5 Best South Coast Photo Locations in Iceland

The South Coast of Iceland is one of the most photogenic regions in the world.
From black sand beaches to towering waterfalls and dramatic sea cliffs, you can create stunning wedding, elopement, engagement or couple photos in any season.

As an Iceland wedding and elopement photographer, here are my top 5 South Coast locations that always deliver breathtaking images.

1. Dyrhólaey — Epic Cliffs & Ocean Views

Dyrhólaey is one of my favorite places for couple photos because it offers a huge variety of backgrounds in one spot:

• ocean cliffs

• black sand beaches

• the famous arch

• puffins in summer

• sunset over Reynisfjara

2. Reynisfjara — The Black Sand Beach

This is one of the most famous beaches on Earth, and it deserves the attention.
The basalt columns, sea stacks and black sand create surreal, cinematic photos.

Best photo spots at Reynisfjara:

• Basalt columns (close or wide)

• The coast with Reynisdrangar sea stacks

• The small caves along the cliff

• The black dunes behind the beach

⚠ Safety: Stay far from the water — sneaker waves are dangerous.

3. Kvernufoss — The Hidden Waterfall

Kvernufoss is a peaceful, lesser-known spot only a few minutes from Skógafoss.
You can walk into the canyon and even behind the waterfall.

Why Kvernufoss is amazing for photos:

• Much fewer tourists

• Unique canyon look

• Soft, diffused light

• Works in moody weather perfectly

This place feels intimate and magical in every season.

4.Skógafoss — The Most Iconic Waterfall

Skógafoss is a must-shoot location on the South Coast.
You can photograph it from below, from the right side path, or even use the mist for cinematic, moody portraits.

Why Skógafoss is perfect for photos:

• Massive waterfall = dramatic scale

• Mist creates silhouettes and rainbows

• Works in all seasons

• Amazing for wide-angle shots

• Easy access (great backup option)

Best time:

• Early morning or late evening

• Cloudy weather gives soft, beautiful light

5. Yoda Cave — One of the Most Unique Photo Spots in Iceland

Yoda Cave (also known as Hjörleifshöfði Cave) is one of the most unique and cinematic locations on the South Coast.
Its entrance looks like the silhouette of Yoda’s head, and when you step inside, you get dramatic light, dark basalt textures and a perfect natural frame for couple photos.

It’s one of the best places for portraits, silhouettes and creative wide-angle shots.

Why Yoda Cave is perfect for photos:

• The entrance creates a natural frame around the couple

• Dramatic light from outside = perfect silhouettes

• Works in any weather

• Easy access by short walk

• Wide-angle shots look absolutely epic