Iceland is a land of breathtaking natural beauty, and one of its most captivating destinations is the Diamond Beach. Along the southeastern coast, there is a mesmerizing display of ice formations that seem to shine bright like diamonds. This guide is going to tell you everything you want and need to know about about the unbelievable Diamond Beach in Iceland. Plus we’ve got some great pointers on how to capture the best Insta worthy pictures!
Where Is Diamond Beach in Iceland?
This Icelandic Beach is conveniently located right off Route 1, making it easy to visit as part of a self-drive tour from Reykjavík or other parts of Iceland. It got its name because of the obvious attributes, including washed-up ice that resembles diamonds. This natural wonder’s official Icelandic name is “Breiðamerkursandur.” The Diamond Beach in Iceland is often called Fellsfjara – Eystri-Fellsfjara or Vestri-Fellsfjara, depending on which side of the glacial river Jökulsá you are visiting.
Getting To Breiðamerkursandur
Reaching the Diamond Beach is pretty straightforward, though the exact route will depend on your starting point. Many visitors choose to embark on a road trip, taking in the country’s stunning landscapes as they drive. The Diamond Beach is located near the Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon. Not a quick trip, but approximately 370 km (230 miles) from Reykjavík, the capital city. The drive typically takes around 5 hours, winding through the rugged terrain and offering breathtaking views along the way.
You can also join a guided tour that includes a visit to the Diamond Beach as part of a larger itinerary. These tours often depart from Reykjavík or other major hubs, providing transportation and a knowledgeable guide to enhance your experience.
Regardless of how you choose to arrive, the best time to visit the Diamond Beach is during the summer months. The weather is milder, and the days are longer. The end of spring and fall can also be excellent times to explore this natural wonder. This is when there are fewer crowds but, the potential for dramatic weather conditions.
The Breathtaking Scenery of Diamond Beach
The first thing you’ll notice is the striking contrast between the black sand and the crystal-like icebergs that dot the shoreline. These icebergs have broken off from the nearby Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon and are the stars of the show. They create a mesmerizing and ever-changing display. The process that creates the “diamond” effect is a fascinating one. As the icebergs melt and break apart, the sunlight reflects off their faceted surfaces. This causes them to sparkle and glisten like precious stones. The many colors ranging from pure white to deep blue and even black, add to the ethereal beauty of the scene.
Visit Skaftafell Glacier, part of the Vatnajökull National Park, for a guided hike and the opportunity to explore the ancient ice up close.
Get the Best Pictures of Diamond Beach in Iceland
It isn’t easy finding the words that visually describe the beauty of this beach. Knowing how to get worthy photos can better explain how captivating this scenery is! If you aren’t an expert photographer, these tips will help you out.
- Timing is everything: you’ll want to visit the beach during the golden hours. Shortly after sunrise or right as the sun is setting. The soft, warm light will enhance the ice’s natural beauty and create stunning contrasts.
- Composition techniques: use the “rule of thirds” to position the icebergs and horizon in your shots. This will create a balanced composition.
- Different angles: getting down low will show the chunks of ice in a more unique way, appearing larger and more dramatic. You can also find higher points to get a full view of the entire beach.
- Water reflections: this is such a useful tip when taking pictures by any body of water. Find puddles of water on the sandy beach that reflect the sky.
- Use a tripod: it will help with taking photos that really show an accurate scale of how big these chunks of ice are. Plus this gives you the ability to include anyone else that joined you on the journey.
- Respect the beach: lastly, and most importantly, leave no trace. This area has a fragile ecosystem that needs to go undisturbed. Additionally, put your safety first. Waves can be unpredictable and with no surprise, the ice is very slippery.
Exploring the Area Around Diamond Beach
The Diamond Beach is intimately connected to the Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon. This is a massive glacial lake that serves as the source of the icebergs that wash up on the shore. Even better, it’s just a short drive down the road! We highly suggest you take a boat tour of the lagoon, gliding among the towering icebergs.
Ready to book your trip to Diamond Beach in Iceland? It’s a true natural wonder, a place where the raw power of nature has created a mesmerizing view of ice and light. So, pack your bags, grab your camera, and get ready to discover the sparkling beauty and true gem in the crown of Iceland’s serene landscape.
