Húsavík Campsite
Húsavík
About This Campsite
A scenic campsite in Húsavík near Skjálfandi Bay, perfect for whale watching and exploring North Iceland.
Details
Húsavík Campsite is located in the coastal town of Húsavík on the shores of Skjálfandi Bay in North Iceland. Known as the whale-watching capital of Iceland, Húsavík offers visitors a unique opportunity to experience marine wildlife alongside scenic fjord landscapes and geothermal attractions. The campsite is within walking distance of the harbor area, whale-watching tour departures, restaurants, shops, and the local swimming pool. Its location also makes it an excellent base for visiting nearby destinations such as Lake Mývatn, Goðafoss waterfall, and the Ásbyrgi canyon in Vatnajökull National Park. With views across the bay toward surrounding mountains and easy access to coastal walking routes, Húsavík Campsite combines nature, services, and cultural experiences in one of North Iceland’s most welcoming travel towns. It is an ideal overnight stop for Ring Road travelers and those exploring the Diamond Circle route.
🌿 Environment & Surroundings
Húsavík Campsite sits beside Skjálfandi Bay, surrounded by coastal hills, open sea views, and access to walking paths along the shoreline. The bay is one of the best whale-watching locations in Iceland and supports rich marine life. The surrounding landscape combines fjord scenery, geothermal activity nearby, and quiet northern coastal atmosphere.
📍 Nearby Attractions
Húsavík Whale Watching Harbor
One of the best whale-watching departure points in Europe.
GeoSea Geothermal Sea Baths
Seaside geothermal baths overlooking Skjálfandi Bay.
Goðafoss Waterfall
One of Iceland’s most famous waterfalls, about 35 minutes away.
Lake Mývatn Area
Major geothermal and volcanic region about 1 hour south.
Ásbyrgi Canyon
Horseshoe-shaped canyon in Vatnajökull National Park along the Diamond Circle route.
👻 Folklore & Local Stories
According to Icelandic tradition, Húsavík is one of the earliest settlement locations in the country. The Swedish settler Garðar Svavarsson is believed to have built one of the first houses in Iceland here during the 9th century, giving the town its name, which means “Bay of Houses.” The surrounding coastline of Skjálfandi Bay is also connected with traditional stories about hidden people (huldufólk) believed to live in coastal hills and rock formations. Like many northern coastal regions, the area’s quiet landscapes and long winter nights helped shape storytelling traditions that remain part of local culture today.