Black Sand Beach, Vik: Address, Black Sand Beach Reviews: 4.5/5
Black Sand Beach
Black Sand Beach
4.5
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The area
Address
Best nearby
Restaurants
13 within 3 miles
The Soup Company
607
145 ft$$ - $$$ • Quick Bites • Healthy • Soups
Smidjan Brugghus
593
0.1 mi$$ - $$$ • Quick Bites • American • Brew Pub
Sudur Vik
1,722
0.3 mi$$ - $$$ • Bar • Pizza • European
Halldorskaffi
1,494
0.2 mi$$ - $$$ • American • Pizza • European
Strondin Pub Vík
497
0.3 mi$$ - $$$ • Bar • International • European
Berg Restaurant
275
0.2 mi$$$$ • European • Scandinavian • Vegetarian Friendly
Skool Beans
69
0.3 mi$$ - $$$ • Dessert • Cafe • Fast Food
Wok On Vík
20
0.3 mi$$ - $$$ • Fast Food • Asian • Vietnamese
Black Crust Pizzeria
16
0.2 miItalian • Pizza
Lava Cafe
82
0.3 mi$$ - $$$ • Quick Bites • Cafe • International
Attractions
10 within 6 miles
Vik Swimming Pool
24
0.1 miSports Complexes
Katla Visitor Center
1
0.2 miNatural History Museums • History Museums
Skaftfellingur Museum
5
0.2 miHistory Museums
Voyages Friendship Statue
23
0.3 miMonuments & Statues
Vikurfjara
3
0.3 miBeaches
Reynisdrangar
181
1.5 miGeologic Formations
Reynisfjara Beach
1,978
2.2 miBeaches
Reyniskirkja Church
592
1.2 miReligious Sites
Dyrholaey
1,916
Points of Interest & Landmarks • Geologic Formations
Hálsanefshellir Cave
1
1.5 miNature & Wildlife Areas
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Detailed Reviews: Reviews order informed by descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as cleanliness, atmosphere, general tips and location information.
Popular mentions
4.5
4,037 reviews
Excellent
2,954
Very good
900
Average
165
Poor
13
Terrible
7
Tourist1Am
1 contribution
May 2022 • Couples
The cliffs here are simply stunning. Loads of bird life and the black sand is stunning. The place was very busy though when we went at 4pm, so might be better to go at a quieter time.
I recommend taking binoculars to anywhere in Iceland , but here especially. Even a cheap pair will get you closer to the rock stacks and to see the birds nesting high up in the rocks. From Skewers to Puffins and Artic Turns, there is plenty to see.
The rock formations are simply fantastic, the way they wrap around the edge of the beach creates a fabulous atmosphere.
The beach is definitely a no go for any sort of swimming.
I recommend taking binoculars to anywhere in Iceland , but here especially. Even a cheap pair will get you closer to the rock stacks and to see the birds nesting high up in the rocks. From Skewers to Puffins and Artic Turns, there is plenty to see.
The rock formations are simply fantastic, the way they wrap around the edge of the beach creates a fabulous atmosphere.
The beach is definitely a no go for any sort of swimming.
Written May 28, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
totomai martinez
Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates270 contributions
Dec 2021 • Solo
Don’t let your guard down especially if you are walking along the shore, the waves can suprise you. I was soaking wet just 10 mins after I arrived. My fault though. Place is very picturesque, I recommend going early to avoid the bus tours as it could be quite busy and frustrating especially if you are into photography. A must visit.
Written January 19, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
Katie P
Flintshire, UK706 contributions
Jan 2022 • Friends
The car park is free and is a very short walk to the beach. We went at about 2pm ish when the tide was out so we could see the black sand (best check the tides before you visit). It was packed with tourist. The hexagonal stone structures is a small part of the cliff structure. There is a small cave too. There were a few snow and stone tumbles from the top of the cliffs so be careful and best stay away from the cliffs because of this. The waves were big! The black sand was coarse and sparkled when the sun hit it hence its alternative name”black diamond beach” (been to the black beach’s in the canaries and that was more fine and ash like). In the distance you can see a “durdle door like” structure. We walked along the beach and sat on one of the larger rock to take in the scenery as the sun sets on the beach’s horizon.
We didn’t go in the cafe and you have to pay to use the toilets.
We didn’t go in the cafe and you have to pay to use the toilets.
Written January 6, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
Yvette F
Buckingham, UK240 contributions
Jan 2022 • Couples
Visited here in an absolute gale, so didnt stop long. There is a warning that the waves sometimes come up a lot further than you think they will and you wouldnt stand a chance if you got swept in. That said, it was an interesting beach with a cool cliff face to the left.(see pics) . There are public toilets there but you have to pay to use them. There is also a nice cafe there which served coffees, juices etc and nice food. I had the happy marriage cake there and it was really tasty. If you purchase food and drink in cafe, they have toilets that are free for patrons.
Written January 16, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
Alexandra S
Romania9 contributions
Dec 2021 • Friends
It was a great experience to visit this beach in december, yet get this sunny-summer vibe once the clouds spread.
🌥🌤☀️
If you are in Iceland even for a short while, this place should be included on the short “must see” locations because it is one of a kind.
The guide will tell you to pay attention at all times to the waves and keep a safe distance.
Make sure to also try the local black burger (veggie options available) 🙂
🌥🌤☀️
If you are in Iceland even for a short while, this place should be included on the short “must see” locations because it is one of a kind.
The guide will tell you to pay attention at all times to the waves and keep a safe distance.
Make sure to also try the local black burger (veggie options available) 🙂
Written February 6, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
Michael D
60 contributions
Apr 2022 • Couples
We visited this beach on route around the south coast of Iceland. Great size car park with a cafe. The beach is very long but most people stay close to the car park end. Once on the black pebble beach you are met with a large basalt cave etched out of the cliffs. As you walk along the there are more caves, large boulders and columns rising out of the sea. The white waves crashing on the the black sand is beautiful. Just be careful of the sneaker waves. Would definitely recommend a visit
Written April 25, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
iydkmigthtky
New York City, NY94 contributions
Sep 2021
I have been to Iceland many times and always made it a point to spend time here on the beach. There is just something about it that is so interesting and intriguing to me. The sky always looks so cool especially toward sunset and dusk in the summer when it doesn't get completely dark. I suggest a stop here if you are in south Iceland!
Written April 15, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
hocunecu
Toronto167 contributions
Nov 2019
Simply amazing! Stunning nature and totally worth the stop and walk. Again, we did this as part of Southshore tour and I didn't like being rushed. Rent a car and do it your way. You need at least 30-45 min on the beach and the restaurant near the beach offers a nice lunch break too. The rocks are amazing and it does feel that some other creatures has created them - can't be that sand, water and sun could have done it!
Written January 8, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
dvanorder2
5 contributions
Mar 2020 • Couples
We arrived to angry weather. The old man in the sea was pissed. Waves crashing with scary winds in tow. Next day was calm and scenic. Black sand offset by sea foam and a snowy backdrop is something the eyes must dance upon once in your life.
Written March 11, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
Brian T
London, UK5,502 contributions
Aug 2021
These comments relate to the the beautiful black beach right in Vík í Mýrdal, rather than the popular black sand beach of Reynisfjara Beach, which is a little further afield and not as easily as accessible.
Vik’s black beach is a beautiful spot. The sand is volcanic, pulverised lava. From the car park behind the small shopping mall, you’ll see a path which leads you down to stretch of black beach. It’s clearly signed. You can walk quite a distance along the black sand to the east. The silver-lined waves of the Atlantic Ocean wash across the volcanic black sand with tremendous power, so take care as you are walking. From this beach you will also spot the basalt sea stacks called Reynisdrangar just off the eastern shore. Legend has it that the sea stacks used to be trolls. They were pulling their ships to shore when they accidentally got caught in the light of dawn and turned into stone.
I don’t think you can walk to f Reynisfjara Beach directly from the beach at Vik. It’s accessible by Road 215 off Route 1 to the west of Vik.
It’s an extraordinary sight and a stop you should make time for if you are in, or passing through, Vik.
Vik’s black beach is a beautiful spot. The sand is volcanic, pulverised lava. From the car park behind the small shopping mall, you’ll see a path which leads you down to stretch of black beach. It’s clearly signed. You can walk quite a distance along the black sand to the east. The silver-lined waves of the Atlantic Ocean wash across the volcanic black sand with tremendous power, so take care as you are walking. From this beach you will also spot the basalt sea stacks called Reynisdrangar just off the eastern shore. Legend has it that the sea stacks used to be trolls. They were pulling their ships to shore when they accidentally got caught in the light of dawn and turned into stone.
I don’t think you can walk to f Reynisfjara Beach directly from the beach at Vik. It’s accessible by Road 215 off Route 1 to the west of Vik.
It’s an extraordinary sight and a stop you should make time for if you are in, or passing through, Vik.
Written October 3, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
We are hoping to visit the black sand beach on our visit in November. We are renting a car and will be driving from Reykjavik. Does anyone know how long it takes to get there from the main city? Also, while in that area, are there any must do things/attratctions? Thank you.
antomik2014
Brescia, Italy1,138 contributions
Driving straight from Rejkyavik may take up to 3 hrs depending on the weather with no stops along the way.
I'd suggest to spend a couple of days along the south coast to get the chance to visit other attractions such as waterfalls, geothermal plants, Lava center etc... it all depends on whats kind of attractions you're looking for.
In this area Vik is the biggest center.
Take your time and enjoy your trip! you won't be disapponted! if you're intrested i can share my drive on mymaps :-)
wanderlustnaples
Naples, FL7 contributions
Going to Iceland March 18,2019 We want to see the Black sand beach, northern lights (hopefully) and drive the golden circle, so this is probably a dumb question but is the ring road and golden circle the same? We have tickets for the blue lagoon the last night of our tour and wondered if there was an ice cave or adventure tour close to Reykjavik since that is where we are staying. All info welcome....
Toscano88
Sao Paulo, SP104 contributions
Hi there! They are not. Golden Circle "it's a common route between 3 beautiful natural attractions in Iceland; Þingvellir National Park, Geysir geothermal area and Gullfoss waterfall. Instead of driving back and forth the same way, people normally drive a short circle, that's just under 230km (140 miles)." (source: guidetoiceland.is) .
The Ring Road in the other hand it's the series of roads (total 1332 km (828 miles)) that goes round the major part of the island, excluding the northwest portion of land.
While the Golden Circle can be done in 1-2 days (if the weather is ok), the ring road takes at minimum 7-8 days, if the weather helps.
This site below is the main source of information about touring in IS: guidetoiceland.is Besides, always check the weather before taking the road. this other link is a must check (even for short distances) road.is Enjoy Iceland!
1010simone
East Providence, RI36 contributions
Planning on touring Black sand beach and other spots this weekend. Is it still possible to enjoy these tours in the rain? Looking like rain for much of our stay.
Lawrence S
Northampton, UK217 contributions
Simonemelo24,
As some have already mentioned the wind is more of an issue than the rain. It's quite open, but well worth a visit, just dress appropriately.
I notice in this thread the recommendation to visit Vik, which is also a great spot, but you would miss seeing a great display of Columnar basalt formation. If time permits, I would suggest you visit both.
danyahejazeh
Ridgewood, NJ
How long is the ride, and is this good for kids? Two boys, ages 7 and 8. Thanks!
Luvdssrt
San Francisco, CA37 contributions
The drive from the main road isn’t long at all, great for family however stay far away from the water!
dhainya85
Belfast, UK19 contributions
is there a tour that includes the golden circle AND the beach at Reynisfjara?
Traveler T
Los Angeles, CA150 contributions
I was with a pre booked group tour for the whole Island. There may be but you will have to use this site and google.
dhainya85
Belfast, UK19 contributions
is there a tour that takes in the golden circle and the beach at reynisfjara
GorjesTravel
Calabasas, CA54 contributions
We hired a private driver/guide. A local guy through a company. He was great! Very very knowledgeable. Takes a couple days to see all the “must see” sites at least.
Hi everyone, I lost my gopro Hero 6 with handle on the beach. I beg anyone who found it please contact me and return the gopro back to me. It means so much for me as it is my first trip to Iceland.
Samit Bhattacharya
Dubai, United Arab Emirates256 contributions
Suggest you get in touch with
safetravel.is website people
MamaPearl
Sayre, PA176 contributions
Are Black Sand Beach and Reynisfjara Beach the same place? both talk about the same things....if not the same, which do you recommend? Traveling next week!
RAD10977
Spring Valley, NY243 contributions
Yes...the same.
.Reynisfjara is the beach with the huge basalt columns. While facing the water, the sea stacks will be on your left. It is incredibly dramatic and not to be missed.
BUT...There is another Black Sand Beach to the left of those. You cannot walk there but you can drive around the huge cliff and then follow the signs to the Black Sand Beach. This less impressive but worth walking about. Less dramatic only relative to the basalt columns.
This is the one that is actually named “ Black Sand Beach”. It is below the Icelandair Hotel Vik.
Laura L
London, UK31 contributions
Is it free to visit?
AdventurousRetirees
Lone Tree, CO655 contributions
No charge, just park in the (also free) large parking lot and walk.
Frequently Asked Questions about Black Sand Beach
- We recommend booking Black Sand Beach tours ahead of time to secure your spot. If you book with Tripadvisor, you can cancel up to 24 hours before your tour starts for a full refund. See all 22 Black Sand Beach tours on Tripadvisor
- According to Tripadvisor travelers, these are the best ways to experience Black Sand Beach:
- Southern Iceland Waterfalls, Black Beaches and Snowmobile Adventure (From $3,056.46)
- Private Southsore Adventure (From $1,075.00)
- Two Days of Magnificent South Coast With Ice Caves and Northern Lights (From $840.55)
- Golden Circle & South Coast. Private Day Tour (From $718.00)
- Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon, Diamond Beach, Black Sand Beaches, Waterfalls & more (From $1,715.91)
- Hotels near Black Sand Beach:
- (0.01 mi) Dream Guesthouse Vik
- (0.04 mi) Guesthouse Galleri Vik
- (0.17 mi) Guesthouse Carina
- (0.16 mi) Kosy Vik Guesthouse
- (0.15 mi) Puffin Hotel Vik
- Restaurants near Black Sand Beach:
- (0.03 mi) The Soup Company
- (0.12 mi) Smidjan Brugghus
- (0.17 mi) Halldorskaffi
- (0.25 mi) Sudur Vik
- (0.26 mi) Strondin Pub Vík
- Attractions near Black Sand Beach:
- (0.04 mi) Gallerí Leirbrot og Gler
- (0.04 mi) Icelandic Lava Show
- (0.04 mi) Zipline
- (0.23 mi) Katlatrack Adventure Tours
- (0.14 mi) Vik Swimming Pool