Must-sees and hidden gems: what to see and do in Húsavík?
1. Go whale watching aboard a traditional boat
Húsavík is Iceland’s whale-watching capital. In summer, the waters of Skjálfandi Bay become a spectacular stage for aquatic dances, fin splashes, and misty blows. Step aboard a converted fishing boat, with the engine switched off (and sometimes even a sail unfurled). Everything goes quiet. Then a huge shadow surfaces just a few feet away: a humpback whale, a fin whale, or a small white-beaked dolphin. It's an almost sacred moment.
2. Unwind in the Geosea geothermal baths
Perched on a cliff with sweeping views of the Arctic Ocean, Geosea is a geothermal spa unlike any other. No sulfates, no sulfur smell. Just naturally warm seawater, drawn from deep within the Earth’s crust. Float in the infinity pools between drifting mist and an endless horizon, as the midnight sun washes the waves in shades of pink and orange. Simply unforgettable.
3. Explore the Húsavík Whale museum
Before heading out into the bay for a quiet encounter at sea, take time to dive into the fascinating world of these ocean giants. Set in a former maritime warehouse, the Húsavík Whale Museum brings together biology, ecology, and culture in a thoughtful way. You’ll see life-size skeletons, including that of an 82-foot fin whale, and learn about the centuries-old ties between Icelanders and these legendary animals. A beautiful introduction to the experience ahead.
4. Visit Húsavík Church
White, with emerald-green wood trim, Húsavík Church is one of the most photogenic buildings in northern Iceland. Built in 1907 with the look of a Swiss chalet, it rises from the heart of the village like something out of a storybook. Inside, the charm continues: pale wooden beams, colorful stained glass, and the gentle warmth of Nordic silence. Small, but full of history. A place to rest your legs and clear your mind.
5. Soak up a quiet moment at Húsavík harbor
Very early in the morning, or in the evening once visitors have left, the old harbor settles back into calm. Boats sit side by side at their moorings, while orange reflections glide across their varnished hulls. Nearby, a few cafés slowly come to life. Sit outside like the local fishermen, a steaming cup of kaffi in hand. The creak of ropes, the calls of gulls, the lapping of waves: this is Iceland at its most intimate and poetic.
6. Hike to the Húsavíkurfjall viewpoint
For a higher vantage point over the bay, head to the summit of Mount Húsavíkurfjall. The hike, about two to three hours round trip, crosses flower-filled meadows and rocky slopes. At the top, you’ll stand alone before the vastness. The harbor, the town, the boats, and above all, the dizzying line of the Kinnarfjöll mountains across the fjord. On a clear day, you can even spot Grímsey Island in the distance. With binoculars, you might catch a glimpse of an Arctic fox along the way.
7. Enjoy a local meal in an old wooden house
Set inside a century-old house made entirely of pale wood, Gamli Baukur is the definition of cozy. Fishermen still come here early in the morning, while travelers linger over dinner with fresh cod fillet or tender lamb. Butter melts into dark bread, the fish gives off a delicate warmth, and in the corner stove, the fire crackles. This table feels like real Iceland. And it invites you to share.
8. Discover local traditions at Safnahúsið á Húsavík
Just steps from the harbor, this quiet little museum is filled with treasures from everyday Icelandic life. Fishing tools, traditional clothing, toys made from whale bone, folklore objects, and sailors' stories make it a journey through time and across generations. The volunteers on site often have wonderful anecdotes to share. It’s a deep dive into the memory of a proud people, shaped by the sea and harsh winters.
9. Take a detour to Dettifoss waterfall
Just one hour and 56 miles from Húsavík by road, Dettifoss is considered the most powerful waterfall in Europe. Roaring, raw, unforgettable. You hear its thunder long before you see it. Walk across black, almost lunar ground, and suddenly it appears: a dense wall of foam and brown water crashing into a basalt canyon. You leave stunned, soaked, and dazzled. This is one excursion you won’t want to miss.
10. Meet the puffins on Lundey Island
If birds make your heart beat faster, hop aboard a small boat bound for Lundey, literally “Puffin Island.” In summer, thousands of these beloved birds, with their colorful beaks and awkward little walk, come here to nest. The captain slowly approaches the guano-streaked, wild-grass-covered shore as cameras click all around. But the best way to enjoy them is simply to watch, still and quiet, with your own eyes. A true winged ballet. Please note that landing on the island is not allowed.
Add Húsavík to a tailor-made trip to Iceland
What if you discovered Iceland with the people who know it by heart? With Evaneos, you’ll be connected directly with a local, English-speaking expert based in the destination. They’ll share their on-the-ground knowledge and help you explore beyond the usual routes, designing a trip that truly feels like you.
Want to watch whales in Húsavík, hike through the fjords of the North, or soak in a hidden hot spring? Your local expert will adapt each stop to your interests, travel dates, pace, and favorite discoveries.
