Whale-Watching Adventure in Husavik

First Impressions of Húsavík

After a long journey from Kingston, with a stopover in Reykjavik, I finally arrived in Húsavík, the whale-watching capital of Iceland. The air here is crisp and clean, carrying a hint of the sea, a stark contrast to the bustling city life I'm used to. Isabela and Mateus would have loved this place, I will definitely have to bring them back here one day. I'm eager to explore this charming town and dive into the adventures it promises.

The first day of any trip is always a mix of excitement and slight disorientation, and today was no exception. After settling into the cozy Fosshotel Húsavík, my friends and I were eager to stretch our legs and soak in the local atmosphere. The hotel is lovely, offering a fantastic breakfast, which was much needed after the journey.


Experience charming hospitality at Fosshotel Husavik, the perfect base for exploring Iceland's stunning landscapes and vibrant culture.

Our first stop was the Húsavík Whale Museum. Given Húsavík's reputation, it felt like the most appropriate place to start our exploration. Housed in a former slaughterhouse, the museum offers a compelling look into the world of whales. The exhibits were incredibly informative, showcasing various whale species, their habitats, and conservation efforts. Seeing the full-scale whale skeletons, including a massive blue whale, was awe-inspiring. It's amazing to learn about these gentle giants and the importance of protecting them. The museum not only provided facts but also touched on the history of whaling in Iceland, a perspective that added depth to the experience.


Discover the enchanting world of whales at the Húsavík Whale Museum, where marine life comes alive through engaging exhibits and rich educational experiences.

The ocean stirs the heart, inspires the imagination and brings eternal joy.

Next on our list was the Húsavík Wooden Church. This charming early 20th-century church, built in 1907 by Rögnvaldur Ólafsson, stands as an iconic landmark in the town. Its Swiss chalet-style architecture is quite unique and adds to the quaint charm of Húsavík. Inside, the church is simple yet elegant, with beautiful woodwork and a peaceful atmosphere. I learned that the church doesn't have a traditional pulpit, which is different from other churches in Iceland. The tower is 26 meters high, and it’s a popular spot for weddings and other community gatherings. I took a moment to appreciate the serene ambiance and reflect on the history held within its walls.


Explore the Húsavík Wooden Church, a stunning example of Icelandic craftsmanship nestled in the charming coastal town of Húsavík.

After the church, we strolled around Húsavík Harbor. The harbor is the heart of the town, bustling with life and activity. Fishing boats bobbed gently in the water, and the air was filled with the sounds of seagulls and the distant hum of boat engines. I enjoyed watching the fishermen at work, mending nets and preparing for their next voyage. The harbor offers stunning views of the bay and the surrounding mountains, making it a perfect spot for a leisurely walk.


Discover the allure of Húsavík Harbor, Iceland's prime whale watching destination, enriched with stunning scenery and vibrant local culture.

For lunch, we decided to try Gamli Baukur, a restaurant located right on the harbor. The restaurant is constructed mainly of driftwood, giving it a rustic and nautical feel. I opted for a traditional Icelandic seafood dish, which was incredibly fresh and flavorful. My friends enjoyed burgers and pasta, and we all agreed that the food was hearty and satisfying. The views from the restaurant were stunning, overlooking the harbor and the mountains across the bay.


Experience authentic Icelandic cuisine at Gamli Baukur in Húsavík – where tradition meets breathtaking views.

As the day drew to a close, we sought out a local spot to unwind and reflect on our first day in Iceland. We found ourselves at Húsavík Öl, a cozy bar known for its local brews. Sipping on a cold Icelandic beer, I couldn't help but feel a sense of contentment. The bar had a friendly atmosphere, and we chatted with some locals, learning more about the town and its history.


Explore the flavors of Iceland at Húsavík Öl, the premier brewpub in Húsavík, offering a unique selection of local craft beers and a vibrant atmosphere.

For dinner, we chose Naustið, a restaurant specializing in fresh seafood and known for its delicious fish soup. The restaurant had a warm and inviting ambiance, and the staff were incredibly friendly. I ordered the fish soup, and it was indeed exceptional – rich, creamy, and packed with flavor. My friends tried other seafood dishes, and everyone was thoroughly impressed.


Experience authentic Icelandic cuisine at Naustið, where fresh seafood meets breathtaking views in charming Húsavík.

As I sit here, writing this blog post, I can't help but feel grateful for this opportunity to explore such a beautiful and unique place. Húsavík has already captured my heart with its stunning landscapes, rich marine life, and warm hospitality. I am particularly excited about tomorrow's adventure: whale watching with North Sailing. I've heard they offer an incredible experience, and I can't wait to see these magnificent creatures up close. We're also planning a visit to Húsavík Park, a green oasis in the town.

Before drifting off to sleep, I made a mental note to buy a power adapter; forgetting it was a rookie mistake. Also, an extra memory card for my camera is essential. Tomorrow promises more adventures, and I can't wait to share them with you all. I have a feeling this whale-watching adventure in Húsavík will be one for the books!

The town is hosting several exhibitions at the Húsavík Museum. There is also the Oktoberfest at Húsavík Öl later in the month. I am looking forward to seeing what other events might pop up during my stay.