Swimming Pools in Iceland: The Best Places to Swim Across the Country

Icelanders love water, and it’s no secret that swimming is a beloved part of daily life here. From geothermal hot pots to scenic natural springs, and of course, the many public swimming pools, you’ll find plenty of places to unwind and enjoy the water.

Icelanders love water. Swimming and enjoying geothermal springs is a favourite past time of the Icelandic people, and as a result, there are many fantastic places to swim in Iceland. Thanks to Iceland’s geothermal activity, many of the public pools in Iceland are naturally heated.

All over Iceland, there are plenty of public swimming pools where you can enjoy a swim for very little money. This makes a visit to one of Iceland’s pools a great budget-friendly activity, especially compared to some of the trendier geothermal springs. Public pools are typically filled with locals, too, so you won’t feel like you have wandered into a tourist trap.

Swimming Culture in Iceland

Swimming is more than just a pastime in Iceland; it’s woven into everyday life. From young children learning to swim with their family in public pools, to locals unwinding in geothermal hot pots after a long day at work, the country has a rich swimming culture. Visiting a pool isn’t just about taking a dip; it’s a glimpse of Icelandic life.

Public swimming pools, or sundlaugar, can be found in nearly every town and village. These pools aren’t just for exercise; they are social hubs where families and friends gather. Many Icelanders make a regular habit of visiting their local pool, whether for swimming laps or relaxing in hot tubs. 

Geothermal pools also play a key role in Icelandic recreation. Heated naturally by volcanic activity, these pools are popular year-round, particularly in the cold winter months. The ritual of warming up in a hot pot, then plunging into a cool pool, is a traditional practice that has been enjoyed for generations.

Swimming Pool Etiquette 

Etiquette is an important part of the swimming culture in Iceland; hence, there are a few simple rules to keep the facilities enjoyable for everyone. 

• Shower before entering: It’s customary, and expected, to shower thoroughly without your swimwear before getting into the pool to keep the water clean. There are typically private booths for this as well as communal areas, but the locals are unconcerned by showering naked at the pool. 
• Remove footwear: You should take off your shoes before entering the changing rooms and leave them in the designated lockers, many of which are by the entrance. 
• Keep the locker room dry: The locals are very serious about keeping the dry areas of the changing rooms dry. Once you are wet, do not consider heading back to get something without drying off first! No one likes trying to get dressed in a pool of water.
• Family-friendly atmosphere: Swimming pools in Iceland are used by people of all ages. Try to keep noise at a reasonable level and supervise children at all times. 
• Phones and cameras are prohibited: Refrain from having your phone or camera in the changing room or pool area. 

Following these respectable guidelines will help you enjoy the full Icelandic swimming experience and blend in like a local.

Best Swimming Pools in Iceland

With so many fantastic swimming pools in Iceland, how do you know which ones are truly worth your time? To help you plan, we’ve put together a list of the best pools in Iceland worth visiting during your holiday.

• Laugaskarð Swimming Pool

Located outside of Reykjavík in Hveragerði, this pool is naturally heated by geothermal energy. The facilities at Laugaskarð are fantastic, and in addition to the 50m pool, there is also a fitness center, sauna, hot pots, changing rooms, and showers. The thermal baths are open year-round, and the setting is truly beautiful both in the snow and under the Midnight Sun, making it the perfect pool to visit any time of the year.

• Sundlaug Akureyrar

This modern swimming facility in Akureyri, the largest outside of Reykjavík, is just as popular with locals as it is with visitors to Iceland. The site has two large swimming pools on offer, along with three fantastic water slides. There is also a sauna, hot tubs, and even a designated area where visitors can sunbathe. This pool is perfect if you are visiting Iceland with a young child, as there is plenty to keep them occupied, including a pool with a playground area.

• Sundlaug Seltjarnarness

Conveniently located just outside the center of the capital, this is the only pool in Reykjavík containing salt water. The facility is well-rounded and includes an outdoor pool, two pools for children, a steam bath, and even a number of hot tubs. The unique mineral qualities of this water have many health benefits for the skin. There’s even a water slide to enjoy, making this an ideal pool for adults and children alike.

• Grafarvogslaug

Another great option among the pools in Reykjavík, Grafarvogslaug is amazingly well-equipped for adults and children. The complex offers wading pools, hot tubs, indoor and outdoor pools, cool tubs, children’s pools, a steam room, and slides for all ages. The facility is exceptionally clean, and there is plenty for visitors and locals to explore. If you are someone who loves to swim, don’t miss this fantastic Reykjavík pool on your trip.

• Sundlaugin á Hofsósi

While this is one of Iceland’s simpler pools without extensive facilities, it has one of the best views in all of Iceland. Located in the north of Iceland, just outside of Hofsós, along the Skagafjörður Fjord. The facility consists of an infinity-like pool located along the coastline, giving it the illusion that it spills into the fjord beyond. For those who are eager for a swimming experience closer to nature and without the bells and whistles of a large swimming complex, this is the pool to see.

• Laugardalslaug

The most famous public pool in Reykjavík, Laugardalslaug, is a favorite among both locals and visitors to Iceland. The clean, well-equipped complex features a large outdoor pool alongside 2 smaller indoor pools, hot tubs, a jacuzzi, a steam room, a water slide, a sea tub, and plenty of places to relax between swims. 

• Sundlaug Vesturbæjar

Small, cozy, and loved by locals, Vesturbæjarlaug is more than a pool in Reykjavík; it’s a welcoming social hub. The community atmosphere means you’re guaranteed an authentic experience of the Icelandic swimming culture. The various tubs, steam rooms, and pool make it an ideal spot for relaxation after a day of exploring the city.

Seasonal Tips for Swimming in Iceland

Even in the heart of winter, swimming is a popular activity in Iceland. Public pools stay open in every season, and the water is kept comfortably warm thanks to geothermal energy. This means you can even enjoy an outdoor swim while the snow settles on the ground around you. Here are a few tips and considerations for making the most of your visit:

• Bring a warm towel, hat, and slip-on shoes. This will protect you from the chill in the air that can be felt when moving between pools in the winter.
• Natural pools are more affected by the weather. The remote pools can be difficult to access in wintry conditions. Always check local conditions before traveling. 
• Summer offers long, bright evenings. Public pools are open later in the summer, meaning you have more of an opportunity to enjoy a relaxing soak after a day of activities. 
• Dry your hair before leaving the pool, especially in winter, as leaving your hair wet can increase your susceptibility to feeling the cold. 

No matter the season, Iceland’s pools provide a warm, inviting break from the elements and a perfect way to experience local culture.