Blue Lagoon vs Sky Lagoon: Which Spa Should You Choose?

When travelers plan a journey to Iceland, two names come up again and again: the Blue Lagoon and the Sky Lagoon. Both are geothermal spas that offer warm waters, soothing relaxation, and stunning views. Yet, while they may seem similar at first glance, they each deliver a very different experience. 

Choosing between them can feel tricky because each has its own unique appeal. The Blue Lagoon is iconic and world-famous, while the Sky Lagoon is new, intimate, and inspired by Icelandic tradition. Understanding the differences in atmosphere, location, price, and amenities can help you decide which spa is right for you.

What Is the Blue Lagoon in Iceland All About?

The Blue Lagoon is one of the most famous places in Iceland. It is located in a lava field near Grindavík and is known for its bright blue water. The color comes from minerals like silica and sulfur, which are also said to be good for the skin. After swimming here, many people say their skin feels soft and refreshed.

The Blue Lagoon has been open since the late 1980s and has grown into a big spa resort. It now has restaurants, hotels, and private spa areas. Even though the water comes from a nearby power plant, it is completely safe and natural in heat. The Blue Lagoon has become a must-visit place for travelers all over the world.

What Sets the Sky Lagoon Apart as an Icelandic Spa Experience?

The Sky Lagoon is much newer. It opened in 2021 but has quickly become very popular. It is different from the Blue Lagoon because it sits right on the edge of the ocean in Kópavogur, just outside Reykjavík. Its infinity-edge pool makes it look like the water stretches right into the sea. On clear nights, you might see the Northern Lights while soaking, and in summer, you can watch the sun set over the water.

Another thing that makes Sky Lagoon special is the Seven Step Ritual. This is a spa journey inspired by old Icelandic traditions. You move between hot and cold spaces, including a sauna with a huge window that looks out to the ocean, a cold mist room, and a relaxing steam room. This makes the experience feel deeper than just swimming in warm water.

How Do the Locations of Blue Lagoon and Sky Lagoon Compare?

The location of each spa influences the kind of visit you might have. The Blue Lagoon sits in the middle of a lava field, about forty-five minutes from Reykjavík and only twenty minutes from Keflavík International Airport. Because of this, many travelers plan their visit around their flight schedule. It is common to go straight to the lagoon after landing or to stop there before heading to the airport. Its setting in the lava field gives it a remote and isolated feel, adding to the sense that you are experiencing something out of this world.

The Sky Lagoon, by contrast, is located right on the edge of Reykjavík. It sits just fifteen minutes from the city center, which makes it very convenient if you are staying in town. Since it is so close to the capital, you can easily fit it into your daily itinerary, even in the evening after sightseeing. Instead of lava fields, the Sky Lagoon’s backdrop is the dramatic Atlantic coastline, where the infinity pool seems to merge with the horizon. 

Which Icelandic Spa Is Easier to Reach: Blue Lagoon or Sky Lagoon?

The answer depends on your travel schedule. If you are thinking about visiting as soon as you land in Iceland or just before your departure, the Blue Lagoon is the easier choice because of its closeness to the airport. Travelers often bring their luggage with them and store it at the lagoon while they relax. It is a convenient stop for those with only a short layover in Iceland.

If you are staying in Reykjavík for several days, the Sky Lagoon is easier to reach. A short taxi ride or bus transfer will take you from the city center to the spa in less than twenty minutes. Because of this, the Sky Lagoon appeals to both locals and visitors who want to relax without leaving the city area.

What Features and Amenities Does the Blue Lagoon Offer?

The Blue Lagoon is designed to provide a complete luxury experience. The main attraction is the expansive geothermal pool with its rich mineral waters. The silica mud masks are a signature part of the visit, and most ticket packages include at least one. There are swim-up bars where you can order drinks while soaking, which adds to the atmosphere. The lagoon also has restaurants ranging from casual cafés to fine dining at Lava and Moss, which serve Icelandic dishes made from local ingredients.

For those who want more privacy, the Blue Lagoon offers exclusive experiences. The Retreat Spa, for example, gives access to a quieter area of the lagoon, private changing facilities, and luxury spa treatments. There are also two on-site hotels, making it possible to stay overnight and enjoy the lagoon after hours when it is much quieter. Overall, the Blue Lagoon feels like a full resort with a wide range of services and extras beyond the pool itself.

How Much Does a Visit to the Blue Lagoon Cost in 2025?

The Blue Lagoon is known for being expensive, and prices have risen in recent years. In 2025, a standard Comfort package costs around 12,990 Icelandic krona, which is about 95 US dollars. This includes entrance to the lagoon, a towel, a drink of your choice, and a silica mud mask. The Premium package costs closer to 16,990 krona, or about 125 US dollars, and includes additional masks, slippers, and dining perks.

For those seeking the ultimate luxury, the Retreat Spa costs more than 69,000 krona, which is over 500 US dollars, but it includes private lagoon access, exclusive spa areas, and full wellness treatments. While many people find the price high, most say the once-in-a-lifetime experience is worth it.

What Are the Entry Prices for Sky Lagoon in 2025?

Sky Lagoon’s prices are slightly lower, though still in the same range. The basic Pure Pass costs around 9,990 krona, which is about 73 US dollars. This includes entrance to the lagoon and use of a towel. The more popular Sky Pass costs about 13,900 krona, or 102 US dollars. 

The Sky Pass includes the Seven Step Ritual and access to private changing rooms, which many guests feel is well worth the extra cost. Special packages sometimes include meals or transportation, and prices can vary depending on the season. Most visitors recommend choosing the Sky Pass since the ritual is a big part of what makes Sky Lagoon unique.

What Do Real Visitors Say About Their Blue Lagoon Experience?

The Blue Lagoon is often described as a bucket-list destination. Visitors are amazed by the color of the water, the unique setting among lava fields, and the smooth, refreshed feeling of their skin afterward. Many people say that even though it is expensive, it is something they would not have wanted to miss on their trip to Iceland.

At the same time, some reviews mention the crowds. The Blue Lagoon is one of the most visited sites in the country, and during peak times, it can feel busy and less relaxing. A few visitors also feel that the highly commercial atmosphere takes away from the natural magic. Still, most agree that the Blue Lagoon is a special experience that should be done at least once.

How Do Guests Rate the Sky Lagoon Overall?

Guests at the Sky Lagoon often comment on how peaceful and intimate it feels compared to the Blue Lagoon. The infinity pool and ocean view are repeatedly described as breathtaking. The Seven Step Ritual is also highly praised, with many visitors saying it makes the experience feel more complete and restorative.

Some reviews note that it does not have the same large-scale facilities as the Blue Lagoon, such as hotels or fine dining, but most see this as part of its charm. The closeness to Reykjavík also makes it easier to visit, which many travelers appreciate.

Which Spa Is Better for Families: Blue Lagoon or Sky Lagoon?

Families traveling with children may find the Blue Lagoon more suitable. Children as young as two years old are allowed in the lagoon, and kids under thirteen can enter for free when accompanied by adults. The spa requires younger children to use floaties for safety, which are provided on site. This makes the Blue Lagoon one of the few hot springs in Iceland that families with young children can enjoy together.

The Sky Lagoon, on the other hand, only allows guests who are twelve years and older. This rule helps maintain a calmer, more adult-oriented atmosphere but makes it less ideal for families with small children.

Is Blue Lagoon or Sky Lagoon More Ideal for a Romantic Getaway?

Both spas can feel romantic, but they suit different types of couples. The Blue Lagoon is perfect for those who want luxury and privacy. Couples can book private spa areas, enjoy fine dining at the Lava or Moss restaurant, or even stay overnight at the Retreat Hotel, which offers exclusive access to quieter parts of the lagoon.

The Sky Lagoon creates romance through atmosphere. Watching the sunset over the ocean or soaking under the Northern Lights is a truly unforgettable experience. The intimate design of the lagoon and the focus on wellness rituals make it especially appealing for couples who want a quiet, meaningful getaway.

When Is the Best Time to Visit the Blue Lagoon?

The Blue Lagoon is open throughout the year, and each season offers something different. In summer, the long daylight hours make the blue water shine even brighter, and the lagoon is surrounded by lava fields that look striking under the midnight sun. In winter, the experience of sitting in warm water while snow falls around you is magical.

The busiest times are usually midday, so visiting early in the morning or late in the evening is the best way to avoid crowds. Since the Blue Lagoon sells out quickly, booking tickets well in advance is essential.

What’s the Ideal Season or Time for Sky Lagoon?

Sky Lagoon also operates year-round, and like the Blue Lagoon, its appeal changes with the season. In summer, the long evenings provide incredible views of the midnight sun setting over the ocean. In winter, the lagoon becomes one of the most scenic spots to watch the Northern Lights.

Because it is located so close to Reykjavík, many people choose to visit in the evening after sightseeing. This makes it a relaxing way to end the day, especially if you want to soak while the sky changes color or the stars begin to appear.

Blue Lagoon or Sky Lagoon: Which One Should You Ultimately Choose?

The choice between the Blue Lagoon and the Sky Lagoon depends on what you want from your Iceland trip. If you want the world-famous spa that appears on every travel list, with luxury hotels and fine dining, then the Blue Lagoon is the right choice. It is especially convenient if you are traveling with children or if you want to stop at a spa before or after your flight.

If you prefer a more intimate and cultural experience, the Sky Lagoon is the better option. It feels less crowded, has an authentic Icelandic design, and offers the unique Seven Step Ritual that makes the visit feel more than just a bath. Couples and adults often find it more relaxing and personal.

Many travelers who try both say that the Blue Lagoon is a must-see once in your life, but the Sky Lagoon is the place they would return to again. If your schedule allows, visiting both gives you the full spectrum of Iceland’s spa culture, combining iconic luxury with modern wellness.