City Guides: Things to do While Boating in Vik, Iceland
Discover the dramatic beauty and cultural charm of Vík í Mýrdal, Iceland’s southernmost village. Situated southeast of Reykjavik, black sand beaches meet towering sea stacks, glaciers loom nearby and volcanic surprises await. Whether you’re on island for Northern Lights viewing or puffin watching, keep reading to discover a few fun and unique things to do in Vik.
Reynisfjara and the Reynisdrangar Sea Stacks
One of Iceland’s most iconic locations, Reynisfjara is a pitch-black volcanic sand beach edged by cliff walls of basalt columns. Rising just offshore are the striking Reynisdrangar sea stacks. Legend says these are trolls frozen at sunrise as they tried to pull a ship ashore. The basalt cave Hálsanefshellir and the dramatic cliffs make this a surreal and photogenic landscape.
Dyrhólaey Peninsula and Puffin Cliffs
A short drive from Vík, the Dyrhólaey Peninsula offers sweeping ocean vistas, a dramatic natural rock arch and a historic lighthouse sitting high atop the cliffs. From May through August, the cliffs become vibrant nesting grounds for puffins (they’re especially visible at dawn or dusk). Whether you stroll the viewpoint trails or photograph the arch against ocean waves, this reserve encapsulates Icelandic coastal beauty and makes a terrific spot to visit from a private boat dock for rent.
Mýrdalsjökull Glacier
Drive inland to explore Mýrdalsjökull Glacier, which sits above the legendary active Katla volcano. Guided hikes, snowmobile rides and ice‑cave explorations offer access to this icy realm. Tours include visits to Sólheimajökull and Katla caves. Both are immersive ways to experience Iceland’s volcanic geography from private boat slip rentals or marinas.
The Big Heat: Icelandic Lava Show
An attraction unique to Vík, the Icelandic Lava Show is the only place in the world where visitors can safely watch molten lava up close. A live presentation showcases lava flowing into water or ice, with opportunities to ask questions and feel the heat. This is an educational and sensory spectacle not to be missed while visiting Vik.
Hjörleifshöfði and Yoda Cave
Just a few minutes from the village lies Hjörleifshöfði, a rugged mound with trails up to panoramic views over Vík and the coast. At its base is Gígjagjá, the rock formation known as “Yoda Cave” for its uncanny resemblance to the Star Wars character. A fun story meets a striking landscape in this easily accessible stop from private boat lift rentals or marinas.
Hafnleysa Maritime Museum
Discover Vík’s maritime heritage at Hafnleysa Maritime Museum, home to the historic Skaftfellingur ship built in 1918. Peruse accounts of more than 112 shipwrecks along Iceland’s treacherous coast.
