I’m not sure if Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach will ever look like this again. Recently, this iconic Icelandic beach, made popular by the show Game of Thrones, was forever changed by coastal erosion and a cliff collapse.
Two months ago, I visited Reynisfjara, the black-sand beach, for the first time on a FGT Group Tour. I was able to get a few individual photos for anyone who wanted them, but we didn’t get a group photo. Now, I regret it because the coastal winds and erosion have altered the beach and swept away its iconic black sand.
Before we arrived to the beach our private driver / guide cautioned us. She explained that a young girl was recently swept away by the waves on a family trip to Iceland and asked our group to stay away from the water.
Upon arrival you see caution signs like the one above, which mentions the dangerous sneaker waves and light up with the advisory level. The day our tour visited Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach the advisory level was orange.
According to reports from locals, the shoreline has been completely reshaped. The beach area in front of the Hálsanefshellir basalt cave is covered in water. The sand has been swept away; however, it may return eventually.
Unfortunately, that means getting this close to the basalt pillars may not be possible for some time.
I feel extremely lucky to have enjoyed Reynisfjara Beach and am excited to visit again later this year. We’re hosting a summer Iceland tour in July and a winter tour in early December. If you’re interested in joining us in Iceland later this year, complete this quick questionnaire.
