Is Húsavík worth visiting? Yes, absolutely. Húsavík was one of the highlights of my trip to Iceland. I had heard it was one of the best places in Europe for whale watching, but I quickly realised there was much more to the town than that. I enjoyed the peaceful harbour, the coastal scenery, and the relaxed atmosphere that made it feel very different from Iceland’s larger destinations. It was the kind of place where I found myself slowing down and appreciating the surroundings.
Húsavík is a small town on the north coast of Iceland and is often called the whale-watching capital of the country. Located on Skjálfandi Bay, it offers incredible opportunities to see whales, along with easy access to some of northern Iceland’s most impressive natural attractions. The town is also known for its colourful harbour, geothermal baths, and stunning coastal views.
In this guide, I’ll cover the top reasons why Húsavík is worth visiting and share some useful travel tips and advice to help you plan your trip. Whether you’re interested in wildlife, nature, or exploring a quieter side of Iceland, keep reading to discover the many reasons why Húsavík is worth visiting.
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Top Reasons You Should Visit Húsavík
1. World-Class Whale Watching
Húsavík is widely regarded as one of the best places in the world for whale watching, thanks to the rich marine life in Skjálfandi Bay. Visitors have a high chance of spotting humpbacks, minkes, and even blue whales, along with playful dolphins and puffins.
I joined a whale-watching tour with Gentle Giants and was thrilled to see a humpback breach just a few metres from our boat. The guides were knowledgeable and passionate, sharing fascinating facts about the marine ecosystem. If you’re a wildlife enthusiast, whale watching in Húsavík is a must-do experience that lives up to its reputation.
2. Charming Harbour and Small-Town Atmosphere
Húsavík’s harbour area is the heart of the town, lined with colourful boats, seafood restaurants, and small shops. The pace here is slow and relaxing, offering a glimpse into traditional Icelandic life.
I spent an afternoon wandering the harbour, watching fishermen prepare their boats and soaking up the tranquil vibe. There’s something wonderfully refreshing about Húsavík’s small-town charm, making it the perfect escape from busier tourist hubs like Reykjavik.
3. Fascinating Whale Museum
The Húsavík Whale Museum is a treasure trove of information about marine life and the history of whaling in Iceland. It’s an excellent complement to a whale-watching tour, offering deeper insights into the creatures you’ll see in Skjálfandi Bay.
I was captivated by the museum’s life-sized whale skeletons and interactive exhibits. It’s a family-friendly spot where you can learn about conservation efforts and the significance of whales to Iceland’s cultural heritage. If you’re visiting Húsavík, this museum is worth an hour or two of your time.
4. Geothermal Baths with Spectacular Views
For a relaxing soak, head to the GeoSea Geothermal Baths, perched on a cliff overlooking the bay. The baths use geothermally heated seawater and offer breathtaking views of the ocean and surrounding mountains.
I visited GeoSea at sunset, and it was magical—soaking in the warm water while watching the sun dip below the horizon was an unforgettable experience. The facilities are modern and well-maintained, making this a luxurious yet affordable treat after a day of exploring.
5. Proximity to Natural Wonders
Húsavík is an excellent base for exploring northern Iceland’s natural wonders, such as Lake Mývatn, Dettifoss waterfall, and Ásbyrgi canyon. These attractions are within an hour or two by car, offering a variety of landscapes to discover.
I used Húsavík as my base for a road trip to Dettifoss, and the journey was just as memorable as the destination. The town’s location makes it convenient for day trips to some of Iceland’s most dramatic and otherworldly sights.
6. Birdwatching Opportunities
In addition to whales, Húsavík is a haven for birdwatchers. Puffins, Arctic terns, and other seabirds thrive in the area, especially on Lundey Island, a small puffin colony accessible by boat.
I spotted dozens of puffins during my boat tour, and their clumsy landings and curious behaviour were a joy to watch. Bird lovers will appreciate the diversity of species in and around Húsavík, particularly during the summer months when puffins are most active.
7. Rich Viking History
Húsavík has a fascinating Viking heritage, believed to be one of the first places settled by Norse explorers. The town’s name translates to “Bay of Houses,” referencing its early Viking settlers.
I explored some local historical sites and learned about Iceland’s settlement history, which gave me a new appreciation for the area’s cultural depth. History buffs will enjoy discovering Húsavík’s Viking past while taking in its natural beauty.
8. Delicious Local Seafood
The seafood in Húsavík is as fresh as it gets, with local restaurants serving up everything from Arctic char to langoustines. Dining here feels like a true taste of the ocean.
I had dinner at Naustið, a cosy restaurant near the harbour, and their fish stew was divine. If you’re a fan of seafood, don’t miss the chance to sample Húsavík’s culinary delights—they’re a perfect match for the town’s coastal charm.
9. Friendly and Welcoming Locals
Húsavík’s residents are warm and welcoming, adding to the town’s inviting atmosphere. The locals take pride in their community and are happy to share tips and stories with visitors.
I had a lovely chat with a shop owner who recommended some hidden hiking trails and shared anecdotes about life in Húsavík. Their hospitality made my visit feel personal and memorable.
10. A Quieter, Less Touristy Experience
Compared to more popular Icelandic destinations, Húsavík is quieter and less crowded, offering a more relaxed and intimate experience. It’s an ideal destination for travellers seeking tranquillity.
Walking through the town, I appreciated the lack of hustle and bustle. Even during peak season, Húsavík felt peaceful and unspoiled, making it a refreshing change from Iceland’s busier tourist spots.
Travel Tips for Visiting Húsavík
What to Do in Husavik
Húsavík is a small town on Iceland’s north coast, but it delivers some of the biggest experiences in the country. I came here expecting a quiet fishing town and left wishing I had stayed longer. The scenery, wildlife, and geothermal attractions around Húsavík are incredible.
- Go Whale Watching in Skjálfandi Bay – This was my favourite experience because Húsavík is often called the whale-watching capital of Iceland and the chances of spotting whales are excellent.
- Visit the GeoSea Geothermal Baths – Relaxing in warm seawater while looking out over the Arctic Ocean was one of the most memorable experiences of my trip.
- Take a Puffin Watching Boat Tour – I loved seeing puffins up close, especially during the summer nesting season.
- Join a Diamond Circle Day Tour – This route includes waterfalls, volcanic landscapes, and some of North Iceland’s most impressive natural attractions.
- Explore Lake Mývatn on a Guided Excursion – The geothermal areas and unique volcanic scenery make this one of the best day trips from Húsavík.
- Take a Northern Lights Tour in Winter – The dark skies around Húsavík provide excellent conditions for seeing the aurora.
When to Visit Húsavík
I think the best time to visit Húsavík depends on what you want to experience. Summer, from June to August, is ideal for whale watching, puffin tours, and long daylight hours. Winter is perfect if you’re hoping to see the Northern Lights and enjoy snowy landscapes. I would personally choose late June or early July because you get almost endless daylight and the best wildlife viewing opportunities. The weather is also generally at its most pleasant during this period.
How to Get to Húsavík
Most visitors reach Húsavík by driving from Akureyri, which is around an hour away by car. Akureyri Airport offers domestic flights from Reykjavik, while some regional flights also operate into Húsavík Airport. Many travellers rent a car and explore North Iceland as part of a larger road trip. There are also bus connections, although services can be limited. Personally, I think renting a car is the most convenient option because it gives you the freedom to explore the surrounding attractions at your own pace.
Where to Stay in Húsavík
- Fosshotel Húsavík – Located in the town centre near the harbour, this is one of the most comfortable and convenient places to stay in Húsavík.
- Hótel Húsavík – Situated close to the harbour, this hotel offers a great location for whale-watching tours and local restaurants.
- Post-Plaza Guesthouse – Located in the centre of town, this stylish guesthouse combines comfort with excellent value.
- Skjálfandi Apartments – Situated near the waterfront, these modern apartments are ideal for travellers wanting extra space.
- Árból Guesthouse – Located within walking distance of the harbour, this guesthouse offers a friendly atmosphere and good value.
- Húsavík Green Hostel – One of the best budget-friendly options in town, this hostel is clean, comfortable, and well located.
Getting Around Húsavík
Húsavík itself is very small, and I found it easy to explore on foot. Most hotels, restaurants, and attractions in town are within walking distance of each other. However, the surrounding region is where many of the major sights are located. There is limited public transport, so renting a car is usually the best option. Personally, I would recommend having your own vehicle because it makes visiting places like Lake Mývatn and the Diamond Circle much easier.
How Long to Spend in Húsavík
I think two to three days is the ideal amount of time for Húsavík. One day gives you enough time for whale watching and a visit to GeoSea, but staying longer allows you to explore nearby attractions without rushing. With three days, you can comfortably visit Lake Mývatn, the Diamond Circle, and enjoy the town itself. Personally, I would stay for three days because there is much more to see here than many travellers realise.
Conclusion
So, is Húsavík worth visiting? Without a doubt. From its world-class whale watching and scenic harbour to its geothermal baths and beautiful coastal setting, there are plenty of reasons to spend time here. Húsavík offers a more relaxed and intimate travel experience while still providing access to some of Iceland’s most memorable attractions. If you’re planning a trip to Iceland and want to explore beyond the usual tourist route, Húsavík is well worth adding to your itinerary.