Overview
City hot tubs, cold sea, and a very Reykjavík kind of beach day
Nauthólsvík is a man-made geothermal beach area where hot water is pumped into two hot tubs and into the bay, creating a place for both warm soaking and sea swimming. Think of it as a public facility with a playful twist, hot tubs on the shore, a service house, and a sheltered lagoon that can be heated during summer.
What’s actually warm here
The on-site pool is listed at 38°C, and the hot tub by the shore is listed at 30–39°C. The sea lagoon inside the rock walls is listed at 15–19°C, and is noted as heated only during summer months. That mix is the whole point, you choose your level of boldness.
Why it works
You can get a hot spring style reset without leaving town. On a calm day it’s brilliant. On a windy day, it’s still fun, you just want to be organized about towels and warm layers.
Location & Access
Where it is
Nauthólsvík is in Reykjavík, close to the domestic airport and the university area, with walk-in access once you’re on site.
Opening hours
The City of Reykjavík publishes two main schedules: summer hours (May 15 to August 18) are daily 10:00–19:00, and winter hours (August 19 to May 14) are Tue–Fri 11:00–19:00, Sat 11:00–16:00, closed Mon and Sun. Public holiday hours can differ, so check the city page if your trip lands on a holiday week.
Entry pricing
Pricing published via the city pool listing shows a per-admission fee, plus optional towel and swimsuit rental. Because prices can shift year to year, it’s worth checking the current listing before you go.
What to bring
Swimsuit, towel, and traction sandals. Add a warm hat and a big layer for the walk between the service house and the water. A dry bag for your phone helps because wet hands and wind are a clumsy combo.
Seasonality note
If you’re coming for sea lagoon warmth, aim for summer when heating is listed as active.
Suitability & Accessibility
This is best for travelers who want a quick geothermal stop in Reykjavík with options, warm tubs, a steam bath, and the choice to try cold sea swimming if you feel like it.
Families
Family friendly, especially in warmer months when the lagoon is in “beach day” mode. Keep kids close near the water edge and rock walls, and keep soak rounds short in the hottest tubs.
Couples and solo travelers
Good for a casual date or a solo reset, particularly if you enjoy the hot-cold rhythm. If you want fewer people, avoid peak sunny afternoons, locals use this place the way they use a park.
Mobility realities
No hike, but expect wet floors, thresholds, and outdoor transitions that can be windy. The outdoor area listing describes it as accessible for disabled, which suggests a more thoughtful layout than many informal swim spots. Even with that, surfaces can be slick, so plan for a slower pace.
Wheelchair expectations
I’m marking this as wheelchair accessible based on the destination’s accessibility listing, but step-free water entry varies by feature. If you need a specific setup, call or email ahead and ask what route and entry works best that day.
Safety & Etiquette
Cold sea plus hot tubs changes how your body feels
Hot-to-cold contrasts are exciting, and they can also be intense. If you’re new to cold water, start with a short dip and keep the exit plan simple, towel ready, warm layer ready, no lingering while you decide.
Slips are the most common issue
Wet decks and changing areas are where people get hurt. Traction sandals help. Walk like you’re on a boat, slower, with one hand free for balance.
Heat pacing
The hot tubs can be very warm. Do shorter rounds, drink water, and take a break if you feel lightheaded or headachey. You’ll enjoy it more when you keep the pace gentle.
Shared-space etiquette
It goes best when everyone shares space and keeps things moving. Don’t camp on steps or at the easiest entry points, and keep bags tucked out of walkways. Photos are fine, just avoid framing strangers up close.
Weather respect
Wind off the water can chill you quickly when you get out. Dry off well, layer up between rounds, and keep your towel from blowing away, it happens.
FAQs
When is Nauthólsvík open?
The city lists summer hours (May 15 to August 18) as daily 10:00–19:00. Winter hours (August 19 to May 14) are Tue–Fri 11:00–19:00 and Sat 11:00–16:00, closed Mon and Sun. Holiday hours can differ, so check the city page before you go.
How warm is it?
The shore pool is listed at 38°C and the hot tub by the shore at 30–39°C. The sea lagoon is listed at 15–19°C and is noted as heated only during summer months.
Do you need to bring anything?
Bring a swimsuit, towel, and traction sandals. Add a warm hat and outer layer, because the wind makes the “between soaks” moments feel colder than you expect.
Is it good for kids?
Yes with close supervision. Keep kids from running on wet surfaces, and limit time in the hottest tubs, shorter rounds with breaks go better.
Is it wheelchair accessible?
The destination listing describes the area as accessible for disabled visitors. If you need step-free routes and the easiest water access, contact the operator ahead of time to confirm the best entry points for your visit.