South Iceland · Iceland
Reynisfjara
Reynisfjara is Iceland's most famous black sand beach, known for its thundering Atlantic waves, dramatic basalt column formations rising from the sea, and the iconic Reynisdrangar sea stacks.
About Reynisfjara
Reynisfjara is Iceland's most famous black sand beach, known for its thundering Atlantic waves, dramatic basalt column formations rising from the sea, and the iconic Reynisdrangar sea stacks.
History & Background
The Reynisdrangar sea stacks — two basalt pillars rising from the ocean — are said in Icelandic folklore to be trolls that were trying to drag a ship to shore when dawn broke and they were petrified by sunlight. The beach was formed by volcanic black sand from the nearby Katla volcano system. The waves at Reynisfjara are notoriously dangerous — sneaker waves can strike without warning and have claimed lives. Visitors must stay well back from the water at all times.
Key Facts
- ✔Black sand formed from volcanic basalt
- ✔Reynisdrangar stacks are troll figures turned to stone in legend
- ✔Extremely dangerous waves — many fatalities recorded
- ✔Named one of the world's most beautiful non-tropical beaches
- ✔Columnar basalt formations called Gardar rise from the sand
