Pools are at the heart of Icelandic culture.
Locals go before work, after dinner, and on weekends – not just to swim, but to catch up with friends, relax, and soak in naturally heated water.
Sure, Iceland’s famous for geothermal spas like the Blue Lagoon, but honestly? The local pools in Reykjavík are so good, without the crowds and hefty price tag of a spa experience.
These are the places where real life happens, where you’ll see kids racing down slides, grandparents chatting in the hot pots, and everyone just being themselves.
In this post, I’m rounding up some of the best pools in Reykjavík, from family favorites to quiet spots perfect for an evening soak.
If you’ve never experienced Iceland’s pool culture before, you’re about to see why it’s one of the highlights of visiting Iceland.
Let’s get into it!
Table of Contents:
Pool Culture in Iceland
Before we jump into the list of Reykjavík’s pools, it helps to understand just how unique pool culture is in Iceland.
Pools here aren’t just for swimming, they’re a big part of daily life. Understanding how different it is to the pools back home and what to expect when you visit one is key to getting the most out of the experience.
Pool Culture in Iceland vs the U.S.
Coming from the U.S., I quickly realized Icelandic pools are on a whole other level!
Back in America, going to the pool usually meant heading to a basic neighborhood spot with cold, chlorinated water, a few swimming lanes, maybe a diving board, and a shallow end for the kids.
You’d hop in, play a bit, and head home.
And if you wanted to go to a water park, you had to be prepared to pay about $50 per person!
I know!
But in Iceland, the pool is about more than swimming – it’s about community, fun, and relaxation all in one.
Fun for everyone: While the kids have fun on the water slides, splash pads, and even wave pools, the adults rotate between hot pools, steam rooms, saunas, and cold plunges. You don’t even have to pack floaties or toys for the kids; they’ve got those covered, too.
It’s cheaper: It’s so much more budget-friendly compared to the U.S. Entry is typically around $8, and kids usually get in for free.
It’s a social affair: Pools in Reykjavík are such a social place. Locals go all the time, not just to swim but to catch up with friends. It’s just part of everyday life here, like popping into a cafe. And honestly, once you’ve experienced it, you can’t help but wonder why it’s not done this way everywhere else! The relaxed, community vibe makes even a simple soak feel special, and you might find yourself chatting with complete strangers like old friends.
Geothermal pools in Reykjavík: In Iceland, most pools and hot springs are fed by geothermal water bubbling up from nearby volcanoes. They keep things as natural as possible here, and hardly any chemicals are used.
This is a fantastic family activity. If you want more ideas on what to do with the kids when you visit Iceland, check out this post.👇
➡️ READ: Iceland with Kids: 6 Things to Do with Your Kids for the Best Family Trip!
Visiting a Reykjavík Pool: What to Expect
If it’s your first time at a Reykjavík pool, the process might feel a bit confusing, but it’s actually super simple.
First things first: shoes off. You’ll see a shoe rack right outside the changing rooms where everyone leaves their shoes. Inside, undress and stash your belongings in a locker (you’ll get a little key or wristband for it).
Grab your swimsuit, towel, and toiletries. Just before the showers, you’ll find cubbies to leave your towel and anything you don’t want to take with you.
Then it’s mandatory shower time (yes, fully naked. Yes, everyone does it!). You actually have to wash properly.
These pools are super clean and practically chemical-free, so they want everyone squeaky clean.
This is where the “shower police” come in. They make sure you scrub all the right spots, and there are even posters showing exactly where to lather up.
The showers are usually communal, but don’t worry, there’s almost always a private changing stall if you want a little extra privacy.
After that, suit up and head out to the pools.
Once you’ve soaked, relaxed and bounced back and forth between the different tubs and amenities, it’s time to rinse off again.
Dry off in the middle area so you don’t track water everywhere, and swing your swimsuit through the pool’s handy spinning dryer. A few seconds and most of the water is gone – so clever!
Finally, change back into your clothes, grab your things from the locker, and you’re all set.
P.S. There are usually hair dryers in the locker rooms.
Easy, right?
Pro tip: I wasn’t kidding, and the rumors are true; you need to shower naked before entering Icelandic pools. Find out all about that here.👇
➡️ READ: Showering In Iceland | Do I Have To Get Naked?
12 Popular Swimming Pools in Reykjavík, Iceland
Most Icelandic swimming pools in and around Reykjavík are pretty similar with regards to facilities, cleanliness, and atmosphere.
However, each one serves a different neighborhood, so depending on where you’re staying, some might be more convenient to visit than the others.
1. Sundhöll Reykjavíkur (Sundhöllin Pool, Reykjavík)
The oldest swimming pool in Reykjavík was designed by the Guðjón Samúelsson.
He’s a famous Icelandic architect who also designed the iconic Hallgrímskirkja.
There’s an indoor and outdoor pool with wheelchair access. You’ll also find a hot tub, sauna, baby facilities, children’s pool, and more.
They even have swimwear for sale if you forgot to pack yours.
Opening hours: Mon–Fri 6:30 am–10 pm // Sat–Sun 8 am–9:00 pm
Location: Barónsstígur 45a, 101 Reykjavík
2. Dalslaug
You’ll find a 25-meter outdoor pool here, it’s perfect for a few laps in the fresh Icelandic air. Plus an indoor pool if you’d rather stay out of the wind.
Kids won’t be bored either, with a children’s pool, fun slides, and a shallow wading pool. And if you’re in the mood to relax, there are hot tubs, a cold plunge, and even a whirlpool bath.
They’ve thought of everything, from private changing rooms to a snack bar where you can grab food or a drink after your swim.
Like all Reykjavík pools, this one’s spotless. There’s always someone nearby with a mop. Even the locker rooms and showers are sparkling clean, with staff constantly making sure everything stays fresh and tidy.
Opening hours: Mon–Fri 6:30 am–10 pm// Sat–Sun 9 am–9 pm
Location: Úlfarsbraut 122–124,113 Reykjavík
Since you’ll definitely want to jump into a pool or two while you’re in Iceland, please make sure your swimsuit actually makes it into your luggage!
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3. Laugardalslaug Pool, Reykjavík
Laugardalslaug is one of Reykjavík’s largest and most popular pools, and when I saw photos of it online, I was excited to check it out for myself.
With an Olympic-sized pool, hot tubs of all different temperatures, a steam bath, water slides for the kids, and even a cold seawater plunge if you’re feeling brave.
There are even two beach volleyball courts!
Because it’s so popular, I went in with pretty high expectations, but it didn’t quite live up to some of the newer pools I’ve been to around Reykjavík.
Laugardalslaug definitely has that “older public pool” vibe. From the moment you walk into the check-in area and changing rooms, you can tell it’s been around for a while.
The facilities have some wear and tear and cracked tiles from decades of heavy use.
That said, you really can’t beat the location.
It sits in the heart of Laugardalur (“Swimming Valley”), a big recreational area that includes:
- The national football stadium
- An ice-skating rink
- The Reykjavík Family Park and Zoo
- The Botanical Gardens
- And even a campsite just a short walk away.
If you’re nearby or staying at the campsite, it could be worth checking out, but if you’re looking for a more peaceful, modern pool experience, there are plenty of other Reykjavík pools that might suit you better.
Opening hours: Mon–Fri 6:30 am–10 pm// Sat–Sun 8 am–9 pm
Location: Sundlaugavegur 30, 105 Reykjavík
4. Nautholsvik Geothermal Beach
Okay, this one’s not a traditional pool, and very different from what you’d expect from the others on this list.
Nauthólsvík Geothermal Beach is a man-made golden sand beach. There’s even a cheeky little quip of it being “Reykjavík’s Ibiza,” and honestly, in Iceland, it really does feel that way!
When you arrive, you’ll find a shallow geothermal tub right by admissions, perfect for soaking.
As you walk down toward the ocean, there’s another pool with warmish water where kids often play on nice days. The water gradually mixes with the ocean water.
You can even take a dip in the ocean and then defrost in the hot tubs right on the shore.
It’s pretty cold, so it’s always surprising to see how many people go in. Some even swim across the fjord! They usually wear special gloves and booties to keep their hands and feet warm.
But you can totally go to Nauthólsvík and just hang out in the hot tub, like I do!
The vibe here is relaxed, scenic, and rustic – more of a laid-back beach experience than a typical Reykjavík pool.
This isn’t so much a family spot unless it’s a” hot” Icelandic summer day.
While most city pools don’t have much in the way of views, this one’s right on the ocean, and it’s beautiful.
There’s no indoor pool, and while most Reykjavík pools have a cold plunge, you won’t find that here because, well… the ocean takes care of that. 😉
Changing areas are pretty bare-bones (just benches with racks and baskets, no lockers). I suggest you leave your valuables at home, but don’t forget your flip-flops.
Pro tip: You can get there easily by bus or car, though parking isn’t great. Admission is required for the geothermal pool, but walking on the beach itself is free.
Opening hours: Mon-Fri 11 am – 7 pm// Sat 11 am – 4 pm // Sun Closed
Location: Nauthólsvegur 100, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland
Cost: 920 ISK
If you’re curious about visiting the beaches in Iceland, read this first!👇
➡️ READ: Beaches in Iceland: 11 Stunning Beaches You Need to Visit on Your Trip
5. Grafarvogslaug
This pool first opened in 1998 and since then, features have been added and improved over the years.
You’ll find a main and indoor pool, a kids pool, hot and cold tubs, and saunas in the outdoor area.
But get this, one of those is an infrared sauna, said to improve metabolism, and reduce pain and inflammation.
Steam rooms are very common at the pools in Reykjavík, but saunas? Not so much. Definitely worth checking out if you want something a little different while you relax. 🤓
Opening hours: Mon–Fri 6:30 am–10 pm// Sat–Sun 9 am–9 pm
Location: Dalhúsum 2, 112 Reykjavík
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6. Vesturbaejarlaug Pool, Reykjavík
Make sure to look up when you walk in.
The ceilings and walls are covered in artwork that gives this Reykjavík pool a fun, creative vibe.
And right in the lobby, there’s even an aquarium! Not something you see every day at a swimming pool!
You’ll find a 25-meter lap pool, five hot tubs, a steam room, a sauna, and a couple of pools just for kids.
Lockers here are super convenient, too. Most local pools already have locks built in. You just grab the key, slip the rubber band around your wrist, and you’re good to go for a swim.
Opening hours: Mon–Fri 6:30 am–10 pm// Sat–Sun 9 am–9 pm
Location: Hofsvallagata, 107 Reykjavík
7. Árbaejarlaug
Located in Reykjavík’s Árbær neighborhood. This spot easily ranks as one of the city’s most picturesque pools.
Children will enjoy the waterslides, and other facilities include a 25m pool, steam bath, hot tubs, infrared sauna, private changing room, and beach volleyball.
There’s so much to do here that you can make a whole day of it if you like, especially if you’re visiting Iceland with kids.
The pool, sauna, and hot tubs are all wheelchair accessible.
Opening hours: Mon–Fri 6:30 am–10 pm// Sat–Sun 9 am–9 pm
Location: Fylkisvegur 9, 110 Reykjavík
8. Kópavogslaug
Located in the municipality of Kópavogur, about a 16-minute drive from Reykjavík, this pool can get busier on weekends – but it never feels overcrowded or touristy.
One thing I love about pools in Iceland is how family-friendly they are. Most have high chairs right inside the locker rooms.
And they’re movable!
So you don’t have to worry about your toddler running off while you’re standing there in your birthday suit, scrambling to get dressed! 😂
They even have baby baths and high chairs in the shower area, which is such a thoughtful touch for parents.
The atmosphere is fun but laid-back, and entry is super affordable.
Keep in mind that some pools, like Kópavogslaug, have different opening hours in summer (May 1–September 30) and winter (October 1–April 30).
Opening hours in the summer: Mon–Fri 6:30 am – 10 pm // Sat–Sun 8 am – 8 pm
Opening hours in the winter: Mon–Fri 6:30 am – 10 pm // Sat–Sun 8 am – 6 pm
Location: Borgarholtsbraut 17, 200 Kópavogur
If you’re looking for more of a geothermal spa experience, the Sky Lagoon is also located in Kópavogur.
Torn between visiting the Sky Lagoon or the Blue Lagoon, this will help.👇
➡️ READ: Sky Lagoon vs Blue Lagoon: Which One is Better?
9. Álftaneslaug
The only wave pool in Iceland is found at Álftaneslaug.
This pool is great for young and old, featuring a 10m high, 80m long waterslide.
An indoor pool is ideal for younger children, and outside, you’ll find the 25 m pool with hot tubs, and more.
This one’s about a 22-minute drive from downtown Reykjavík, so if you’re renting a car, it’s an easy add-on to your Reykjavík itinerary.
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Opening hours: Mon–Fri 6:30 am – 10 pm // Sat–Sun 9am – 6 pm
Location: Breiðumýri, 225 Álftanes
10. Salalaug
If you’re looking for a fun pool day in Reykjavík, the Salalaug pool is such a great pick!
It’s got a main 25-meter pool for swimming, cozy hot tubs (including one that’s a toasty 108°F or 42°C!).
There’s also a warm indoor pool that’s perfect for kids and babies.
And get this, how does getting massage while you sit in a pool sound? Well, the Vesalir pool has air and water massages to help soothe stiff muscles.
Locals come here year-round to swim laps, relax in the hot pots, or just unwind after work, and it’s easy to see why it’s one of the best swimming pools in Reykjavík.
Opening hours in summer: Mon–Fri 6:30 am-10 pm // Sat–Sun 8 am-8 pm
Opening hours in winter: Mon–Fri 6:30 am-10 pm // Sat–Sun 8 am-6 pm
Location: Versalir 3, 201 Kópavogur
11. Lágafellslaug
The kids will love the shallow children’s pool and trio of water slides here.
One is an open 12-meter slide and two enclosed ones that twist and turn for 33–43 meters of fun!
There’s also a 25m pool, an indoor pool and three hot tubs to soak in.
Opening hours: Mon–Fri 6:30 am–10 pm// Sat–Sun 8 am–7 pm
Location: Lækjarhlíð 1a, 270 Mosfellsbær
12. Ásvallalaug
This is one of the largest swimming and sports centres in Iceland.
There’s a water slide for the kids, a sauna, and a 50m pool.
You have the choice of relaxing in one of six hot tubs. There’s also a cafe and a gym, if you want to sneak in a workout while you’re there. where you can work off what you ate at the cafe! 😂
A lot of pools in Reykjavík also have toys and foam floaties for the children. Waterslides are obviously a huge thing, and Ásvallalaug also has one.
Indoor swimming areas are common and great for when the weather starts acting up.
Opening hours: Mon–Thurs 6:30 am–10 pm // Fri 6:30 pm – 8 pm // Sat 8 am–6 pm // Sun 8 am–5 pm
Location: Ásvöllum 2, 221 Hafnarfirði
Icelandic Pools on a Map
Come rain or shine, summer or winter, visiting a pool in Reykjavík is one of the best local experiences you can have, and it’s perfect for the whole family.
Pools here aren’t just for swimming; they’re where locals catch up, relax, and let the kids burn off some energy. Most are calm and laid-back, making them the perfect spot to unwind.
They’re also super practical: open early, stay open late, affordable, and scattered all throughout the city. Most even have great facilities for babies and toddlers, making it easy for everyone to join in.
If swimming with the locals gives you a taste of Icelandic life, wait until you see what else the country has to offer.
My 👉 Iceland Guidebooks + Maps will help you experience Iceland like a local.
Each guidebook covers the major sights, scenic trails, hidden gems, and hand-picked restaurants and accommodations in that region.
The digital maps have hundreds of pinned locations from pools and must-see stops to practical essentials like restrooms, clinics, grocery stores, and gas stations.
That way, you can explore without missing a thing.
So, you tell me… which pool will you visit?
Happy Planning!
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