The Best Things To Do On The Snaefellsnes Peninsula

The Snæfellsnes Peninsula extends 55 miles (88.5 km) into the Atlantic Ocean and is located 2 hours from Reykjavik. Here you’ll find incredible views which encapsulate many of Iceland’s varying landscapes within one small region.

You could easily spend days exploring the area, and most spend at least two here. However, if you’re limited on time, a day trip from Reykjavik is possible and will give you a glimpse at the highlights.

Read on for the best things to do on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula.

the best things to do on the snaefellsnes peninsula iceland church — A mood day on the the Snæfellsnes Peninsula

The Best Things To Do On The Snæfellsnes Peninsula

Visit Kirkjufell Mountain

Kirkjufell mountain means “church mountain” thanks to it’s steeple-like shape. This is one of Iceland’s most photographed locations and one of the best things to do on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. Kirkjufellsfoss waterfall perfectly frames this unique mountain drawing in thousands of visitors to snap photos of their own.

Fun Fact: This was a popular Game of Thrones filming location.

Kirkjufellsfoss waterfall is accessible just a short walk from the parking lot. The lot requires a fee which can be paid on your phone, there are no services on site.

small-waterfall-with-cone-shaped-green-mountain-in-near-background-hikers-in-distance-sunny-day — Kirkjufell Mountain – The best things to do on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula

Visit Skarðsvík Beach on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula

Skarðsvík is a golden, sandy beach surrounded by grassy volcanic rock. The bright sand is a stark contrast from Iceland’s typically moody, black sand beaches.

Note: As with most beaches in Iceland the waves here can be very aggressive, it is advised to leave ample space between you and the water.

Part of the fun in visiting this beach is driving the narrow, winding road that has excellent views of Snæfellsjökull Glacier and grassy lava fields. The short drive takes you from Route 54 to the free parking lot. Once you’ve parked the beach is just a short walk away, there are no services on site.

the best things to do on the snaefellsnes peninsula iceland beach — Skarðsvík – The best things to do on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula

Berserkjahraun Lava Feilds

One of the most beautiful features of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula is the mossy Berserkjahraun lava fields. I think Skarðsvík Beach is especially worth a visit thanks to it’s excellent views of the sprawling lava field with the grand volcano/ glacier in the background.

large-snow-covered-mountains-with-green-lava-field-in-forefront-iceland — Berserkjahraun Lava Field – The best things to do on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula

Climb Saxhóll Crater On The Snæfellsnes Peninsula

This is one of the most popular craters on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula thanks to it’s accessibility. The 325 foot (100 m) crater was formed by a volcanic explosion 3-4,000 years ago and resulted in a huge lava field which now surrounds the area.

The top of Saxhóll offers an excellent vantage point of the peninsula tip — with the stunning Snæfellsjökull glacier to the east and the Atlantic ocean to the west and north.

Parking is free and the crater is a quick 5 minute climb up a metal staircase. There are no services on site

best things to do Snaefellsnes peninsula saxholl crater — The best things to do on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula – Saxhóll Crater

Chase Waterfalls On The Snæfellsnes Peninsula

Like much of Iceland, the Snæfellsnes Peninsula is home to some impressive waterfalls. Many of which can be viewed with minimal effort.

We spotted the beautiful Bjarnarfoss waterfall from the highway and couldn’t believe such a beautiful site was located in someone’s backyard. You can park and take a short hike to the falls or simply snap a picture from the car park if you’re short on time.

The Best Waterfalls On The Snæfellsnes Peninsula

Bjarnarfoss
Kvernárfoss
Grundarfoss
Baejarfoss
Klukkufoss

snowy-mountain-and-tall-waterfall-flowing-from-lush-green-plateau-waterfall-is-in-somebodys-backyard — Bjarnarfoss – The best things to do on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula

Admire The Arnarstapi Coast

How can I put into words the beauty of the Arnarstapi Coast? The dramatic coastal cliffs are characterized by basalt columns, natural rock arches, and offshore sea stacks. The shoreline was formed by successive lava flows and today is sculpted by the relentless and harsh waves of the North Atlantic.

Tip: Be sure to snap a picture of stunning Gatklettur Arch, just a short walk from the main observation deck.

You could spend hours here, mesmerized by the raucous waves pummeling the cliffside coast.

Arnarstapi Coast Viewpoint

The Arnarstapi Coast Viewpoint has a free parking lot. You’ll know you’re there when you spot a huge stone statue of what appears to be a troll. The main observation deck is a short walk from here.

There were no public restrooms on site, but there are a few restaurants in the immediate vicinity.

To break from the crowds take a walk along the steep coastline. There’s a 1.5 mile (2.4 km) trail that connects Arnarstapi to Hellnar.

Tip: If you enjoy the sweeping views of the Arnarstapi Coast also consider visiting Londrangar Viewpoint.

large-waves-on-cliff-coastline-lush-green-grass-blue-water-on-rocky-coast-sunny-day-Snæfellsnes-peninsula-Arnarstapi-coast-viewpoint — The best things to do on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula – Arnarstapi Coast

Visit Búðakirkja – The Black Church Of Búðir In Iceland

Visiting the Búðakirkja church is one of the most popular things to do on the to the Snæfellsnes Peninsula due to it’s jet black exterior, remote location, and jaw-dropping backdrop. The church, which resides in the hamlet of Búðir, is located in a lava field at the westernmost tip of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. This area offers both breathtaking mountain and ocean backdrops side-by-side.

The original church was built in 1703 and was most recently reconstructed in 1987. On site you’ll find a small historic graveyard as well as relics from the original building, such as a bell and chalice.

dramatic-wooden-church-painted-jet-black-with-white-doors-and-windows-sits-on-bright-green-lawn-with-snowy-peaks-and-bright-blue-sky-in-background-Búðakirkja-black-church-of-Búðir — The best things to do on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula – Búðakirkja

Watch For Seals At Ytri Tunga Beach

The sandy beaches and large, algae covered rocks of the southern Snæfellsnes Peninsula are a perfect resting spots for seals. They can be spotted sunning and lounging in the area year-round but are most commonly seen in June and July.

Sometimes the seals are near the parking lot, other times you have to walk quite a way to get a good view.

Note: The beach is rocky and covered in seagrass so it can be slippery and difficult to walk on.

The beach is located a short distance off Route 54, there’s a small parking lot with no services.

things to do Snaefellsnes peninsula seals — Seals at Ytri Beach
Photo Credit: Aurelie Hilbert

Explore The Peninsula’s Lighthouses

On a peninsula that extends 55 miles (88.5 km) into the ocean it’s no surprise there are a handful of lighthouses around. Many of them are adorned in bright colors and offer excellent views of the north Atlantic Ocean.

The most popular lighthouse on the peninsula is Svörtuloft. This bright orange lighthouse is located at the westernmost part of the peninsula.

Additional Lighthouses On The Snæfellsnes Peninsula

Súgandisey Island Lighthouse
Malarrif Lighthouse
Öndverðarnesviti
Grótta Island Lighthouse
Old Akranes Lighthouse

the best things to do on the snaefellsnes peninsula iceland lighthouse — The best things to do on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula – Malarrifsviti Lighthouse

Gerðuberg Cliffs

On the south eastern edge of the peninsula you’ll find hundreds of basalt columns stretching about half a mile (1 km). The oddly symmetrical gray columns reach as high as 46 feet tall (14 m).

These unique, pillar like shapes are caused by rapid cooling of lava. Here, streams of lava ran off the cliffs where the ocean rapidly cooled them, creating the magnificent columns we see today.

The cliffs are best viewed from below. There’s a parking lot about a half mile (1 km) off Highway 54. From there the basalt columns are just a short walk, you can then follow a trail along the cliff for as long as you’d like

things to do Snaefellsnes peninsula gerduberg cliffs — Gerðuberg Cliffs

Snæfellsnes National Park

Snæfellsnes National Park revolves around the 700,000 year old 4,744 feet tall (1446 meter) stratovolcano covered in glacier and surrounded by mossy lava fields, eventually extending down to the coast.

Snæfellsnes National Park covers much of the peninsula so it’s likely you’ll make a stop without even realizing. This is one of the top things to do on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula.

Things To Do In Snæfellsnes National Park

Tour Vatnshellir Lava Tubes — tours required and should be booked in advance.
Explore Djúpalónssandur black pebble beach.
Enjoy the golden sands of Skarðsvík Beach — A rare sight in a country full of black sand beaches.
Hike Eldborg Crater.
Marvel at Lóndrangar basalt cliffs — beware of elves in the area.
Explore Snæfellsjokull Glacier.

the best things to do on the snaefellsnes peninsula iceland glacier volcano — The best things to do on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula – Snæfellsnes National Park

Visit Stykkisholmur

Stykkisholmur is the largest town on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula and is perfect for a quiet afternoon spent exploring the city. The Stykkisholmur Harbor has great views of the Súgandisey Island Lighthouse with colorful sailboats in the foreground. Relaxing here is one of my favorite things to do on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula.

If you’re spending a few days in the area you can take a ferry from here to Westfjords, Flatey Island or take a boat tour and explore the beautiful surrounding area.

Things To Do In Stykkisholmur

Stykkisholmur Swimming Pool
Picnic On Súgandisey Island
Curious Art
Visit The sci-fi-like Stykkishólmskirkja Church
Climb Bjarnarhafnarfjall Mountain

geysir geothermal field iceland golden circle route — The best things to do on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula

Bjarnarhöfn Shark Museum

The museum is ran by a Bjarnarhöfn family known for the curing of Icelandic shark – specifically the Greenland Shark.

The folksy museum depicts the history of the family and shark fishing history. It will keep you entertained for hours with it’s wide variety of shark fishing articles and information.

If you’re feeling bold you can taste the fermented shark while you’re here followed by a shot of Icelandic schnapps Brennivin, of course.

If you enjoy the museum be sure to also check out the Maritime Museum.

If You Have More Time Also Consider:

Drive The Mountain Road Of Route 56
Drink The Spring Water Of Ölkelda Mineral Spring
Lýsuhólslaug Swimming Pool
Spot Puffins

oceanside-cliff-with-mountain-in-background-lush-green-hikers-in-distance-sunny-day-things-to-do-Snæfellsnes-peninsula — The best things to do on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula

As you can see there’s no shortage of excellent things to do on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. Have you been? Did I miss any must-see spots? Please leave a comment below or reach out on social media!

Looking for more ideas? Check out my additional Iceland guides below or head on over to Visit Iceland!

16 Things To Do On The Snæfellsnes Peninsula For An Epic Iceland Adventure