Hvanneyri
Western Region, Iceland
Beach breakIntermediate
On Iceland's west coast near the entrance to Hvalfjörður, Hvanneyri is an agricultural college town where Atlantic swells reach a coastline rarely surfed by anyone, Iceland's undiscovered west coast surfing landscape.
Typical Conditions
The Surf Window
Swell Window
OptimalW (270°)
WindowSSW–NNW (210°–330°)
Size–NW 1.5–2.5m at 12–16s
Wind
SE
Light to E under 15 knots
Tide
Mid tide
LowMidHigh
Season
Oct–Mar
JFMAMJJASOND
The Wave
Type
Beach break
Bottom
Sand and lava rock
Shape
Small beach peaks in the sheltered coastal area
Length
30–70m
Skill Level
- •Who it's for: Advanced surfers
- •Why: Iceland's west coast conditions are harsh and completely uncharted
Hazards
- •Very cold water, 3–8°C drysuit required
- •Remote, limited assistance
- •Iceland's west coast weather is extreme
Local Tips
- •The agricultural university at Hvanneyri is the area's main presence, very quiet
- •Borgarnes town nearby has the Settlement Centre, excellent Viking age exhibition
- •Exploring Iceland's west coast for surf is a genuine expedition, treat it as one
Location
64.5667, -21.8167