Reynisfjara is a stunning beach located along Iceland’s southern coast, characterized by its black sand and impressive basalt columns. Just offshore are the Reynisdrangar sea stacks, which according to local folklore, are trolls that turned to stone after failing to bring a ship ashore before sunrise. Despite its beauty, this beach is also known for dangerous sneaker waves that can unexpectedly surge up the shore, sometimes leading to tragic incidents. For instance, in August 2025, a wave swept away a nine-year-old girl from Germany, resulting in her death. To increase safety, there are now warning signs and colored lights indicating safe distances from the water.
Icelandic press photographer Vilhelm Gunnarsson focused on this striking coastline in his black-and-white series. He has worked with the Icelandic news outlet Vísir and has documented several significant events in Iceland, including volcanic eruptions. One of his eruption photographs was even shortlisted for the 2025 Sony World Photography Awards. In conversations, Gunnarsson expressed his deep connection to the ocean, a sentiment shared by many Icelanders.
His photos capture the beauty of the south coast, from the rugged western cliffs to the picturesque black sand beaches. They depict powerful waves crashing against the rocks and tiny figures of people standing in awe of the ocean’s might. In one of his images from Reynisfjara, he claims to have seen a face in the wave, highlighting the dynamic nature of the sea.
What do you think about the breathtaking yet dangerous nature of Reynisfjara?
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Source: Bored Panda, by Aleksandra