Langisandur Beach
About Langisandur Beach
Langisandur is a sandy beach on the south side of Akranes, a fishing town in West Iceland about 50 minutes' drive north of Reykjavík through the Hvalfjörður tunnel. The name means "long sand," and its pale sand comes as a surprise to anyone expecting the black beaches of the south coast. It faces out over Faxaflói Bay, with the town at its back and the mountain Akrafjall rising behind.
At low tide the beach is wide and firm, good for a long walk at the water's edge, and a paved path follows the shore above it. Near the western end, the Guðlaug geothermal pool is built into the sea wall, so you can walk the sand, wade into the cold bay and then warm up in hot water. On a clear day the view runs across the bay to Reykjavík and the Snæfellsjökull glacier.
The beach itself is free and open at all hours, and summer evenings, when the light lasts until late, are the best time to come. Allow about an hour for a walk and a soak. The Akranes Lighthouse, at the western tip of town, is about 5 minutes away by car if you want one more stop before heading on.
Good to know
Where is Langisandur beach?
Langisandur is on the south side of Akranes in West Iceland, facing Faxaflói Bay. It is about 50 minutes by car from Reykjavík through the Hvalfjörður tunnel.
Can you swim at Langisandur?
Some people do swim in the sea here, but the water in Faxaflói Bay is cold all year, so keep it short and stay close to shore. Many pair a quick dip with a soak in the Guðlaug hot pool on the beach.
Is Langisandur free to visit?
Yes. The beach is public and free at any time. The Guðlaug geothermal pool on the beach charges admission.
What is the hot pool on Langisandur beach?
It is Guðlaug, a small three-level geothermal pool built into the sea wall near the western end of the beach, with steps down to the sand.
What is there to do near Langisandur?
Soak in Guðlaug, walk the shore path into Akranes town or drive about 5 minutes to the Akranes Lighthouse at the western tip of the peninsula.
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