Iceland remains one of the go-to tourist destinations when it comes to geothermal spas with Sky Lagoon vs Blue Lagoon being the most popular. While both provide a beautiful and calming experience, each has characteristics that distinguish it from the other. If you are thinking about travelling and you can’t decide which lagoon to visit, here is a comparison between them in terms of the water temperature to value for money, and more.
Sky Lagoon is best fitted for a calmer and cosier atmosphere, while Blue Lagoon is famous for a larger spa destination.
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The History of the Lagoons
Blue Lagoon can be dated back to 1992, and indeed over the period it has gained a lot popularity and is among the famous tourist attractions in Iceland. Its man-made lagoon has sea water that is known to have healing effects due to its mineral content. Sky Lagoon is comparatively newer, as it started its operation in 2021. This geothermal spa is even more natural and has an aesthetic that represents the physical features of Iceland compared to the other one.
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Lagoon Locations
Blue Lagoon is situated in the Reykjanes Peninsula, only a twenty-minute drive from Keflavik International Air Port which is convenient for most air travellers especially those with long lay over or those that may want to spend a vacation in the area. Sky Lagoon is located slightly outside the main part of Reykjavik and would be easier for those who are in the city at the moment. The views at both sites are remarkable, however, we can notice that Sky Lagoon is positioned on the cliff of the Atlantic Ocean, which is beneficial for fans of the nature view.
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Experience and Features
» Which is better: Sky Lagoon vs Blue Lagoon?
I think Sky Lagoon is better than Blue Lagoon if one is looking for more privacy and a smaller crowd.
This depends on what you are searching for. Sky Lagoon is comparatively less crowded and quiet compared to Blue Lagoon, which is rather a resort with a lot of services. If you’re looking for a natural and quiet place that involves a lagoon, Sky Lagoon would be your ideal destination.
» Is the Sky Lagoon as good as the Blue Lagoon?
Both are good, but the Sky Lagoon stands out for its modern design. On the other hand, Blue Lagoon is by far famous globally, it has milky-blue waters and volcanic landscape.
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Value for Money
Both lagoons are not inexpensive, though the costs differ based on the packages and options for the experience. Many guests find that the Sky Lagoon’s seven-step ritual enhances the experience and that the place to offer tremendous value for the money. Blue Lagoon has several packages from standard to premium, but it can be considered more of a resort, which is not for every traveller.
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The Changing Rooms
That comes as no surprise as the changing rooms are modern and stylish in a minimalist Icelandic design. Blue Lagoon has a more traditional design because it is an older property, but the layout is still simple and uncluttered. Sky Lagoon is private as compared to Blue Lagoon which feels quite crowded especially depending on the time of the day.
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The Crowds
If you want to avoid making large crowds, then Sky Lagoon is a better place to visit. Although it is a relatively new and less developed site, it has fewer tourists than the Blue Lagoon, although the number of tourists increases significantly during the summer. If privacy and a less chaotic atmosphere is what you are looking for, then Sky Lagoon does it.
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Water Conditions
» Is Sky Lagoon water hot?
Yes, the water in Sky Lagoon is comfortably hot and Perfect for soaking in Iceland’s cool weather with a water temperature of 38-40°C (100-104 °F).
» Is Blue Lagoon water hot?
Similarly, Blue Lagoon also operates at 37-40°C (98-104°F). It features natural warm water for bathing due to the geothermal activity of the region and the water is in milky-blue colour.
» How deep is Sky Lagoon?
The lagoon has not fixed depth as it varies at different sections but on average, it can be 4 ft (1. 2 m), which is suitable for both standing and floating.
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Visiting Details
Yes, Sky Lagoon is not Opened for children under twelve years of age which is why it is more quiet and serene for adult.
» How long can I stay at Sky Lagoon?
There’s no fix time limit at Sky Lagoon. Visitors usually stay for around 2-3 hours, enjoying the 7-step ritual and soaking in the water.
» How many hours is Sky Lagoon?
People generally spend 2-3 hours in the place to undergone the seven steps of the ritual and to bathe in the water.
» Can you see the aurora from Sky Lagoon?
In winter, Sky Lagoon is a great place to watch the Northern Lights since it is located several meters high above the ground and does not have artificial lighting.
» Do I need flip-flops for Sky Lagoon?
As for the outfit, the flip-flops are not obligatory, although many tourists use them while walking between the changing rooms and the lagoon, even if the temperature is low.
» What time is best to visit Sky Lagoon?
To make your experience even calmer you should visit the Sky Lagoon during the morning or evening time and better to do this during the weekdays.
» Can you enter Blue Lagoon for free?
No, at Blue Lagoon a ticket is needed which covers the water provision as well as basic services. The minimum cost begins with about 50USD dollars for the primary package.
For those who are planning on their tour and want to get much for less of money on their trip to Iceland, check out our Budget Travel Tips for Adventurers for helpful advice.
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Dining at the Lagoons
Yes, both of them have restaurants but, if we compare them then Blue Lagoon provides more options in that the lava restaurant is comparatively expensive. There is also a café situated at Sky Lagoon, so after you relax in the water, you will be able to have a cup of coffee and something to eat.
Final Thoughts
The final verdict ultimately lies in what you consider important. In comparison, if you are looking for something more contemporary, on the quieter side and for a more private experience along with stunning views of the ocean, then Sky Lagoon is preferable. But for Iceland’s best and highly-developed attraction packed with services and choices of tours, the Blue Lagoon remains the best choice. Overall, Blue Lagoon vs Sky Lagoon both are amazing and really, you can’t go wrong with either of them!
For more detailed information, you can visit the following:
» Official Blue Lagoon Website
» Official Sky Lagoon Website.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Sky Lagoon has a 7-step ritual: 1. Slow Soak 2. Cold Plunge 3. Sauna 4. Cold Mist 5. Body Scrub 6. Steam Room 7. Final Shower
Sky Lagoon is located in Iceland, just outside of Reykjavik.
No, Sky Lagoon and Blue Lagoon are different geothermal spas with different experiences.
The water of Blue Lagoon is mineral-rich geothermal seawater which is milky blue in colour and there is a belief that it has healing properties. Sky Lagoon 7 step ritual
Where is Sky Lagoon in which country?
Is Sky Lagoon the same as Blue Lagoon?
What is so special about the Blue Lagoon in Iceland?