Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach Iceland – why the beach kills tourists
Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach Iceland – why the beach kills tourists
Reynisfjara — Black Sand Beach – the beach that takes your breath away and kills tourists
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Black Sand Beach Reynisfjara
The black beach in Iceland — Reynisfjara, “the beach that kills tourists” — is not just a label because of the color of the sand, since many Icelandic beaches are black. The name “Black Beach Reynisfjara” mainly refers to the negative PR and the tragic incidents that have occurred there, which I discuss in this article. The water can suck the volcanic sand (which is normally unstable) from under your feet, and combined with a wave you are helpless. This is visible in the clips below. Enjoy the read.
Reynisfjara is located on Iceland’s south coast, near the picturesque village of Vík í Mýrdal and the Dyrhólaey peninsula. Reynisfjara is one of the most extraordinary and scenic places in the world. This black beach, famed for its unusual sand, dramatic cliffs and mysterious rock formations, draws tourists from across the globe. But what makes Reynisfjara so unique and why is its sand black?
Confirmed incidents that have occurred at Reynisfjara
- In the past 7 years (up to 2022) there were 12 serious incidents recorded at Reynisfjara, including 5 fatal accidents (up to 2022).
- In 2022 the beach was listed as the place with the second-highest number of tourist fatalities in Iceland.
- For comparison: across all of Iceland in 2017 there were 13 fatal accidents recorded, some of which occurred on the south coast, including at Reynisfjara.
Unfortunately tourists ignore nature — More incidents
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2 August 2025 — Dramatic events on Reynisfjara Beach in Iceland
Reynisfjara, Iceland, 2 August 2025 — A dramatic incident occurred today on the famous black beach of Reynisfjara. A father and his two daughters entered the water despite warnings about dangerous waves known as “sneaker waves.” While the father and the older daughter managed to get back to shore safely, the younger girl was swept away by a strong current.
Rescue services were called immediately. A coast guard vessel from Vestmannaeyjar arrived to carry out the rescue. Thanks to quick action, the girl was pulled from the water. She was promptly airlifted by helicopter to a hospital in Reykjavík, where she is now under medical care. Her condition is currently unknown.
Reynisfjara: a barrier closing the beach has been installed
According to RUV.is, “A new barrier and signage have been installed at Reynisfjara beach after the death of a nine-year-old tourist who drowned in the sea. The erection of a memorial to those who died there is also being considered.” Read the full article: Reynisfjara: a barrier has been installed closing the beach.: Reynisfjara: zamontowano szlaban zamykający plażę
Onda 🛑 AIR – rozmowy o podróżach i ciekawych miejscach
We discussed the black beach Reynisfjara in one episode of my podcast Onda 🛑 AIR. Welcome to listen.
📺 I talked about places such as: Þingvellir (Thingvellir) National Park, the Strokkur geyser, the Geysir geothermal area, Gullfoss waterfall, Kerið crater lake, Þórufoss waterfall, Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach, Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon
Reynisfjara — Iceland’s black beach that kills tourists. Be careful and stay alert
Why is the sand at Reynisfjara black? Black sand Beach— the mystery of a volcanic past
The secret of Reynisfjara’s black color lies in its volcanic past. Iceland, located on the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, is a volcanic island, meaning its landscape was shaped by numerous volcanic eruptions. During eruptions, lava rich in minerals such as basalt flows from the earth’s interior and, when it cools quickly in contact with cold ocean water, it forms tiny black grains of sand.
Ecosystems of the black beach
Despite harsh conditions, the ecosystems around Reynisfjara are rich and diverse. Tide pools that form in rocky depressions at low tide are home to many species of algae, crustaceans, mollusks and small fish. They are an important food source for seabirds such as puffins, which nest on nearby cliffs, including Dyrhólaey.
Unique rock formations — Hálsanefshellir Cave
Reynisfjara is famous for its impressive basalt columns at Hálsanefshellir Cave, formed by the slow cooling of lava into regular, hexagonal shapes. These natural “organ pipes” provide a dramatic backdrop to the beach and add to its uniqueness.
“Noah” (2014)
Iceland trivia: one scene from “Noah” (2014), directed by Darren Aronofsky, was filmed in the Reynisfjara cave. In this biblical epic starring Russell Crowe, the black beach contributed to the film’s depiction of an ancient, raw world.
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Reynisdrangar — enchanted trolls
Near the shore, against the backdrop of Reynisfjall mountain, rise sea stacks called Reynisdrangar, reaching up to 66 m in height. According to legend, they are petrified trolls who were turned to stone by sunlight after attempting to drag a three-masted ship ashore.
Why is Reynisfjara so dangerous? — Dangers and precautions
Although Reynisfjara enchants with its beauty, it also hides dangers. Especially hazardous are the so-called “sneaker waves” — sudden, powerful waves that can surprise careless tourists and drag them into the sea. That’s why it’s important to exercise caution and follow local warnings. Icelandic authorities have implemented warning systems aimed at increasing visitor safety.
I recommend the VisitIceland.com article: Warning: Reynisfjara Beach is Beautiful but Hazardous—Stay Safe. VisitIceland.com: Warning: Reynisfjara Beach is Beautiful but Hazardous—Stay Safe
Sneaker waves — “sneaky waves” at Reynisfjara
“Sneaker waves” are an ocean phenomenon that can be extremely dangerous to people on the beach. These are sudden, unexpected waves that appear without obvious warning and can be much larger than the waves before them.
Why are they so dangerous?
Unexpected: Sneaker waves do not have a distinctive appearance. They may look like ordinary waves and then suddenly grow in height and strength.
Power: These waves can easily knock an adult off their feet and pull them far out to sea. Even an experienced swimmer may struggle to resist them.
Backwash: They are often accompanied by a strong backwash that can pull a person out to sea and make returning to shore difficult.
When do they most commonly occur?
Sneaker waves can occur anywhere and anytime, but they are particularly common:
After storms: When the wind dies down after a storm, the wave pattern can become more chaotic and unpredictable.
In narrow bays and river mouths: Waves can concentrate and amplify in these places.
Near breakwaters: The structure of a breakwater can influence the direction and force of waves.
Tragic events at Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach , Iceland
Although Reynisfjara is beautiful, it has also been the site of tragic accidents caused by unpredictable sneaker waves. In recent years, the media have reported incidents in which tourists were swept away by waves and drowned. These events are a reminder of how important it is to heed warnings and practice caution when visiting this place.
Confirmed incidents that have occurred at Reynisfjara
- In the past 7 years (up to 2022) there were 12 serious incidents recorded at Reynisfjara, including 5 fatal accidents (up to 2022).
- In 2022 the beach was listed as the place with the second-highest number of tourist fatalities in Iceland.
- For comparison: across all of Iceland in 2017 there were 13 fatal accidents recorded, some of which occurred on the south coast, including at Reynisfjara
They could do nothing but watch the tourist being carried away
November 2021: A young tourist from China was swept away by a wave while walking on the beach. Weather conditions were so severe that rescuers could not launch an immediate rescue. The woman was later found dead at sea.
SOURCE —
Tragic accident on Reynisfjara Blac Sand Beach Iceland
November 2021: A group of tourists was surprised by strong waves; four people were pulled into the water. Three managed to get out, but one woman was swept about 100 meters from shore and died.
SOURCE —
Another tragedy on Reynisfjara
June 2022: At Reynisfjara an incident occurred in which two people fell into the water. An 80-year-old tourist who was pulled from the sea by a Coast Guard helicopter could not be saved.
SOURCE —
These tragic events underscore the importance of caution when visiting Reynisfjara. Always follow local warnings and avoid approaching the waterline even if the sea appears calm. To better understand the beauty and potential dangers of Reynisfjara beach, I encourage you to watch the video below:
How to get to the black beach in Iceland and practical information
Reynisfjara is about 180 km east of Reykjavík, making it accessible for day trips from Iceland’s capital. There is parking and tourist infrastructure near the beach, but due to the site’s growing popularity it’s worth planning your visit for the early morning or off-peak season.
Other beaches and places near Reynisfjara
Near Reynisfjara on the south coast of Iceland there are other equally scenic beaches and viewpoints. Here are the main ones:
Vík í Mýrdal Beach — Víkurfjara Black Sand Beach
Kirkjufjara Beach / Arnardrangur rock formation
Solheimasandur / The Endless Black Beach / Sólheimasandur
The volcanic black desert Solheimasandur — site of the Dakota (DC-3) plane wreck that crashed there in 1973 — a popular tourist attraction.
Dyrhólaey Peninsula
Dyrhólaey Peninsula is a picturesque headland on Iceland’s south coast, known for dramatic cliffs up to 120 metres high. From Dyrhólaey you can enjoy spectacular views of Reynisfjara’s black beaches, the Reynisdrangar basalt stacks and the Mýrdalsjökull glacier. In good weather you may even spot the Eyjafjallajökull volcano. At the top of the peninsula there is a charming lighthouse dating from 1927.
Reynisfjara in pop culture
Reynisfjara’s fame reaches far beyond Iceland. This extraordinary beach has appeared in many films and series, including Vikings, Rogue One: A Star Wars Story, and Star Trek Into Darkness.
I assume that when planning a trip to Iceland you search terms like “places Iceland is famous for,” “what Iceland is known for,” or “what to see in Iceland,” and among the search results you’ll find Black Sand Beach — Reynisfjara.
Iceland Black Beach Reynisfjara FAQ — Frequently Asked Questions
Iceland Black Beach — Frequently Asked Questions
Where exactly is Reynisfjara and how to get there from Reykjavík? Reynisfjara lies on Iceland’s south coast, right beside the picturesque village of Vík í Mýrdal. Driving from Reykjavík to Reynisfjara takes about 2–2.5 hours (approx. 188 km) via Route 1 (the Ring Road) and then local road 215. There are two parking areas at the beach, P1 and P2, from which you can walk to the beach in a few minutes. It’s one of the most easily accessible attractions on the south coast — ideal for a day trip from Reykjavík. Remember to pay for parking (preferably via the Parka app) — fines can be quite high, especially in the summer season.
Is Reynisfjara safe for tourists? — What you need to know about safety at Reynisfjara
Reynisfjara is one of the most beautiful but also the most dangerous places in Iceland. Sneaker waves — sudden, powerful waves — occur here and can pull people into the sea. Always keep a safe distance from the water (at least 30 metres) and never turn your back on the ocean. Familiarise yourself with safety signs and local guides’ recommendations before visiting Reynisfjara.
What else is there to see at Reynisfjara besides black sand?
Reynisfjara is famous not only for volcanic sand but also for the majestic basalt columns and Hálsanefshellir cave. Near the shore you can see the Reynisdrangar rock stacks, which — according to legend — are petrified trolls. It’s one of the most photogenic spots in Iceland and a must on any south-coast itinerary.
When is the best time of day for photos at Reynisfjara?
The best times are early morning and late afternoon, when the light is soft and golden. In summer you can capture the contrast of black sand against blue skies; in winter — the island’s austere atmosphere. Photographers should use wide-angle lenses and a tripod to capture the full grandeur of Reynisdrangar.
Which tours from Reykjavík include Reynisfjara?
Many companies offer guided day tours to Reynisfjara from Reykjavík as part of south-coast itineraries. Typical programs include Skógafoss and Seljalandsfoss waterfalls, Sólheimajökull glacier and a stop at Reynisfjara. Private tours are also available to avoid crowds and allow flexible photo time.
What legends are associated with Reynisdrangar?
According to legend, Reynisdrangar are trolls who tried to pull a ship ashore but were turned to stone by the sun. These characteristic rocks are symbolic of Reynisfjara and one of Iceland’s most recognizable motifs. The mix of myth and nature gives the place a special atmosphere — especially at dusk, when the ocean turns steel-grey.
What to bring to Reynisfjara?
Icelandic weather is changeable, so bring a waterproof jacket, trekking shoes with good grip, a hat and gloves. If you plan to photograph, bring a tripod and spare batteries — wind and cold drain batteries quickly. A thermos with a hot drink is useful, especially in winter.
What mistakes do tourists most often make visiting Reynisfjara?
The most common mistake is getting too close to the water despite clear warnings about sneaker waves. Many ignore information boards and stand on rocks to take photos — very dangerous. Another mistake is not dressing appropriately — Reynisfjara can be very windy and colder than Reykjavík. The rule is simple: admire from a distance.
Can you see the Northern Lights at Reynisfjara?
Yes — in winter (October to March) the Northern Lights can often be seen from Reynisfjara. Conditions are clear skies and no light pollution. The mix of black sand, ocean and dancing aurora makes for one of Iceland’s most magical views.
Where to stay to visit Reynisfjara early and avoid crowds?
The best option is to stay in Vík í Mýrdal, from where the beach is only a few minutes’ drive. Look for accommodation advertised as “lodging in Vík close to Reynisfjara” to reach the beach at dawn and avoid tour groups. Small guesthouses and hotels with sea views are popular.
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- south coast beaches of Iceland
- Iceland tourist attractions
- Reynisfjara visitor safety
- Iceland black sand beaches
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