Garður Old Lighthouse

This charming coastal walk to a historic lighthouse offers families an easy, accessible outdoor adventure with breathtaking Atlantic Ocean views. The flat, well-maintained trail is perfect for little legs, and the iconic red and white lighthouse makes for incredible family photos against Iceland's dramatic coastal backdrop. Kids will love exploring the rocky shoreline, watching for seabirds, and on clear days, spotting distant mountains across the water.

• ✓Two historic lighthouses (old and new) creating perfect photo opportunities
• ✓Tide pools along the rocky shore where kids can spot small crabs and marine life
• ✓Puffin watching during breeding season (May through August)
• ✓Stunning panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and Reykjanes Peninsula
• ✓Easy, flat walking trail suitable for strollers and young children

1. 1.Dress in layers and bring windproof jackets year-round. Icelandic coastal weather changes quickly, and it can be quite windy even on sunny days.
2. 2.Visit during the midnight sun season (May to August) for extended daylight hours, allowing flexible visit times without worrying about darkness.
3. 3.Bring binoculars for bird watching. The area is excellent for spotting puffins (May to August), Arctic terns, and other seabirds.
4. 4.Pack snacks and water as there are no facilities at the lighthouse itself. The nearest amenities are back in the town of Garður or nearby Keflavík.
5. 5.Wear sturdy, waterproof shoes. The coastal rocks can be slippery, and curious kids will want to explore the shoreline tide pools.

Visit during summer months (June to August) for the warmest weather and best chances of seeing puffins. Early morning or late evening offers the most dramatic light for photos and fewer visitors. Weekdays tend to be quieter than weekends when locals also visit.

Admission is completely free and the site is accessible 24/7. There is a small parking area near the lighthouse. No restrooms or food facilities on site, so plan accordingly. The path is stroller-friendly but watch children near the cliff edges.

Accessible year-round, but summer (June to August) offers the warmest weather and puffin sightings. Winter visits can be magical with possible Northern Lights views, but expect cold, windy conditions and limited daylight (only 4-5 hours in December/January). Spring and fall offer fewer crowds but unpredictable weather.

Head to nearby Keflavík (10 minutes drive) for family-friendly options like Kaffi Duus, a harborside restaurant with fish and chips kids enjoy, or Paddy's Irish Pub which serves familiar comfort food. For a quick bite, the N1 gas station convenience stores throughout Iceland offer surprisingly good hot dogs and snacks.