Is the Diamond Beach in Iceland Worth Going To? A Complete Guide

This post is all about Diamond Beach Iceland: Is It Worth Going To & Everything You Need To Know

Whether it’s your first time in Iceland or you’ve been here before it can be challenging to figure out if Diamond Beach in Iceland, is worth going to.

I remember our first time here, I had no idea what to expect, packed all the wrong things, and regretted not being more prepared.

Well, have no fear, I’ve put together the ultimate Diamond Beach Iceland guide for you. From how to get here, what Diamond Beach is like, how much it costs, and if it’s really worth your time.

Here is my honest opinion of Diamond Beach Iceland….

This post is all about Diamond Beach Iceland: Is It Worth Going To & Everything You Need To Know

What Is Special About Diamond Beach?

Diamond Beach Iceland is one of the most stunning natural attractions in the world. A black sand beach featuring glistening icebergs broken from a glacier that has washed ashore on the beach.

The ice is translucent and is one of Iceland's many photographer’s paradises.

But Where Is Diamond Beach Iceland?

Diamond Beach Iceland is located in the South coast about a 5 hour drive from Reykjavík.

If you drive there and back it’ll take about TEN hours… here’s what I recommend doing instead….

How To Get To Diamond Beach Iceland

There are two different ways to get to Diamond Beach Iceland:

driving yourself or going on a tour.

What I suggest doing is staying at a hotel in Vik, a town in the middle of Diamond Beach and Reykjavík.

If you choose to stay in Vik, you can also see many other attractions like Fjaorargljufu Canoyn, and waterfalls like Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss.

We stayed in Vik for a total of 3 nights at Hotel Vik, it was both beautiful, comfortable, and really affordable. I highly recommend it and it was one of the best decisions to see the South side of Iceland

If you choose to do a tour, this one is an amazing option to see both Jökulsárlón Glacial Lagoon , Skógafoss waterfall, and Diamond Beach in Iceland.

Does Diamond Beach Iceland have real diamonds?

No, the icebergs aren’t made of real diamonds but they look like them!

The icebergs are broken off from the nearby Breiðamerkurjökull Glacier and wash ashore on the beach. They’re translucent, catching and reflecting the light, hence the name Diamond Beach.

Is Diamond Beach Iceland Cold?

Diamond Beach in Iceland is absolutely freezing. Even though it’s a beach, the glacier ice formed makes it even colder so pack all the layers you have to visit.

I wore two pairs of pants, four tops, a blanket, scarf, beanie, and gloves, and still found myself absolutely freezing and my nose running.

This is one of the things you NEED to prepare for before you go.

What To Do At Diamond Beach Iceland?

Besides walking around the area, schedule about an hour to get a view of the place.

Then you can make your way to Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon which is just next door. Parking for both of these places is the same price so you don’t need to pay twice, and when you get to Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon you can grab a coffee, use the restroom, and take in the views.

What To Bring To Diamond Beach Iceland

Diamond Beach Iceland isn’t one of those beaches that you bring a bikini to, instead, it’s the opposite, make sure to bring your thickest jacket and to wear long layers!

I would make sure to pack hiking boots, long thermal socks, waterproof pants, and a thick jacket.

I wore Uggs to Diamond Beach Iceland and it stained them so much, so I highly don’t recommend wearing those.

How Much Is Diamond Beach Iceland?

Admission to Diamond Beach in Iceland is FREE but you do have to pay for parking which is about $8 for 3 hours.

Parking here includes parking to Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon too, so make sure you don’t pay twice.

We noticed cameras that check each car to see how long they’ve been here for and if they paid. Save yourself a ticket and just pay the $8 parking fee.

Diamond Beach Iceland: Is It Worth Going?

A 10-hour drive or having to stay in Vik for a couple of days JUST to see this beach… is it actually worth it?

Diamond Beach Iceland is truly a one-of-a-kind experience, just seeing the black sand beach with the ice crashing against the shore was one of the coolest sights to see. However…

there really isn’t THAT much to do once you get there besides to take a few pictures and take in the view. Plus, if you’re only exploring Reykjavik, or don’t have too many days in Iceland, it can be a bit of a pain to get to.

But still, If I had to tell a friend or do it all over again, I highly highly recommend checking it out and driving all the way here to see this one-of-a-kind view.

Besides, when the next time you'll be back in Iceland?

And there you have it! Everything you need to know about the Diamond Beach Iceland, from how to get there, what to bring, how much it costs, and if it’s actually worth it to go. I hope this guide prepared you for everything you need to know, have an amazing time!