8 Best Southern Iceland Elopement Locations

Southern Iceland is known for its incredible variety of landscapes, including glaciers, black sand beaches, waterfalls, and canyons, making it one of the most popular regions for elopements. Whatever the backdrops you’d like for your big day, these Southern Iceland elopement locations have everything you’re looking for!

Why Choose Southern Iceland for Your Elopement?

Southern Iceland is the go-to region for couples looking to elope in some of the country’s most iconic and breathtaking landscapes. This area is easily accessible thanks to the Ring Road (Route 1), which connects many of the major elopement spots, making travel between locations simple and scenic. Whether you’re planning a quick getaway or a multi-day adventure, Southern Iceland has a range of diverse backdrops that will make your day feel like something out of a dream.

This part of Iceland is known for its dramatic contrasts—from towering waterfalls and glacial lagoons to rugged black sand beaches and volcanic landscapes. Because of its diverse scenery, Southern Iceland can give you the flexibility to have multiple epic locations in one day. You could exchange vows next to a waterfall in the morning, take sunset photos on a black sand beach, and still have time to relax in a geothermal hot spring by nightfall.

Accessibility

Many of Southern Iceland’s top elopement spots are located near the Ring Road, making them easier to reach without needing long, strenuous hikes. This makes the area perfect for couples who want to explore without sacrificing too much time on the road or trekking into hard-to-reach places. However, for couples seeking a bit more adventure, there are also hidden gems tucked away that require a bit more effort to reach, like Múlagljúfur Canyon or Seljavallalaug Hot Springs. More on those next!

Pro Tip: Before you set off for these Iceland elopement locations, make sure you’re prepped with the right tools and information. You’ll definitely want to check the road condition!

Iceland’s weather can be unpredictable, and some roads may close unexpectedly, especially in winter. Use this site to stay updated on road conditions before and during your trip.

8 Best Southern Iceland Elopement Locations

Jökulsárlón 

Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon is one of Iceland’s most magical spots, with massive icebergs breaking off from the Breiðamerkurjökull Glacier and slowly drifting through the lagoon toward the ocean. The stunning blue hues of the icebergs, contrasted with the dark water, create an ethereal and dreamlike landscape. If you’re looking for an elopement backdrop that feels otherworldly and cinematic, Jökulsárlón is it.

Accessibility

The lagoon is easily accessible, a short walk from the parking lot. You can also take boat tours among the icebergs if you want to add an extra element of adventure to your day. The lagoon is close to the Ring Road, so it’s an easy stop during your Iceland elopement adventure.

Best Time to Visit

Jökulsárlón is stunning year-round, but winter and early spring (November to April) offer the best chance to see the lagoon filled with icebergs. During the summer, the icebergs may be fewer, but the warmer weather makes exploring the area more comfortable.

Diamond Beach 

Just a short walk from Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon is Diamond Beach, where chunks of ice from the lagoon wash ashore on the black sand, creating a dazzling display of sparkling “diamonds” against the dark volcanic backdrop. It’s a surreal and breathtaking location, perfect for couples who want a unique and visually striking elopement setting. The contrast between the black sand and ice gives this beach an almost otherworldly vibe that makes for truly epic photos.

Accessibility

Diamond Beach is easily accessible, with a short walk from the parking lot, and no hiking is required. It’s a convenient stop if you’re already visiting Jökulsárlón, so you can experience both of these incredible locations in one trip.

Best Time to Visit

Like Jökulsárlón, Diamond Beach is beautiful throughout the year, but winter (November to March) offers more dramatic ice formations as the cold keeps the icebergs larger and more plentiful. The summer months bring fewer icebergs, but the beach remains a stunning and unique elopement location. Because it’s close to Jökulsárlón, Diamond Beach can get crowded, especially in the summer months.

Múlagljúfur Canyon 

Múlagljúfur Canyon is carved deep into the landscape, with moss-covered cliffs, dramatic peaks, and waterfalls cascading into the valley below. It’s wild, rugged, and breathtaking! Múlagljúfur is still relatively unknown compared to other spots, so you’re likely to have this location all to yourselves. It’s perfect for a private, intimate elopement experience.

Accessibility

This spot requires a bit of effort to reach. It’s about a 2-mile round-trip hike from the parking area, and the trail is rugged with uneven terrain. You don’t need to be an expert hiker but be prepared for a moderate adventure.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit is late spring to early fall (May to September), as the trail can be muddy or even inaccessible in winter. The lush greenery of summer makes the canyon come alive, while fall brings a more dramatic and moody atmosphere.

Írárfoss 

Tucked away near the Þjórsá River, Íráfoss is a lesser-known waterfall that provides a peaceful and secluded setting. It’s surrounded by greenery and rolling hills, giving it a tranquil, almost secretive vibe. The waterfall itself isn’t as towering as some of Iceland’s giants, but its gentle flow and quiet atmosphere make it feel magical. Since it’s less well-known, you’ll likely have Íráfoss to yourselves or with very few visitors, making it a perfect spot for an intimate elopement.

Accessibility

Íráfoss is easily accessible from the road, with just a short walk required to reach the falls. It’s perfect for couples who want a beautiful location without a strenuous hike.

Best Time to Visit

This spot is beautiful year-round, but summer (June to August) offers the lushest green surroundings. Spring and fall can be equally stunning with a more peaceful, misty atmosphere.

Seljavallalaug 

Nestled between towering mountains, Seljavallalaug is one of Iceland’s oldest swimming pools. It is filled with geothermal water and surrounded by natural beauty. The pool is a peaceful, rustic oasis that feels hidden away from the rest of the world. Here, you can exchange your vows with the mountains as your backdrop, then soak in the warm water afterward!

Accessibility

To reach the pool, you’ll need to walk for 20 minutes from the parking area, crossing a small river along the way. It’s an easy and enjoyable walk, but bring sturdy shoes!

Best Time to Visit

Seljavallalaug can be visited year-round, but the best time for a dip is summer (June to August) when the weather is warmer. Winter can be cold, but for couples who want a truly unique experience, soaking in the pool surrounded by snow is unforgettable.

Skogafoss 

Skógafoss is one of the most famous waterfalls in Iceland. Its 200-foot drop creates a thunderous roar and constant mist (which often produces rainbows on sunny days!). The sheer power of the falls, coupled with the wide, flat viewing area at the bottom, makes it one of the most epic Iceland elopement locations for couples who want a dramatic setting.

Accessibility

Skógafoss is quite easy to access, with a parking lot just a short walk from the waterfall. You can also climb the stairs to the top for a panoramic view of the surrounding landscape and the waterfall’s impressive drop.

Best Time to Visit

Skógafoss is stunning year-round, but summer (June to August) offers the greenest surroundings and warmer weather.

Reynifsjara Beach 

Reynisfjara Beach is famous for its black volcanic sand, towering basalt columns, and the Reynisdrangar sea stacks rising from the ocean just offshore. The dramatic waves and moody sky give this location an eerie but breathtakingly beautiful vibe. It’s a top choice for couples looking for something bold, wild, and cinematic.

If you want to elope here, always stay a safe distance from the water’s edge, as the waves are notoriously dangerous. You can read more about it here.

Accessibility

The beach is easily accessible, with a short walk from the parking area. No hiking is required!

Best Time to Visit

Reynisfjara is best visited in the summer months (June to August) for easier access and more manageable weather. Winter can bring rougher seas and colder conditions but also a quieter, more mystical vibe.

Kvernufoss

Tucked away near Skógafoss, Kvernufoss is a hidden gem with a beautiful 100-foot waterfall that you can walk behind! Lush green cliffs surround it, and it feels like a secret spot, perfect for an intimate and romantic elopement.

Accessibility

It’s a short and easy 20-minute walk from the parking area, making it accessible for most couples. The trail leads you right to the waterfall, and standing behind the falls is simply magical.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit is late spring to early fall (May to September), as the trail can be icy or muddy in winter. The greenery of summer gives it that extra magical touch.

Looking for Your Dream Iceland Elopement Photographer?

As you can see, there are plenty of epic location options for your Iceland elopement. You just have to pick the one that best suits your and your partner’s needs!

Want to plan your elopement together? Let’s do this! I’m here to help you find the perfect location, connect you with the most talented local vendors, create the perfect timeline from start to finish, and get some gorgeous photos while we’re at it. You can check out my packages! And if you’d like to learn more, send me a message!

If you liked this blog, you may want to check out my Ultimate Iceland Elopement Guide here.