The Ultimate Guide to Iceland’s South Coast

How Much Time Do You Need?

Well, the South Coast is jam-packed with incredible sights, so it’s worth taking your time to soak everything in. Here’s the scoop on what you can squeeze into different kinds of itineraries:

2-3 Days

Running on a tight schedule? No worries. The South Coast is straightforward—most sights are right off the Ring Road. In 2-3 days, you can reach Höfn and loop back to Reykjavík. Just save a few spots for the return trip—there’s only one road.

4-5 Days

If you have a little extra time, great! This lets you go all the way to Höfn at a more relaxed pace. Spend a night at Skaftafell Nature Reserve and explore its incredible hiking trails. You’ll have time to linger for epic sunsets, dip into hidden hot springs, or follow spontaneous detours.

6-7 Days or More

With a week or more you can take it slow and savor everything like a local. Discover quieter towns, tackle longer hikes like the breathtaking Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon, and unwind at campsites where you can share stories around the fire with fellow travelers.

Campervan Travel Basics (Campsites, Gas Stops, and Groceries)

The campsites below combine gorgeous locations with great facilities, so you can rest easy and wake up ready for the next leg of your road trip.

Campsites You Can’t Miss

• Hveragerði Campsite: A perfect first-night stop if you’re leaving Reykjavík later in the day. Enjoy easy access to geothermal hot springs nearby!
• Skógar Campsite (near Skógafoss): Fancy falling asleep to the thunder of a waterfall? At this site, you’re just a short walk from the iconic Skógafoss. Set your alarm early to beat the crowds.
• Skaftafell Campsite: Located inside Skaftafell Nature Reserve, this place is a dream for outdoor lovers. It’s the starting point for incredible hikes, including the trail to Svartifoss waterfall.
• Kirkjubæjarklaustur Campsite: This underrated gem is surrounded by lush, peaceful landscapes, making it a great place to recharge before hitting the road again.
• Höfn Campsite: Ideally located near Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon and Diamond Beach, this campsite is the perfect base for exploring southeast Iceland.

Wherever you decide to park, be ready for jaw-dropping views and the kind of memories you’ll probably tell everyone about the second you get home!

Gas Stops and Groceries

Running out of gas is the last kind of adventure you want on the South Coast. Luckily, you’re covered. Gas stations are scattered generously along the route, especially near towns like Selfoss, Vik, and Höfn.

Most stations double as snack stops, offering Grab-and-Go hot food and mini-marts for picking up the essentials. But if you’re planning for a full-on campervan pantry stock-up, swing by Bonus or Krónan in Selfoss. Trust me, your wallet will thank you.

Top Sights Along the South Coast

The South Coast isn’t just a drive. It’s a treasure trove of natural wonders. Here’s your ultimate guide to the must-see stops (and a couple of hidden gems):

Reykjadalur Valley

Ever soaked in a hot spring river? Reykjadalur makes it possible. Just behind the town of Hveragerði, you’ll find the trailhead for this magical spot. It’s about an hour’s hike into the mountains to reach the warm waters, but the journey is half the fun. Summer days can get crowded, so either rise with the sun or take advantage of Iceland’s endless daylight and go late. Bonus: there’s a great campsite in Hveragerði if you want to stay close.

Seljalandsfoss Waterfall

Seljalandsfoss is often the first waterfall visitors encounter, and it doesn’t disappoint. Cascading off the highlands, it’s the one you can walk behind (just not in icy conditions). The misty spray and roaring sound set the tone for your Icelandic adventure. Parking here costs about 700 ISK, so keep some coins handy. And don’t miss Gljúfrabúi, a hidden gem just a short walk away, tucked inside a canyon.

Eyjafjallajökull

Remember the volcano that stopped air traffic in 2010? That’s Eyjafjallajökull. While you can only catch glimpses of its glacier cap on clear days, the nearby "Eyjafjallajökull Erupts" exhibition on the Ring Road is worth a stop. It’s a fascinating dive into the eruption that made this tongue-twisting name world-famous.

Seljavallalaug Pool

Iceland’s oldest man-made swimming pool, Seljavallalaug, is more about the vibe than the swim. Geothermally heated (but only slightly), it’s tucked into a valley at the foot of Eyjafjallajökull. Take Road 242, park at the end, and enjoy a 30-minute walk to this hidden gem. The setting? Absolutely worth it.

Skógafoss Waterfall

Skógafoss is the showstopper of Icelandic waterfalls with its sheet of water crashing down full-force. You’ll actually be in awe by it all. Arrive early to beat the crowds, or better yet, camp nearby and catch the falls at sunrise. Feeling adventurous? Climb the steep staircase to the top for a view that’s worth every burning muscle.

Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach

Reynisfjara isn’t your average beach (I know, you’ve heard that before, but it’s true!). Its black volcanic sands, towering basalt columns, and dramatic sea stacks make it otherworldly. No wonder it’s been featured in Game of Thrones and Star Wars. But beware of sneaker waves…they’re as dangerous as they are unpredictable. So just stick to the basalt columns for your photos and keep a safe distance from the water.

Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon

This snaking canyon, with its moss-covered cliffs, is straight out of a fantasy. Thanks to Justin Bieber’s "I’ll Show You" music video, it’s become a hotspot, but that’s also led to environmental damage. The canyon is sometimes closed for restoration, so if it’s open, tread carefully and stick to the marked paths to help preserve its beauty.

Skaftafell Nature Reserve

Nestled below the mighty Vatnajökull Glacier, Skaftafell is a hiker’s paradise. The short trail to Svartifoss, with its striking basalt columns, is a must, but if you have time, explore the longer trails for glacier views and unique perspectives. The campsite near the visitor center is a great base for your adventures.

Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon & Diamond Beach

What you’ll get with Jökulsárlón is nature’s art gallery, with icebergs floating serenely across its glassy waters. Just a short walk away, Diamond Beach showcases these icy sculptures against black sand, creating a scene that’s both surreal and stunning. Visit early for pastel skies or stick around for a sunset that feels like a painting come to life.

Dyrhólaey Peninsula

If you’re after a hidden gem, then Dyrhólaey won’t disappoint. Think dramatic cliffs, sweeping ocean vistas, and puffins galore during summer. The gravel road to the top is steep, but the panoramas are worth every nerve-wracking moment. From here, you’ll get a bird’s-eye view of Reynisfjara and the endless horizon beyond.

Kvernufoss Waterfall

Just a short hike from Skógafoss, Kvernufoss is the quieter, more serene sibling. The trail winds through a lush meadow and ends at a stunning cascade you can walk behind. It’s a peaceful escape from the crowds, so take your time and soak in the tranquility.

Towns to Stop By

The South Coast is sprinkled with charming towns that each have their own vibe, from bustling hubs to quiet hideaways. Here’s your cheat sheet for the best places to pull over and explore.

Hveragerði

There’s something about the steam rising from geothermal vents that makes Hveragerði feel like a magical hot spring village–and honestly, it kind of is. Stroll the Reykjadalur trail for a dip in a natural hot river, or wander around the greenhouses growing everything from tomatoes to bananas (yep, bananas in Iceland). Not to mention a few great museums too!

Selfoss

If you need to restock or refuel, Selfoss has it all. Load up on groceries at Bonus or grab a top-tier coffee at Kaffi Krús, where the vibe is as good as the caffeine hit. Chess nerd? Don’t miss the Bobby Fischer Museum, a quirky tribute to the world-renowned chess champ that’ll inspire you to start practicing your checkmates.

Vik

Vik is easily one of Iceland’s most popular towns. As the southernmost point on the mainland (excluding the Westman Islands), it serves as a bustling crossroads for travelers navigating the Ring Road. Just off its coast, three striking sea stacks rise dramatically from the ocean—local legend claims they’re trolls turned to stone by the rising sun. For panoramic views of the town and coastline, head up to the church, where you’ll also find the peaceful town cemetery.

Kirkjubæjarklaustur

Small but mighty, this peaceful village is full of surprises. Check out the nearby Kirkjugólf basalt floor–formed naturally, but you can still pretend it’s an ancient Viking ballroom. Don’t miss the waterfalls dotted around the area; they might not be famous, but they definitely deliver on the wow factor. The town is home to one of the country’s most beautiful campsites. Also of interest is the Skaftareldahraun, an impressive lava field covered in moss.

Höfn

Höfn isn’t just a foodie town; it’s a lobster-lover’s paradise. Treat yourself to fresh langoustine at the popular Pakkhús Restaurant, where the seafood is straight from the ocean to your plate. Beyond the delicious dishes, you’ll find sublime glacier views and trails perfect for getting those post-dinner steps in. If you’re driving the southeast, Höfn is a no-brainer for a pit stop.

Hella and Hvolsvöllur

Most travelers breeze through Hella and Hvolsvöllur, maybe pausing for a quick hot dog at a service station. But these towns have more to offer than a pit stop—they’re key hubs for buses heading into Landmannalaugar. If you’re planning to explore this enchanting slice of the highlands, the campsites here make a great spot to park your campervan for a day or two while you hop on the bus and dive into the adventure.

Flúðir

Slip slightly north of the Ring Road, and you’ll discover Flúðir, a cozy farming town that boasts Iceland’s Secret Lagoon. Less touristy than the Blue Lagoon, this geothermal treasure is as serene as it gets. Pair it with a snack run for some locally grown tomatoes and your taste buds will love it!

Final Tips for Campervan Travelers

• Pack Smart: Layers, rain gear, and a solid sleeping bag aren’t just luxuries–they’re survival tools. Iceland’s weather doesn’t care what the forecast says.
• Book Campsites Early: Popular spots like Vik and Skaftafell fill up fast, especially in summer. Early birds don’t just get the worm; they get the campsite.
• Play by the Rules: Stick to marked trails, avoid parking in random roadside pull-offs (seriously, the fines hurt way more than they should), and respect warning signs at dangerous beaches.
• Slow Down: This isn’t a race. Savor your coffee, soak in the views, and enjoy the serenity of Iceland’s vast, untamed beauty.

Why You’ll Never Forget the South Coast

A campervan road trip down Iceland’s South Coast is the kind of epic adventure that stays with you long after your trip ends. From hidden gems to iconic landmarks, every stop feels like discovering a new layer of magic. Plus, with the freedom to travel at your own pace, you get to create a story that feels uniquely yours. Bring your sense of wonder, your camera, and your appetite for adventure. Iceland’s South Coast promises memories that’ll keep you smiling for years.