Swimming Pools in Iceland – Local Pools Every Visitor Should Try
Visiting the local swimming pools in Iceland is one of the most authentic things you can do as a traveller. Icelanders don't just swim for exercise — the pool is a deeply social place where locals meet, chat, relax and put the world to rights. Soaking in a geothermally heated hot pot next to a volcano, in any weather, is an experience you simply won't find anywhere else. Here's everything you need to know.
Pool etiquette — the rules you must follow
Icelandic swimming pool rules are taken seriously. Follow them and you'll fit right in with the locals. Break them and you'll get told off — politely but firmly.
Remove shoes before entering the changing room. Everyone does this without exception.
You must shower without your swimwear before entering the pool. Staff will check. This is non-negotiable.
Swimwear is required in the pool area. Skinny dipping is not permitted.
Wet pool decks are slippery. Running is the fastest way to an injury and to annoyed looks from locals.
Towel off before heading back into the changing room to keep the floors dry.
Snorkels and fins are not permitted in public pools for safety reasons.
Iceland's pools use very little chlorine because the water is naturally geothermal and clean. To keep it that way, everyone showers thoroughly before entering — it's a matter of respect for the community. Embrace it, it's part of the experience!
Laugardalslaug — Reykjavík's best swimming pool
Laugardalslaug is the largest and most popular swimming pool in Reykjavík — and a favourite among locals. It has an outdoor 50m lap pool, a children's pool, waterslide, steam bath, sauna and multiple geothermally heated hot pots of varying temperatures. It's a proper community hub and a great place to experience authentic Icelandic pool culture.
Sundlaug Akureyrar — Akureyri
If you're driving through north Iceland, a stop at Sundlaug Akureyrar is a must. The pool sits beneath the dramatic mountains surrounding Akureyri and has an outdoor heated pool, waterslides, hot tubs, a steam bath and a sauna. The views alone make it worth the visit. Locals consider it one of the finest pools in Iceland outside of Reykjavík.
Reykjanesbær pools
If you're arriving or departing via Keflavík Airport, Reykjanesbær has excellent local pools worth a visit. The town has several facilities including indoor and outdoor heated pools, hot tubs, waterslides and steam rooms — all geothermally heated year-round. It's a great way to start or end your Iceland trip with an authentically local experience rather than a tourist attraction.
Ásvallalaug — Hafnarfjörður
Ásvallalaug in Hafnarfjörður is a local favourite and a quieter alternative to the busier Reykjavík pools. It has a lap pool, hot pots, sauna and a sun deck. Swimming lessons are available for all ages and the pool is kept to a high standard of cleanliness and safety. A great choice if you want a more relaxed, neighbourhood pool experience.
Tips for visiting swimming pools in Iceland
- Bring your own towel — you can rent one but it costs extra
- Bring flip flops — useful in the changing rooms and on the pool deck
- Go early or late — pools are busiest after school (around 4–6pm on weekdays)
- Try all the hot pots — they range from warm (~36°C) to very hot (~44°C). Work your way up gradually
- Don't rush — Icelanders spend hours at the pool. Relax, chat, and enjoy the experience
- Admission is cheap — typically 1,000–1,200 ISK per adult, making it great value
Exploring Iceland by car?
Book your rental car with Project Car Rental and discover Iceland at your own pace — swimming pools, waterfalls and all.
Book your car now →