3 Best Sights in Vík, Reykjanes Peninsula and the South Coast (with the Golden Circle)

Take Route 215 for 5 km (3 miles) to reach the popular black-sand beach, Reynisfjara, located on the western side of Reynisfjall. The surrounding cliffs are the home to thousands of puffins in the summer, as well as arctic terns and fulmars. The dramatic splattering of the explosive waves on the obsidian black beach is a thrill to watch, but for safety reasons visitors must stay far from the edge of the water. The waves off Reynisfjara can rise quickly, sweeping people up in seconds, which has resulted in many accidents and even deaths. Offshore are the towering basalt sea stacks, Reynisdrangar. Their silhouette is seen from both Vík and Reynisfara.

Not far from Vík is a small island (connected to the main body of Iceland) with a shallow inland lagoon filled with seabirds and a massive sea archway, 120 meters (394 feet) high, stretching out into the sea. At Dyrahólaey you will also find a spectacular white lighthouse, the southernmost tip of Iceland.

Vík's Lava Show brings Iceland's fiery volcanism to life, sans the chaos and danger, by pouring actual lava, heated to 1,100°C (2,000°F), right in front of your eyes. Feel the warmth as you delve into the science of volcanoes, tectonics, and Iceland's unique geology. Kids will particularly enjoy this performance, though it's still a treat for any age.