Diamond Beach in Iceland is a breathtaking wonder where glistening icebergs meet the black volcanic sands. Known for its surreal beauty, this iconic location is a must-visit on any Iceland itinerary. Whether you’re planning a day trip from Reykjavik or looking for the best time to go, or where to stay, here’s everything you need to know to make the most of your visit to Diamond Beach in Iceland.
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Is it worth going to Diamond Beach Iceland?
Diamond Beach gets its name from the sparkling chunks of ice that wash ashore after calving from the nearby Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon. These icebergs, shaped and polished by nature, create a dazzling contrast against the dark sands, offering a perfect backdrop for photography enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. There really is NO place like it on earth, it is definitely worth visiting, so make sure to add it to your Iceland itinerary.
How to Get to Diamond Beach Iceland
Diamond Beach is located approximately 370 kilometers (230 miles) from Reykjavik, making it just under a 5-hour drive one way. Here’s how you can get there:
By Car from Reykjavik: Driving along the scenic Route 1 (Ring Road) is the most flexible way to reach Diamond Beach. You’ll pass waterfalls, lava fields, and other incredible sights along the way. Parking is available both at the beach and at Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, just across the road from the beach for 1000 ISK (£5.75). We hired our car from Keflavík International Airport through Discovercars (a comparison site to we could find the best deal – which for us was with Hertz)
By car from Vík: If you’re starting from Vík, Diamond Beach is about a 2.5-hour drive east along Route 1. The journey is filled with stunning coastal and glacial landscapes, making it a rewarding trip.
Day Trips from Reykjavik: If driving isn’t an option, consider booking a guided tour. Many tour operators offer day trips from Reykjavik to Diamond Beach, often combining it with stops at Seljalandsfoss, Skógafoss, and Vatnajökull National Park. While it’s a long day, the journey is filled with unforgettable scenery.
Join a multi-day trip: If you have more time and want to visit multiple places, without hiring a car. I recommend booking a 2 day guided trip or 3 day guided trip from Reykjavik.
What Influences the Presence of Icebergs?
Diamond Beach marks the point where a river flows swiftly from the Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon into the open ocean. On either side of this river lie incredible black volcanic sand beaches. Depending on the weather and the number of icebergs present during your visit, you may find one side of the beach more appealing than the other.
The presence of icebergs on Diamond Beach is influenced by several factors, including weather conditions, tidal movements, and glacial activity. During colder months, icebergs are more likely to break off from the Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon and make their way to the beach. High tides and strong winds can also impact the number and size of icebergs that wash ashore.
When Is the Best Time to Visit Diamond Beach Iceland?
While Diamond Beach is a year-round destination, the presence of icebergs depends on weather conditions and glacial activity. Here are some tips for timing your visit:
- Winter (November to March): This is the best time to see large, sparkling icebergs. The colder temperatures ensure a steady flow of ice from the glacier lagoon. The low winter sun also gives you an incredible all day golden hour, perfect for photography. I went late November and it was incredible!
- Summer (June to August): Icebergs can be less frequent, but the Midnight Sun provides extended daylight hours for exploring and photography.
Where to Stay Near Diamond Beach Iceland
For those looking to stay close to Diamond Beach during their Iceland itinerary and maximize their time exploring the area, here are some recommended accommodations:
I personally stayed at the Hotel Katla, which is just outside Vik. A 2 hour 15 minute drive to diamond beach. So we did have a lot of driving that day, but we preferred that over moving accommodation every night
If you want to stay near Diamond beach I recommend:
- Hotel Joksarlon: Conveniently located near Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, this hotel offers modern amenities and stunning views of the surrounding landscape. It’s an excellent choice for comfort and proximity.
- Fjallsarlon: If you’re looking for a unique stay near Diamond Beach, look no further! This floating pod hotel offers incredible views of Iceland’s natural beauty – a real overnight adventure!
- Höfn Area Guesthouses: For budget-friendly options, consider staying in Höfn, a charming town about an hour’s drive from Diamond Beach. Guesthouse Dyngja is well rated and offers budget rooms with shared bathrooms.
Tips for Visiting Diamond Beach
- Pay for parking: Use the Parka app to pay for parking (there isn’t a parking meter in the closest parking) or park at Joksarlon, where there is a parking meter you can pay at, and walk,
- Dress Warmly: Iceland’s weather can be unpredictable, so layer up with waterproof and windproof clothing. I loved this cute and colourful coat.
- Visit during golden hour: The hour after sunrise and before sunset is just incredible!
- Stay Safe: Avoid venturing too close to the water as waves can be unpredictable!
Conclusion
No Iceland itinerary is complete without a visit to Diamond Beach. From the glittering icebergs to the dramatic black sands, it’s a destination that belongs on every traveler’s bucket list. Whether you’re on a whirlwind day trip from Reykjavik or dedicating a few days to the south coast, this natural wonder will leave you in awe. I recommend trying to visit in winter if you can and during golden hour for ultimate photo conditions. Combine your visit with nearby attractions like Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, Vatnajökull National Park, and the iconic waterfalls of Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss for an unforgettable adventure.
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