Roam with Rhi

There are trips you take… and then there are trips that completely reset your sense of wonder. Our family roadtrip through southern Iceland was firmly the latter. Over nine unforgettable days we explored waterfalls you can walk behind, geysers that erupt on schedule, black sand beaches straight out of a sci-fi movie, and glacier lagoons filled with floating icebergs — all with kids in tow.

Iceland proved to be one of the most family-friendly adventure destinations we’ve ever experienced: easy drives, short walks to major sights, and something magical around every corner.

Here’s how our southern Iceland road trip unfolded, day by day.

Day 1- Arrival, Lava Fields & Our First Geothermal Soak

We officially landed in Iceland buzzing with excitement — and just a little jet lag. Before even leaving the airport, we made a strategic stop at duty free to stock up on some very affordable Icelandic booze (highly recommend doing this before prices skyrocket outside the airport).

From there, we picked up our rental car and downloaded Action Tour Guide, a self-guided driving tour that starts right in the rental car lot. The experience was surprisingly seamless: the route is mapped out, and each point is geolocated, so the audio automatically starts playing as soon as you enter a new area. It instantly turned our drive into an engaging history and geology lesson — and honestly made the long stretches of road far more enjoyable and educational. I can’t recommend this guide enough.

Our first stop was Sandvík Nature Preserve, the perfect place to stretch our legs after a long flight. The kids immediately took off into the dunes, turning the stop into an impromptu game of chase and hide-and-go-seek while we soaked in our first views of Iceland’s rugged coastline.

Next, we headed to the Bridge Between Continents, where the kids couldn’t get enough of running back and forth across the rift separating North America and Europe. It felt surreal — and incredibly fun — to literally straddle two continents minutes after landing.

We continued on to Gunnuhver Hot Springs, walking the wooden boardwalks through steaming vents and bubbling mud pots while learning the spooky folklore of Gunna, the ghostly figure said to haunt the area. Between the dramatic landscape and eerie legends, this stop felt straight out of an Icelandic fairy tale.

Finally, we arrived at the iconic Blue Lagoon. Before hopping into the water, we sat down for lunch at the Blue Lagoon restaurant, which definitely leaned toward the fancy side. While we didn’t feel the food quality quite matched the price, we genuinely enjoyed dining while overlooking the glowing blue water — a view you really can’t beat. Despite the upscale atmosphere, the restaurant was surprisingly kid-friendly, something we truly appreciated.

Of course, family travel keeps things interesting: one of the kids broke a water glass almost immediately after we sat down. A hush fell over the restaurant, and for a moment it felt like the entire room froze. It was pretty embarrassing — but the server handled it with total grace, cleaning it up quickly and kindly, which instantly put us at ease.

After lunch, we changed and finally headed out for our first soak in the Blue Lagoon. Slipping into the warm, milky-blue geothermal water after a long travel day felt incredibly rejuvenating. The kids were obsessed with the frozen blue drinks and had an absolute blast applying the famous silica face masks, floating around looking like tiny spa regulars.

It was the most relaxing and memorable way to kick off our Iceland road trip — and set the tone perfectly for the adventure ahead.

From there, we checked into The Reykjavik EDITION, an upscale but comfortable base for our first nights.

Once settled, we wandered:

• Rainbow Street
• Hallgrímskirkja
• Leif Eriksson Monument
• Grabbed hot dogs from Víkinga Pylsur (a must in Iceland)

It was an easy, gentle first day — exactly what we needed after travel.

Day 2- The Golden Circle (With Ice Cream & Geysers)

We started early with breakfast from the hotel café and hit the road for Iceland’s classic Golden Circle, a loop that’s ideal for families because of its short drives and big payoffs.

Stops included:

• Thingvellir National Park – Walking between tectonic plates where Iceland’s history began
• Laugarvatn Fontana – A highlight for everyone: soaking in geothermal baths and the rye bread tour, where bread is baked underground using geothermal heat
• Efstidalur Farm – Ice cream straight from the source (worth the stop)
• Strokkur Geyser – Erupting every 8–10 minutes, endlessly entertaining for kids
• Gullfoss Waterfall – Powerful, dramatic, and jaw-dropping
• Friðheimar – Tomato-based dishes grown in on-site greenhouses
• Kerið Crater – A vibrant volcanic crater lake you can walk around

Our first stop was Þingvellir National Park, about a 55-minute drive from Reykjavik. We spent a couple of hours walking through the park, taking in the dramatic rocky landscapes while learning about its historical significance. This is where Iceland’s first parliament was established more than 1,000 years ago — and it’s also one of the few places in the world where you can physically walk between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates. The wide paths and open space made it an easy, engaging stop for the kids and a great way to start the day.

From there, we continued on to Laugarvatn Fontana, one of the most memorable highlights of the day. We had booked both the geothermal rye bread tour and time in the thermal baths in advance, and it was absolutely worth it. Watching bread being pulled straight from the ground — baked using natural geothermal heat — felt like a perfect mix of education and novelty. If you’re short on time or traveling with younger kids, this is a “could do” rather than a must-do. After the tour, we soaked in the warm pools overlooking the lake, giving everyone a chance to relax before the afternoon’s sightseeing.We loved soaking in the warm geothermal pools, especially the sauna followed by the exhilarating cold plunge into the lake — an experience the kids loved and kept going back for.

On the way to our next stop, we made a quick (but worthwhile) detour to Efstidalur Farm, where we treated ourselves to fresh, farm-made ice cream. This stop wasn’t essential, but it was a huge hit — and sometimes a mid-day ice cream break is exactly what keeps a family road trip running smoothly.

On the drive toward our next stop, we made a planned detour to Friðheimar, the famous tomato greenhouse restaurant we had been so excited to visit. Unfortunately, it was closed for a wedding that day — which quickly turned into a running joke with the kids about a tomato wedding and tomatoes getting married inside the greenhouse. While we didn’t get to eat there this time, it’s still worth mentioning as a fantastic stop if you’re planning your own Golden Circle day — just be sure to check hours or make a reservation in advance.

Next, we headed to Strokkur Geyser, located in the Geysir geothermal area Strokkur erupts every 8–10 minutes, shooting steaming water high into the air, and it never failed to impress — even after multiple eruptions. The kids counted down each blast and tried to predict how high the next one would go.

By late afternoon, we were ready to start making our way back toward Reykjavik. While we didn’t stop, Skálholt Cathedral and Kerið Crater are both popular optional additions to this Golden Circle route and would be easy to include if you have extra time or are moving at a slower pace.

Day 3- Perlan, Lava Tunnels & Heading South

After two full days exploring Reykjavik and the Golden Circle, we checked out of The Reykjavik EDITION and set our sights on the south. Day 3 combined a mix of city attractions, quirky stops, and our first true adventure into Iceland’s underground lava world.

Our morning started at Perlan, the futuristic glass-domed building perched on Öskjuhlíð hill. We had tickets in our Apple Wallet and spent a couple of hours exploring the interactive exhibits.

The kids loved the indoor ice cave, and it was fascinating to learn about Iceland’s glaciers, volcanos, and geology in such an engaging way. The observation deck offered stunning panoramic views of Reykjavik and the surrounding mountains — a perfect photo opportunity before we hit the road.

From Perlan, we made a brief stop at Costco Iceland to pick up groceries for our airbnb. Yes, Iceland has a Costco, and it’s a surprisingly convenient way to stock up when traveling with kids (so be sure to remember your membership card!).

By early afternoon, we headed to Raufarhólshellir, a massive lava tube just under 2,000 meters long. This was our first real underground adventure of the trip, and it didn’t disappoint. Walking through the cool, echoing tunnels, surrounded by rugged lava formations, felt otherworldly. The kids were full of questions, poking at stalactites and lava flows, and we all marveled at how nature can create such incredible underground landscapes.

Finally we headed toward our South Coast airbnb.

On the way, we passed Black Beach Tours and the Alhestar stables, which are fun optional stops for families: horseback riding, short hikes, or just soaking in the rugged scenery. Another interesting detour is The Geothermal Exhibition, which gives context to Iceland’s incredible energy resources.

Arriving at Skarðshlíð, we settled into our accommodations and took a moment to relax. The property is tucked into lush greenery, with sheep dotting the hillside, little sheep huts built into the rock faces, and fulmars soaring overhead. The kids had endless places to explore — hidden paths, tiny streams, and rocky nooks that felt like a private adventure playground. We later learned that this property was featured in Candide Thovex’s “Ski The World” video — see if you can spot it! It was the perfect combination of tranquility, space, and natural beauty, making it an unforgettable base for exploring the south.

The kids were already looking forward to tomorrow’s waterfalls, black sand beaches, and more Icelandic adventures — and we were excited to have a cozy home base in the south for the next several days.

Day 4- Museums, Hot Cocoa, Hidden Pool & Lava Show in Vík

We woke up ready to explore the dramatic South Coast of Iceland — a region packed with waterfalls, black sand beaches, and scenic surprises around every corner.

Originally, we had planned a full day chasing waterfalls along the South Coast. However, when we woke up to cloudy skies and light rain, we decided to adjust our plans and embrace a cozier day. Sometimes flexibility makes a trip even more memorable — especially with kids.

Our day started at the Skógar Museum, which turned out to be a perfect rainy-day stop. The museum offered a fascinating glimpse into Icelandic history, from traditional turf houses to old farm tools and artifacts. The kids loved the hands-on exhibits, and it was a fun way to learn about Icelandic culture without worrying about the weather .

After exploring the museum, we stopped for hot cocoa at a nearby café — a simple pleasure, but the warm drinks and cozy atmosphere felt like a mini celebration of Iceland’s slower side.

With everyone recharged, we headed to Seljavallalaug Swimming Pool, a hidden gem tucked into the mountains. The hike up to the pool was fun and adventurous, giving the kids a chance to explore the surrounding landscape before even stepping into the water. The pool itself was magical — the steaming geothermal water surrounded by rugged cliffs and flowing rivers felt straight out of a storybook.

That said, the changing rooms were a bit littered with trash, and the water was slightly chilly, so we all stayed huddled near the warm inlets to warm up. For a few minutes, there was one other family there, and then we had the entire place to ourselves — it felt like our own private Icelandic oasis. The kids splashed, explored, and laughed endlessly while we relaxed, soaking in the dramatic scenery.

To cap off the day, we made a short drive to Vík for the Lava Show, a fun, interactive demonstration of Iceland’s volcanic activity. The kids loved seeing molten lava safely up close, and it was educational and entertaining for everyone.

After the show, we grabbed dinner at Black Crust, a local pizzeria in Vík. We weren’t expecting much in Iceland, but the pizza was surprisingly good, with fresh toppings and a perfectly crisp crust — a casual, family-friendly end to a flexible and memorable day.

Day 5- Waterfalls, Icelandic Horses & Vík

After a flexible Day 4 due to rainy weather, we were greeted with a beautiful sunny day on Day 5 — perfect for exploring the South Coast’s iconic scenery.

We started the morning at Seljalandsfoss, a stunning waterfall that you can walk behind. The sun hitting the cascading water made for incredible views and a little rainbow magic for the kids. From there, we took a short walk to Gljúfrabúi, a hidden waterfall tucked behind a rocky canyon. The kids loved exploring the narrow paths and peeking through the misty canyon walls.

On our way toward our next waterfall, we made an impromptu stop at a local horse farm. The kids were thrilled to see the friendly Icelandic horses up close, wandering the pastures and showing off their sturdy, compact builds. It was a magical, unexpected glimpse of rural Iceland.

Next, we stopped at the iconic Skógafoss, one of Iceland’s most famous waterfalls. The sheer power and size of the waterfall were breathtaking, and with the sun shining, we even caught glimpses of rainbows forming in the mist. The kids loved climbing partway up the staircase for a higher vantage point and pretending to be explorers.

Next, we visited Kvernufoss, a quieter waterfall tucked away from the main road. It was peaceful and perfect for the kids to roam around safely while we admired the cascading water. The short, easy trail made it a family-friendly adventure.

By midday, we arrived in Vík for our main stop: Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach. The dramatic black sands, towering basalt columns, and crashing waves were mesmerizing. The kids had a blast running along the shoreline and exploring the unusual rock formations, carefully keeping a safe distance from the powerful sneaker waves.

After the beach, we visited a local wool shop in Vík and picked up some handmade wool souvenirs. The cozy store was filled with Icelandic sweaters, mittens, and hats, and the kids loved learning about the traditional wool-making process while we shopped for keepsakes.

Day 6- Westman Islands, Wildlife & Family Fun

Day 6 was all about adventure on the Westman Islands, and it did not disappoint. We took the ferry from the South Coast over to the islands, excited for a day of wildlife, exploration, and family fun.

Our first stop was the Beluga Whale Sanctuary / Puffin Rescue, where the kids were fascinated by the rescued animals and the work being done to protect them. The sanctuary staff shared insights about the whales and puffins, making it both educational and interactive .

After visiting the sanctuary, we walked around town to soak in the island atmosphere. One of the highlights for the kids was a stop at a local park, where they discovered a giant jumpy blob and a wet hillside perfect for sliding down in their rainpants like a slip-and-slide. Laughter and squeals of joy echoed across the park as the kids repeated the jumps and slides again and again.

For lunch, we headed to Pitsugeroin, a local pizzeria. The pizza was fresh and family-friendly, the perfect fuel after an energetic morning of wildlife visits and outdoor play.

With some time to spare before catching the ferry back to the mainland, we went on a long, windy walk along the cliffs, hoping to spot puffins in the wild. Unfortunately, the puffins had recently gone out to sea, but the dramatic coastline, ocean views, and kids’ imagination made the walk a fun adventure nonetheless.

Before returning to the ferry, we tried our hand at Sprangan, also known as rope swinging, a traditional local sport. Sprangan originated from the practice of islanders climbing cliffs and swinging on ropes to gather seabird eggs. Today, there’s a training area near the harbor where visitors can experience this exhilarating activity for themselves. While participation requires skill and caution, it was a thrilling way for the kids to connect with local history and culture, imagining the daring feats of past islanders.

By the time we returned on the ferry, everyone was tired but happy — Day 6 was a perfect mix of wildlife, active play, and exploration, showing us that even when nature doesn’t cooperate fully, the journey itself can create magical memories.

Day 7- Jökulsárlón, Diamond Beach & Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon

Day 7 was all about Iceland’s iconic glacial landscapes, and the sunny weather made the sights even more breathtaking. We set out early, eager to explore some of the country’s most famous natural wonders.

Our first stop was Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, where huge icebergs drifted slowly across the serene, icy water.

Diamond Beach was just a short walk from the lagoon, and it looked like a winter wonderland. Chunks of ice from the lagoon wash ashore on the black sand, sparkling like diamonds. The kids had fun picking up and photographing the ice “diamonds” while we marveled at the surreal contrast of black sand and crystal-clear ice. We even spotted an arctic seal!

Unfortunately, our scheduled Zodiac boat tour was cancelled at the last minute due to very high winds, which was a bit disappointing. But as we walked toward Diamond Beach, we remembered spotting another Zodiac tour company we had passed earlier.

On our drive back, we made a stop at Fjaðrárgljúfur canyon, famously nicknamed the Justin Bieber canyon after it appeared in one of his music videos. We spent time hiking along the rim, taking in the winding river below, moss-covered cliffs, and sweeping vistas. The canyon was breathtaking, with its dramatic landscape and emerald greenery — a perfect spot for photos and for the kids to explore safely along the trails. It was a serene and magical way to cap off a day of glacier adventures.

Day 7 was a showcase of Iceland’s natural beauty, from floating icebergs to icy hikes, sparkling beaches, and stunning canyon vistas — a day full of awe-inspiring scenery and unforgettable family moments.

Day 8- Unexpected Adventure: Healthcare in Iceland

Day 8 took an unexpected turn. The night before, while playing around the Airbnb, one of our younger children, Noah, slipped and broke his arm. It was a scary moment, but we quickly realized that Iceland’s healthcare system is impressively organized and efficient.

We drove back to Reykjavík and took him to the hospital. The staff were professional, calm, and highly skilled. After X-rays and a consultation, Noah’s arm was reset under general anesthesia and placed in a cast. The process was smooth, and the staff were compassionate with both Noah and the rest of our family, helping to keep the kids calm throughout.

One thing that stood out was the healthcare cost system in Iceland. Both locals and tourists benefit from a cost cap per visit — for most hospital services, there’s a maximum charge you’ll pay out-of-pocket. In our case, even with the unexpected emergency, we walked out spending about $300, which felt remarkably reasonable considering the level of care, anesthesia, and cast provided. This experience gave us a new appreciation for how Iceland balances quality healthcare with affordability and accessibility.

Although this day was far from the scenic adventure we had planned, it turned into a learning experience for the whole family. We were impressed by how quickly the system handled emergencies, and it also reminded us to travel prepared for the unexpected — even in a country as safe and scenic as Iceland.

After the hospital, we checked in at a hotel near Keflavík Airport in Grindavík, giving us a convenient location for the next day’s flight. We spent the evening relaxing, reflecting on the trip, and preparing for our journey home.

Day 9- Departure from Iceland

On our final day, we flew home from Keflavík International Airport. Staying in Grindavík the night before made the morning stress-free, especially with Noah’s cast and the kids’ luggage in tow. We returned our rental car, checked in for our flight, and said goodbye to Iceland, reflecting on the memorable adventures, unexpected mishaps, and breathtaking scenery that made this family road trip truly unforgettable.

Though Day 9 was mostly travel, it was a bittersweet ending to a journey filled with waterfalls, glaciers, black sand beaches, wildlife encounters, and Icelandic culture.

Final Thoughts – A Family Adventure to Remember

Our 8-day Iceland road trip was a whirlwind of adventure, natural wonders, and unforgettable family moments. From the geothermal baths at the Blue Lagoon to hiking glaciers, exploring waterfalls, and wandering along black sand beaches, every day brought new experiences and surprises. We laughed, learned, and even faced unexpected challenges — like Noah’s broken arm — that reminded us of the importance of flexibility and travel insurance when exploring new destinations with kids.

Iceland proved to be a family-friendly country, with incredible natural beauty, safe roads, and welcoming locals. The kids especially loved wildlife encounters, jumping on the blob in Westman Islands, and seeing the Icelandic horses up close. Even small, spontaneous stops — like the wool shop in Vik or hiking Fjaðrárgljúfur canyon — added layers of joy and adventure to our journey.

For families planning a trip like ours, a few key takeaways:

• Plan with flexibility: Weather, tours, or unexpected mishaps can change your schedule, so having a backup plan is essential.
• Bring waterproof gear and layers: Iceland’s weather is famously unpredictable, even in summer.
• Include kid-friendly activities: From geothermal pools to interactive museums and parks, these experiences keep young travelers engaged.
• Take your time: Some of the most memorable moments came from impromptu stops and exploring little-known spots along the way.

Iceland is truly a land of contrasts and natural wonders, and exploring it by car gave our family the freedom to discover its beauty at our own pace. Whether it’s chasing waterfalls, marveling at glaciers, or playing Sprangan on the Westman Islands, this trip is one we will remember forever — a perfect blend of adventure, education, and family bonding.

We hope our journey inspires other families to embark on their own Icelandic road trip, embrace the unexpected, and make memories that last a lifetime.