Iceland’s South Coast is one of the most dramatic and accessible road trips in the country—and it’s genuinely great with kids. You’ll drive a scenic loop from Reykjavík along Route One, stopping at otherworldly landscapes: massive waterfalls cascading from moss-covered cliffs, a black sand beach with towering sea stacks, and even an accessible glacier you can hike on. Most families can do the highlights in a long day, or take it slower with an overnight stay in Vík for a more relaxed pace.

The Route & Main Stops

The South Coast tour typically starts in Reykjavík and follows Route One east along the coast. Here’s what you’ll see:

Selfoss

Driving through Selfoss, you’ll spot the beautiful Selfosskirkja Lutheran church sitting on the riverbank—it’s a picturesque scene that’s worth a quick photo stop. If you have 30–45 minutes to spare, the Skyrland Museum is a fun educational detour for families. Learn about Skyr, Iceland’s famous thick yogurt drink that’s been made here for centuries, through interactive exhibits that kids actually find engaging. After touring the museum, head upstairs to the food hall where you can grab lunch or snacks and sample different flavors of Skyr. It’s a tasty way to fuel up before heading to the coast.

Urrîddafoss

As you drive between Selfoss and Hvolsvöllur, the view of Urrîddafoss waterfall from Route One is beautiful and makes for a stunning photo without requiring a major detour. If you want to linger and really take in the scenery, pull off and park at W8FF+VVW, 803 Árnessýslu, Iceland. From this parking area, you can enjoy an extended view of the waterfall and the surrounding landscape at a more relaxed pace. It’s a perfect quick stop to stretch your legs without adding much time to your overall drive.

Caves of Hella (Hellarnir við Hellu)

On your way along Route One, stop at the Caves of Hella, also known as Hellarnir við Hellu. These fascinating lava caves are a unique geological feature and offer a cool (literally!) detour from the drive. Kids love exploring the caves, and it’s a chance to step into Iceland’s volcanic past. Right nearby, grab a coffee and snack from the American SchoolBus Cafe—a quirky, charming stop housed in a vintage American school bus. It’s the perfect pit stop to refuel and take a break before continuing toward the South Coast highlights.

Your first stop after leaving Reykjavík, Hvolsvöllur is a small, charming town and a good place to stretch legs, grab a quick snack, and use the facilities before continuing toward the highlights. It’s a natural break point about an hour into the drive.

Skógafoss

One of Iceland’s most iconic waterfalls, Skógafoss cascades from mossy cliffs where Iceland’s coast once met the wild North Atlantic. Centuries of seismic activity, lava flow, and erosion have pushed the coastline further away, but from the top of the falls you can still spot the steely-grey sea in the distance. The waterfall is a short walk from the parking area, making it very doable with kids.

Going behind the waterfall: There are stairs that lead you up and behind Skógafoss for a unique perspective. It’s an adventure kids usually love, but come prepared: one section involves walking through a decent amount of water, so bring rain gear or a waterproof jacket to stay dry. The trail has a few slick rocky spots, so sturdy waterproof hiking boots with good grip are essential. This isn’t ideal if anyone in your group has mobility limitations, but it’s not too difficult to help younger kids navigate the tricky spots. The view from behind the waterfall is worth the extra effort.

Vík

Iceland’s southernmost settlement, Vík sits on Route One along the south coast. The town is small but charming—the most iconic feature is its red-roofed church, isolated on a hill above town, offering picture-perfect views. If you’re doing an overnight stay, Vík is the best base for exploring the South Coast at a slower pace, and you’ll have time to see both Reynisfjara Beach and the sea stacks without rushing.

Reynisfjara

Reynisfjara appears on many “best beaches in the world” lists—but unlike the platinum-white shores of the Caribbean or Bora Bora, this beach is dramatic and wild. Miles of jet-black sand meet crashing North Atlantic waves, creating an otherworldly landscape that kids find absolutely mesmerizing.

Important safety note: Reynisfjara has hidden dangers, including sudden sneaker waves that can be dangerous. Several fatalities have occurred here from people underestimating the waves, often while distracted taking photos with their backs to the ocean.

How to visit safely with kids:

Stay at least 30 meters (about 100 feet) back from the waterline — farther than feels necessary on a calm-looking day.
Watch for the color-coded warning light system posted at the beach (green, yellow, red) and follow it strictly — don’t treat a yellow or red day as a suggestion.
Never turn your back to the ocean, and keep younger kids’ hands held rather than letting them range freely near the water — the sand’s dark color makes it hard to gauge how recently a wave reached a given spot, so use the wet-sand line as a rough guide, not a guarantee.
Consider viewing from higher ground near the basalt columns rather than down at the immediate waterline if you’re traveling with younger kids who are hard to keep hands-on at all times.

Always keep kids close to shore, supervise carefully, and read up on current beach safety conditions before you visit.

Things to do at Reynisfjara:

Spot puffins

Look up to Mt. Reynisdrangar on the left side as you walk down to the beach—you can often see puffins from a distance perched on the cliffs.

Explore the edge route:

Rather than joining the crowds on the main beach, walk over the rocks along the edge of the beach on the left side. This leads to a cave-like spot and beautiful views with far fewer tourists. It’s a more intimate way to experience the beach.

Run along the beach

Kids love running on the black sand, but watch the waves. Time your runs for the breaks between big waves so you don’t get soaked.

Reynisdrangar

Just off Reynisfjara Beach, Reynisdrangar is a breathtaking series of towering sea stacks rising from the ocean. They’re visible right from the beach and make for stunning photos. Kids love spotting them and can safely view them from shore without getting in the water.

Drífandi Waterfall

As you continue along Route One heading toward the glacier and western waterfalls, Drífandi waterfall is visible right from the road—no hiking required. It’s a scenic viewpoint perfect for a quick photo stop without having to leave your car or make a detour. A great way to catch another Icelandic waterfall without adding time to your day.

Kristnitókuhraun Lavafield

Kristnitókuhraun is a sprawling, otherworldly lavafield located along the South Coast route. Formed by ancient volcanic activity, the field is a dramatic landscape of black lava rocks and moss-covered terrain. It’s a surreal spot for photos and exploration—kids find it fascinating to walk through and imagine the volcanic forces that shaped the landscape. The lavafield is accessible right from Route One, making it easy to stop and explore for 20–30 minutes without detouring significantly. Wear sturdy shoes with good grip, as the lava rocks are sharp and uneven.

Sólheimajökull

This outlet glacier of the larger Mýrdalsjökull spreads through a rugged valley like a great white tongue. It’s one of Iceland’s most accessible glaciers and a popular spot for guided glacier hikes, ice cave walks, and even ice climbing. There are tours designed specifically for families if you want to get a closer look at the glacier with kids—check age minimums and fitness requirements before booking.

Seljalandsfoss

Another stunning waterfall along the south coast, Seljalandsfoss plunges from towering cliffs in a powerful cascade. The short walk to the base makes it accessible for families, and on clear days the views are spectacular. Note: The trail can get muddy and slippery, so good waterproof shoes are essential for kids.

Definitely walk behind the waterfall — it’s such a beautiful and unique experience that you won’t forget. The view from behind is truly special, and kids love the sense of adventure. Just prepare for water spray, especially depending on wind direction.

How to stay dry(er):

Walk up the right side so the spray hits mostly your back and hood rather than your face and front.
Put your hood up or bring an umbrella — it makes a real difference and keeps water off your face so kids aren’t uncomfortable.
Wind matters: The amount of water spray varies depending on wind strength. If it’s really windy and intense, wait a few seconds for the wind to die down, then walk quickly through the spray.
The left side gets wetter, so stick to the right side for the ascent.

Bring a waterproof jacket for everyone, and consider bringing an umbrella or wearing a hood. It’s worth it for the incredible view from behind the falls.

Gljúfrabúi

Gljúfrabúi (“elf dwelling”) is a hidden gem waterfall tucked behind a curtain of lush vegetation and moss-covered cliffs. A short, easy hike (roughly 10 minutes) leads you to a magical spot where the waterfall cascades into a small pool surrounded by greenery. Kids love the secluded, fairytale feel of this spot, and it’s a nice contrast to the more exposed waterfalls like Seljalandsfoss. The hike is muddy and can be slippery, so waterproof hiking boots are essential. It’s a wonderful photo opportunity and a quieter, more intimate waterfall experience than the busier stops along Route One.

For more detailed info on these stops and guided tour options, check out Icelandia’s South Shore Adventure tour page.

Transportation Options: Bus Tour vs. Self-Drive

You have two main ways to explore the South Coast: guided bus tours or self-driving with a rental car.

Bus Tours

Convenient if you don’t want to drive, and tours handle the logistics. However, you’re on a set schedule with fixed stop times at each location. If you opt for a bus tour, arrive early to secure seats together as a family—this makes a big difference in the experience, especially with young kids who do better staying together.

Self-Driving (Rental Car)

This gives you the freedom to linger at stops as long as you want, take detours to hidden gems like Gljúfrabúi without rushing, and explore at your family’s pace. You can stop for coffee breaks, photos, and bathroom breaks whenever needed. Given the number of stops along the South Coast and the varying distances between them, many families find renting a car and driving themselves gives a much more flexible, relaxed experience than the time constraints of a bus tour.

Budget 8–10 hours for a full-day drive covering most of these stops, or split across 2 days with an overnight in Vík for a more relaxed pace. If adding Kristnitókuhraun Lavafield, add an extra 30 minutes to an hour for exploration. If you stop at Skyrland Museum in Selfoss, Urrîddafoss, Caves of Hella, and Gljúfrabúi, add another 1 to 1.5 hours total.
Parking apps: Download the Parka and Easy Park apps before you arrive—almost all parking in Iceland uses one of these two apps. Having both downloaded saves time and frustration at parking lots. You’ll pay directly through the app on your phone.
Bring layers—the South Coast is windy and weather can change quickly. Waterproof jackets are essential, especially at the waterfalls.
Pack snacks and water. While Vík has cafes and restaurants, once you’re on the road between stops, options are limited.
Wear sturdy waterproof shoes. Trails can be slippery and muddy, and you’ll want good grip, especially with kids in tow.
Stay close to kids near water and cliffs. The beauty of the South Coast also means exposed terrain and powerful waves—constant supervision is necessary.
Plan extra time for potty breaks and photo stops. Kids move at a different pace, and you’ll want to soak in these views anyway.

Quick Packing List

Waterproof jackets and rain pants for everyone
Sturdy, waterproof hiking boots or shoes (not sneakers)
Warm layers (fleece, thermals)—even in summer
Sunscreen and hats (the sun reflects off water and black sand)
Snacks and water bottles
Camera or phone for photos (bring a waterproof pouch)
First aid kit with blister supplies

Where to Eat Along the South Coast

Black Beach Restaurant is a great lunch spot near Reynisfjara beach, with views of the dramatic black sand and sea stacks. It’s a convenient stop if you’re spending time at the beach and want a sit-down meal. The restaurant is family-friendly and offers a good range of options for different appetites.

In Vík town itself, you’ll find several cafes and restaurants within the town center. Plan to grab meals here if you’re doing an overnight stay, as dining options are more limited once you’re exploring the remote coastal areas.

Pro tip: Pack snacks and water bottles for the drive, especially if you’re covering multiple stops in one day. Between Selfoss and the South Coast highlights, dining options are sparse—having snacks on hand means less time hunting for food and more time enjoying the scenery. Also note: most Icelandic breakfast places and cafes don’t open until 8 a.m. or later, so if you’re trying to get on the road early, grab something from a bakery or grocery store the night before.

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