Iceland's South Coast is the country's most rewarding stretch of road — a ribbon of Ring Road that runs past thundering waterfalls, black-sand beaches, glaciers and a lagoon full of floating icebergs. It is the natural second act after the Golden Circle, and with a rental car from Aurora Car Rental Iceland you can drive it in one long day or, better, spread it over two with an overnight in Vík.
Why the South Coast is Iceland's best drive
No other route delivers so many iconic sights in such a short distance. Within the first hour east of Reykjavík you pass two of Iceland's most photographed waterfalls; within three hours you are standing on a beach of jet-black sand beneath basalt columns; and if you keep going you reach a glacier lagoon that looks like another planet. The whole way the Ring Road is paved and well-maintained, which makes the South Coast beginner-friendly while still feeling wild.
Aurora's pickup at Suðurbraut 890, 262 Keflavík puts you in an ideal starting position — you can leave straight from the airport area and be at your first waterfall in under two hours. Every rental includes insurance, unlimited kilometres and a free airport-area transfer, with cash payment (ISK or EUR) at pickup and no deposit.
The main stops, west to east
| Stop | Distance from Keflavík | Highlight |
|---|---|---|
| Seljalandsfoss | ~150 km | Waterfall you can walk behind |
| Skógafoss | ~180 km | 62 m curtain of water, rainbows |
| Reynisfjara | ~185 km | Black sand, basalt columns, sea stacks |
| Vík í Mýrdal | ~190 km | Village, red-roof church, hotels |
| Jökulsárlón | ~380 km | Glacier lagoon, Diamond Beach |
Seljalandsfoss is famous because a footpath leads all the way behind the falling water — bring a rain jacket. A short walk away, the hidden Gljúfrabúi waterfall tucks into a mossy canyon. Skógafoss is a broad 62-metre curtain with a staircase to a viewpoint at the top. Reynisfjara, near Vík, is the black-sand beach with hexagonal basalt columns and the Reynisdrangar sea stacks — beautiful but dangerous, as sneaker waves can pull you in, so always keep well back from the water. Continue east and you reach Jökulsárlón, where icebergs calved from Vatnajökull glacier drift out to sea, washing up as glittering chunks on the neighbouring Diamond Beach.
One day or two?
You can see the highlights as far as Vík in a single long day, but the drive to Jökulsárlón and back in one day is too much — that is 760 km round trip. To reach the glacier lagoon comfortably, split the trip over two days with a night in or near Vík. This also gives you a shot at the northern lights in the darker months and a slower, safer pace on winter roads.
| Plan | Distance (round trip) | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| 1 day to Vík | ~380 km | Short trips, waterfalls + black beach |
| 2 days to Jökulsárlón | ~760 km | Full South Coast, glacier lagoon |
Which car for the South Coast?
The Ring Road along the South Coast is fully paved, so a 2WD is fine in summer. But this coast is exposed and famous for fierce winds — car doors have been ripped off by gusts here — so a heavier, more stable vehicle is worth it. In winter, a 4x4 with winter tyres is the sensible choice.
- Summer: SsangYong Tivoli or Dacia Duster (from 12,000–15,000 ISK/day)
- Winter: Kia Sportage or SsangYong Korando 4x4 (from 14,000 ISK/day)
- Two-day trip with gear: Duster + Roof Tent or a Camper Van for flexible overnights
See the full line-up on our cars page and reserve on the booking page. Note that all vehicles are unavailable 10–15 August 2026, so plan around those dates.
Practical driving tips
Fuel stations thin out east of Vík, so top up whenever you can. Always hold your car door firmly when opening it in the wind. Never stop on the Ring Road itself — use the marked car parks at each site. At Reynisfjara, obey the warning signs and stay away from the water's edge. In winter, check road.is and the wind forecast before driving; strong gusts, not ice, are the biggest hazard on this coast.
Frequently asked questions
Can I drive the South Coast to Jökulsárlón in one day?
It is possible but not recommended — that is around 760 km round trip. It is far better to split the trip over two days with an overnight near Vík so you can enjoy the sights safely.
Do I need a 4x4 for the South Coast?
The route is paved, so a 2WD works in summer. In winter, or if you want a more stable vehicle in the strong coastal wind, choose a 4x4 with winter tyres such as the Kia Sportage or Dacia Duster.
Is Reynisfjara black beach safe?
It is safe to visit but you must respect the sea. Sudden sneaker waves can rush far up the sand and pull people in. Always stay well back from the water and heed the warning signs.
How far is Seljalandsfoss from Keflavík Airport?
Seljalandsfoss is about 150 km from Keflavík, roughly a two-hour drive along the Ring Road, making it an easy first stop on a South Coast trip.
When is the best time to drive the South Coast?
Summer offers the easiest driving and long daylight, while winter adds frozen waterfalls and a chance of northern lights. Spring and autumn are quieter and cheaper. The road is open all year.
Explore the South Coast your way
Book a 4x4 with Aurora Car Rental Iceland — insurance included, no deposit, cash on pickup.
Aurora Car Rental Iceland — Suðurbraut 890, 262 Keflavík | WhatsApp: +48 729 854 633 | carrentalaurora@gmail.com