The water filling the pool is a dense, almost metallic green-gray that changes hue with every wave. Brimketill is a natural pool carved directly into the black basalt rock of the Reykjanes peninsula in Iceland, and its name in Icelandic literally means pool of the waves. It is not a man-made place: centuries of the Atlantic have shaped the volcanic lava into creating an almost circular basin, deep enough to hold a significant volume of ocean water, with jagged basalt walls that partially protect it from the fury of the open sea.
The Reykjanes peninsula is one of the most geologically active areas in Iceland, and Brimketill is located on its southern coast, about 50 kilometers southwest of Reykjavík, not far from the town of Grindavík. The surrounding landscape is typical of recent volcanism: fields of black, rough lava, almost entirely devoid of vegetation, that descend directly to the ocean. There is no sandy beach here — only dark rock and the foamy white of the waves crashing forcefully.
The pool and the colors of the water
Approaching the pool requires attention: the path from the small parking lot to the shore is short, about 10-15 minutes on foot, but the lava terrain is uneven and slippery when wet. Once near the pool, the visual contrast is immediate: the absolute black of the basalt, the turquoise-green of the water trapped in the basin, and the white of the waves crashing a few meters away create a color palette unlike any other European beach.
The water inside the pool is always in motion: every wave that surpasses the edge stirs it up, bringing in new cold Atlantic water. The sea temperature around Iceland ranges from 6 to 12 degrees Celsius depending on the season, so swimming there is an experience reserved for those with an unusual tolerance for cold — or for those wearing a wetsuit. Most visitors simply observe, sitting on the flat rocks that surround the pool.
The atmosphere and sound of the place
What strikes you about Brimketill is not only the visual aspect but the sound. The noise of the waves crashing against the lava is constant and deep, almost physical. When the sea is rough — a frequent condition on this exposed coast — the splashes easily reach those near the pool. The informational signs present on site explicitly warn not to get too close to the edge on rough sea days: the rogue waves on this coast are a real and documented risk.
The sky above Reykjanes is often low and gray, with clouds moving quickly pushed by the Atlantic wind. This contributes to a gloomy and wild atmosphere that many visitors find fascinating. On sunny days — rarer but possible especially in summer — the colors of the water become more vivid and the black basalt takes on almost violet reflections.
How to get there and when to visit
Brimketill can be reached by car along the coastal road that connects Grindavík to the Blue Lagoon area. Parking is free and marked. There is no entrance fee: the site is freely accessible all year round, although winter conditions can make the path dangerous due to ice. The best time to visit is between May and September, when daylight hours are abundant and temperatures are less harsh.
An important practical tip: check the sea forecasts before going. With waves higher than two meters, the area around the pool becomes dangerous. The website of the Icelandic Meteorological Office (vedur.is) provides reliable and up-to-date forecasts for the Reykjanes peninsula. The visit itself lasts on average between 30 and 60 minutes, but many stay longer to take photos or simply to stand still and listen to the sea.
What to bring and what to expect
Regardless of the season, the wind on this coast is almost always present and can be sharp. Bringing a waterproof layer is essential, as well as footwear with non-slip soles suitable for the volcanic terrain. The basalt lava of Reykjanes is particularly sharp compared to other types of volcanic rock, and a fall can cause deep cuts.
Brimketill is not a destination with services: there are no bars, public restrooms, or facilities in the immediate vicinity. The Blue Lagoon is located a few kilometers away and serves as a useful logistical landmark for those wanting to combine the two visits in the same day. The lava pool remains a completely different experience: quiet, free, lacking tourist infrastructure, with only basalt and the ocean.
