What You Need to Know to Plan a Trip to the Westman Islands

The Westman Islands – known to locals as Vestmannaeyjar – are fast becoming South Iceland’s worst-kept secret. Once a hidden gem, savvy travellers are increasingly aware that speeding past the turn-off on the country’s ring road is a big mistake. This volcanic archipelago is as compelling as the attractions on the mainland, and you won’t regret including it in your South Iceland road trip itinerary.

The Westman Islands comprise a number of islands and islets, but only one – Heimaey – is permanently settled. Boat trips are a good way of seeing some of the other islands as well as providing an opportunity to see the archipelago’s abundant sea bird population. You’ll see huge numbers of kittiwakes, guillemots, and fulmars.

Of course, many tourists are keen to see one bird in particular: the puffin. Iceland’s largest colony is found on the Westman Islands. Time your visit between mid-April and mid-August, and from the bird hide at the Stórhöfði peninsula, you’ll often enjoy a close-up view of puffin parents coming and going with food for their chick in the nearby burrows. Their clumsy landings and rapidly beating wings are a joy to watch.  

Another popular activity is to visit the Beluga Whale Sanctuary. Two belugas were rehomed from China, and the long process of rehabilitation is ongoing. It is hoped that the pair will one day be able to be released into the open ocean and live in the wild. In the meantime, visitors can watch them at their temporary home.

The coastline is appealing in itself, not least for the dramatic cliffs and huge caves that characterise its shore. One of the most iconic is Elephant Rock, where the cliff has been eroded into a shape that mimics this beautiful creature. Boat trips also call in at Klettshellir, a cave known for its wonderful acoustics.

If you like to be active, then you might also consider a round of golf in what’s surely one of the most unusual courses in the world, located within the Herjólfsdalur valley. As you explore Heimaey, you might also come across locals practising spranga, a centuries-old sport that’s akin to abseiling and involves swinging from the cliffs. 

Volcanic activity has shaped the Westman Islands and is a major draw for tourists. In 1973, a volcanic cone called Eldfell, measuring about 200 metres high, was created and today forms a superb vantage point for taking in the view. A nearby museum centres on a house that was partially engulfed by lava flows during that eruption and tells the story of how the islanders were safely evacuated by a fleet of fishing boats. 

Unfortunately, it’s not possible to set foot on Surtsey. This geologically young island was formed during another volcanic eruption that took place between 1963 and 1967. Access is strictly forbidden, however, as this UNESCO-listed site is reserved for scientific study. By keeping humans away, scientists can learn about vegetation succession following land creation and carry out vital experiments in a unique setting.

Day trip or overnight stay?

If your itinerary is packed and you can only spare a day to experience the Westman Islands, then do so. However, if you can spare the time, an overnight stay will make your visit more rewarding. Puffin sightings are best in the early morning, and without the need to keep an eye on the time all day, you’ll relax and enjoy the place a whole lot more, no matter how you spend your time. There’s a surprising amount to see and do using Heimaey as a base.

Getting there and away

Road trippers will be pleased to learn that there’s a ferry that connects Heimaey in the Westman Islands with the port of Landeyjahöfn on the mainland. Herjólfur (The Ferry) makes the 35-minute crossing seven times a day, and schedules are posted online. It’s possible to take your rental car on the ferry, but if you choose not to, then there are parking spaces at the ferry terminal where you can leave it. Parking is free, but you leave the vehicle at your own risk.

In peak season – July to mid-August – an extra crossing is added, but ferry tickets often sell out, so make plans well in advance and lock your booking in to avoid disappointment. Note that if your visit coincides with the family-friendly Þjóðhátíð music festival, held annually in August, then demand is exceptionally high.

Getting around

Whether you choose to have a car on the Westman Islands depends on your level of fitness and what you plan to do. Some of the most popular activities, such as boat trips, depart from the quayside within easy strolling distance of the ferry. Similarly, ATV tours – a fun way to explore the island – will also pick up from this part of Heimaey.

The road climbs steeply beyond the town to the south of the island and the Stórhöfði peninsula. To walk there from the harbour takes around an hour and a quarter, compared to less than ten minutes by car. It’s a 40-minute walk from the quayside to Eldfell but just five minutes behind the wheel.

Time may also be a factor: if you plan a day trip to Heimaey and hope to cram in as many activities as possible, then having a car at your disposal on the island is a great time-saver. You’ll also find it more convenient if you’re staying on the edge of town, so it’s worth figuring out a rough plan before booking your ferry crossing. 

FAQ

Do you need a car on the Westman Islands?

Not necessarily. Many sights are walkable or accessible via tours, but a car can save time, especially for day trips or exploring the island at your own pace.

How to get to the Westman Islands?

Take the Herjólfur ferry from Landeyjahöfn on the south coast of Iceland. It’s a quick and scenic ride!

How long is the ferry to the Westman Islands?

The ferry ride takes about 35 minutes.

How to see puffins on Westman Island?

Visit the Stórhöfði peninsula between mid-April and mid-August—it's home to Iceland’s largest puffin colony and offers great views from the bird hide.

What to do in the westman islands?

Hike a volcano, visit the Beluga Whale Sanctuary, see puffins, explore sea caves by boat, or just soak in the island’s dramatic coastal views.