Ytri Tunga Beach | Seal Colony

Basic Information

Ytri Tunga is a beautiful location that is based in Snæfellsnes Peninsula. Ytri Tunga beach is a part of a huge farm of the same name. The interesting thing that makes the beach unique is its golden sand. This unique beach stands out because of its shiny sand different from the usual black sand found at other beaches in Iceland. You will be surrounded by peace and serenity at Ytri Tunga beach. Apart from its picturesque beauty, Ytri Tunga is highly known among the locals for seal watching.

Ytri Tunga seal colony - Snæfellsnes Peninsula, seal watching in Iceland, tours to Ytri Tunga seal colony

Reaching Ytri Tunga

You can conveniently reach the beach from Reykjavík. You have to take the Ring Road towards the north to reach the Snӕfellsnes Peninsula. Keep along its south side, and about halfway down, you will find a small sign indicating towards Ytri Tunga Beach.

There is a car park along with an information sign. You will find a small path leading to the area.

Indulge in Seal Watching

Ytri Tunga beach is a beautiful location to watch seals. Locations like Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon, Ytri Tunga, and Vatnsnes Peninsula in Iceland are perfect to spot lazy and cute animals. The best time to catch the seals is summer. Although, you can find some seals lurking around the offshore, on some rocks protruding from the water all through the year. Between May and July, the tide is low. It is an ideal time to visit the beaches. Under the sunshine, the sand illuminates.

Harbor Seals are found at the beach. These seals are one of the two common species found in the arctic country. Grey seals are the other commonly found species. Occasionally you will also find Hooded Seals and Ringed Seals gracing the shores of the beach. For flora and fauna lovers, the place is a must-visit. Make sure you do not forget your camera. You can capture not just seals but the charming landscapes that wash out all the stress. 

Contrary to what many people believe, Iceland is no longer a nest to walruses. Although, on some occasions, they are spotted by visitors in the Westfjords. Over the several hundred years, seals and people in Iceland have shared an interesting bond. Seals are central to the survival of Icelanders. Their heavy bodies are a great source for man essential oils. The waterproof hides of the seals are also used for various purposes. You would be amazed to know that these meaty animals appear in the folklores of Iceland as mysterious and beautiful selkies. In the history of many Nordic countries, Selkies are portrayed as evil, but not in Iceland.

Lately, it has been observed that the seals are killed more due to their impact on fisheries. Seals often soil the nets and equipment as they try to catch a few fishes for themselves. In the present day, the locals see seals as significant to their culture and ecology. After all, sea animals truly enhance the beauty of the places and tourists enjoy watching these creatures.

Please note that it is important to maintain a minimum distance of 50 meters from the seals on Ytri Tunga. This is important both for the animals and visitors. Please keep your voice low to avoid frightening the animals.

seals on a white beach in Iceland on Ytri Tunga seal colony in Snæfellsnes Peninsula

Ytri Tunga Beach on a map

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