Danger
While Reynisfjara Beach is one of the most beautiful places in Iceland and a very popular destination on the country’s scenic South Coast, it is also dangerous if you do not know the hazards or follow safety precautions.
Reynisfjara Beach is known for very powerful surf and sneaker waves.
Reynisfjara Beach looks out onto the open North Atlantic Ocean, and some of the tallest waves on earth have been recorded here. Respect the surf and stay well above the water line.
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Sneaker waves are a big danger at Reynisfjara Beach
Even more dangerous than the high surf are the sneaker waves (rogue waves) that can catch unsuspecting travelers by surprise at Reynisfjara Beach.
Sneaker waves are more powerful waves that occur in between much smaller waves, with no predictable pattern. They gather even more steam as they approach shore and can knock people on the shore to the ground and drag them out to sea as they retreat.
Currents in the ocean then pull you even farther from shore and hypothermia sets in rapidly, making it almost impossible to return to shore or be rescued alive.
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Stay in the safety zones at Reynisfjara Beach
Knowing that the beach is susceptible to sneaker waves and dangerous currents, a warning system with flashing lights has been set up at Reynisfjara Beach.
When the red light is on, you need to stay out of the red “danger” zone. That is, you MUST stay behind the red light. Similarly, when the yellow light is on, stay behind the yellow light.
The last three drownings at Reynisfjara Beach have all occurred in the area by the basalt columns and all when the light was flashing yellow.
While authorities are evaluating whether to lower the threshold for the lights to flash red, always exercise an abundance of caution. No amount of natural beauty is worth your safety.
Sadly, you will see travelers walk right past the warning signs and lights to the water’s edge. Do not assume that it’s safe just because you see other people by the water. Read and respect the signs — they are there because many travelers have perished here.
The best way to safely enjoy the beauty of Reynisfjara Beach is to stay well back from the water line. If you are traveling with kids, keep them close.
There is no lifeguard at Reynisfjara Beach!
Even is the weather is nice and the waters appear calm, do not be fooled. A sneaker wave can appear out of nowhere. And never turn your back on the ocean.
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Can you swim at Reynisfjara Beach?
Needless to say, do not even think about swimming (or even dipping your toes in) at Reynisfjara Beach.
The surf is dangerous most of the time, the water is ice-cold, and there is always the potential for sneaker waves.
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Be aware of rockfalls
Also, if you choose to explore the cliffs at the eastern end of the beach, be aware of the potential for rockfalls. The basalt columns look like great spots to pose for photos but may be slippery.
If you choose to enter one of the caves or walk the beach beyond the cliffs, consult the tide charts and only go at low tide.
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