Municipal Pools - Iceland

In Reykjavik, we like Sundollin.

Do you want just municipal pools or are you up for non commercial hot springs?

Hi there! I'm looking for the easy (local) alternative to the most commercial. I realize there are several we can hike to, but I was looking for an in town option after dinner, when the girls are bored (but don't want to get broke going to the pricey ones).

Yes, I have gone to a community pool in Iceland.

Yes, it was a really fun authentic cultural experience.

Árbæjarlaug, not far from Reykjavik.

It had regular pools and a bunch of different thermal pools at different temperatures.

The person working at the desk gave us a very thorough rundown of the rules, very Nordic. Locals seemed lightly surprised we were there and didn't interact much, also very Nordic.

It was fun, affordable, and a "real" experience compared to the touristy clown show at the Blue Lagoon etc.

So yeah go for it

Sundhollin is right in town - probably what you're looking for.

Have been to the municipal pool at Hveragerdi (Sundlaugin Laugaskarði). I
believe most towns will have one; you can probably see them in Google Maps.

Pretty much as Hank said. There's an attendant who can explain the protocol.
Also, I believe Rick's Iceland book goes over things (rigorous shower, lockers,
etc.).

There is an indoor facility and might have been a cafe/restaurant onsite, but I
can't remember for sure. But, the water is hot, it's a slice of Icelandic life, and
something like 1/10th the price of Blue Lagoon.

I can't imagine visiting Iceland without enjoying the municipal pools.

I went swimming at a public pool in Reykjavik on a long (12+ hrs) layover several years ago. I think it was Sundholl (looking at the photos, I believe that's the one. It was an outdoor pool). I was there during a lap swim time and thoroughly enjoyed swimming a few laps to stretch out after sitting on the plane for several hours, and before getting back on a plane for several more. There might have been part of the pool open for general swim/free swim, but I can't recall for sure as once I saw the lap swimmers, I just joined there.

Do follow the directions posted in the locker room for pre-pool cleansing/showering.

Make sure your swim suit is packed in your carry-on (if you're also checking a bag if on a layover). Also if on a layover consider having a change of clothes or at least underwear in your carry-on. After the relaxing and refreshing swim, I found putting on the clothes I'd been wearing for many, many, many hours before, a little gross (especially knowing I had so many more hours ahead of me). When I did something similar on my return trip, I made sure I had a fresh top and underwear to change into in my carry-on.

Trying to recall what I did for a towel, I think I must've had a packable towel in my backpack.

Sundhollin will rent you a towel if you need, otherwise bring one from your hotel. We have been to a handful of the local pools around Iceland. Pretty much any town over about 10 people will have one. Some, including Sundhollin, have swimsuit spinners which is really nice. The cost for these pools is around $8 US dollars per person. They provide locks for the lockers. Some of the pools are inside and others are outside. Even the ones inside will have a cold plunge tub, usually a big vat near the regular pool.

Thank you all! Appreciate your time and thoughts!

I agree that Sundhollin is a great pool, very central. If you are staying in Reykjavik near the marina area, Vesturbæjarlaug is also a very nice facility that might be more fun for the kids. I had a great time sitting in a hot tub there while watching some kids take their swimming lessons, in December! The instructor was on the side of the pool in a parka, hat and gloves!!
Also, off the ring road, the pool in Akureyri has some really great slides that the kids will love!