In the north and east of Iceland, there are several beautiful geothermal baths, such as Forest Lagoon in Akureyri and Vök Baths in Egilsstaðir. While driving the Arctic Coast Way along the northern coast of Iceland, I decide to visit the Geosea Geothermal Sea Baths (Geosea-Sjóböðin) in Húsavík. These geothermal baths are known for their stunning location right by the water. Since there isn’t much to do in Húsavík during the winter and it’s snowing heavily, I head there early in the afternoon. And that turns out to be a great choice; I almost have this beautifully located geothermal bath all to myself.
My experience with Geosea Geothermal Seawater Baths
Geosea in Húsavík is situated on top of a cliff, right on the Skjálfandi fjord. The baths are clearly marked on Google Maps, so it’s just a matter of entering the address and following the directions. When I arrive at the large parking lot, I still don’t immediately see Geosea. The complex is sunken into the ground, which gives it a bunker-like appearance. You descend to the entrance via a staircase, a few meters underground.
Entry tickets for GeoSea via GetYourGuide
Inside, there’s a small, simple but light reception area with a few tables. You can buy a small snack here, and drinks are available in the fridge. I had pre-booked my entry ticket for Geosea via GetYourGuide, which saved me 5 euros compared to the official Geosea website. At the counter, I just had to show the code I received via SMS, and I was given a wristband, after which I could proceed to the changing rooms.
Lockers, changing rooms and showering nude at Geosea
In the changing room, I take off my shoes and socks in a separate area. You can choose an empty locker, which you can lock using your wristband after changing. In Iceland, for hygienic reasons, it is customary to shower nude and thoroughly wash yourself before entering the bath. The individual showers are spacious and there is nice shampoo and shower gel available (which you can also purchase at the counter). Afterward, I put on my swimsuit and step outside into the cold. I keep my hat on; a trick I learned in Finland. When it’s cold, you lose most of your body heat through your head and wearing a hat helps to keep it in.
Location of the Geosea geothermal baths
The two Geosea baths are spectacularly located. With their infinity edges, they offer a beautiful view over the Skjálfandi Bay. Although during my visit, the snowfall prevents me from seeing much of the surrounding area. On a clear day, you can spot whales here, and with a clear sky, you might even witness the northern lights in the evening. The famous yellow lighthouse of Húsavík is right next to Geosea, keeping it in sight no matter where you look.
The mildly salty water of Geosea
In Iceland, each geothermal bath has a unique composition. The water at Geosea, with a temperature of 38-40°C, is pumped deep from the earth and has a slight saltiness. Due to its high mineral concentration, it is known in the area for its healing effects on the skin. The water remains naturally clean thanks to a constant supply of fresh geothermal water, without the addition of chlorine or the use of filters. Excess water flows over the edges of the infinity pools and eventually reaches the ocean through a stream. Full circle!
Getting a drink at the bar with your wristband at Geosea
In the corner of the complex, against the building, there is a small third pool. This pool is next to the small bar, where you can get a variety of drinks. Ordering is very simple: choose something from the menu on the wall and scan your wristband. You can then enjoy your drink in a corner of the pool, where there are benches in the water.
How long should you stay at Geosea Geothermal Sea Baths?
Geosea doesn’t operate with time slots, so in theory, you could arrive as soon as it opens and stay until closing time. For me, that would be way too long. There is still so much to do and see in the area! Besides, after 2 to 3 hours, my skin is pretty wrinkled and I crave a bit of coolness. A quick shower (again, naked) and getting dressed. I scan my wristband at the exit and I pay. Off I go, back into the car to discover more beautiful spots in this part of Iceland!
