Is Sky Lagoon The New Blue Lagoon?

During our trip to Iceland, we learned so much about the culture, from the myths of elves and trolls to the rules that dictate what residents can name their kids. But one thing that I did not expect was the extensive geothermal bathing culture! Of course, I already knew about the famous Blue Lagoon. However, I did not realize that geothermal pools are prevalent around the country and an incredibly popular pastime with locals. As you might expect, they tend to prefer quieter, less populated spots to enjoy the waters. But tourists looking for a lagoon “experience” will find plenty of options, from the extensive Blue Lagoon to Reykjavik’s latest spa addition, Sky Lagoon.

Sky Lagoon is the newest geothermal spa experience in Reykjavik and one of the newer ones in the country as a whole. It opened in 2021 and has quickly become a popular choice for tourists and locals alike. While it doesn’t boast the mesmerizing blue waters of the Blue Lagoon, it still has some pretty great perks, like an oceanfront infinity pool, a beautiful setting, and its popular 7-step beauty ritual.

Entrance to Sky Lagoon Iceland — *Entrance to Sky Lagoon*

We originally intended to visit the Blue Lagoon in April 2024, but it was closed due to the continuing eruptions from the nearby Sundhnúkagígar volcano. As an alternative, Exoticca arranged for our group to visit the Sky Lagoon and experience its mid-level package. Based on that experience, here’s my full review!

The Sky Lagoon’s Unique Location & Setting

For those staying in Reykjavik, Sky Lagoon is practically next door. It was just 10 minutes from our hotel, and you can actually see Reykjavik from the lagoon! (The address is Vesturvör 44-48, 200 Kópavogur, Iceland)

But just because it’s close to Iceland’s biggest town doesn’t mean that the Sky Lagoon is loud or crowded. Quite the opposite, in fact!

Sky Lagoon is located right on the tip of a peninsula, overlooking the ocean. It’s just isolated enough from Reykjavik’s bustle to remain quiet, with a long drive at the front and nothing but ocean and cliffs at the back. And if you couldn’t see Reykjavik off in the distance, you’d have no idea it was nearby.

Sky lagoon iceland — *The rocks provide a natural barrier between Sky Lagoon and the “real” world*

While it is manmade, Sky Lagoon is carved into the rock on the cliffs, which makes it feel isolated and natural. The rocks create a wall that separates the front of the lagoon from the outside world, while the oceanfront infinity pool in the back provides a clear view of the horizon. It’s absolutely gorgeous and surprisingly peaceful.

The Sky Lagoon Experience

traditional icelandic turf house and a plunge pool

The main draw to Sky Lagoon is their 7-step ritual. This beautification experience is included in their top and mid-level admissions and, in my opinion, is well worth the upgrade. Steps 1 and 2 are available to all visitors but steps 3-7 happen in a traditional Icelandic turf house next to the lagoon, which requires a wristband to enter.

“The Ritual” involves a variety of activities, all designed to rejuvenate your skin, detox your body, and give you a sense of relaxation. And while I have to admit that I liked certain steps more than others, I thoroughly enjoyed the “experience” that it offered.

The 7-Step Ritual

Step 1 involves wading around in the lagoon, enjoying the geothermal waters, and allowing them to relax your body.

Step 2 is a cold plunge pool. My least favorite part of this experience, the plunge pool, is a small pool with steps right next to the lagoon. Daniel handled this like a champ while I literally ran screaming from the water, probably disturbing everyone’s peaceful afternoon. 😂 This step is supposed to reduce inflammation and stimulate your immune system.

Plunge pool at Sky Lagoon Iceland — *Check out my YouTube video for footage of how I handled the cold plunge*

Step 3 takes you into the small building, where you’ll surrender your wristband before entering Sky Lagoon’s beautiful sauna. This toasty room features several rows of wooden benches, all facing Iceland’s largest single window, which provides a great view of the ocean. Guests are encouraged to stay here as long as they like, but there is a no-talking policy to keep it peaceful. This step opens your pores and releases toxins.

Sauna with a large window facing the ocean — *The sauna has the larges single window in Iceland!*

Step 4 involves more cold water, this time in the form of a “refreshing mist.” The water isn’t quite as cold as the plunge pool, but it’s still quite a shock to your system after the steamy sauna. It’s supposed to stimulate your senses and revitalize your mind, body, and soul.

Step 5 was my favorite: the Sky Body Scrub! Each guest can grab a small bowl of Sky Lagoon’s signature sea salt scrub, which smells and feels wonderful! It’s nice and thick, so you can keep it on for a few minutes during Step 6.

*Grab a bowl of their signature Sky Body Scrub!*

Step 6 involves more steam but at a much higher level than the sauna. You can sit on benches around the perimeter of the room. But do watch your step when you come in so you don’t bump into the hot coals in the center. This step reopens your pores to maximize the scrub and relaxes your body.

Step 7 is a warm shower, where you can wash off the salt scrub and spend a few more minutes relaxing. They have a small alcove with several showerheads for guests to rinse off before they head back to the main lagoon.

Other Amenities

If you’re not feeling the 7-step ritual, don’t worry. The main lagoon has plenty for guests to enjoy, and this is where you will spend the main portion of your time anyway.

Besides the previously mentioned infinity pool viewpoint, Sky Lagoon has some great features like a waterfall, a swim-up bar, plenty of submerged benches, and little alcoves and relaxation areas where you can hide away from the main crowds. If you are interested in grabbing a drink, snack, or waterproof phone case from the swim-up bar, you won’t need any cash, either. Every guest gets an electronic wristband that you can tap to make a purchase. You’ll just need to pay your tab before you leave the main building.

What Makes Sky Lagoon Special

girl on edge of oceanfront infinity pool at Sky Lagoon, Iceland — *The infinity pool looks out to the ocean and mountains*

You’ll have no shortage of lagoons and geothermal spas to choose from in Iceland. Reykjavik alone has 18 public geothermal pools that you can get passes to if you’re in the mood to pool hop. But there are also plenty of others around the country, from little-known hideaways to built-up experiences.

We also visited the Secret Lagoon during our visit, and, of course, the Blue Lagoon is widely known. But compared to what I know of these two, I do think Sky Lagoon comes out on top.

First of all, Sky Lagoon is a perfect setting for relaxation. The infinity pool, ocean views, and natural rock make it feel peaceful and secluded. In contrast, the Blue Lagoon is behind a geothermal power plant, which is far from pretty, and the Secret Lagoon (Iceland’s oldest pool) is rather one-dimensional in comparison.

*Entrance to the Blue Lagoon with fresh lava from the recent eruptions*

The Sky Lagoon is also beautiful for those same reasons. It does not have the stunning turquoise water of the Blue Lagoon, but it does have clear, blue-hued water. I’ve also heard that the extensive number of outbuildings at the Blue Lagoon detracts from its overall appeal.

The Sky Lagoon is also rather unique with its ritual. While some lagoons will offer massages or small treatments (like the Blue Lagoon’s complimentary face mask), this was a more extensive experience than you typically find.

Last but not least, Sky Lagoon is geared toward adults rather than families. While the Blue Lagoon (and most others in Iceland) allow children, Sky Lagoon only admits visitors over 12 years old. That alone gives the lagoon a more peaceful vibe and reduces the chance of feeling crowded by rambunctious kids.

Planning Your Visit to Sky Lagoon

Sky Lagoon has three different admission options that you can choose from, depending on what level of pampering and privacy you would like.

The base option is the Pure Lite package, which only offers admission to the main lagoon, along with a towel and access to the main locker room. It starts at $49.05 per person.

The next step up is the Pure admission, which includes everything in the base package, plus the 7-step ritual. Prices start at $70.72.

Finally, the top-tier experience is the Sky admission, which includes everything plus a private changing room for $92.39.

Now, if you’re not familiar with European locker rooms, they are very open. You don’t have any privacy at Sky Lagoon to change into your swimsuit. However, unlike the other lagoon we visited, you’re at least given a private stall for the required pre-lagoon shower. So if you’re uncomfortable with that situation (or if you’re bringing your younger kids), you may want to upgrade to the Sky admission for the privacy.

Sky Lagoon does limit the number of people in the lagoon each day, so it’s very important to book your tickets in advance and arrive at your designated time slot. You can book directly through the website or through a 3rd-party site like Viator or Get Your Guide for options with transportation or to visit Sky Lagoon as part of a larger tour.

Closing Thoughts on Sky Lagoon

If you’re looking for a unique lagoon experience near Reykjavik, I think Sky Lagoon is the perfect place! It’s not only beautiful, but the convenient location and unique ritual really set it apart and make for a fun day.

Now, if you have young kids, unfortunately, this won’t be a good option. But for couples or families with teens, I think this is a better and more budget-friendly option than the Blue Lagoon.

If you’re looking for more guides on Iceland, be sure to check out my ongoing series! I’m releasing new content from our trip regularly, to make your planning easier. You can sign up for the blog newsletter below for free to make sure you don’t miss a post.

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Thanks for sticking around to read this whole post! I hope it helps you decide whether Sky Lagoon is a good fit for you. If you have any questions or comments, don’t hesitate to drop them below. I read every response!

Until next time, happy travels.