On the western side of Reynisfjall, the high ridge above Vík, Rte 215 leads 5km down to the famed black-sand beach Reynisfjara (parking 1000kr). Braving weather and crowds you'll be rewarded with a broad sweep of beach backed by an incredible stack of basalt columns that look like a magical church organ, and outstanding views west to Dyrhólaey. The cliffs are pocked with caves like Hálsanefshellir formed from twisted basalt, and puffins belly-flop into the crashing sea during summer.
Immediately offshore you'll see the towering Reynisdrangur sea stacks. Tradition says they are the mast of a ship that trolls were stealing when they got caught in the sun. A bracing walk up from Vík's western end takes you to the top of Reynisfjall (340m), which offers superb views.
You may recognize the beach from Bon Iver's 2011 music video Holocene, practically an ode to Iceland. The beach can get busy in high season, so try to come early in the day or late in the evening. At all times watch for rogue waves: people are regularly swept away.
