Djúpalónssandur: An Arched-Shaped Bay of Black Sand and Dark Cliffs

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One of the most beautiful black lava pearl beaches in Iceland. This is an arched-shaped bay with mysterious rocks, intense black sand, marvelous coast rocks, and black pebbles too! But yes! Not to forget about the intensely strong and human-sized waves that never miss hitting the shore with complete power that engulfs everything on its way. While passing Snæfellsnes peninsula, Djúpalónssandur is one such place that you cannot afford to miss. It is located on the foot of Snæfellsnes Peninsula in Western Iceland. The geological uniqueness of this place is commendable and is something that you would have never imagined. Djúpalónssandur is more than just a beach!

sea stack at Djúpalónssandur black sand beach in Snæfellsnes peninsula

Djúpalónssandur: A Majestic Black Pebble Beach

This pebbled beach is listed amidst one of those few areas that lead down to the sea along the coast with high-dramatic cliffs, stunning landforms, and mysterious rocks that are emerging from the ocean.  Djúpalónssandur, also known as Deep lagoon sand, the name of this beach traces back to the initial first settlers in Iceland, nearly 1200 years ago. Djúpalónssandur is amidst the Snæfellsjökull National Park, which is an area completely covered with lava fields, and moss, around the Snæfellsjökull glacier. It was once home to 60 fishing boats and considered the most prolific fishing villages on Snæfellsnes peninsula. But today the cove is uninhabited. The glistening pebbles covering the beach area known as Djúpalónsperlur, which means “pearls of the deep lagoon”. The pebbles are stunning and, gorgeous to look at and seem appealing to nature lovers, and stone collectors. Towards the lava field with beautiful rock formations, take the walking path on the right side of Djúpalónssandur, you will find Svörtulón or the Black Lagoon.

You can visit Djúpalónssandur all year round but, spring, summer, autumn season is suggested when hiking conditions are favorable. Driving and hiking become a bit more difficult when visiting during winters.

Immense Respect for Nature

Iceland is known for the immensely beautiful and dramatic landscape with lava fields, volcanoes, hot springs, geyser, and massive cliffs and glaciers, which are protected in the Snæfellsjökull and Vatnajökull National Parks. These have been preserved over the years and not been harmed by the people. Respect for nature is deeply engraved in the minds of natives and that can be seen when you visit those beautiful locations of Iceland.  Djúpalónssandur is one such place with interesting lava rock formations, coast cliffs, black sand, and rocks. But it is always suggested to the visitors and natives not to climb the rocks, harm the natural formations, or even take away the pebbles from the beach since this can severely influence the natural landscape.

The Lifting Stones

One must try lifting these stones when visiting Djúpalónssandur! Walking towards the beach, you will find four differently-sized stones that are lying next to each other. These are known as Aflraunasteinar – Steinatök or, The Lifting Stones. These stones were used to measure the strength of Icelandic fishermen. Measure your strength and try to lift at least one! The four stone are named as – Fullsterkur (full strength) that weighs 154kg, Hálfsterkur (half strength) – 100 kg, Hálfdrættingur (weakling) – 54 kg and Amlóði (Useless) -23 kg.

two people walking through lava fields on the way to Djúpalónssandur black sand beach in Snæfellsnes peninsula

Not A Swimming or Diving Location

Safety is equally important and cautiousness is a prerequisite. The jaw-dropping landforms will surely mesmerize you but, it is recommended not to try swimming and underestimate the power and intensity of nature! You will easily find warning signs in the parking lot or while heading towards the bay. It is not at all the best idea to swim and play around near the shore.  The powerful suction can carry you out to the sea. Enjoy from a safe distance!

How to Get There?

Drive to Útnesvegur road on Snæfellsnes Peninsula nr. 574, when going to Djúpalónssandur.  Turn to the south when you reach intersection nr. 572 – Dritvíkkurvegur road. You can see the parking lot by Djúpalónssandur cove.

Map of Djúpalónssandur

Interesting locations in the area

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Activities
  • Snæfellsjokull glacier hike
  • Vatnshellir Lava Cave
  • Puffin Tour
  • Whale Watching
Hotels & Restaurants

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