Iceland’s Blue Lagoon is one of those places that ends up on almost everyone’s bucket list. It’s on Instagram, in travel magazines, and usually features near the top of “must-see” itineraries. For LGBTQ+ travellers, though, it’s not just about ticking off a famous spa. The real question is: will it feel genuinely welcoming, comfortable, and safe?
The good news is that the Blue Lagoon — much like Iceland itself — has a reputation for inclusivity and openness. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect as a gay visitor, along with some practical advice on tickets, timing, and nearby hotels.
Is the Blue Lagoon Gay-Friendly?
In short: yes, completely.
Iceland is consistently ranked as one of the most LGBTQ-friendly countries in the world. Same-sex marriage has been legal since 2010, Reykjavík hosts one of Europe’s biggest Pride events relative to its size, and the general attitude is open and accepting.
That inclusive mindset carries over to the Blue Lagoon. Staff are professional and used to visitors from around the globe, so same-sex couples booking treatments or showing affection won’t raise eyebrows. The clientele is a mix of tourists and Icelanders, and while it’s not a gay venue specifically, you can expect a safe, relaxed environment.
What to Expect as an LGBTQ+ Visitor
The facilities are modern, well-kept, and designed with international travellers in mind. Changing rooms are divided by gender, but there are private cubicles for showering and dressing if you prefer more privacy.
Once you’re in the water, the atmosphere is friendly but laid-back. Most people are too focused on enjoying the warm silica-rich water, sipping a drink from the in-pool bar, or snapping photos against the steam to notice anyone else. Couples of all kinds blend in without fuss, and booking a couples’ massage or spa add-on as a same-sex pair is perfectly normal.
If you’re travelling solo, you’ll also feel at ease. The Lagoon is sociable enough that you might chat with fellow travellers, but spacious enough that you can float away and enjoy the stillness if that’s more your style.
Why Visit the Blue Lagoon?
Aside from its status as an Instagram favourite, there are a few solid reasons the Blue Lagoon is worth considering:
- Location: It’s conveniently close to Keflavík Airport (20 minutes) and Reykjavík (45 minutes).
- Facilities: Modern changing areas, spa treatments, a bar, and restaurants.
- All-season appeal: Snow in winter, midnight sun in summer — it’s a striking setting at any time of year.
The Lagoon is man-made but fed by natural geothermal waters from a nearby power plant. That blend of modern design and natural elements is part of its unique draw.
Best Time to Visit the Blue Lagoon
When you go can change the experience dramatically. Mornings are often quieter and better for photography, while afternoons tend to be livelier with tour groups. Evenings can be especially atmospheric in winter, with the steam rising into the cold air and, if you’re lucky, a glimpse of the Northern Lights above.
As for the seasons, summer means nearly 24 hours of daylight, so you could be bathing at 11pm in broad daylight. Winter is colder outside, but magical in the snow. Spring and autumn strike a nice balance with fewer crowds and milder prices.
Ticket Options and Pricing
It’s important to book ahead — tickets typically sell out weeks in advance during busy periods. Here’s a simplified look at the three main ticket categories:
| Ticket Type | Includes | Typical Price (per adult) |
|---|---|---|
| Comfort | Entrance, silica mud mask, towel, and one drink | From £61 |
| Premium | Everything in Comfort + additional masks, slippers, bathrobe, and a second drink. | From £79 |
| Signature | Premium + skin care products to take home (valued at £89) | From £101 |
| Retreat Spa | 5-hour exclusive access to retreat spa, including eight subterranean spaces, a private changing room, and access to the spa restaurant. | From £482 |
Prices vary by season and demand, so check current rates before booking.
My recommendation
Depending on budget, I’d buy the Premium package. For only a little extra cash you get extra mud masks, and more importantly, a bath robe and slippers for walking around the lagoon—which is essential from a hygiene point of view. Plus, you get a reservation at the restaurant for the perfect end to a perfect day.
Where to Stay Nearby
Most visitors base themselves in Reykjavík and visit the Lagoon as a half-day trip, but there are options closer by if you’d prefer to stay overnight.
The Retreat Hotel at the Blue Lagoon is the obvious luxury choice, with suites that come with private lagoon access. The Northern Light Inn, just a short drive away, is more affordable and cosy, with views over the lava fields. Reykjavík itself has plenty of gay-friendly hotels ranging from boutique stays to large international chains, and staying in the capital gives you access to the nightlife and dining scene too.
Travel Tips
The Lagoon’s water is rich in silica, which is fantastic for your skin but less kind to your hair. Condition well before and after, and don’t skip the free conditioner provided in the showers. Swimwear is required, and while you can rent if needed, bringing your own is more comfortable.
Everything from drinks at the in-pool bar to spa treatments can be charged to your electronic wristband, which also locks and unlocks your locker. It’s handy to bring flip-flops, particularly in colder months, for moving between the buildings and the pools. Phones and cameras are allowed, but waterproof pouches will save you worrying about accidents.
Alternatives to the Blue Lagoon
If you like the idea of geothermal bathing but not the crowds, there are several other hot spring options worth considering. The Sky Lagoon, just outside Reykjavík, has dramatic ocean views and a slightly more upscale feel. In the north, the Myvatn Nature Baths offer a quieter, more local experience. The Secret Lagoon in Flúðir, one of Iceland’s oldest swimming pools, provides a rustic alternative with fewer frills but plenty of charm.
These aren’t necessarily replacements for the Blue Lagoon, but they offer a different atmosphere if you’d prefer something less touristy.
Should you visit the Blue Lagoon in Iceland?
The reality is that the Blue Lagoon welcoming for everyone, regardless of whom you travel with. Iceland’s inclusive culture means you won’t have to second-guess if you’ll feel comfortable. Whether you’re there as a couple, solo traveller, or with a group of friends, it’s a safe and enjoyable experience that deserves its bucket-list reputation.
If you’re planning a trip, book ahead, bring conditioner, and allow enough time to soak in both the Lagoon and Iceland’s wider culture. And if you’d like more LGBTQ+ travel tips, don’t forget to sign up for updates — there are plenty more LGBTQ+ destinations to explore!
FAQs
Is the Blue Lagoon in Iceland gay-friendly?
Yes. The Blue Lagoon, like most of Iceland, is inclusive and safe for LGBTQ+ travellers. Couples of all kinds are common, and staff are welcoming and professional.
Do you have to be naked in the Blue Lagoon?
No. Swimwear is required, and private showers and changing cubicles are available for anyone who prefers more privacy.
When is the best time of year to visit the Blue Lagoon?
It depends on what you’re after. Summer offers long daylight hours, while winter brings snowy landscapes and a chance to see the Northern Lights. Spring and autumn are quieter and often cheaper.
