Are you traveling to Iceland and wondering whether you should visit Sky Lagoon or Blue Lagoon? In this Iceland travel guide, I’m breaking down everything you need to know about two of the country’s most famous geothermal spas to help you decide. Visiting a hot spring is an essential Icelandic experience, and there are plenty to choose from nationwide. However, the Sky and Blue Lagoons are undoubtedly Iceland’s top hot springs destinations.

Find out whether Sky Lagoon or Blue Lagoon is the right choice for your Iceland trip.

Sky Lagoon or Blue Lagoon?

Why are there so many hot springs in Iceland?

Iceland’s wealth of volcanic activity makes it a hotspot (pun intended) for geothermal waters. The country is located along the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, which separates the tectonic plates of North America and Eurasia. When these plates move, water is allowed into the Earth’s crust, where it is heated by magma and expelled back to the surface. This process creates the iconic hot springs and geysers that Iceland is known for.

Are hot springs good for you?

Soaking in a natural hot spring can offer wonderful benefits. Many consider the mineral-rich waters to have healing properties because they can be highly beneficial for the skin, muscles, and overall health. According to a study published in the Journal of Environmental and Public Health, bathing in natural thermal waters can help alleviate chronic pain due to the presence of anti-inflammatory compounds, such as sulfur and calcium. Hot springs can also help soothe and detoxify your skin, leaving it softer and smoother.

However, hot springs are not suitable for everyone. Pregnant women, elderly people, and those with underlying health conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure should exercise caution and consult with a doctor before soaking in geothermal pools.

Sky Lagoon Experience

My husband, Solomon, and I visited Sky Lagoon on the first day of our honeymoon in Iceland. We landed at Keflavík International Airport around 7am and were at the lagoon by 9:45am, after a quick detour to Kökulist for some sustenance. We chose to book Saman passes—these are a bit cheaper than the Sér package, which includes a private changing room.

Upon checking in, we were directed to the public changing facilities to don our bathing suits and shower (which is required before entering the hot springs). We were also given wristbands that connected to our credit cards, letting us make purchases during our visit with the tap of a wrist. Then, it was time to embark on the Skjól Ritual.

The first step (laug) is soaking in the warm lagoon. We loved the peaceful atmosphere here and the ample space to spread out. The lagoon boasts an interesting waterfall feature, a beautiful infinity edge overlooking the ocean, and plenty of ledges and benches to kick back with a drink from the swim-up bar.

Step two of the Ritual (kuldi) is a cold plunge. The cold plunge pool is outdoors, located just outside the turf house. As unpleasant as it can feel in the moment, I promise it will leave you feeling rejuvenated. Thankfully, the next step (ylur) is the sauna—one of my favorite aspects of the entire experience.

The sauna at Sky Lagoon is stunning. There are two sections: one allows phones, and the other is phone-free, letting you completely unplug. Both rooms have picturesque waterfront views, transporting you to absolute bliss.

Next, you’ll move on to a cold mist (súld). Solomon and I didn’t spend much time in this room, but it was very refreshing after the warm sauna. From there, it’s time for step five: mýkt, a full-body scrub. This is a lovely treatment you can lather all over your arms, legs, and back to leave your skin incredibly soft and smooth.

Step six (gufa) is a steam room, where you’ll sit to allow the body scrub to work its magic. It’s warm and pleasant, leaving you very relaxed as you prepare to wrap up the Ritual. After this room, you’ll have the opportunity to rinse off the scrub. Last but certainly not least is the crowberry elixir (saft), a yummy juice shot.

After the seven steps, you can return to the lagoon to continue enjoying the calming waters. I loved the Skjól Ritual—it took our entire experience to the next level. We ended up spending around three hours at Sky Lagoon and loved every second. The luxurious ambiance makes this spa worth every penny. 

Blue Lagoon Experience

Before flying home on the final day of our honeymoon, Solomon and I spent the morning at Blue Lagoon. The drive to Grindavík was fascinating, as you can see the aftermath of recent volcanic activity on the roads leading to the lagoon. There was a lot of construction happening at Blue Lagoon during our visit, which was apparent as soon as we arrived and parked. However, you really won’t notice it once you’re inside the lagoon.

At Blue Lagoon, we opted for the Comfort Package, the cheapest of the three available options. Like Sky Lagoon, you must shower before entering the geothermal pool. Blue Lagoon is famous for its milky blue waters, which are just as striking in person as they are in photos. The pool is also huge, with many areas to explore.

Solomon and I swam around for a bit to get the lay of the land before heading over to the mask bar for our complimentary silica mud masks. This mineral-rich face mask feels creamy and calming on the skin. You wear it for around 5-10 minutes, then rinse it off to reveal a cleansed and purified complexion.

Afterward, we took advantage of the sauna and steam room. While the facilities weren’t as aesthetic as Sky Lagoon’s (it’s hard to compete with oceanfront views!), they had the same soothing effects.

Next, we made our way to the swim-up bar to grab our free drinks. Solomon got a beer, and I enjoyed a tasty green juice for the complete spa experience. We spent the rest of our Blue Lagoon visit floating, swimming, and savoring the warm waters. The lagoon is a quick 20-minute drive to the airport, so we were able to take our time without feeling rushed.

Comparing Sky Lagoon and Blue Lagoon

	Sky Lagoon	Blue Lagoon
Price (basic package)	Starting at $131	Starting at $81
Amenities included	One round of the Skjól Ritual, towel	Silica mud mask, towel, drink of choice
Distance to KEF	40 minutes	20 minutes
Best for	Couples, solo travelers	Families, friend groups

While I highly suggest visiting both Sky Lagoon and Blue Lagoon, what if you only have time for one? In terms of price and convenience, Blue Lagoon is the winner. I also recommend Blue Lagoon for families and friend groups, since the facilities are more expansive and children as young as two years old are allowed to visit.

If you don’t mind making the drive or splurging a bit, my pick would be Sky Lagoon. This spa feels quieter and more upscale, appealing to couples and solo travelers seeking a peaceful way to spend a few hours. The Skjól Ritual was also a very unique and immersive element. 

While Sky Lagoon was my personal favorite, I think you should go to Blue Lagoon if you can’t see both. It’s such a quintessential Icelandic activity that you must experience for yourself! Plan to go right after landing or before flying out, since it’s so close to the airport.

Sky Lagoon vs. Blue Lagoon: Final Thoughts

I’m happy to say that Sky Lagoon and Blue Lagoon live up to the hype. We had a great time at both spas, and I firmly believe each is worth visiting during your trip to Iceland. However, you should opt for Blue Lagoon if it’s your first time visiting Iceland, since it’s so iconic. Regardless of which spa you choose, I’m confident you’ll have an unforgettable time! Let me know in the comments which one you would pick.

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Check out my other Iceland travel posts:

8.5-Day Iceland Itinerary | Ring Road, Diamond Circle, Snæfellsnes Peninsula

Must-Try Icelandic Foods | Iceland Food Guide