Skardsvik Beach (Skarðsvík Beach) is a sandy beach on the western end of the Snaefellsnes peninsula. The turquoise water, basalt rock formations, golden sand and surrounding mysterious volcanic landscape make Skardsvik Beach a unique attraction that is definitely worth seeing.
The beach owes its unique beauty to the fact that it was formed in a lava field from one of the eruptions of nearby volcanoes. Hence the unusual shapes of the surrounding rocks and the abundance of small coves where sand collects. In addition, fine cinders (or coarse sand) in black and gold are often mixed here, creating an unusual “wasp sand” impression….
Although the turquoise water invites swimming, the water is icy cold and, with strong ocean currents, very dangerous. Although Skardsvik beach looks almost tropical in some photos, don’t plan on swimming here.
At the northern end of the beach is a small cave. In the summer of 1962, a mound with the remains of a man about 18-25 years old was discovered there. Next to the remains lay a 95-centimeter sword and a 21-centimeter spearhead. According to researchers, the find dates back to the 10th century. It is currently housed at the National Museum of Iceland.
Right next to the beach there is a parking lot with picnic areas. It’s also worth at least a little walk on one of the designated hiking trails through the lava fields.
To get to the beach, take the Útnesvegur road (No. 574), and where it diverges from the coast, turn southwest onto Öndverðarnesvegur (road No. 579). This is a scenic gravel and volcanic road that is accessible to most vehicles. Access to the beach is well marked.
