Wildlife · South coast
The seals of Ytri Tunga
A farm beach of pale sand and weed-covered rocks on the south coast of Snæfellsnes, where harbour seals haul out within sight of the car park.
When to go
The seals are resident and can be seen in every season, but they spend time on the rocks rather than in the water mostly when the tide is out and the weather is calm and mild. Check a tide table for Snæfellsnes before you go and aim for low water. In rough weather you may only see heads bobbing offshore.
Most are harbour seals, with some grey seals among them. Bring binoculars or a long lens: you will not get close, and should not try.
Parking
The car park belongs to the farm and is charged by number-plate camera, valid from midnight to midnight. Pay at the machine on site or online.
| Car, up to 5 seats | ISK 900 |
|---|---|
| Vehicle with 6–9 seats | ISK 1,100 |
| Stays under 10 minutes | Free |
Rates published by the operator (Check-it), October 2026. Ytri Tunga is outside the national park, so the park’s service fee does not cover it.
Nearby
West along the coast are the black church at Búðir, built in 1847–1850 and moved within its churchyard in 1984, and the lava reserve of Búðahraun; beyond them, Arnarstapi. In summer, Lýsulaugar, a natural green mineral pool without chlorine, is open daily 11:00–21:00 from 15 May to 31 August (adults ISK 1,800).
Questions people ask
Are there always seals at Ytri Tunga?
Seals can be seen all year round, but not every hour of every day. They haul out on the rocks mostly at low tide, in calm and mild weather; at high tide or in a storm you may see only heads in the water.
Which seals are they?
Mostly harbour seals, with some grey seals.
How close can I get?
Keep at least 50 m away, or 100 m if there are pups. Seals that feel crowded slip into the water.
Does it cost anything?
Parking is charged by number-plate camera: ISK 900 for a car with up to 5 seats, ISK 1,100 for 6–9 seats, valid for the day. Visits under 10 minutes are free. Pay at the machine or online.
Do tours stop here?
Most Snæfellsnes day tours from Reykjavik include Ytri Tunga, usually for 15–40 minutes. One exception: Arctic Adventures skips it in December and January for lack of daylight.