Akranes Lighthouse
A lighthouse you can climb, whose acoustics turned the base into a small concert hall.
Updated 30 August 2026
Two lighthouses stand on the point at Akranes: a smaller one built in 1918 and the taller working tower of 1947. The newer one is unusual in being open for people to climb - a staircase runs up to the lamp room and a balcony with a view over Faxafloi to Snaefellsjokull on a clear day. The concrete drum at the base turned out to have long reverberation and good acoustics, and it has been used for concerts and recordings since, as well as exhibitions of photography. The point is also a good place to watch birds, and seals sometimes come close to the rocks.
What to look for
- Two towers, 1918 and 1947 - the older small, the newer working.
- A tower open to climb - stairs to the lamp room and balcony.
- Acoustics used for concerts - the base drum's long reverberation.
- Views across Faxafloi - to Snaefellsjokull in clear weather.
When to go
Year round; opening depends on volunteers and season. An hour.
Practical notes
Access to the tower is not guaranteed - it depends on who is there. The stairs are steep and narrow. The point is exposed and wind makes the balcony unpleasant. Facilities are limited.
Nearby
Akranes town is behind; Borgarnes and Hvalfjordur are north and south.
Key facts
Source: Wikidata, item Q3378144, read on 18 October 2026.
What to pack for Akranes Lighthouse
Chosen from what this place is for. Tap a kit for the full checklist.
- Comfortable walking shoes - Sightseeing means kilometres of pavement and cobbles daily. Find on Amazon
- A slim anti-theft daypack - Zips that close properly; keep it in front in crowds and on transit. Find on Amazon
- A refillable water bottle - Many cities have public fountains; save money and plastic. Find on Amazon
- A light layer + compact umbrella - For museum air-con and a sudden shower. Find on Amazon
Some links on this page are Amazon affiliate links - if you buy through them we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
All packing kitsPlan your trip
Where to start if Akranes Lighthouse is going on the list.
Booking links on this page are affiliate links - if you book through them we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. It never changes what we write about a place.
Opening times, ticket prices and seasonal closures change - check the official source before you go: official site.
