Sky Lagoon vs Blue Lagoon: A Comparison

Location & Accessibility

Both Geothermal Spas are super close to the capital.

Sky Lagoon

Sky Lagoon is tucked away in Kársnes Harbour, Kópavogur, just a quick 10-minute drive from Reykjavík. If you're staying in or near the city, this makes it super convenient.

Blue Lagoon

Blue Lagoon, on the other hand, is located in Grindavík on the Reykjanes Peninsula, about 45 minutes from Reykjavík and only 20 minutes from Keflavik Airport. This makes it a great option if you want to squeeze in a visit before your flight.

Environment & Connection to Nature

Although both blend well with their surroundings, the Sky Lagoon does a hard-to-beat job here.

Sky Lagoon

Sky Lagoon is all about blending into nature. With its stunning Infinity Edge Pool, which looks like it’s melting into the ocean, and cozy turf house design, you’ll feel like you’re truly part of Iceland’s natural beauty. The view from the Sauna with Ocean View is the kind of memory that sticks with you, and the whole experience feels intimate and connected to the landscape.

Blue Lagoon

Blue Lagoon is famous for its striking milky blue waters, which contrast beautifully with the surrounding lava fields. It may be more man-made, but the mineral-rich water and the dramatic landscape still make for an unforgettable experience. The sight of the blue water against the black lava rock is something you won’t forget.

Crowds & Atmosphere

The Blue Lagoon is one of Iceland's most famous spots, always listed in all the articles about the best places to visit and things to do in the country (yeah, in ours, too). With all that in mind, don't expect a quiet place.

Sky Lagoon

Sky Lagoon is a newer spot, so it doesn’t get as crowded as Blue Lagoon—at least not yet. This makes it a great pick if you’re after a quieter, more peaceful experience, especially if you go during off-peak hours.

Blue Lagoon

Blue Lagoon is a big draw for tourists, with over a million visitors a year. It can get busy, especially in high season, but if you're looking for a more social, lively atmosphere, it’s the place to be. The lagoon is big enough to spread out the crowds, but you’ll definitely feel the buzz of a popular spot.

Spa Experiences

These two are probably the most luxurious hot springs in the country.

Sky Lagoon

The highlight of Sky Lagoon is the Seven-Step Ritual. This includes a Cold Plunge, a Sauna with Ocean View, a cold mist, and a revitalizing body scrub. It’s a holistic experience that really taps into Icelandic traditions, and it’s all about helping you unwind while connecting with nature.

Blue Lagoon

At Blue Lagoon, the focus is on the healing powers of the water. You’ll get to try the famous Silica Mud Mask and Algae Mask. If you want to take it up a notch, there’s the luxurious Retreat Spa or even an In-Water Massage. It’s more about skincare and wellness here, with different masks offering various benefits for your skin.

Price Comparison

Sky Lagoon

Sky Lagoon offers several packages. The Saman is the most basic and costs a bit less, while the Sér, which includes private changing rooms, is more on the high-end side. They both include the 7-step ritual.

• Saman: Prices start at ISK 12,990 (€88.95 or $91.35)
• Sér: Prices start at ISK 15,990 (€109.50 or $112.45).

Blue Lagoon

Blue Lagoon is known for being on the pricier side, especially with options like the Retreat Lagoon and spa treatments. The Comfort Pass is a solid middle-ground option, while the Premium Pass and Retreat Spa come with extra perks but also higher price tags. It's more expensive overall, but the exclusive options can be worth the splurge.

• Comfort Pass: From ISK 9,990 ($72 or €69)
• Premium Pass: From ISK 12,990 ($93 or €90)
• Signature: From ISK 16,490 ($118 or €113)
• Retreat Spa: ISK 80,000 (525 Euros)

Additional Facilities & Extras

They both have pretty good restaurants and in-water bars. However, if you have money to spend, the Blue Lagoon has accommodations that are hard to beat.

Sky Lagoon

At Sky Lagoon, you can grab a drink at the Lagoon Bar or enjoy a meal at the Sky Café, which serves local favorites. The turf house-inspired architecture adds to the overall cozy, cultural feel, giving you a more authentic Icelandic experience.

Blue Lagoon

Blue Lagoon goes all out with dining, offering the high-end Moss Restaurant and the stunning Lava Restaurant, which is built right into the volcanic rock. They also have a line of skincare products featuring their famous Silica and Algae, so you can take some of that magic home with you.

Which One is Better, Sky Lagoon or Blue Lagoon?

If you’re after a more nature-focused, peaceful experience, Sky Lagoon is probably your best bet. With its serene atmosphere, ocean views, and the immersive Seven-Step Ritual, it's perfect for anyone wanting to relax and feel in tune with Iceland’s wild landscapes.

But if you’re looking for a classic Icelandic experience with those iconic blue waters, luxury dining, and a wider range of spa treatments, Blue Lagoon is the one. It's a great pick for travelers who want lots of amenities, a vibrant atmosphere, and the chance to say they’ve visited one of the world’s most famous geothermal spas.

Conclusion

Sky Lagoon and Blue Lagoon both offer unforgettable geothermal spa experiences, but they’re quite different in what they bring to the table. If you want something quieter and more connected to nature, Sky Lagoon’s the way to go. But if you’re after a lively, iconic experience with more amenities and a social vibe, Blue Lagoon is the winner. It all comes down to what kind of spa day you’re after—whether it’s tranquility, crowds, price, or that classic Icelandic vibe.