Diamond Beach (also known as Breidamerkursandur) is an Icelandic natural wonder that offers once-in-a-lifetime views. Located next to Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon, this stunning spot is often featured in Hollywood movies like Tomb Raider and 2 James Bond films.
You can visit this hidden gem during spring or fall for incredible weather and fewer crowds. Or, make it a winter adventure for Northern Lights viewing!
Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon
Located next to Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon, Diamond Beach is a mesmerizing destination where glacier chunks of ice drift ashore and adorn the pristine black sand of Iceland’s southeastern coast. It’s an incredible sight that earned the place its name, as it looks like giant blocks of crystal-like diamonds.
The area is part of Vatnajokull National Park and offers an otherworldly experience perfect for taking Instagram-worthy photos or simply relaxing among the mesmerizing icebergs. It’s also one of the best places in Iceland to see seals and is an excellent spot for spotting orca whales, which often come close to shore to hunt.
Winter is a popular time to visit, aligning with increased glacial activity and more frequent iceberg calving events. But autumn and spring are lovely times to see this otherworldly scene, with fewer crowds and blooming wildflowers.
Multiple ways exist to explore Diamond Beach, from a self-drive road trip around Iceland’s Ring Road to an insight-filled group tour with a local guide. The nearby town of Hofn has plenty of accommodation options, including a comfortable campground with cooking areas, Wi-Fi, and laundry services for your convenience. It’s also a short drive from the famous Svartifoss waterfall, Fjallsarlon Glacier Lagoon, and Vestrahorn Mountain. Even glacier tours allow you to trek amidst the icebergs for a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Skaftafell National Park
Diamond Beach is a breathtaking, otherworldly sight that captivates the imagination. This magical place is a result of the dramatic interaction between fire and ice, which is the signature feature of the Vatnajokull Glacier. It is a beach where icebergs from the glacier lagoon drift into the sea and wash up on shore, resembling large gems. These ice behemoths are decorated with various colors, including white, black, and shades of vivid blue.
This breathtaking location is found in Skaftafell National Park, which has several hiking paths, places to see glaciers, and places to see wildlife. The area also features several waterfalls, such as the majestic Svartifoss.
Summer is the ideal season to visit Diamond Beach, Iceland, because of the beautiful weather and breathtaking surroundings. However, you can also experience this incredible place in spring or fall. These seasons offer fewer crowds and the chance to see blooming wildflowers. The Northern Lights are also possible now, as the dark skies create a perfect environment for this phenomenon.
You can drive yourself to this destination from Reykjavik, but we recommend booking a day tour of the area with a tour company. This hassle-free way to travel makes getting to Diamond Beach and exploring the surrounding area easy.
Aldeyjarfoss
Awe-inspiring and dreamlike, Diamond Beach is a must-see attraction for all visitors to Iceland. The dazzling beach gets its name from the ice formations that adorn its black sand, ranging from small gem-like fragments to massive chunks that resemble sculptures. Wandering amongst these icebergs is an experience that allows you to explore this glacier shore and witness firsthand the spectacular power of nature’s artistry.
While you can visit Diamond Beach any time of year, seeing this stunning natural phenomenon in winter or early spring is best. This is when you can expect a high concentration of icebergs, as their appearance coincides with increased glacial activity and frequent calving events. Visiting in winter also lets you enjoy the mesmerizing Northern Lights.
To get the most out of your experience at Diamond Beach, we recommend staying nearby in a hotel or a campsite. Many options are available, so finding something that fits your budget and preferences is easy.
Hiding a car when visiting Diamond Beach is also a good idea. This will allow you to go at your own pace and make stops as you wish. Car rentals are available at most airports in Iceland and can be picked up right from there.
Heimaey Island
With its diamond-like ice chunks and stunning natural beauty, Iceland’s Diamond Beach is a one-of-a-kind destination. Whether you’re looking to get some Instagram-worthy shots or take the opportunity to pop the question, this is an awe-inspiring location for a visit.
While you can certainly spend time here anytime during the year, visiting Diamond Beach during the winter and early spring (November through March) is best. This period is ideal as it aligns with increased glacial activity that leads to frequent calving events at the beach. Moreover, high tides bring the icebergs closer to shore for easier viewing.
In addition to exploring the beautiful coastline and icy treasures on display, you can also discover a few historic sites on Heimaey Island. This includes the Storhofdi lighthouse and a ruined 20th-century water tank partially buried by lava during the 1973 eruption. There is also a memorial for those who died in the disaster.
If you want to experience the best of this hidden gem in Iceland, booking a tour with an operator is a good idea. This way, you can avoid the long and winding drive from Reykjavik to the area and enjoy the benefits of a local guide who can provide insight into this unique Iceland attraction.
