Soaking in a hot geothermal pool is one of the most relaxing—and most Icelandic—things you can do. Whether you’re staying at Hvítá Inn in Borgarfjörður, Stykkishólmur Inn on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, or Ísafjörður Inn in the Westfjords, you’re never far from a naturally heated pool or hot tub.
To make the most of the experience (and blend in with the locals), it helps to know a bit about Icelandic geothermal pool etiquette.
First, understand that pools in Iceland are part of everyday life, not just a tourist attraction. Families meet there after work, friends catch up in the hot tubs, and many locals visit their neighborhood pool several times a week. Respecting the rules is seen as basic courtesy to everyone sharing the water.
The most important rule is the pre-swim shower—without a swimsuit. Before entering any geothermal pool, you must wash thoroughly with soap in the communal showers. This isn’t optional; it’s how Iceland keeps pool water clean without using excessive chemicals. You’ll see signs (often with pictures) showing which areas to wash: hair, armpits, feet, and swimsuit area. Take your time and follow them carefully.
If you’re shy about nudity, remember that everyone is there for the same reason, and locals are used to this routine. Many pools have small partitions or more private corners in the showers if you prefer a bit of cover. Ourhotels.is staff at Hvítá Inn, Stykkishólmur Inn, and Ísafjörður Inn are always happy to point you toward nearby pools that have the facilities you’re most comfortable with.
Once you’re clean and in your swimsuit, move calmly around the pool area. Running is discouraged—surfaces can be slippery—and lifeguards are there to keep things safe and peaceful. Keep your voice at a moderate level; Icelandic pools are social, but they’re also places to unwind.
In the hot tubs, choose a spot without crowding others. If a tub is full, wait for space to open up rather than squeezing in. Many locals enjoy quiet conversation, so it’s fine to chat, but avoid loud phone calls or playing music. In fact, it’s best to leave speakers and large cameras in your locker. If you want to take photos, do so discreetly and never capture strangers without their permission.
Another key part of geothermal pool etiquette is respecting the temperature. Some hot pots are very warm, and it’s normal to move between cooler and hotter pools. Listen to your body, drink water, and take breaks if you feel lightheaded. At Ourhotels.is properties, including Hvítá Inn near Borgarnes, Stykkishólmur Inn, and Ísafjörður Inn, reception can recommend nearby pools with a variety of temperatures and facilities, from children’s areas to quiet hot tubs with mountain views.
If you’re visiting with children, keep them close and follow the posted rules about age limits for hot tubs and deeper pools. Lifeguards are attentive, but parents and guardians are expected to supervise their own kids at all times.
When you’re finished, rinse off briefly in the showers again, dry yourself before entering the changing area, and leave the space tidy. Used towels go in the designated bins, and swimsuits should be wrung out in the shower area rather than dripping through the locker room.
Staying with Ourhotels.is makes it easy to experience this side of Icelandic culture. From Hvítá Inn in Borgarfjörður, you can combine a day exploring waterfalls and hot springs with an evening soak in a local pool. At Stykkishólmur Inn, you’re perfectly placed to enjoy geothermal baths after a day of island-hopping on Breiðafjörður Bay. And from Ísafjörður Inn, you can relax in a hot tub while surrounded by dramatic Westfjords scenery.
By following simple geothermal pool etiquette—shower thoroughly, respect personal space, keep noise low, and follow lifeguard instructions—you’ll not only enjoy cleaner, calmer pools, but you’ll also experience Iceland the way locals do. When you book with Ourhotels.is, our teams at Hvítá Inn, Stykkishólmur Inn, and Ísafjörður Inn are ready to help you find the best nearby pools and hot springs, so your stay in West Iceland is as warm and relaxing as the water itself.
