sky lagoon iceland

Sky Lagoon vs Blue Lagoon in Iceland: How to Choose the Best for You

Jared Dillingham at Sky Lagoon in Iceland

If your time is limited and there’s a “Sky Lagoon vs Blue Lagoon” debate in your group, this blog aims to help point out the differences.

Since the internet is overloaded with Blue Lagoon blogs, I’ll focus mostly on Sky Lagoon, since it’s newer for visitors to Iceland. Sky Lagoon is worth a visit, if you’d like a less-crowded, more relaxed, more natural-looking version of Iceland’s famous Blue Lagoon.

➡️ BOOK: Blue Lagoon + Transportation from Reykjavik

➡️ BOOK: Sky Lagoon + 7-step Ritual


Key Differences: Sky Lagoon Vs Blue Lagoon

Sky Lagoon Iceland is in an industrial area of the city of Kópavogur (near Reykjavik) whereas Blue Lagoon is about a 40-minute drive south to the beautiful Reykjanes area.

You can explore hotel options in Reykjavik using this interactive map. It includes hotels and VRBO rentals:

Location: Sky Lagoon Vs. Blue Lagoon

Sky Lagoon is much closer to Reykjavik, but both options are easy to get to.

As you pull up to the neighborhood surrounding Karsnes Harbour, you might think you’ve taken a wrong turn.  Sky Lagoon is not on a nice, scenic street, but rather in an industrial park on the Atlantic Coast.

It feels like the suburbs of Reykjavik, but the Lagoon is actually in the city of Kópavogur, which (by population) is Iceland’s second-largest city.

Iceland’s new lagoon was built on a peninsula which juts out into the Atlantic. 

The 7 kilometer drive from Reykjavik to Sky Lagoon takes about 15 minutes in a car, and there’s plenty of free parking in the lot out front. 

There’s no Uber in Iceland, and taxis are somewhat expensive. If you don’t have a rental car, I’d opt for a reservation package which includes transportation from Reykjavik, which you can check out by clicking here.

Again, if you’re staying in Reykjavik only, Sky Lagoon is the easiest to get to. Still, you can easily find transportation to Blue Lagoon, if you’d like to experience both.


The Water: Sky Lagoon Vs Blue Lagoon

There are major differences when it comes to the water in Sky Lagoon and Blue Lagoon.

Water Temperature

The water temperature in both Sky Lagoon and Blue Lagoon is about the same: around 100 degrees Fahrenheit.

The pool at Sky Lagoon is kept between 38-40 degrees Celsius, or just above 100 degrees Fahrenheit.   So it’s not quite a hot tub, but definitely warm enough to keep you comfortable despite the chill in the air.

As you swim and walk through the water, you’ll feel pockets of temperature differences.

The entry to Sky Lagoon in Iceland

Sky Lagoon is all naturally-heated through geothermal means. The water is piped in at a scaldingly-hot temperature and cooled before it goes into circulation in the Lagoon.

If the weather is cold and windy, which is likely, it’ll feel good to keep your shoulders completely submerged.

The water depth varies from spot to spot in the Lagoon, but never gets even to five feet deep, and is mostly waist-deep or chest-deep, depending on your height.

Sky Lagoon vs Blue Lagoon in Iceland

Deep underground, the water temperature reaches 240 degrees Celcius, which is nearly 500 degrees Fahrenheit. By the time the super-heated water reaches the surface at Blue Lagoon, it “cools” to about 38 degrees Celcius, or 100 degrees Fahrenheit.

Minerals in the Water: Sky Lagoon vs Blue Lagoon

The ideas behind Iceland’s lagoons are similar (large, thermally-heated pools), but the experiences are different.

Sky Lagoon is quite a bit smaller, and less crowded.  The pool area is still expansive, but Blue Lagoon is massive in size, with different areas wrapping around the public area to the hotel.

Sky Lagoon’s water isn’t blue at all. It’s clear, and against the dark lining, it’s designed to match the ocean water in the Atlantic.

The mineral composition of the water at the two lagoons is very different.

You’re fine to dunk your head at Sky Lagoon and get your hair wet.  At Blue Lagoon, the advice is to keep your hair out of the mineral-heavy water (unless you coat it in a thick layer of conditioner).

There’s no facial masque option at Sky Lagoon, whereas at Blue Lagoon you have the option of coating your face in a variety of soothing or exfoliating mud masques.  The mud wouldn’t do well in the clear water at Sky Lagoon.


The Experience: Sky Lagoon Vs Blue Lagoon

The Sky Lagoon experience is mostly about relaxation.

You can swim if you want, but most people just lounge around on the rocks and wade through the water with their drinks.  It’s more of a relaxing pool than a lap-pool.

The Blue Lagoon experience is louder, with many more kids enjoying the unique, milky-blue water.

Part of the cloudiness comes from the silica mud masks people put on to clarify their skin at the Blue Lagoon.

A note of caution about swimming in the Blue Lagoon: Pay attention to their advice on getting your hair wet in the water. Cover it with conditioner first, or avoid dunking!

Sky Lagoon’s Infinity Edge Views

The infinity edge is a main draw to Sky Lagoon.

It stretches the length of Sky Lagoon, and provides ample space for leaning and gazing off into the Atlantic Ocean.   

SKY LAGOON INFINITI EDGE POOL

A lot of people seemed to just enjoy dangling their arms over the infinity edge, while sipping on something from the bar. For them, this unique feature seemed to make Sky Lagoon worth it.

Sky Lagoon is handicapped-accessible.  They provide a lift chair for access into the water for people in wheelchairs.

The water is full of people, but the designers of the Lagoon created enough alcoves to make sure people will be able to find a quieter, peaceful spot to relax in the water.   

Sky Lagoon Iceland

Swim-Up Bars: Sky Lagoon vs Blue Lagoon

Both lagoons feature bars, serving alcohol, conveniently located in the middle of the water.

Sky Lagoon features a swim-up bar with reasonably-priced drinks!  It was the perfect addition to the already-relaxing experience.

SKY LAGOON SWIMUP BAR

The Prosecco was $11 (US dollars) for a (plastic) glass.  Beer and wine options were similar in price.   I expected higher prices for a setting like that.   

It was nice to be able to lean across the outer infinity edge and relax with a glass of bubbly.

As for payment, there’s no need to bring your wallet or credit cards into pool area.  You can pay for your drinks with your wristband.

Sky Lagoon vs Blue Lagoon in Iceland

They do limit you to three alcoholic beverages.  We tend to sweat a lot in thermal pools, so they don’t want people to become overly dehydrated and drunk in the Lagoon.

It was a bit disappointing to see people toss their (plastic) glasses aside on the rocks when they finished their drinks, rather than dispose of them politely.  We saw several go floating across the water.  

The staff did a pretty good job tidying things up after the swimmers who simply left their empties around the pool.

sky lagoon swim up bar

What Makes Sky Lagoon Unique: The 7-Step Ritual

A main draw to Sky Lagoon over Blue Lagoon is the “7-Step Ritual.”

You’ll have to upgrade your admission fee, and buy either the Pure Pass or Sky Pass, which includes access to the area in the Lagoon where you’ll go through the ritual.

The ritual is completed in a newly-built turf house, guarded by Icelandic men in big, bulky winter gear and sunglasses.  I’m told they’re lifeguards, not security, despite their uniforms.

sky lagoon ritual

The 7-Steps at Sky Lagoon

The ritual is a series of hot-cold-hot-cold steps, each of which will sting your skin and take your breath away:

  1. Swimming in the warm water of Sky Lagoon, as long as you’d like.
  2. A polar plunge into a small pool outside the turf house.
  3. Warming up in the sauna inside the turf house.
  4. Getting cold again, with cool mist sprayers outside.
  5. The body scrub, using a gritty salt material to exfoliate.
  6. Warming up in a steam room.
  7. Showering off the remainder of the scrub, before going back into the Sky Lagoon.

My Review of Sky Lagoon’s Ritual

I’m probably in the minority on this one, but I’d say the ritual itself is something you can consider skipping.

Maybe it’s because I love all of Iceland’s natural wonders so much?   The ritual just seemed too gimmicky.   Granted, some would consider the entire Lagoon to be a touristy gimmick!

On the other hand, the ritual is unique to Sky Lagoon Iceland, so if you’re looking for something that truly sets it apart, give it a try for the extra $23 (US dollars).

➡️ Book: Sky Lagoon + 7-step Ritual

7 STEP RITUAL at Sky Lagoon Iceland

The Crowd: Sky Lagoon Vs Blue Lagoon

I overheard many conversations on the plane over to Reykjavik involving people going to Iceland’s famous Blue Lagoon.  It’s become a “must-see” for tourists.

The Blue Lagoon has been Iceland’s most popular tourist attraction (at least, man-made tourist attraction) for nearly 40 years. Aside from the geothermal waters, the two lagoons are very different.

BLUE LAGOON

Best for Kids: Sky Lagoon vs Blue Lagoon

Perhaps the biggest difference between the lagoons is in the crowds.  As I mentioned, children under the age of 12 aren’t allowed at Sky Lagoon. 

No one under the age of 12 is allowed in, and those 14 and under have to be supervised by an adult.   

Blue Lagoon is more “family-friendly” and open to younger children.

Again, Sky Lagoon is much quieter, more relaxing, and really built more for adults.


The Cost: Sky Lagoon Vs Blue Lagoon

Prices range, depending on which package and experience you buy at each lagoon.

The lowest-price “comfort” ticket for Blue Lagoon starts at around $80 per person, but I’d upgrade to this option for a better experience.

The lowest price “Pure Lite” ticket at Sky Lagoon is $55 per person, or even cheaper at Viator by clicking here.

➡️ DISCOUNT TICKETS: Sky Lagoon Entry

Full Breakdown of Costs and Packages

These are the different entry options for Sky Lagoon:

  • Pure Lite Pass:  $55 (US dollars)
    • -includes admission to Sky Lagoon Iceland, public changing room, towels
  • Pure Pass: $78 (US dollars)
    • -includes admission to Sky Lagoon Iceland, public changing room and shower, towels, and the 7-step ritual
  • Sky Pass:  $109 (US dollars)
    • -includes admission to Sky Lagoon Iceland, private changing room and shower, towels, and the 7-step ritual

➡️ GOOD DEAL: Lagoon + Ritual + Transport from Reykjavik

Reservations for Sky Lagoon

I’d definitely recommend reserving an entry at Sky Lagoon.  The day we went they had openings all morning and through the afternoon, but I’d book a timeslot just to be sure.


FAQs: Choosing Sky Lagoon or Blue Lagoon

sky lagoon infinity edge

What should you Bring to Sky Lagoon or Blue Lagoon?

Bring a bathing suit, of course,  but if you didn’t pack one for Iceland you can buy one at either Blue Lagoon or Sky Lagoon.  

There’s no need for a towel, since they hand them out regardless of the entry package you purchase.

You’ll have to shower before entering, and they’ll provide you with a locker for your wallet, shoes, and clothing.   It’s all very secure.

The changing rooms are nice and clean.  At Sky Lagoon, you can upgrade to the Sky Pass, which includes a private changing room with shower, hair dryer, etc.   The basic entry pass includes a more open changing room.

You’ll use your high-tech wristband to lock and unlock the closet where you put your belongings.

How Much Time do you Spend at Sky Lagoon or Blue Lagoon?

We were at Sky Lagoon for about two hours.  There’s really no time limit, so you might stay five hours if you add a meal at the restaurant to your visit post-swim.

Since Sky Lagoon is so close to Reykjavik, it’s a great morning trip or evening trip if you have other plans for the day.

Blue Lagoon is farther from the city, so you might end up staying longer. I’d say to plan for about three hours, including time for food at the Blue Cafe or Lava (the restaurant).

SKY LAGOON UNDERWATER

Are Cameras and Phones Allowed at Sky Lagoon and Blue Lagoon?

We used both a professional camera and an iPhone clipped into an Osmo to record steady video walking through Sky Lagoon.  Other people had waterproof GoPros.   There aren’t many flat surfaces to set your cameras down on, so it might be easiest to get a waterproof bag to hang around your neck to stick your phone in.

Just be cognizant of the other bathers who might not want to be in your videos or photos.

Plus, don’t be disappointed by the cloudy skies or rain!  I think the grey clouds provided nice, even lighting, and the right moodiness for a day bathing on the chilly North Atlantic Coast.

We opted not to bring a camera into the Blue Lagoon. It’s more chaotic and crowded. You should put your phone into a waterproof camera bag if you plan to take photos at Blue Lagoon.

Can You See the Northern Lights from Sky Lagoon or Blue Lagoon?

Yes, but don’t base your trip on having it happen!

Your chances of seeing the Northern Lights in Iceland, in general, are much better if you go during the winter.

They’re also more vibrant farther from Reykjavik where there’s less light pollution, so while you may see them from Sky Lagoon or Blue Lagoon, viewing won’t be optimal.  

The Northern Lights appear more often between October and March.  

Are there Food Options at Sky Lagoon and Blue Lagoon?

After you’re finished in the water, you can enjoy a hot coffee from the cafe area inside Sky Lagoon.  It also offers lighter options like pastries and sandwiches.

The Smakk Bar is more of a sit-down dining experience, featuring Icelandic meats, cheese, and breads served on black stone platters.

sky lagoon iceland bar

Blue Lagoon also has several restaurants, a few of which are only available to guests at the Retreat.

Are there hotels near Blue Lagoon?

Yes. First, you can stay at the ritzy Retreat right at the Blue Lagoon. It’ll provide a much more adult experience than the regular Blue Lagoon.

Jared Dillingham at the Retreat at the Blue Lagoon
Coolest hotels in Iceland: Retreat at the Blue Lagoon

Nearby, you’ll find one of the coolest rentals in Iceland: a family converted a water tower into a rental property a few years ago. It’s three-stories tall, and amazing!

It’s closer to the Blue Lagoon than the Sky Lagoon, but if you have a rental car it’s very easy to get to:

➡️ Book: The Converted Water Tower

iceland coolest airbnb converted water tower
cool hotel iceland converted water tower

The Best Time to Visit Sky Lagoon and Blue Lagoon

Sky Lagoon and Blue Lagoon are open year-round, even in the snow. 

I’ve been there when it was rainy and windy, and it’s never mattered since you’re in the water. I’d like to be there when it snows!

In the early morning, the pool is less crowded at Sky Lagoon, so that’s a great time to venture in.   

Sunset would also be beautiful, but remember: in Iceland the sun sets at wildly different times during the year.  

And, of course, winter months only have a few hours of daylight, so maybe if you go after dark, you’ll get lucky and see the Northern Lights!

Sky Lagoon Hours

The hours are always changing, and are extended during the summer months. 

During the winter, extending into June, Sky Lagoon doesn’t open until 11:00am or noon.

  • Mid-June – Mid-August:
    • 8 AM – 11 PM
  • Mid-August – September 30:
    • 11 AM – 11 PM
  • October – Mid-June:
    • Monday – Thursday: 12 PM – 10 PM
    • Friday: 12 PM – 11 PM
    • Saturday: 11 AM – 11 PM
    • Sunday: 11 AM – 10 PM
SKY LAGOON WATERFALL

Blue Lagoon Hours

The Blue Lagoon has more standard operating hours.

  • June – late August: 7 AM – Midnight
  • Late August – May: 8 AM – 10 PM

Construction of Iceland’s Geothermal Lagoons

Both lagoons in Iceland have interesting stories behind their design and construction.

Construction of Sky Lagoon

Sky Lagoon was designed to look like a huge, natural hot spring. It’s surrounded by huge boulders and native grasses which line the coastline in the southwestern corner of Iceland.

The complex is designed to give visitors a taste of traditional Nordic baths.

While the interior lagoon area is beautiful, I really found the exterior to be striking. 

sky lagoon building

It’s partly built as a traditional turf-house, with blocks of swamp earth stacked like bricks, and grasses springing from the sides and rooftop.   The volcanic ash in the land is said to give the slabs of earth the strength of a material like concrete.

Modern angles on the building’s exterior mix with traditional materials to create something almost James Bond-esque in structure.

Sky Lagoon Iceland was largely a pandemic project. Construction was completed in the spring of 2021.

So in some respects, I’d say a visit to Sky Lagoon is worth it just to check out the design!

The precision in the cuts of earth, and the angles in the lines of grass on the exterior are stunning:

sky lagoon turf house
SKY LAGOON WATERFALL

Blue Lagoon’s Construction

The Blue Lagoon is man-made and a byproduct of a nearby geothermal power plant.

The construction of the Blue Lagoon began in 1976 when the Svartsengi Power Station was built on the Reykjanes Peninsula. The power plant drilled for hot water and steam to generate electricity. The superheated water, coming from around 6,500 feet below the surface, was a mix of freshwater and seawater rich in minerals like silica and sulfur.

As a result of the power plant operations, excess water from the geothermal plant formed a lagoon nearby. Over time, people discovered that the warm, mineral-rich water had skin-healing properties, attracting visitors seeking relaxation and relief from skin conditions.

Nearby, you can see all kinds of geothermal activity in the Gunnuhver area:

Geothermal activity in Iceland near Blue Lagoon

Wrap: Choosing Sky Lagoon or Blue Lagoon in Iceland

Personally, I much prefer Iceland’s natural wonders to its man-made attractions.  With that said, both Blue Lagoon and Sky Lagoon are understandably popular, and enjoyable for a few hours.

Adults will likely enjoy the atmosphere at Sky Lagoon more, while families with children should head to Blue Lagoon.

Icelandic history is full of stories about people enjoying the warm waters of thermal pools, which were (and are) heated by lava. Hot soaks in the mineral-rich geothermal pools were thought to have healing powers.

Today, in addition to larger touristy geothermal lagoons, many of Iceland’s smaller towns have outdoor public pools, which serve as gathering spots for local residents.  Several times on our trip, from Vik to Egilsstadir, we heard people talking about meeting up at the pool later in the day.

Don’t forget to check out our other posts on things to do in Iceland, like Silfra for snorkeling, the famous Diamond Beach, and the historic plane wreck you can hike to along the southern coast.