A picture of the Blue Lagoon and Sky Lagoon next to each other for comparison

Sky Lagoon vs Blue Lagoon: A Review of Iceland’s Most Popular Geothermal Spas

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PLANNING YOUR TRIP AND WONDERING “SKY LAGOON VS BLUE LAGOON”?

I will cut right to the chase – Sky Lagoon. There I said it. This is my personal preference though. Both lagoons are unique in their own way and the Blue Lagoon is a must-see world-famous attraction.

On my recent trip to Iceland, I went to both Sky Lagoon and Blue Lagoon. In this post, I will dive deep into the differences between the two.

In short, if you like luxury, traditional bathing culture, and sea views, go to Sky Lagoon. If you’re looking for a more unique but tourist-oriented experience with lava landscapes and milky blue water, go to Blue Lagoon.

Sky Lagoon vs Blue Lagoon

I thoroughly enjoyed my time at both lagoons. If you are able, go to both of them. Blue Lagoon is known across the world for its milky blue water and iconic mud masks, and it’s worth experiencing.

On the other hand, Sky Lagoon pays homage to traditional Icelandic bathing culture and indulges anyone with a soft spot for luxury. If you’re just looking for the facts, and not just my opinion, below are the differences I found between them – hopefully this helps you decide!

The Experience: Sky Lagoon vs Blue Lagoon

The experience at Sky Lagoon feels much more upscale all the way through. It’s designed to feel more like an immersive journey, focusing on wellness and relaxation from start to finish.

When you arrive you enter a modern building with a grass roof and are greeted in a dimly lit check-in area where they give you a wristband that you wear into the pool (scan it to purchase drinks, get into the 7-step ritual, etc.), and are guided to the dimly lit and quiet changing room.

After changing, enter the lagoon through a cave-like tunnel from the locker room (see picture below) and emerge to huge lagoon walls that flank the swimming path to the main area.

Girl entering a geothermal lagoon in a red swimsuit

When you reach the main area you can hang out on the edge of the infinity pool, under a waterfall, on rocks, at the swim-up bar, or make your way to the turf house (where the sauna, steam, and scrub are).

The Blue Lagoon experience is similar in that you also receive a wristband when you check in and you can get drinks at a swim-up bar and hang out in different areas of the lagoon.

The difference at the Blue Lagoon is that it feels a little more like you are being herded like cattle at check-in, and the locker room is very bright and a little older. The showers and restrooms are old, breezy, and not really comfortable.

The “experience” part is once you are in the lagoon in its world-famous milky-blue geothermal water (which does look as cool in person as it does in photos), whereas the experience at Sky Lagoon is the entire process from start to finish.

TIP: If you want a more unique, luxurious, and less crowded experience at the Blue Lagoon you can stay at The Retreat at Blue Lagoon which is their resort that gets you access to private areas of the lagoon and updated luxury accommodations.

The Facilities

Sky Lagoon wins hands down in the facilities category. The facilities are brand new, modern, and gorgeous.

Entrance to Sky Lagoon in Iceland with gras covered exterior

Everything from the entry to the locker rooms to the actual lagoon, to the turf house sauna, and even the coffee shop are all cohesive and vibey.

Expect dark wood, dim lights, nice private bathrooms and showers, super clean, and thoughtful design.

The Blue Lagoon facilities are nice but a bit dated, the locker rooms are a little cramped, wet, and super bright, and the showers and bathrooms have flimsy doors and wet floors.

Also read: Glass Hotels in Iceland (and Other Unique Stays You Need to See)

The Amenities

Again, Sky Lagoon shines here. Sky Lagoon provides a stunning infinity pool with views of the North Atlantic Ocean and surrounding landscapes.

The entire lagoon is inspired by Icelandic heritage and the turf house sauna is an especially unique feature. 

Sky Lagoon has the 7-step ritual (or the Skjól ritual), which is included with all basic tickets.

The 7-step ritual is a holistic spa experience inspired by Icelandic traditions. It’s designed to rejuvenate the body and mind through a combination of hot, cold, and relaxing elements.

Here’s a breakdown:

  • Relax in the Lagoon: Your ritual starts in the lagoon (which I thought could have been warmer).
  • Cold Plunge: Take an (optional) 3-minute dip in the cold plunge.
  • Sauna: Enter the turf house sauna. This is my favorite step. The sauna is huge and has panoramic views of the ocean.
  • Cold Mist or Shower: Cool down in the cold mist room.
  • Body Scrub: As you exit someone will hand you a bowl with Sky Lagoon’s signature body scrub. Rub it all over. 
  • Steam Room: Enter the steam room with the scrub on. When you exit, rinse in the shower.
  • Relaxation: Return to the lagoon to relax and soak up the benefits of the ritual.

Additionally, Sky Lagoon has swim-up bars, waterfalls, and a cafe.

The Blue Lagoon has two swim-up mask bars, two swim-up beverage bars, a steam room, and a sauna. The steam room and sauna are much smaller than the ones at Sky Lagoon and are not a key part of the experience.

You can add an in-water massage, and a range of skincare products derived from the lagoon’s minerals to your package.

Blue Lagoon also has a grab-n-go cafe, a fine-dining restaurant, and a shop to purchase skincare products.

Large sauna with a view of the sea in Iceland

Do you love spas and hot springs? Check out my post on Reykjadalur Hot Springs: Iceland’s Most Popular Geothermal River (my favorite!)

The Location

Both are very conveniently located. Blue Lagoon is located near Grindavík, about 45 minutes from Reykjavik, but just 15 minutes from Keflavík International Airport.

The proximity to the airport is the best thing about the Blue Lagoon’s location. It makes it really easy to stop by right after or right before your flight.

We landed in Iceland at 7 am, picked up our rental car, and went straight to the Blue Lagoon. It was a great welcome to Iceland and the best time of day!

Sky Lagoon is Located just minutes from Reykjavik, on the edge of the ocean in the Kársnes Harbour area. The best part about this location is the views of the sea and super proximity to Reykjavik.

The Vibe & Crowds

Sky Lagoon wins here too. It’s very vibey throughout with a more serene and exclusive atmosphere. The common areas like the lobby, changing rooms, and the cafe didn’t feel crowded. We went at 1 pm.

That being said, the actual lagoon was pretty busy. There were areas we could go to without people because it’s quite large but we had to wait a little bit to get into the sauna and there appeared to be a small wait the whole time we were there.

The Blue Lagoon is a larger, more tourist-oriented facility with a modern (but dated) design so the vibe and ambiance were kind of cold and not serene.

We went at 8 am which I would highly recommend because the lagoon was fairly empty our first few minutes there. It started to fill up about 30 minutes later.

TOP TIP: Book your appointment right when they open – at both lagoons!

Photo of the Blue Lagoon in Iceland with very few people in it

The Views

I think Blue Lagoon takes the cake here. The views are most unique here – you can’t beat being surrounded by blue water and lava rocks.

Sky Lagoon has really beautiful views of the ocean and horizon, they’re just not as unique as the lava landscape at the Blue Lagoon.

Price & Value for Money

As for pricing, both of their basic packages start at similar prices ($87-$110 per person) which provide access to the lagoon and changing rooms, a towel, and if you are at Sky Lagoon the 7-step ritual, or if you are at Blue lagoon a mud mask and a drink.

Of course, there are many add-ons at both, including robes, private changing facilities, additional beverages, skin care products, in-water massages, etc.

The Blue Lagoon has more package options with higher price points than the Sky Lagoon. This is because of its popularity with tourists since Sky Lagoon is a more upscale experience.

Ultimately Sky Lagoon is a better value because you get to experience the 7-step ritual with the most basic package.

So Which is Better Sky Lagoon or Blue Lagoon?

If I were to go back, I would go to Sky Lagoon. I think it’s better. BUT, I understand the appeal of the Blue Lagoon and do think everyone should go – especially since it’s so close to the airport!

TIP: Did you know that there is another blue lagoon in Iceland? it’s in the north. This is a great option if you don’t like crowds but want to experience the milky blue water. It’s called Myvatn Nature Baths.

The Blue Lagoon is ideal for first-time visitors to Iceland who want to experience one of the country’s most iconic attractions.

Sky Lagoon is perfect for those seeking a more serene experience with an emphasis on traditional Icelandic bathing culture and stunning ocean views.

Girl standing in the Blue Lagoon in Iceland

What To Bring to the Lagoons

Beyond your swimsuit, there are a few things you can bring to the lagoons that will make your experience more enjoyable. Towels are provided fyi.

Swimsuit: These aren’t nude lagoons!

Sandals: Sandals are not mandatory but I like to wear them when walking around the locker room and other common areas. These are my go-to waterproof sandals.

Hair tie: The lagoon water can be harsh on your hair so keep it up if you can.

Conditioner: If you get your hair wet you will want to condition it right away – but I recommend keeping your hair out of the water completely.

Waterproof phone case: If you want to take photos in the lagoon, a waterproof phone case will be your friend!

Change of clothes: Bring a fresh set of clothes to change into after your dip in the lagoon. I recommend loose-fitting clothes because they are easier to get on and off when you are damp.

Skincare products: You may want to bring body lotion and face moisturizer or other skincare products because the silica in the water can be drying.

View of the cold plunge and largest area of the lagoon at Sky Lagoon

Sky Lagoon vs Blue Lagoon FAQ

Which is better Sky Lagoon or Blue Lagoon?

Sky Lagoon is better when you look at the facilities and amenities, but the Blue Lagoon is a more unique experience.

Is Sky Lagoon a natural lagoon?

No, Sky Lagoon is not a natural lagoon. It is a man-made spa. However, the water is geothermally heated.

How long should you spend at Sky Lagoon?

Plan to spend about 2 to 3 hours at Sky Lagoon to fully enjoy the experience.

What is so special about the Blue Lagoon in Iceland?

The Blue Lagoon is special for its milky-blue geothermal waters rich in silica, algae, and minerals and unique setting within a lava field.

What is the 7-step ritual at Sky Lagoon?

The 7-step ritual at Sky Lagoon includes a warm soak, cold plunge, sauna, cold mist, body scrub, steam room, and final shower.

Do you get towels at the Sky Lagoon?

Yes, towels are provided at the Sky Lagoon as part of the entrance package.

Can you walk to Sky Lagoon from Reykjavík?

No, you can’t walk to Sky Lagoon as it is located about 5 miles (8km) from the city center and the entire route is not pedestrian-friendly.

Sky Lagoon vs Blue Lagoon Wrap-Up

If you were wondering about “Sky Lagoon vs Blue Lagoon” hopefully, this post helped you decide… even if you decide on both! They both offer unforgettable geothermal spa experiences, each with its unique experience & amenities.

The Blue Lagoon, with its iconic milky blue waters and lava landscape, remains a must-visit for first-timers.

On the other hand, Sky Lagoon provides a more luxurious and modern wellness experience, complete with stunning ocean views and a traditional Icelandic 7-step ritual.

Whether you’re seeking the classic allure of the Blue Lagoon or the tranquil luxury of Sky Lagoon, your visit to either spa will be a highlight of your trip to Iceland… at least if you love saunas and bathing culture as much as me 🙂

Ultimately, the best choice depends on your personal preferences—both lagoons promise relaxation, rejuvenation, and a taste of Iceland’s natural wonders.

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