The Surf Window

Vik Beach

South Iceland, Iceland

Beach breakAdvanced

At Iceland's southernmost point, Vik is famous for its black volcanic sand beach, dramatic basalt sea stacks (the Reynisdrangar), and consistent Atlantic surf, one of Iceland's most photographed landscapes and a genuine surf spot in its own right.

Typical Conditions

The Surf Window

Swell Window

N
OptimalW (270°)
WindowSSW–NNW (210°–330°)
Size–SW 1.5–3m at 14–18s

Wind

N

Light to NE under 15 knots

Tide

Mid tide

LowMidHigh

Season

Sep–Apr

JFMAMJJASOND

The Wave

Type

Beach break

Bottom

Black volcanic sand

Shape

Powerful shore break and beach peaks

Length

40–80m

Skill Level

  • •Who it's for: Advanced surfers
  • •Why: The shore break is dangerously powerful, this beach has claimed lives of unaware tourists

Hazards

  • •Extremely dangerous sneaker waves, the shore break has killed tourists who stood too close
  • •Very cold water, 4–9°C
  • •The black sand absorbs heat from sun but water stays freezing

Local Tips

  • •Warning signs on the beach about wave danger are serious, the shore break is genuinely lethal
  • •The basalt columns of Reynisfjara to the west are extraordinary, one of Iceland's great wonders
  • •Vik is the rainiest place in Iceland, pack accordingly

Location

Map showing the location of Vik Beach in South Iceland, Iceland

63.4136, -19.0158