What Driving The South Coast Is Actually Like

On a map, the South Coast looks harmless. A smooth line hugging the Ring Road, dotted with famous names. In reality, it’s a constant tug-of-war between momentum and temptation.

You’ll be driving Route 1 almost the entire way. That part’s easy. The road is paved, well-marked, and generally forgiving.

The harder part is psychological. Every ten minutes, something else appears on the horizon. A waterfall. A black sand stretch. A pull-off that wasn’t on your list.

Here’s the thing most guides don’t tell you:

You don’t need to stop everywhere, and you shouldn’t try.

Before You Start: Distance Lies, Wind Doesn’t

Reykjavík to Vík looks short. Reykjavík to Jökulsárlón doesn’t look that bad either. Don’t trust that instinct.

Driving times stretch because of:

• Frequent stops (planned or not)
• Wind that slows everything down
• Parking congestion at popular sites

Wind, especially, is the wild card. We’ve had calm mornings turn into white-knuckle drives by noon. If the forecast looks questionable, start early. The coast is calmer before the tour buses fully wake up.

Waterfalls Worth Pulling Over For (And How To Handle Parking)

1 - Seljalandsfoss: The Famous One, And The Better Ones Nearby

Everyone stops at Seljalandsfoss. And honestly, you probably should. It’s impressive, especially when the light hits it right.

Parking is paid and clearly marked. Don’t try to be clever and squeeze into a roadside spot. That’s how people end up with fines and frustration.

Here’s a quick tip: walk beyond the main waterfall. The smaller falls nearby are often skipped, feel quieter, moodier, and more Icelandic. Fewer people. Less noise. Better payoff.

2 - Skógafoss

Skógafoss doesn’t pretend to be subtle. It’s loud, wide, and unapologetic. The parking area is large, but it fills faster than you’d expect.

If you’re chasing rainbows, midday is your window. If you want space, come early or late. The staircase beside the waterfall looks innocent. It isn’t. The view is worth it, but budget time and breath.

This is a stop where 30 minutes feels right. Any longer and you’re just fighting crowds.

3 - Kvernufoss

Kvernufoss sits quietly near Skógafoss, and somehow still gets ignored. The parking is smaller and more informal, and the short walk filters people out fast.

In my experience, this is where the South Coast starts to feel personal again. The waterfall curves inward, the sound softens, and suddenly you’re not surrounded by camera shutters. If you only detour for one extra stop, make it this one.

4 - Gljúfrabúi

Gljúfrabúi looks magical in photos. In reality, it’s a narrow slot canyon that turns into a bottleneck by late morning.

Parking is limited. Foot traffic stacks up fast. If you arrive and it feels chaotic, skip it. This is a classic example of a place that’s better empty, or not at all.

Beaches On The South Coast: Respect The Wind

1 - Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach

Reynisfjara is stunning. It’s also dangerous if you treat it casually.

Parking is paid and organized, which helps. What doesn’t help is people underestimating the ocean. Sneaker waves are real, unpredictable, and unforgiving. If the sea looks angry, it probably is.

Best conditions? Clear weather, moderate wind, and enough distance to stay dry. If the wind is screaming and sand’s flying sideways, don’t force it. The beach isn’t going anywhere.

2 - Smaller Coastal Pull-Offs

There are lesser-known spots along the coast where the road dips close to the sea. These are often more about atmosphere than exploration.

A quick stop. A few photos. Back in the car before the wind steals your door.

Parking On The South Coast: Where People Slip Up

Parking catches people off guard here. Not because it’s complicated, but because it’s enforced.

Expect:

• Paid parking at major stops
• App-based systems or ticket machines
• Clear signage (even if you don’t like the rules)

Common mistakes that most people make:

• “Just five minutes” without paying
• Parking on road shoulders
• Missing small signs at busy stops

Fines add up quickly. It’s not worth the gamble.

How To Plan A South Coast Driving Day

The plan to drive around the South Coast in a car should be simple. The best you can do is:

• No more than 4–5 major stops
• One beach, not three
• One “linger” stop where time doesn’t matter

Reykjavík to Vík is a comfortable day if you don’t rush. Reykjavík to the glacier lagoon in one push is possible, but tiring. If you can, split it. Your attention (and mood) will thank you.

Fuel up when you see stations. The same goes for food. Towns thin out faster than you expect.

Mistakes That Kill The Experience

I’ve made a few of these myself:

• Packing too many stops into daylight
• Ignoring wind warnings
• Driving tired because “we’re almost there.”
• Treating parking rules as suggestions

The South Coast isn’t difficult. It just demands respect.

Why A Rental Car Makes This Route Work

Tours cover the South Coast. They also rush it.

Driving yourself means:

• Leaving when the weather shifts
• Skipping overcrowded stops
• Staying longer when something clicks

If you’re self-driving, using a local rental company like MyCar helps, not because of flashy upgrades, but because they understand Icelandic conditions, seasonal changes, and the reality of coastal driving. That knowledge quietly makes a difference when plans shift.

The South Coast Isn’t About Speed

Some people treat this drive like a highlight reel. We don’t recommend it.

The South Coast works best when you let it unfold. Stop when something pulls your attention. Skip what doesn’t. Accept that you won’t see everything, and that’s fine.

The road is part of the experience, and sometimes, it’s the best part.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is driving Iceland’s South Coast suitable for first-time visitors?

Yes, and that’s part of its appeal. The South Coast follows the Ring Road almost the entire way, with paved roads and clear signage. The challenge isn’t the driving itself, but managing wind, weather changes, and knowing when to stop rather than rushing every attraction.

How long should I plan for a South Coast road trip?

At a minimum, plan one full day from Reykjavík to Vík. If you want to reach the glacier lagoons and enjoy waterfalls without feeling rushed, two days is far more realistic. Distances are short, but stops add up quickly.

Do I need to pay for parking at South Coast attractions?

Yes, many popular waterfalls and beaches now have paid parking. Payment is usually handled through machines or mobile apps, and fines are common if you skip it, even for short stops.

Is it safe to visit South Coast beaches like Reynisfjara?

It is, as long as you respect conditions. Sneaker waves are unpredictable, and wind can be intense. Follow posted warnings, keep a distance from the shoreline, and leave if conditions feel unsafe.