Route Overview
Iceland's South Coast is the most popular driving route in the country, and for good reason. The 350-kilometre stretch from Reykjavik to Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon packs an extraordinary density of natural wonders into a single ribbon of asphalt along Route 1.
Leaving Reykjavik, the landscape quickly shifts from suburban sprawl to vast farmland backed by glacier-capped volcanoes. Within 90 minutes you reach the first major waterfall, Seljalandsfoss, and from there the hits keep coming: Skogafoss, the black sand beach at Reynisfjara, the village of Vik, vast glacial outwash plains, Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon, and Diamond Beach.
The drive itself takes roughly five hours non-stop, but nobody should attempt it without stopping. A single day allows you to reach Vik and return. To see Jokulsarlon and Diamond Beach without rushing, plan two full days with an overnight near Vik or further east.
Suggested Timeline
- Day trip (10-12 hours): Reykjavik to Vik and back, stopping at Seljalandsfoss, Skogafoss, and Reynisfjara
- 2-day trip (recommended): Day 1 to Jokulsarlon with stops, overnight near Vik or Hofn. Day 2 return with anything you missed
- 3+ days: Add glacier hikes, ice cave tours, and unhurried exploration of every stop
Must-See Stops
Seljalandsfoss
The first major stop heading east, Seljalandsfoss is a 60-metre waterfall famous for the path that loops completely behind the cascade. Walking behind the curtain of water is one of Iceland's most memorable experiences. Bring a waterproof jacket -- you will get soaked. The path behind the falls closes in winter when ice makes it dangerous. Nearby, the hidden waterfall Gljufrabui is tucked inside a narrow canyon and worth the short detour.
Skogafoss
Twenty-five minutes further east, Skogafoss is a 60-metre-wide wall of water that crashes with raw power onto a flat plain. It is one of Iceland's most accessible waterfalls -- you can walk right up to the base. On sunny days, the mist produces vivid double rainbows. A staircase beside the falls leads to a viewing platform at the top and the start of the Fimmvorduhals hiking trail.
Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach
Reynisfjara is a striking black sand beach flanked by hexagonal basalt columns and the Reynisdrangar sea stacks offshore. It is achingly beautiful and genuinely dangerous. Sneaker waves -- sudden, powerful surges of water -- arrive without warning and have killed visitors. Never turn your back on the ocean. Stay well back from the waterline at all times. Warning signs at the beach are not decoration; they are there because people have died here.
Vik
Vik i Myrdal is the southernmost village in Iceland, home to about 300 people. It sits beneath Myrdalsjokull glacier, which caps the fearsome Katla volcano. Vik serves as the main service hub on the South Coast with fuel stations, restaurants, grocery shops, and accommodation. The village church perched on the hill above town offers one of the best viewpoints along the entire route.
Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon
Jokulsarlon is where icebergs calve off the Breidamerkurjokull glacier tongue and float slowly toward the sea. The lagoon is deep, cold, and filled with ice in shades of white, blue, and volcanic black. Boat tours run in summer, but simply standing on the shore watching the ice drift is mesmerising at any time of year. Seals often rest on the icebergs.
Diamond Beach
Directly across the road from Jokulsarlon, chunks of glacial ice wash ashore on a jet-black sand beach, glistening like scattered diamonds. The contrast of crystal-clear ice against dark volcanic sand is extraordinary. Early morning and late afternoon light make the ice glow. This is a free, open site with no time limit -- take your time here.
Day Trip vs Multi-Day
The single biggest planning decision on the South Coast is whether to do it as a day trip from Reykjavik or commit to an overnight stay.
Day Trip (Reykjavik to Vik and Back)
- Realistic in summer with long daylight hours
- Covers Seljalandsfoss, Skogafoss, Reynisfjara, and Vik
- Total driving time: roughly 4 hours return without stops
- You miss Jokulsarlon, Diamond Beach, and the glacial landscapes east of Vik
- Feels rushed -- you are always watching the clock
Multi-Day (Recommended 2-Day Itinerary)
- Day 1: Leave Reykjavik early. Stop at Seljalandsfoss and Gljufrabui, continue to Skogafoss, visit Reynisfjara, pass through Vik, drive to Jokulsarlon and Diamond Beach. Overnight in Vik or Hofn
- Day 2: Revisit Jokulsarlon in different light if staying nearby. Return west with stops you skipped, or add a glacier hike at Solheimajokull or Skaftafell
Two days transforms the experience from a windshield tour into a genuine encounter with the landscape. You have time to linger, wait for light, and discover spots between the headline attractions.
Where to Stay
Vik
Vik is the primary accommodation hub on the South Coast. It offers hotels, guesthouses, and hostels along with restaurants and services. Staying here puts you roughly halfway between Reykjavik and Jokulsarlon, making it a natural overnight base for a two-day trip. Book well ahead in summer -- Vik fills up fast.
Hofn
If you want to spend more time at Jokulsarlon and Diamond Beach, Hofn is the nearest town of any size to the east. It is a fishing town known for its langoustine and serves as a gateway to Vatnajokull National Park. Hofn has hotels, guesthouses, and a campsite.
Farm Stays
Scattered along the South Coast are farm stays and country hotels that offer a more intimate Icelandic experience. These range from basic rooms in working farmhouses to comfortable country lodges. They tend to book out months in advance for summer, so plan early.
Camping
Campsites operate at Vik, Skogafoss, and near Jokulsarlon in summer. Facilities vary from basic to well-equipped. Wild camping is not permitted in Iceland without landowner permission. Campsite fees are typically 1,500-2,500 ISK per person per night.
Safety
Reynisfjara Wave Danger
This cannot be overstated: people die at Reynisfjara. Sneaker waves surge far up the beach without warning, knocking people off their feet and dragging them into freezing water with powerful undertow. There is no safe distance marked in the sand -- the waves can reach further than you expect. Keep a constant eye on the ocean, never walk near the waterline, and supervise children closely. If conditions look rough, admire the beach from the car park.
Winter Driving Conditions
Route 1 along the South Coast is a maintained highway, but winter storms can close it at short notice. Black ice, high winds, and sudden whiteouts are real hazards between October and April. A 4x4 vehicle is strongly recommended in winter. Always check road.is and vedur.is before setting out each day.
Weather Changes
The South Coast is exposed to North Atlantic weather systems that can change conditions within minutes. Bright sunshine can give way to horizontal rain and gale-force winds with little warning. Dress in layers, carry waterproof outerwear at all times, and never assume the weather will hold.
Navigate Safely with SkyRoad
Navigate the South Coast with real-time road conditions and hazard alerts using the SkyRoad app. Get Guardian Angel warnings for dangerous weather, road closures, and changing conditions -- all designed for Iceland's unique driving challenges.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the South Coast drive take?
Reykjavik to Jokulsarlon is approximately 5 hours of non-stop driving. Plan a full day minimum with stops at waterfalls, beaches, and viewpoints along the way.
Can you do the South Coast as a day trip?
Yes, you can do a day trip to Vik and back from Reykjavik, but reaching Jokulsarlon requires an overnight stay. Two days is ideal to experience the full South Coast without rushing.
What are the must-see stops on the South Coast?
The essential stops are Seljalandsfoss, Skogafoss, Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach, Vik, Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon, and Diamond Beach.
Is the South Coast road safe in winter?
Route 1 is maintained but can close in storms. A 4x4 vehicle is recommended in winter. Always check road.is for current conditions before setting out.
Where should I stay on the South Coast?
Vik is the main base for the western South Coast. Hofn is the best base near Jokulsarlon. Farm stays along the route offer unique Icelandic hospitality.
How much does the South Coast cost?
Most attractions are free to visit. Parking costs 500-750 ISK at some sites. Accommodation ranges from 15,000-40,000 ISK per night depending on the type and season.
Is Reynisfjara beach dangerous?
Yes. Sneaker waves at Reynisfjara are unpredictable and lethal. Multiple people have died here. Never turn your back on the ocean and stay well back from the waterline at all times.
