How do I get to Grindavík?
There are three main roads to Grindavík
Road number
43
Grindavíkurvegur
The most common route to Grindavík is via Grindavíkurvegur. However, this road has been partially covered by lava three times. In such cases, the other two routes have been used. The road is open now.
427
Suðurstrandavegur
A route suitable when coming from South Iceland, e.g., Þorlákshöfn, Hveragerði, or Selfoss.
425
Nesvegur
A route that is convenient when coming from Reykjanesbær or the airport. This route is also ideal for those who wish to visit Gunnuhver, Brimketill, or the Bridge Between Continents along the way.
Please note that access to Grindavík may be closed with short notice
While magma accumulation is occurring beneath Svartsengi, there is a specific timeframe during which a magma intrusion or volcanic eruption may take place. When this happens, access to Grindavík is likely to be closed or severely restricted for a period. This is typically done while the scope and location of the eruption are being assessed.
All relevant information will be posted here on the Visit Grindavík page in the event of a closure.
Civil protection in Iceland
Important information
Here you can find the latest information from the Civil Protection and Emergency Management regarding the eruption on Reykjanesskagi
Grindavik is open to the public
Why was Grindavik evacuated?
Grindavík was officially evacuated on November 11, 2023 due to a series of earthquakes, which caused damage to roads and properties, and looming volcanic activity. Although some businesses remained operational, the government launched a program to purchase properties from residents unable or unwilling to return. Despite some property damage from lava the eruptions and earthquakes began to occur less frequently and shifted further north of the town. Additionally, Grindavík is protected by berms, made out of dirt, designed to divert any potential lava flow.
Is Grindavik safe to visit?
As of now, Grindavik remains safe to visit. However, it is also important to remember that the situation still remains unpredictable and therefore, it is important to stay updated on the latest news and follow any guidelines.
Those guidelines include staying on marked pavements and roads, avoiding private property, and not wandering out of marked areas due to the risk of crevasses.
What facilities are available?
Toilets are available at Kvíkan, which is a local museum. You will also find them at the restaurants which are open.
Recently, the Grindavik swimming pool has reopened to public access - though with limited opening hours. The new opening hours will be announced at the beginning of January 2025.
A few of the local tour operators have alos reopened, with tours of Grindavik available and even quad bike tours!
Can I get food in Grindavik?
Currently, only a handful of local restaurants have reopened with more expected in the new year. Below you will find a list of the available restaurants and bakery.
Papa's Restaurant - pizza, fish & chips,burgers, & more
Sjómannastofan Vör (Bar & Restaurant) - weekly menus
Skeifan - small convenience store, ice cream, sandwiches, burgers, & more
Hérastubbur bakery - baked goods, bread, cakes, soup
Today, only a small portion of the residents still live there due to the seismic activity occurring in the area. Both residents, businesses, service providers, and emergency responders have largely adapted to the rhythm of the volcanic activity. Currently, eruptions occur approximately every one to two months. Of the eruptions that have occurred above the town, only one has posed a threat to the settlement when it flowed into the northern part of the town and damaged three homes there.
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