Black Sand Beach

"Reynisfjara (the black sand beach) is another one of Iceland's locations that seems to be from a different planet altogether. Paid parking is available right next to the beach. From here it is just a short walk to the beach which is covered in black sand as a result of volcanic eruptions. Besides the black sand, other attractions at the black beach include the basalt columns, just like the ones from Stuðlagil Canyon, which have formed from the slow cooling of thick lava flows, and the Reynisdrangar Sea Stacks (just off the shore). This is an incredible location that contains some of the wonders that make Iceland such a unique place. Just make sure you heed the warning about sneaker waves at the black sand beach. It may seem like your average beach, but sneaker waves are known to randomly occur and come up much higher than previous waves, returning to the sea with a very powerful undercurrent that can sweep people away. Just try to never turn your back to the beach and stay aware. Cost: Free Parking: 1000 ISK in the first lot right next to the beach or 750 ISK in the second lot further up the road, about a 2 minute walk from the beach. You pay for parking through the Parka app. "

"🤩 Vik's black sand beach is such a stunner. 🚗 Free parking in the lot behind the plaza with Icewear and Krónan grocery store. 🚶Spend a little time, walking across the black sand. 🌊 Be weary of sneaker waves and don't get too close to the water’s edge. 🌊 Out in the sea to the west, you'll see the Reynisdrangar, spiky sea stacks that jut out from the ocean. 🌋 They were formed from basalt, which is rapidly cooled lava. 🧌 There are many stories and legends about these sea stacks, all of them are about trolls. 🐧 During the summer, at the west end of the beach, you may also see puffins nesting on the cliffs or floating in the water. 📸 PHOTOGRAPHY NOTES: 🏖️ The beach is a great spot in the morning while the sun is still in the east. 📷 You can get good pictures of the sea stacks, black beach and surrounding mountains. ⛪️ And a different of the little white church up on the hill. ⏰ HOURS: Always open."

"Víkurfjara Beach, often bathed in the shadow of its more famous neighbor Reynisfjara, is a secret gem waiting to be explored on Iceland's South Coast . Made of the same jet-black sand, a result of volcanic eruptions, Víkurfjara offers a dramatic and beautiful coastline experience with a few distinct advantages. Unlike Reynisfjara, which can get crowded, Víkurfjara offers a more relaxed and serene atmosphere. Perfect for those seeking a quieter experience to soak in the beauty of the Icelandic landscape. Víkurfjara boasts the same impressive Reynisdrangar sea stacks as its neighbor, standing tall and dramatic just off the shore. These basalt rock formations add a touch of legend and mystery to the scene."