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Garðskagaviti Lighthouse

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

tower

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Garðskagaviti refers to a pair of distinctive lighthouses located at the northwestern tip of the Reykjanes peninsula. The older, shorter tower was constructed in 1897 and is characterized by its stout structure made of red brick. Due to the increasing threat of coastal erosion and the need for a greater light range, the new, significantly taller lighthouse was commissioned in 1944. Standing at 28 meters high, the new Garðskagaviti is one of the tallest lighthouses in Iceland, offering extensive views across the North Atlantic and towards the Snæfellsnes peninsula from its top. The area around Garðskagi is famous for its rich birdlife and is a premier location for spotting whales directly from the shore. Next to the lighthouses is a regional museum that provides insights into local fishing history and the maritime development of the region. Its exposed location makes it a well-suited spot for viewing the Northern Lights and spectacular sunsets.

Location: Iceland
Top sights: Garður Lighthouse · Garðskagaviti · Byggðasafn Gerðahrepps
Nearby: Sandgerði (5 km)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	1	1	2	4	6	9	11	11	8	5	3	2
Rain mm	154	136	138	106	83	72	85	109	161	131	137	154

📋 Practical info

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Visiting

Garðskagaviti consists of two lighthouses at the tip of the Reykjanes Peninsula, freely accessible. Visitors can view the towers from outside and enjoy the expansive view over the Atlantic.

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Typical hours

The grounds have no opening hours and are accessible anytime, including at night. The towers themselves are typically not open to the public, but the outdoor area is always open.

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Photography

Photography is unrestricted across the site; the two lighthouses make a characterful contrast with the sea. Particularly at sunset, you can capture atmospheric shots.

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Time needed

Most visitors spend 15-30 minutes on the grounds. If you also explore the surrounding cliffs and bird colonies, plan for 45-60 minutes.

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Combine with

Combine Garðskagaviti with the nearby Bridge Between Continents (Miðlína) and the Fisheries Museum in Grindavík. Also, the Blue Lagoon (Bláa Lónið) is close by.

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Getting there

Garðskagaviti is at the end of Route 425, about 15 kilometers from Grindavík. A rental car is required; the road is paved but becomes gravel at the end.

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Insider tip

Visit Garðskagaviti in the early evening to see the lighthouse light at dusk. Bring binoculars to watch the birds on the cliffs.

Geography

Coordinates

64.08180, -22.70770

Facts

The new lighthouse was completed in 1944.
It stands at an impressive height of 28 meters.
The original lighthouse dates back to 1897.
Garðskagi is an internationally significant location for bird watching.
The light from the new tower is visible from over 30 kilometers away.
It is the westernmost point of the Reykjanes peninsula.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Sandgerði5 km · SExplore →

Keflavík12 km · SEExplore →

Keflavík International Airport12 km · SEExplore →

Vogar19 km · SEExplore →

Blue Lagoon (Grindavík)26 km · SEExplore →

Reykjanes Power Plant28 km · SExplore →

Grindavík30 km · SEExplore →

Straumsvík Aluminium Smelter33 km · EExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

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Overnight stops

Vehicle

Only stops with (optional): 💧 Water ♻️ Disposal 🔌 Power 🚻 Toilets 🚿 Shower

Sights in the town Garðskagaviti Lighthouse (3)

Garður Lighthouse

Built in 1897, this lighthouse stands at Iceland's southwestern tip, warning ships off the coast.

Garðskagaviti

This 1944 lighthouse on the Garðskagi peninsula is a prominent seamark in western Iceland.

Byggðasafn Gerðahrepps🏛 museum

The local heritage museum in Garður displays the settlement history of the area through everyday items and photos.

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Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Why are there two lighthouses at Garðskagi?

The old one was too low; the new one was built taller in 1944.

Can you enter the lighthouses?

The new lighthouse is sometimes accessible and has great views.

Is there a restaurant there?

Yes, there is a restaurant and a museum right next to the towers.

Can you see whales from there?

From the shore, you can often spot whales or dolphins in the distance.

How far is it from Keflavík airport?

It is only about a 15-20 minute drive away.

Garðskagaviti Lighthouse: where is it located?

Garðskagaviti Lighthouse is located in Iceland.

Garðskagaviti Lighthouse: what is there to see?

Highlights include Garður Lighthouse, Garðskagaviti, Byggðasafn Gerðahrepps.

Garðskagaviti Lighthouse: when is the best time to visit?

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.

Garðskagaviti Lighthouse: why is it worth visiting?

Garðskagaviti refers to a pair of distinctive lighthouses located at the northwestern tip of the Reykjanes peninsula.

View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → OpenStreetMap →