Where to See Seals in Iceland
Iceland is one of the best locations where you can view seals in their natural surroundings. They rest on beaches, rocky shores, and icebergs at Jökulsárlón. The best places to see the common harbor seal (also known as land seal) are on the Vatnsnes Peninsula in the north, Ytri Tunga Beach in the west, and on Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon in the south-east. Seals can be seen in all seasons in Iceland although, the best season is summer, particularly during low-tides in June, when baby seals can be seen and full-grown seals are most active.
In the town of Hvammstangi you'll find Iceland's seal center where visitors can learn all about the creatures including how safely observe them and protect their habitats.
This guide will show you where to observe seals in Iceland and what to expect on your visit.
Vatnsnes Peninsula
Vatnsnes Peninsula is among the best places where you can spot seals in their natural habitats. The area is full of large colonies of seals, and driving along the peninsula will have signs on the road that have images of seals on them. The signs point out good spots where you can make a quick detour and spot them. Some of the best spots are Illugastaðir and Hvítserkur.
Illugastaðir is an old farm that is nowadays used as an observation point where visitors can observe seals. The seals like to lie on rocky outcrops on the shoreline, and guests can observe them closely but safely. Hvítserkur, that strange rock that rises out of water, is also a favorite among people. It looks like a giant dragon that is suspended in time, but most of all, individuals like to observe seals there too. The most suitable point is around low tide, where the seals come out of water to lie on land.
Hvammstangi, the largest of towns on the Vatnsnes Peninsula, is where the Icelandic Seal Center is located. It is well worth visiting before actually going out sealspotting. The center has a lot of information on how there are various types of seals around Iceland, how they exist, and how valuable they are to the environment. It also teaches people how to view seals without disturbing them. Seals are creatures that exist freely, and people must treat them nicely.
Vatnsnes Peninsula is far greater than its seals. The area is characterized by stunning views, hidden beaches, and peacefulness. You can also spot whales off coastal waters if luck is on your side. It's perfect for animal lovers who want to witness Iceland’s wildlife closely. The peninsula has a dirt road around the whole peninsula that's easily accessible from the Ring Road and safe to drive.
- GPS Coordinates of Illugastaðir:65°36'24.3"N 20°53'24.0"W
- GPS Coordinates of Hvítserkur:65°36'23.4"N 20°38'06.5"W
See Seals on Jökulsárlón - 7 Day Journey of Iceland
Icelandic Seal Center in Hvammstangi
Hvammstangi the largest town on the Vatnsnes Peninsula of northwestern Iceland, is often called the gateway to seal watching in the region. The charming village is home to the Icelandic Seal Centre, where fans of learning about and witnessing these incredible aquatic creatures meet.
The Icelandic Seal Centre is multi-functional - it's a center of research, educational museum, and Húnaþing-vestra tourist center. Visitors can explore exhibits detailing the various seal species found along Iceland's shores, their behaviors, and their habitats. The center also emphasizes the importance of conservation efforts to protect these creatures. Guests who wish for greater insight, the center offers guided tours by providing insights into ongoing research and seal ecology.
Beyond the center itself, Hvammstangi also offers real possibilities of spotting seals outdoors. Boat tours set out from Hvammstangi Harbour throughout the summer season, around Húnaflói and Miðfjörður. The tours provide visitors with the chance of seeing seals up close, playing and sunbathing on land. The tours run May 15th through September 30th, corresponding to that part of the season where activity is most apparent.
For those preferring to watch on land, employees of the Icelandic Seal Center can guide visitors to locations around the Vatnsnes Peninsula where there is good observation of seals. The employees provide detailed explanations of where and how to watch seals, making it a worthwhile experience.
- GPS Coordinates of the Seal Center:65°23'43.0"N 20°56'50.7"W
Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon
Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, located on the southeast of Iceland, is one of the most stunning places where people can view seals in natural habitats. The lagoon is formed by melting of the Breiðamerkurjökull glacier that created a lake that is full of giant floating icebergs. The lagoon is linked to the Atlantic Ocean, where saltwater is combined with fresh water, taking along plenty of fish that makes Jökulsárlón one of the favorite habitats of seals.
Visitors often observe seals swimming around icebergs or reclining on top of them. The curious creatures will also make it onto the beaches on occasions, offering people good views of what they do up close.
For those that prefer closer observation of the icebergs and of the seals, there are lagoon boat tours that pass through floating ice, bringing you right up to the seals without disturbing them. The tours are guided by experienced staff that give insight into the glacier, how the lagoon is created, and what wildlife can be expected there. For the best chance of seeing seals up close, the zodiac tours are a better option as they go further into the lagoon, where the seals like to stay for more privacy.
- GPS Coordinates of Jökulsárlón:64°02'59.2"N 16°10'50.1"W
Seal Watching on a 7 Day Journey of Iceland
The Diamond Beach
Next to Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon is Diamond Beach, a black sand beach where icebergs that have broken off the lagoon drift up onto the beach. The contrast of clear, shimmering ice on top of dark volcanic sand is stunningly beautiful. While seals on the beach itself are much rarer, you do sometimes see them popping their heads out of the water or lounging on the beach.
The beach has also been visited by walruses in the past, the most recent one spotted in the summer of 2013. So not a common sight but they do pop their heads up on shore around Iceland and stay for a few days at a time before moving on.
- GPS Coordinates of Diamond Beach:64°02'40.1"N 16°10'39.3"W
Skötufjörður in the Westfjords
Skötufjörður, a quiet fjord in Iceland's Westfjords, is a great place to watch seals. This area doesn't get many visitors, so you can enjoy seeing wildlife without crowds. Seals often rest on the rocks along the shore or swim in the clear waters, making them easy to spot. The natural beauty of Skötufjörður also attracts many birds and other sea animals, offering a rich experience for nature lovers.
A notable spot nearby is Hvítanes, located between Hestfjörður and Skötufjörður. Hvítanes is one of Iceland's most accessible places to see seals. Many harbor seals relax on the rocks just meters from the shore. Local farmers have made it easier to visit by providing parking and setting up benches for viewing. This makes Hvítanes a convenient place for anyone wanting to observe seals up close.
When visiting Skötufjörður and Hvítanes, it's important to respect the wildlife. Seals are curious but can be easily scared. Visitors should keep a safe distance, avoid loud noises, and never try to touch or feed the seals. By being considerate, we can ensure these beautiful animals remain undisturbed in their natural home.
- GPS Coordinates of Skötufjörður:65°54'02.9"N 22°51'26.2"W
See Seals on Jökulsárlón - 7 Day Journey of Iceland
Rauðisandur Beach in the Westfjords
Rauðisandur Beach, which translates to "Red Sand," is a special place in Iceland's Westfjords. Unlike the usual black sand beaches in Iceland, Rauðisandur stretches about 10 kilometers with sand that changes color from golden to reddish, depending on the light and weather. This beach is peaceful and doesn't have many visitors, making it a great spot to see seals. You can often find them resting on the sand or swimming close to the shore. The calm setting also makes it a good place to watch different kinds of birds.
To get to Rauðisandur, you'll need to drive on a steep gravel road with sharp turns, so it's important to be careful. Once you arrive, the quiet and natural beauty of the beach make the trip worthwhile. Remember to keep a respectful distance from the seals and avoid disturbing them, so everyone can enjoy this special place.
- GPS Coordinates of Rauðisandur:65°28'35.5"N 23°59'29.9"W
Ytri-Tunga at Snæfellsnes Peninsula
The Snæfellsnes Peninsula, often called "Iceland in Miniature" because of its varied landscapes, is a great place to see seals. One of the best spots is Ytri Tunga Beach, located on the peninsula's southern coast. Unlike many of Iceland's black sand beaches, Ytri Tunga has golden sand and shallow waters, making it a favorite spot for seals to rest. Visitors can often see these animals lounging on the rocks, especially during the summer months when they are most active. The beach is easy to reach and offers a unique chance to observe seals in their natural environment.
Getting to Ytri Tunga is simple, and the experience starts the moment you turn off Route 54 from Borgarnes onto the road leading to the beach. The road is paved all the way to the parking lot. A sign marks the entrance of Ytri Tunga, and after a short drive, you’ll reach the parking area. The lot is small but usually has enough space. From the parking area, a short, well-worn path leads directly to the shoreline, making access easy for most visitors. Unlike some remote beaches in Iceland, Ytri Tunga doesn’t require a long hike—just a couple of minutes of walking before you’re on the sand, ready to spot seals.
There are no visitor facilities at Ytri Tunga, so travelers should come prepared. There are no restrooms, no café, and no visitor center. It’s just you, the beach, and the seals. If you need a break, the closest town with services is Arnarstapi, 30 minutes further west along the peninsula.
- GPS Coordinates of Ytri-Tunga: 64°48'11.0"N 23°04'49.6"W
See Seals on Jökulsárlón - 7 Day Journey of Iceland
Time for Seal Watching in Iceland
Harbor Seals can be observed in summer and winter in Iceland, however no matter the season the best time of day to spot seals is during low tide. This is when seals lounge on beaches, rocks and icebergs often in good weather. Pupping season in June is when seals are most active which greatly increases chances of spotting them.
For maximum chance of watching seals in full action, take trips around two hours after or around low tides during pupping season. Clear calm weather conditions also enhance the chance of seeing seals, as they like sunbasking onshore in calm weather conditions. Despite there being little seasonality of seeing seals, summer is preferable for prolonged observation times due to its extended sunlight, good weather conditions and pupping season.
- Best Seal Watching Season: Summer months June/July
- Harbor Seal Mating Season: August and September
- Harbor Seal Pupping Season: June
Observing Seal Pups in Iceland
Seal pupping season in Iceland typically occurs during the summer months, with variations depending on the species. The most commonly observed seals in Iceland are harbor seals which usually give birth to a single pup between late May and early July. During this period, mother seals and their pups can sometimes be observed resting onshore. This is also the season the seals are most active, which greatly increases chances of spotting seals.
It's crucial to maintain a respectful distance during pupping season, as mother seals are protective of their young and can become stressed by human interference. Using binoculars allows for safe and non-intrusive viewing of these vulnerable animals.
Respect the Seals
When watching seals on land in Iceland, keeping your distance is most critical. The seals can seem relaxed and curious, but they are wild animals that need space to rest and stay safe. Visitors must stay no closer than 100 meters (about the size of a fotball field) to ensure to not bother them. When threatened, seals will move into water, which can be stressful, especially for young pups and nursing mothers.
Seals rely on peaceful surroundings to rest after excursions out to hunt within the cold North Atlantic. Noises, sudden movements, or people coming too close can cause them to panic. It's better to move slowly, stay on the ground, and make no unnecessary noises. While it may be exciting to try to move closer or snap a perfect photo, people should never try to touch or hand-feed seals. Hand-feeding wildlife can harm their natural instincts and introduce bacteria that might make them sick.
Another major concern is the use of drones. The loud humming of drones along with their sudden movement overhead can disturb entire colonies, driving them off the shore and losing valuable rest time. Because of this, most of the nature reserves and areas where people observe seals in Iceland discourage or ban drones altogether.
By keeping quiet, keeping distant, and avoiding activities that will disrupt their routine, visitors can experience seeing seals without harming them. Iceland's seal population is an important part of the country's wildlife, and following these simple rules helps keep them safe for future generations.
Sources:
- The Icelandic Seal Center. (n.d.). Seal watching locations. Retrieved from https://selasetur.is/en/tourist-info/seal-watching-locations/
- Visit Húnaþing. (n.d.). Sealwatching. Retrieved from http://www.visithunathing.is/en/what-to-do/sealwatching
- Morgunblaðið. (2013, August 16). Rostungur í Jökulsárlóni. Retrieved from https://www.mbl.is/frettir/innlent/2013/08/16/rostungur_i_jokulsarloni/
- Náttúrustofa Suðvesturlands. (2015). Seals at Ytri-Tunga (English). Retrieved from https://nsv.is/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/Selir-Ytri-Tunga-2015-English.pdf
- Náttúrufræðistofnun Íslands. (n.d.). Landselur (Phoca vitulina). Retrieved from https://www.ni.is/is/biota/animalia/chordata/mammalia/carnivora/landselur-phoca-vitulina