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Black sand beach Iceland

Chasing the Northern Lights at Iceland's Black Sand Beach


Have you ever wanted to chase the elusive Northern Lights? Not just see them, but really experience their magic in an epic landscape. Travel to Iceland's Black Sand Beach Reynisfjara and you'll get your chance. This mystical beach on Iceland's south coast is a photographer's dream and one of the best spots in the country to glimpse the Aurora Borealis dancing across the night sky.

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black sand beach of reynisfjara

What Is Black Sand Beach Reynisfjara in Iceland?

Black Sand Beach Reynisfjara is one of Iceland’s most stunning beaches. Located on the south coast, it features striking black sand, dramatic sea cliffs, and the iconic Reynisdrangar sea stacks. The beach is also a popular spot for viewing the Northern Lights.

The black sand comes from basalt lava and ash, giving the beach a moody, dramatic vibe. Massive sea cliffs and caves flank the beach, carved by the pounding surf. Offshore stand the Reynisdrangar sea stacks, basalt rock formations that jut up from the ocean. Legend says they were trolls turned to stone by the sunrise.
black sand beach of reynisfjara
Reynisfjara is an easy day trip from Reykjavik, about a 2 to 2.5 hour drive away. The beach is open 24 hours a day year-round, so you can visit anytime - though the Northern Lights are best seen at night when the sky is darkest.

The summer months also have nearly 24 hours of daylight, so you’ll have more time to explore the beach and surrounding area, on the other hand you will not be able to see the Northern Lights during summer months as the sky doesn't get dark enough in order to be able to those shimmering green lights.
black sand beach of reynisfjara
Bring a jacket, as it can get windy. Be very careful walking around the beach and sea cliffs, as rogue waves can sweep in suddenly. Never turn your back to the sea! Other tips:

  • Arrive around midnight for the best chance of seeing the Northern Lights.
  • Use a DSLR camera with manual settings for Northern Lights photography. A tripod is a must.
  • Scout compositions during the daytime. The sea stacks and cliffs make great foreground subjects.
  • Talk to locals about the Icelandic folklore surrounding Reynisfjara. The stories of trolls and hidden people are fascinating!

Whether you’re chasing the Northern Lights or just want to experience a dramatic landscape, Reynisfjara black sand beach should be on your Iceland bucket list. Its beauty and mystery will leave a lasting impression.
black sand beach of iceland

The Dramatic Beauty of Black Sand Beach Reynisfjara

The dramatic, moody beauty of Black Sand Beach Reynisfjara will take your breath away. With its jet black sand, towering basalt sea cliffs, and crashing Atlantic waves, this beach looks like something out of a fantasy epic. No wonder it was chosen as a filming location for Game of Thrones!

Located just a 2 hour drive from Reykjavik, Reynisfjara is one of the most popular spots in Iceland to view the Northern Lights. Thanks to the lack of light pollution and wide open skies, you have a great chance of seeing the Aurora Borealis dance across the night sky. The best time to catch this celestial show is between 10 pm and 3 am from September through March.
black sand beach of iceland
The beach is named after its unique black volcanic sand, but it’s also famous for the Reynisdrangar sea cliffs - massive basalt rock formations that stand 65 feet high. Legend says they were once trolls who got caught in the sun and turned to stone. The dramatic sea cliffs and roaring ocean waves create a moody landscape that seems almost primordial.

Some tips for photographers: use a wide angle lens to capture the grandeur of the cliffs, and a longer exposure to get that misty sea foam effect. A sturdy tripod is a must for night shots. And dress warmly - temperatures drop quickly after sunset!

Whether by day or night, Reynisfjara beach is a place of wild beauty and drama. If you’re looking to experience the power and mystery of Iceland’s raw natural scenery, this black sand beach should top your list. A scenic drive, unique geology, potential Northern Lights sighting - what more could you ask for? Pack your camera, fill up the gas tank, and get ready for an epic Icelandic adventure!
black sand beach of reynisfjara

Black Sand Beach Reynisfjara in Game of Thrones

If you’re a Game of Thrones fan, you may recognize Reynisfjara black sand beach. Several scenes from season 7 were filmed here, including the epic battle between the Lannister forces and Daenerys’ dragons. Even without its claim to fame, this beach on Iceland’s south coast is a must-see destination.

The beach stretches for about 1 mile and is known for its volcanic black sand, massive basalt cliffs, and the spooky sea stacks called Reynisdrangar that rise up from the ocean. The sand gets its dark color from eroded lava and ash from the Eyjafjallajökull volcano that erupted in 2010. At night, the lack of light pollution offers ideal conditions for viewing the dazzling Northern Lights.
black sand beach of reynisfjara
Getting There
Reynisfjara beach is located about 2 hours east of Reykjavik. The easiest way to get there is to rent a car and drive Route 1 south. Along the way you’ll pass waterfalls like Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss. Look for the turnoff to Reynisfjara just before you reach the village of Vík. There’s a large parking lot where you can leave your car.
black beach iceland
Photographing the Northern Lights
Some tips for capturing the Aurora Borealis:

  • Use a DSLR camera with manual settings. You’ll need a long exposure, usually 20-30 seconds.
  • Bring a wide-angle lens, tripod, and remote shutter release.
  • Set your ISO to 1600 or higher and open your aperture as wide as possible.
  • Focus on the horizon or on any interesting landscape features. The lights will stay sharp due to their distance.
  • Take lots of photos! The lights are constantly changing, so the more you shoot the better your chances of getting dramatic photos.
  • The best time is between 10 pm and 3 am when the sky is darkest. September through March offer the highest chance of clear skies and active Northern Lights.
Bundle up, set up your gear, and get ready for a dazzling display of nature’s greatest show. The black sand beach at Reynisfjara is the perfect stage for the performance. 
Black sand beach Iceland

Why Black Sand Beach Reynisfjara Is Perfect for Northern Lights Viewing

Black Sand Beach Reynisfjara is a perfect spot for viewing the Northern Lights in Iceland, thanks to its low light pollution and open horizons. Only a couple of hours from Reykjavik, this scenic beach should be on your Iceland itinerary.

To get there, drive Route 1 south from Reykjavik for about 2-3 hours until you reach the village of Vik. Black Sand Beach Reynisfjara is just a 5 minute drive west of Vik. Look for the huge black sand dunes and basalt sea cliffs - you can't miss it!
Black sand beach Iceland
Why Reynisfjara is a Top Spot for Aurora Viewing
Black Sand Beach Reynisfjara checks all the boxes for prime Northern Lights viewing:

  1. Little to no light pollution. The beach is located in a rural area far from any major towns or cities, so there's minimal artificial lighting to interfere with the night sky.
  2. Open horizons. At Reynisfjara, you'll have a 360° view of the sky over the ocean, beach and cliffs with no obstructions. This gives you the best chance to spot the Aurora in any direction.
  3. Stunning scenery. The dramatic black sand dunes and basalt cliffs create a jaw-dropping backdrop for any photos of the Northern Lights you're able to capture. Your friends won't believe the views!
  4. Accessibility. Although quite scenic, Reynisfjara is easy to access, with parking available right near the beach. You won't have to hike or travel far to reach this prime viewing spot.
  5. Popular spot - for good reason! Reynisfjara's status as one of the top spots in Iceland for Northern Lights viewing and photography is well deserved. During peak Aurora seasons, you'll likely spot camera-toting visitors and locals alike gazing up at the night sky and scrambling to set up tripods. Join them - you won't regret it!
To have the best chance of spotting the Northern Lights at Reynisfjara, visit between late August and early April, preferably around midnight when the sky is darkest. Bundle up, bring a thermos of hot cocoa, and enjoy the thrill of the chase at one of the world's most scenic beaches. The Aurora spectacle in this dramatic landscape will be worth the wait!
black beach iceland

How to Get to Black Sand Beach From Reykjavik

To experience the wonder of Black Sand Beach and chase the Northern Lights, you’ll need to make your way there from Reykjavik. The good news is that it’s only about a 2 hour drive southeast of the capital city. Renting a car is highly recommended, as public transit options are limited. The journey will take you through stunning landscapes, so give yourself plenty of time to stop for photos!

Getting There
  1. Head southeast on Route 1 from Reykjavik. This road will take you all the way to the beach.
  2. After about 1 hour and 40 minutes, turn right onto Route 217. Follow for 10 minutes.
  3. Turn left onto Route 215. Black Sand Beach will be on your right in under 5 minutes.
  4. There is a large parking lot at the beach, with a small fee in the summer months.
black beach iceland
Some tips for the drive:

  • Fill up on gas before leaving Reykjavik. Stations are sparse in the countryside.
  • Drive carefully, especially at night. Roads can be icy, and animals like sheep or horses may wander into the road.
  • Consider an SUV or 4WD vehicle, as some roads may require higher clearance.
  • Bring snacks, drinks, a charger, warm clothes, hiking boots, and a camera!

To avoid the biggest crowds, aim to arrive either very early in the morning or late afternoon. The beach is open 24 hours, so nighttime visits are perfect for Northern Lights viewing with limited light pollution in the area. The best months to spot the Aurora Borealis are between September and March.
Once you arrive at Black Sand Beach, you’ll immediately understand why it’s considered one of Iceland’s most stunning natural wonders. The dramatic black sand, massive sea cliffs, and rock formations like Reynisdrangar make it an otherworldly place. Spend time beachcombing, bird watching, and of course, looking up - you never know when the Northern Lights may emerge and put on a show!
black beach in iceland

Top 5 FAQs About Black Sand Beach

Whether you’re planning a trip to Iceland specifically to see the Northern Lights or just hoping to get lucky, Black Sand Beach is a must-visit spot with the best chance of spotting the Aurora Borealis. This dramatic beach on Iceland’s south coast is ideal for night sky viewing thanks to its remote location away from city lights.

What causes the black sand?
The sand gets its dark color from volcanic rock and ash. As lava flows into the ocean, it rapidly cools and shatters into sand-sized granules of basalt. This pulverized lava collects along the shore, creating the iconic black sand.

When is the best time to see the Northern Lights?
The Northern Lights are often most active and visible between 10 pm and 3 am. Check the local aurora forecast for the best viewing conditions and head to Black Sand Beach around midnight. The months between September and March offer the highest chance of clear, dark skies - especially February and March when the nights are longest.
black beach in iceland
Can I take photos of the Northern Lights here?
Absolutely! Black Sand Beach is a photographer’s paradise. Some tips for capturing the Aurora Borealis:

  • Use a DSLR camera and lens with a wide aperture, like f/2.8 or lower. A wide-angle lens will allow you to capture more of the sky.
  • Use a high ISO setting, around 1600 to 6400. This makes the camera sensor more sensitive to light.
  • Use a sturdy tripod and remote shutter release. Long exposure shots are required for the Northern Lights, so a tripod is a must. A remote shutter release allows you to take shots without shaking the camera.
  • Experiment with different exposure settings. Start around 15-30 seconds and adjust as needed. Take multiple shots at different settings.
  • Include foreground objects like driftwood, rocks or the pounding waves for an interesting contrast.
  • Dress very warmly and bring extras like gloves, hats, blankets, hand warmers. You’ll be outside for hours in the cold and wind.
  • Be patient. The lights appear when the conditions are right. Sometimes it can take hours of waiting, so come prepared!
Black Sand Beach promises an unforgettable experience under the glowing Aurora Borealis. With the right timing and photography tips, you’ll be capturing stunning shots of the Northern Lights dancing over the volcanic landscape.
black beach in iceland

Photography Tips for Capturing the Northern Lights at Black Sand Beach

To capture the Northern Lights dancing over the black sand beach at Reynisfjara, here are some tips to get the perfect shot:

Use a DSLR camera
A DSLR camera allows you to manually adjust settings to get the ideal shot. Set your camera to a high ISO, like 1600 or 3200, to capture the lights. Use a wide angle lens, like 24mm or less.

Shoot in manual mode
In manual mode you have full control over focus, aperture, and shutter speed. Start with a wide aperture, between f/2.8 to f/4, to let in lots of light. Use a shutter speed of 15 to 20 seconds to capture the movement of the lights.
black beach in iceland
Turn off the flash
The flash will overpower the natural light of the aurora. Turn it off.

Use a tripod
A tripod keeps your camera steady during the long exposure shots needed to capture the Northern Lights.

Frame your shot
Think about composition and framing. Include interesting foreground elements like rock formations, trees or the crashing ocean waves. Position the lights in an interesting spot in your frame.
black beach in iceland
Check the forecast
Check the aurora forecast to know the likelihood of visible Northern Lights on any given night. For the best views, get away from city lights by heading to the black sand beach. The open sky and lack of light pollution provide ideal conditions for viewing and photographing the auroras.

Be patient
The Northern Lights are nature's spectacle. Have patience - the lights may appear quickly and disappear just as fast. But when the colors dance across the sky, illuminating the black sand beach, you'll experience the magic. Your patience will be well rewarded!

Following these tips will help you capture stunning photos of the Northern Lights arcing and swaying over the dramatic landscape of Reynisfjara black sand beach. Bundle up, set up your gear, and enjoy the natural wonder of the auroras.
black sand beach of iceland

The Best Time to See the Northern Lights at Black Sand Beach

To experience the full magic of the Northern Lights, head to Black Sand Beach between September and March. This is when the nights are long and dark, providing the perfect canvas for the Aurora Borealis to shine through.

The Best Time of Night
The Northern Lights are often most visible between 10 pm and 3 am. The later into the night you go, the better, as the sky will be darker allowing the lights to shine brighter. Around midnight is typically considered prime time for viewing the Aurora.
black sand beach of iceland
The Best Months
September through March offer the best opportunities to catch the Northern Lights at Black Sand Beach. The autumn and winter months have longer nights, with September and October still having mild temperatures. The winter months of January and February can be very cold, but the lights may be at their most active and vibrant during this time.

Check the Forecast
Three days before heading out to Black Sand Beach, check the aurora forecast websites and apps to see the predicted visibility and intensity of the Northern Lights for your location. When there is high activity and clear skies in the forecast, get ready for an amazing display of lights dancing across the sky. A Kp index of 3 or higher means the lights should be visible to the naked eye.
black sand beach of iceland
Be Patient
Don’t be disappointed if the lights don’t appear right away. Sometimes they emerge slowly, starting as a faint glow low on the horizon before intensifying and spreading upward and outward across the sky. Find a comfortable spot to sit or stand, have a warm drink on hand, and give your eyes time to adjust to the darkness. The show could last a few minutes or a few hours.

With stunning volcanic landscapes, endless night skies and an icy sea, Black Sand Beach is a prime destination for experiencing the wonder and beauty of the Northern Lights. By timing your visit right and having patience, you'll be rewarded with a magical display of green, red and purple lights dancing across the sky. An unforgettable sight you'll cherish for years to come!
Black sand beach Iceland

The Legend of Reynisdrangar Sea Stacks

The unique sea stacks of Reynisdrangar are one of the highlights of Reynisfjara black sand beach. According to Icelandic folklore, the Reynisdrangar stacks were once trolls dragging a three-masted ship to land. However, as legend goes, the sun rose and turned the trolls into stone. The ship they were pulling can supposedly still be seen in the shape of the stacks.

You'll notice the Reynisdrangar stacks stand 66 feet high at their tallest point. These basalt sea cliffs were formed by volcanic eruptions under the ocean thousands of years ago. The softer rock has since eroded away, leaving behind the iconic sea stacks we see today. At high tide, it looks as though the Reynisdrangar stacks are small islands in the sea. But at low tide, you can walk right up to the cliffs. Just be very careful, as sneaker waves are common and the rocks can be slippery.
black beach iceland
Some fun facts about the Reynisdrangar sea stacks:

  • They were featured in Season 7 of Game of Thrones as the location of Eastwatch-by-the-Sea.
  • According to folklore, the stacks were once trolls that turned to stone in daylight.
  • The tallest stack is called "the troll" and the smaller one is called "the troll woman".
  • They are made of basalt columns formed from ancient volcanic eruptions.
  • The sea cliff area is an important bird nesting site, especially for puffins.
black beach iceland
The best time to photograph the Reynisdrangar sea stacks is at sunrise or sunset when the golden light illuminates the cliffs. During winter, you may even spot the Northern Lights dancing above the stacks. A long exposure can capture the magic and mystery of this scenic Icelandic wonder.

Whether you believe in the troll folklore or not, the Reynisdrangar sea stacks are a stunning sight and highlight why Reynisfjara beach is considered one of the most beautiful beaches in Iceland. They showcase the raw power and beauty of nature.
Black sand beach Iceland

Conclusion

So there you have it, everything you need to know to plan your Northern Lights chasing adventure at the stunning Black Sand Beach Reynisfjara. Bundle up, grab your camera, hop in your rental car and make the scenic drive from Reykjavik. Once there, find your perfect spot on the black sand or basalt sea cliffs and wait for the magical lights to dance across the night sky. A little luck and patience may reward you with a vision you'll never forget. Don't forget to snap a few photos of the picturesque sea stacks Reynisdrangar while you're there - your Instagram followers will thank you! An evening at Reynisfjara is sure to spark your sense of wonder and fill you with the thrill of discovery in this land of fire and ice. What are you waiting for? The Northern Lights are calling your name in Iceland!

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