Húsavík, The Whale Watching Capital of Iceland

About Húsavík

Húsavík is one of those places that feels like a well-kept secret. With a population of just over 2,500 people, it’s small enough to feel intimate but has enough things to keep you entertained for days. It’s located on the shores of Skjálfandi Bay, a stretch of water full of marine life. Here, you can find whales, dolphins, and puffins.

Walking through Húsavík feels a bit like stepping back in time. The brightly colored houses make the town glow, the picturesque harbor provides a great setting, and the snow-covered mountains in the background make it look like a postcard. But what really sets Húsavík apart is its authenticity—this isn’t a tourist trap but a working town where locals are welcoming and willing to share their slice of Icelandic paradise.

A Brief History of Húsavík

Húsavík’s history began in the 9th century when Swedish Viking explorer Garðar Svavarsson became one of the first Norsemen to spend time in Iceland. Some researchers say he was the first one, but others claim he was second to another explorer called Naddod. Svavarsson built a house on the shores of Skjálfandi Bay, giving the town its name. Húsavík translates to “bay of houses.” While Garðar didn’t stick around, others soon arrived, and the area grew into a prosperous fishing village.

Over the centuries, Húsavík has become an important fishing port with a strong connection with the sea. Today, the town balances its fishing heritage with a booming tourism industry. The town receives visitors from all over the world who want to go whale-watching and discover the natural wonders nearby.

Where is Húsavík and How to Get There

Getting to Húsavík is part of the adventure. It’s located in Iceland’s northeast, about 480 kilometers (298 miles) from Reykjavík. This might seem a lot, but the journey offers some of the most breathtaking landscapes Iceland has.

The best way to get there is by car. If you’re driving from Reykjavík, which is a common starting point for many travelers, start by taking the Ring Road (Route 1) heading north. This route will lead you through several different landscapes, from lava fields to green valleys. After you’ve passed Akureyri—the largest town in northern Iceland—turn onto Route 85, which takes you the rest of the way to Húsavík. The drive takes about six hours, but it can get longer if you make stops.

A good idea could be to get there in a couple of days, planning a stop or two to discover other parts of Iceland.

What to See and Do in Húsavík and Nearby

Despite being quite small, Húsavik offers many cool activities. Actually, I'd argue it offers one of the coolest things to do in Iceland altogether. Plus, it's the perfect base to explore the rest of the attractions in Northeast Iceland.

Whale Watching Tours

No trip to Húsavík is complete without going into Skjálfandi Bay for a whale-watching tour. These waters are full of life, with a variety of species that live here. The bay’s unique ecosystem, rich in plankton and fish, makes it a prime feeding spot for various whale species. Here, we can find humpback whales, Minke whales, orcas, and even the elusive blue whale.

Several companies operate tours, such as North Sailing and Gentle Giants. Each trip usually lasts about three hours, and the experience is as educational as it is amazing. They include expert guides who share fascinating details about the whales, as well as ways to preserve their habitat and the local environment. The best time for whale watching is from April to October, but even during the shoulder seasons, the chance of a sighting is high.

The Whale Museum

If you're a whale enthusiast, you can't miss the Whale Museum in Húsavik. This museum offers fascinating exhibits on the biology, behavior, and conservation of whales, along with 13 real whale skeletons. The museum opens from 9 to 18 during the summer months and from 10 to 16 in winter. Children enter for free, and adults' tickets are 18 USD. There are also guided tours available in English and Icelandic for up to 30 people.

GeoSea Geothermal Baths

One of the top activities in Iceland is taking a bath in one of the many geothermal spots in the country. Now, imagine soaking in warm, mineral-rich seawater while looking at the Arctic Ocean and snowy mountains. That’s exactly what GeoSea Geothermal Baths offers. These baths, located on a cliff above the bay, are a luxurious way to relax after a day of exploring.

What sets GeoSea apart from other geothermal pools in Iceland is its use of seawater, which is naturally heated by geothermal energy. And unlike many hot springs, the pools at GeoSea don’t have the distinct sulfuric smell, making the experience all the more pleasant.

Ásbyrgi Canyon

Húsavík is one of the five stops of a fantastic scenic route in North Iceland called The Diamond Circle. The others are Ásbyrgi Canyon, Dettifoss, Goðafoss, and Lake Mývatn. The first one, Ásbyrgi, is a place straight out of myth. This massive horseshoe-shaped canyon is said to be the hoofprint of Sleipnir, the eight-legged horse of the Norse god Odin. It’s about 3.5 kilometers (2.15 miles) long and 1 kilometer (0.6 miles) wide. Ásbyrgi is a stunning spot for hiking and picnicking.

The canyon’s lush vegetation, with birch and willow trees at the bottom, creates a beautiful contrast with the stone walls. There are several trails in the area, ranging from short, family-friendly walks to more challenging hikes.

Dettifoss

Dettifoss isn’t just a waterfall—it’s a force of nature. It’s the second most powerful waterfall in Europe, and plunges 44 meters (144 feet) with a thunderous roar that can be heard from a good distance. It’s located about 70 kilometers (43 miles) from Húsavík. One of the best things about Dettifoss is that it’s accessible from both the east and west sides, each one offering different views.

Dettifoss is a humbling reminder of nature’s raw power, and standing beside it is an experience you won’t forget.

Goðafoss

The next stop in the Diamond Circle is another waterfall. Known as the “Waterfall of the Gods,” Goðafoss is as beautiful as its name suggests. It’s not as big and powerful as Dettifoss, but what sets this place apart is the intense turquoise color of the water.

The name of the falls comes from an Icelandic legend that says that chieftain Þorgeir Ljósvetningagoði threw his pagan idols into the falls when Iceland converted to Christianity around the year 1000. The waterfall is 12 meters high (39 feet) and 30 meters wide (98 feet), with a symmetrical horseshoe shape.

Lake Mývatn and Mývatn Nature Baths

Lake Mývatn is a stunning volcanic landscape just an hour’s drive from Húsavík. The area is known for its strange lava formations, bubbling mud pots, and steam fumaroles. If you like birds, you will be thrilled to know that the lake is home to a diverse number of species, including rare ducks.

Nearby, the Mývatn Nature Baths are another fantastic option to enjoy a warm natural bath in the region. The geothermal waters here are rich in minerals, and the views of the surrounding volcanic landscape are nothing short of spectacular.

Dimmuborgir

Not far from Lake Mývatn, Dimmuborgir, or “The Dark Castles,” is a field of surreal lava formations that looks like it was pulled straight from a fantasy novel. Legends say trolls inhabit the area, and it’s easy to see why. This place is so unique that it’s impossible to stop the imagination from creating stories.

Walking through Dimmuborgir feels like stepping into another world. There are trails of different lengths for you to explore the formations, with some leading to a small cave known as Kirkjan, or “The Church,” due to its cathedral-like shape.

Forest Lagoon

We get now to another location for a geothermal bath. The Forest Lagoon -Skógarböðin in Icelandic- is a private and man-made spa located in the Vaðlaskógur forest near Akureyri. It opened in 2022, and features two infinity pools filled with warm, natural waters sourced from the mountains. The pools are kept at 38°C to 40°C (100°F to 104°F). With stunning views of Eyjafjörður fjord, it’s the perfect place to relax in harmony with nature.

The spa also includes a Finnish sauna, a cold plunge pool, and the Forest Bistro, serving Icelandic cuisine in a beautiful setting. Open daily from 10 a.m. to midnight, it’s a perfect plan all year round. If you come in summer, you can bathe with natural light until late in the evening. In winter, you have the chance to soak underneath the Northern Lights.

Grjótagjá Cave

Grjótagjá Cave is a hidden gem also near Lake Mývatn. Inside this lava cave, you’ll find a geothermal hot spring with crystal-clear water. Taking a bath here is not allowed due to fluctuating temperatures, but the cave is still worth a visit.

Game of Thrones fans might recognize Grjótagjá as the filming location for a memorable scene with Ygritte and Jon Snow (yes, that one).

Krafla

Volcanoes are one of the forces that have shaped Iceland through the centuries. Krafla is one of Iceland’s most active volcanic regions, with eruptions as recent as the 1980s. The area is great for geology enthusiasts, with bubbling mud pots, steaming vents, and colorful mineral deposits.

One of the highlights is the Viti Crater, a turquoise geothermal lake surrounded by a surreal landscape. The crater is accessible after a short hike, and the views are well worth the trek.

Food in Húsavík

Eating out in Húsavík is something that should definitely be on your list. The town’s food scene is a fantastic mix of tradition and innovation. Fresh seafood takes center stage, with many local restaurants serving fish caught straight from Skjálfandi Bay. Arctic char, cod, and langoustine are probably the best options, often served with simple but flavorful side dishes.

For those looking to taste traditional Icelandic recipes, lamb dishes and skyr—the Icelandic version of yogurt—are popular choices. Gamli Baukur is a charming waterfront restaurant that offers Icelandic meals in a cozy setting. Another gem is Naustið, known for its fish soup, which is a local favorite.

Don’t miss the town’s cafés and bakeries, where you can enjoy fresh pastries and coffee. The local bakeries often serve kleinur, a type of Icelandic doughnut.

Where to Stay in Húsavík and Nearby

Húsavik has a very decent amount of accommodations for such a small place. Here are some of the best.

• Fosshotel Húsavík: A modern hotel located in the heart of town, Fosshotel offers comfortable rooms and has an excellent restaurant.
• Guesthouse Arbol: This charming guesthouse is set in a historic building surrounded by a beautiful garden. The atmosphere is very welcoming, and the hosts are very friendly.
• Skjálfandi Apartments: Ideal for families or longer stays, these apartments come equipped with kitchens and living spaces. They are located near the harbor.
• Kaldbakur Guesthouse: Situated in the countryside outside Húsavík, this guesthouse offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
• Húsavík Cape Hotel: Very close to the whale museum, this boutique hotel combines modern amenities with rustic charm.

The weather in Húsavík

Húsavík’s weather is shaped by its subarctic climate. Each season comes with its own pros and cons. Here’s what you can expect in Húsavík throughout the year.

Summer (June to August)

This is a season of long days and mild weather. Temperatures typically range from 10°C to 15°C (50°F to 59°F), creating a comfortable environment for exploring. The days are really long, with almost 24 hours of natural light per day by the end of June.

The summer months also bring life to Skjálfandi Bay, and it’s the best season for whale-watching. It’s also the perfect time for outdoor activities However, it’s also the busiest time of year, so plan ahead for accommodations and tours.

Autumn (September to November)

Autumn in Húsavík marks a transition from the summer crowds to the quiet calm of winter. Temperatures begin to cool, averaging around 5°C (41°F), and the days get shorter by the week. The landscapes change their colors, with a range of red, orange, and yellow. The first days of snow can happen by mid-October.

This is a quieter time to visit, so it’s great if you prefer fewer crowds. The cooler weather is perfect for exploring local trails or visiting nearby attractions like Ásbyrgi Canyon and Dettifoss. As the days grow shorter, the night skies come alive with stars, and there’s even the chance to see the Northern Lights, which start happening by late Autumn.

Winter (November to March)

In North Iceland, winters are long and cold. Temperatures range between -1°C and -5°C (30°F to 23°F), and snow covers the town and surrounding landscapes.

One of winter’s biggest draws is the chance to witness the Northern Lights. Húsavík is a prime spot for aurora viewing. Guided tours can take you to remote areas for an even better view of this natural show. Although whale-watching tours are less common in winter, some operators still run trips.

Spring (April May)

Spring is a season of renewal in Húsavík. As the snow begins to melt, temperatures rise gradually, ranging from 3°C to 7°C (37°F to 45°F). The ice and snow give way to green fields full of flowers.

Spring is a great time to visit if you want to experience Húsavík before the summer crowds arrive. Early whale-watching tours resume, and the longer days offer plenty of time to explore.

Travel Tips

Here are some tips to make the most of your visit to Húsavik and the rest of the Diamond Circle.

• Visit in summer for whale watching: Húsavík is Iceland’s whale-watching capital, and summer (June to August) offers the best conditions to see humpbacks, minkes, and even the blue whale. You never know how these huge mammals will behave, but the sightings in Skjálfandi Bay are almost guaranteed.
• Pack layers: Icelandic weather is famously unpredictable, and Húsavík is no exception. Temperatures can change drastically within a single day, so pack clothes you can layer, including a waterproof jacket and sturdy boots.
• Drive carefully: The rural roads around Húsavík can be challenging, particularly in winter. If you are coming in the colder months or going into gravel roads, it’s highly recommended to rent a 4x4 vehicle.
• Plan for short days in winter: During the winter months, daylight hours in Húsavík are limited to as few as four hours in December. Schedule outdoor activities like sightseeing and whale watching during daylight, and use the long evenings to enjoy indoor attractions or relax in the GeoSea baths or the Forest Lagoon. And, of course, chasing the Northern Lights.
• Book in advance: Húsavík is a popular destination, especially during summer when whale-watching tours are at their best moment of the year. Book your activities and accommodation in advance.
• Respect nature: Icelanders take great pride in their environment, and visitors are encouraged to look after it as well. Stick to marked paths, avoid disturbing wildlife, and leave no trace behind.
• Try the local cuisine: Húsavík’s food scene is delicious, with fresh seafood and fish like Arctic char and cod taking center stage. Lamb meat is very good and tender in Iceland, and take the opportunity to try skyr.

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Conclusion

Traveling to Húsavík is a fantastic option to discover some of the best Iceland has to offer. It’s a blend of natural monuments and cultural experiences that you’ll take with you forever. It’s one of the best places in the world for whale watching. It’s also part of the Diamond Circle, one of the best routes to explore in the whole country. Come for the whales, stay for the magic.