Why is the Blue Lagoon that color?

The Blue Lagoon is blue because of the way silica—the lagoon's iconic and most abundant element—reflects visible light when suspended in water. All matter reflects visible light. Depending on the molecular structure of a given entity, it reflects a specific color of visible light.



People Also Ask

In the case of the Blue Lagoon, we see blue because the silica that permeates the water only reflects blue and absorbs all other colors!

MORE DETAILS

As you walk and swim around the lagoon, you'll notice that the bottom of the pool feels squishy. Don't freak out—that's the same silica mud you'll find in the face mask hut. Think of it as a healing experience for your feet.

MORE DETAILS

The Blue Lagoon was named because the water of the lagoon looks blue when reflected from the sun but in actuality, the water is a milky white color. And don't worry about the smell, the sulfur has been removed so there is no funky smell at all anymore.

MORE DETAILS

As a geothermal power plant there are no health concerns from bathing in the discharge of the thermal aquifers. In fact, the spa promotes the therapeutic and healing qualities of the brine. What few people discuss are the other effects of the salty mineral water on clothes and hair.

MORE DETAILS

We recommend that you remove any jewelry (rings, necklaces, bracelets, etc.) before entering the lagoon. This will ensure that you don't lose your items and that they don't get damaged by geothermal seawater which has high levels of silica, algae, and minerals.

MORE DETAILS

Likewise, you can purchase a swimsuit in the shop at Blue Lagoon. Is there a maximum time allowed in that water? You may spend as much time as you wish enjoying the water. Your entry ticket is valid for the entire day.

MORE DETAILS

The water in the Blue Lagoon is heated to around 37-40 degrees Celsius (98-104 F). Due to fluctuations in weather conditions, the precise temperature may change month to month, however you can expect pleasantly warm waters year-round. The sensation is similar to stepping into a hot bath.

MORE DETAILS

Catching a glimpse of the milky-blue water against the black-rock lava fields, it may not come as a complete surprise that the Blue Lagoon is man-made. Runoff water from the nearby Svartsengi geothermal power plant trickles into the lava fields and a blanket of mineral-rich mud lines the foundations of the Blue Lagoon.

MORE DETAILS

Do you shower after the Blue Lagoon? Yes, you should shower before and after your stay at the lagoon. Guests are required to shower, without their swimsuit, prior to using the geothermal spa. Simply use the showers and soaps available in the changing rooms.

MORE DETAILS

Depths rarely exceed 60 metres (about 200 feet) and many are shallower, usually less than 20 metres (about 65 feet) deep. The lagoon of Mayotte island in the Comoro archipelago in the Indian Ocean attains a maximum depth of about 92 metres (about 300 feet), but it is generally shallower.

MORE DETAILS

All guests must shower—without a swimsuit—before entering the Blue Lagoon. Use of Blue Lagoon skin care shower gel and hair conditioner is complimentary. If you desire more privacy while you shower, locate a shower that is equipped with a door.

MORE DETAILS

Is the Blue Lagoon always warm? As the water comes from geothermal springs, the water is scorching deep in the earth – in fact, it's 240°C or 464°F! But by the time it reaches the surface, it's 38°C or 100°F. So yes, it's warm throughout the year.

MORE DETAILS

Blue Lagoon is a geothermal spa Blue Lagoon is not really a hot spring if you want to get technical. It is a man-made lagoon made with water from the nearby Svartsengi geothermal power plant. They pump up the water and use steam to generate electricity.

MORE DETAILS

The seawater in the Blue Lagoon has high levels of silica. Silica is not harmful to hair. However, if your hair gets wet, it can become stiff and difficult to manage. Therefore, we recommend that you apply conditioner to your hair before entering the lagoon--and leave it in your hair while in the lagoon.

MORE DETAILS

There are instructions on the locker door as well. It is recommended that you leave all your jewelry and watches in the locker and the water might cause some damage to them. After having fun with the locker, you will need to shower before going into the lagoon. It is compulsory to shower and wash with soap.

MORE DETAILS