby geothermal power plant, the lagoon is rich in minerals and silica; water is maintained at warm bathing temperatures suitable year-round.
• Location and visitor access: Located on the Reykjanes Peninsula about 20 km from Keflavík International Airport and roughly 50 km from Reykjavík; entry requires timed, paid admission and popular times can sell out in advance.

What to See #

• Main lagoon and bathing area: The main milky-blue geothermal bathing lagoon with water temperatures generally around 37-39 °C and a surface rich in silica that forms silica mud used in skin treatments.
• Spa facilities and treatments: On-site spa facilities and treatment rooms offering in-water massages, silica and algae masks, and geothermal steam and saunas adjacent to the lagoon.
• Adjacent hotels and retreat facilities: The nearby overnight accommodation complexes, including the Silica Hotel and The Retreat Spa, located beside or above the lagoon and offering direct access and premium services.