Midnight Golf in Iceland: Top 5 Courses Where the Sun Never Sets
Hitting a 7-iron at midnight with the sun glowing low on the horizon. It sounds like one of your wildest dreams. But it can happen. In Iceland, that’s not some surreal Instagram fantasy. It’s just summer.
Between late May and early August, the sun barely dips below the horizon here. Locals call it “the midnight sun.” Golfers call it a chance to play 18 holes when most of the world’s fast asleep. And for travelers—even those just here on a layover—it’s one of the strangest and most beautiful things you can do.
Shortcuts:
Why Midnight Golf Is Even Possible in Iceland
The top 5 Golf Courses in Iceland for Midnight Golf
- Brautarholt Golf Course – Reykjavík’s Twilight Gem
- Keilir Golf Club – Lava Meets Fairway
- Akureyri Golf Club – North of Ordinary
- Westman Islands Golf Course – Play Among Puffins
- Geysir Golf Course – Steam, Silence, and Surreal Fairways
And Then… Soak It All In at Hvammsvík Hot Springs
In summary: Midnight Golf in Iceland Is as Wild and Wonderful as it sounds
Midnight Golf in Iceland: Top Questions Travelers Actually Ask
Why Midnight Golf Is Even Possible in Iceland
Iceland sits right below the Arctic Circle. Which means that in the months on both sides of the summer solstice, you can enjoy 24 hours of daylight.
It’s like nature gave the country an extended happy hour… that never ends.
It’s not just about the sunlight. It’s the golden haze that hangs in the air like it’s stuck in the golden hour. It’s the sound of nothing but your own swing, the low call of seabirds, and that voice in your head that says: “I shouldn’t be awake, but I’m glad I am”.
And yes, it’s kind of addictive.
If you are a golfer heading to Iceland, even for a few hours during a layover, here are the top 5 courses you should aim for.
The top 5 Golf Courses in Iceland for Midnight Golf
1. Brautarholt Golf Course – Reykjavík’s Twilight Gem
Let’s just call it what it is: Brautarholt is the poster child for midnight golf in Iceland.
Perched on a coastal cliff about 30 minutes from downtown Reykjavík, this 12-hole course is something else. You’ve got panoramic views of the Atlantic, jagged lava outcroppings, and fairways that dance between rugged and refined. And when the midnight sun hits the sea just right? It’s like someone lit the sky on fire—soft, golden fire.
The layout is clever but not punishing. Designed by Edwin Roald and shaped by Michael Kelly, it balances beauty with playability. You’ll walk away feeling like a pro — the backdrop does half the work.
Getting there: Rent a car or take a taxi from Reykjavík.
Good to know: They’ve got club rentals, coffee, beer, and the kind of atmosphere that makes solo travelers feel like locals.
Pro tip: Book a twilight tee time around 10:30 PM. The last few holes under the midnight sun? That’s your Iceland story.
2. Keilir Golf Club – Lava Meets Fairway
Keilir is what happens when someone builds a golf course on a lava field and just… lets it rock.
Located in Hafnarfjörður, Keilir is bold. The front 9 weaves through ancient lava, dark and dramatic. The back 9 opens up toward the coast, more links-style, with rolling hills and sea views. It’s like playing two different courses in one loop.
Wind can be your frenemy here. One minute it’s nudging your ball just right, the next it’s punishing your fade. But that’s part of the charm.
Getting there: A quick drive from Reykjavík through the suburban towns.
Good to know: The clubhouse has cozy vibes and always a warm welcome.
Pro tip: Don’t rush. Walk this one. You’ll want time to gawk at the lava formations between shots.
3. Akureyri Golf Club – North of Ordinary
Up in North Iceland is Akureyri Golf Club—officially the world’s northernmost 18-hole course.
Playing in Akureyri under the midnight sun is like stepping onto another planet. The sky turns to a sleepy lavender and everything slows down. If you’re strategic, you can time your visit with the Arctic Open, a midnight-sun tournament that draws players from all over the world.
Getting there: You can fly to Akureyri from Reykjavík in under an hour or drive for 4-5 hours.
Good to know: Bring a jacket just in case the gale brings cool air from the mountains.
Pro tip: Stay the night in Akureyri. Grab a local beer, enjoy the hot tubs, and soak up the town’s laid-back, northern vibe.
4. Westman Islands Golf Course – Play Among Puffins
Golf on a volcano, with puffins as your gallery.
The Westman Islands (Vestmannaeyjar) are close to the main land of Iceland. The course is one of the most spectacular in the country. The fairways snake through volcanic craters and high cliffs, with ocean views that are pure screensaver material.
It’s not the easiest place to reach, but honestly? That’s part of the adventure. You come for the golf, stay for the seabirds, and leave with your phone overloaded with sunset photos.
Getting there: Take a ferry from Landeyjahöfn (2-hour drive from Reykjavík) or catch a quick flight from the city.
Good to know: This is a full-day trip, minimum. Consider staying overnight to really enjoy it.
Pro tip: Keep an eye out for puffins—especially in June and July, when they’re everywhere. Just don’t hit one with a drive. (Seriously.)
5. Geysir Golf Course – Steam, Silence, and Surreal Fairways
Right in the heart of Iceland’s famed Golden Circle is the Geysir Golf Course.
The 9-hole course sits among geothermal vents and steaming fields. It’s quiet, peaceful, and weirdly mystical. Like you’re playing golf in a fairy tale.
It’s not long, it’s not fancy; it’s unforgettable.
Getting there: Easy stop on a Golden Circle road trip. Just follow the Geysir signs and look for the clubhouse.
Good to know: Watch your footing—some parts of the course are geothermal, meaning warm underfoot. Yes, really.
Pro tip: Time your game before or after the tour buses vanish (early morning or late night). You’ll have the place practically to yourself.
And Then… Soak It All In at Hvammsvík Hot Springs
Let’s be honest—after walking 18 holes under the midnight sun, even the most dedicated golfer starts dreaming about one thing: a soak. And not just any soak. We’re talking natural hot springs, steam rising into the golden light, and the Atlantic lapping just beyond your toes.
That’s Hvammsvík.
Along the edge of fjord Hvalfjörður, just 45 minutes from Reykjavík and 25 minutes from Brautarholt, Hvammsvík Hot Springs isn’t your typical spa. It’s part geothermal wonder, part oceanfront retreat, and 100% designed for unplugging. The pools there range in temperature, cascading down to sea level—some so close to the ocean you can hear the tide breathing. Honestly, there are few places in Iceland where the elements come together this beautifully.
Thinking of staying the night? You absolutely can. Hvammsvík offers boutique-style accommodation as well —everything from charming cottages to smaller chalets, all with that blend of rustic Icelandic minimalism and warm hospitality. It’s quiet, personal, and wrapped in nature. Not to mention, waking up to those views is almost reason enough to skip your return flight.
Pro tip: Book your hot springs session and stay in advance, especially in June and July—it’s popular with locals too. And bring a towel or rent one there; yes, it’s that kind of detail that matters.
In summary: Midnight Golf in Iceland Is as Wild and Wonderful as it sounds
Midnight golf in Iceland isn’t a gimmick—it’s a full-on summer experience you’ll never forget. From late May to early August, the sun barely sets, and golf courses across the country open their fairways to twilight dreamers and adventurous travelers. Whether you’re here for a full week or just a long layover, you can squeeze in a round of golf at an hour when most people are brushing their teeth and heading to bed.
Brautarholt, just 30 minutes from Reykjavík, takes the top spot with its seaside cliffs, minimalist design, and unreal views at midnight. Keilir brings lava fields into play just minutes from the airport, while Akureyri offers a shot at playing the world’s northernmost 18-hole course. Westman Islands gives you puffin sightings mid-round, and Geysir Golf Course lets you swing your irons just downwind from actual erupting geysers. Seriously—where else can you do that?
And once you’ve finished your round? You can head straight to Hvammsvík Hot Springs for a soak in natural geothermal pools by the sea. It’s the kind of ending that makes you pause, breathe deep, and feel lucky to have landed here—even if it was only for a night.
Golfers, travelers, even the just-curious: Iceland’s midnight golf scene is open to everyone. Come for the novelty. Stay for the serenity. And don’t forget your sweater—it might be July, but Iceland always keeps you guessing.
Midnight Golf in Iceland: Top Questions Travelers Actually Ask
- Can you really play golf at midnight in Iceland during summer?
Yes, you can! Thanks to 24-hour daylight in June and July, it’s totally possible—and wildly popular—to play full rounds of golf in the middle of the night. - Do I need to book a midnight golf tee time in advance in Iceland?
Yes, especially during peak summer. Courses like Brautarholt and Keilir can fill up fast—booking online ahead of time is smart if you want those rare late-night slots. - Can I rent golf clubs in Iceland if I don’t bring my own?
You sure can. Most Icelandic golf courses offer club rentals. The gear is usually modern and well-kept— reserve ahead. - What are the closest midnight golf courses to Reykjavík?
Brautarholt is just 30 minutes from Reykjavík. It is perfect for short stays or even layover adventures. - What’s the weather like for golfing at midnight in Iceland?
It’s cooler than mid-day, usually between 7–12°C (45–54°F). Expect a light breeze and pack a warm layer—conditions can shift quickly, even under the midnight sun. - Do I need special lighting to play golf at night in Iceland?
No extra lighting needed! The midnight sun provides plenty of natural light to see your shots, your ball, and the jaw-dropping landscapes around you. - Is midnight golf in Iceland only for experienced golfers?
Not at all. Iceland’s golf scene is welcoming and casual. Courses prioritize the experience—scenic views, relaxed vibes, and long daylight hours. - What else can I do after playing midnight golf in Iceland?
You can soak in nearby hot springs like Hvammsvík, grab a late meal in Reykjavík, or even catch the sunrise without ever going to bed. Iceland’s long daylight hours make late-night plans feel limitless. - Are there animals or wildlife on Icelandic golf courses?
You might see seabirds, the occasional arctic fox, or puffins near coastal courses. Don’t worry—they’re part of the charm and rarely interfere with play. - When is the best time of year for midnight golf in Iceland?
The best window is mid-June to mid-July, around the summer solstice. That’s when the light truly never fades, and late-night tee times feel downright surreal.