Are you heading to the west of Iceland and planning a road trip on Snaefellsnes? Then make sure to stop at Ytri Tunga, the place on the peninsula to see seals. With a bit of luck, you will spot dozens of seals resting on the rocks just offshore.
Read this article in DutchYtri Tunga, a beach unlike the typical Icelandic ones
Ytri Tunga is not one of the usual Icelandic black sand beaches. This beach has golden sand, which gives it a completely different atmosphere. The beach is narrow and slightly curved, with many low rock formations lying directly along the shoreline. Especially at low tide, seals often choose these flat rocks to stretch out and relax. It is an ideal place for a quiet walk along the water while keeping an eye out for seals. From the beach you have beautiful views of the large Snaefellsjokull glacier, which dominates the landscape and is visible from almost every point on the peninsula.
Which seal species you can see at Ytri Tunga
At Ytri Tunga you will mostly see two seal species: the common seal and the grey seal. The common seal is smaller, with a rounded head, large dark eyes and a coat that ranges from light grey to dark brown with speckles. They are curious yet shy and prefer low, flat rocks to rest on. The grey seal is noticeably larger and more robust, with a longer, dog-like snout and a more heavily mottled coat in shades of silver grey to dark grey. This species behaves a bit more territorially and often lies slightly farther from the waterline. Seals come out most reliably at low tide, when they can rest comfortably without needing to return to the water immediately.
Walk at Ytri Tunga
If you feel like taking a short walk along the coast, you can follow this marked trail. The route is easy and just over one and a half kilometres long. As you walk along the shoreline, you have views of the glacier on one side and the beach on the other, where you may spot several seals resting if you are lucky.
When to visit Ytri Tunga, Seal Beach
Ytri Tunga is located on the southern side of Snaefellsnes. If you are doing a road trip around the peninsula, it is best to visit this beach, commonly known as Seal Beach, at the beginning or the end of your loop. It sits close to the main road (route 54), offers easy (paid) parking and gives direct access to the beach. Don’t forget to stop at Bjarnarfoss further along route 54, one of the most beautiful waterfalls on the peninsula and definitely worth stepping out for!
