The Akranes Lighthouse
A Symbol of West Iceland
The Akranes Lighthouse stands at the western tip of Akranes and is one of the town’s most recognisable landmarks. There are two lighthouses: the older one was built in 1918 on Suðurflös, designed by Thorvald Krabbe, and is one of Iceland’s oldest concrete lighthouses. It is square, painted white and 10 metres tall. Its original lantern house was made from steel plates salvaged from the ship Goðafoss, which stranded in 1917. The current lantern house was built by members of Kiwanis in 1992.
Between 1943–1944, a new cylindrical lighthouse was constructed east of the older one, designed by engineer Axel Sveinsson. It is 22.7 metres tall and was taken into use in 1947. Its light characteristic is Fl(2)WRG 20s, meaning two flashes in a three‑colour sector every 20 seconds.
Visitor Experience at the Akranes Lighthouse
Today, The Akranes Lighthouse is open to the public and has become one of the most popular attractions in Akranes. Visitors can walk up the lighthouse and enjoy magnificent views from Reykjanes Peninsula to Snæfellsjökull. The lighthouse is also used for art exhibitions and concerts, where the acoustics are exceptional and the experience unforgettable.
Whether you are interested in history and culture or simply want to enjoy scenery and atmosphere, the Akranes Lighthouse is a place you should not miss.
Ten ideas for recreation in Akranes and nearby
- Relax in Guðlaug, a natural pool by Langisandur shore in Akranes.
- Visit the Akranes Museum in Garðar and learn about the history of the place over the centuries.
- Hike up Mt Akrafjall – the view from the top will not disappoint.
- Visit the War and Peace Museum and learn about Hvalfjörður’s important role during World War II.
- Take a tour to Botnsdalur in Hvalfjörður and hike up to
Glymur, Iceland’s highest waterfall (198 m). - Visit Hvammsvík Hot Springs on the south side of Hvalfjörður.
- Visit the Agricultural Museum of Iceland in Hvanneyri and the Ullarselið Wool Centre.
- Get to know the Icelandic goat at the Háafell Goat Farm in Borgarfjörður.
- Visit The Settlement Center in Borgarnes and learn about the settlement of Iceland and Egill Skallagrímsson.
- Soak in Krauma Spa by Deildartunguhver, the most powerful hot spring in Europe.
For further information and ideas, visit Visit West Iceland
Breiðin, 300 Akranes 
hilmarphoto@simnet.is 
(+354) 894 3010
Opening hours: