One of the safest countries in the world is also famous for having one of the most dangerous beaches. Iceland is officially the safest country in Europe, according to William Russell's health insurance expert. The country has held its position at the top for over a decade due to its consistently low crime rates and a strong judicial system.
It also has one of the lowest incarceration rates in the world. There are only 37 prisoners per 100,000 people. Nevertheless, Iceland is also located in one of the most dangerous beaches in the world, where massive swells can creep up people and clean them up into the ocean.
Reinifjara, located on Iceland's southern coast, may be dangerous, but in 2023 it was voted one of Europe's best beaches by TripAdvisor.
The beach features amazing black sand, towering basalt pillars and wild tumbling oceans.
However, visitors are urged to never turn their backs into water. The waves on this beach can reach up to 120 feet, and “sneaker waves” are known to wipe people off the beach.
If you are sucked out, a strong flow and freezing temperature of the water will give hypothermia in a few minutes.
Black Sand Beach is notorious for its waves of sneakers (also known as sleepers, kings, or illicit waves) – huge coastal waves that appear unexpectedly among the smallest of things.
These waves are significantly larger than the others, and are much more soaring inland. They are unpredictable and can come anytime.
Reynisfjara tends to be at risk of rock waterfalls from the above cliffs. This beach is extremely dangerous and has its own signalling system that allows people to safely access the beach.
If a yellow light is on, visitors must not enter the yellow zone. If a red light is on, visitors must not enter the red zone (stay behind the light sign).
