Tucked just off Iceland’s south coast, the Westman Islands (Vestmannaeyjar) are a wild and windswept cluster of volcanic isles unlike anywhere else on Earth.
Rugged cliffs, crashing waves, and quiet coves create the perfect setting for one of Europe’s most exciting birdwatching experiences.
This place is absolutely alive with wings. Each summer, millions of seabirds turn these islands into their seasonal home.
The star of the show? Puffins. But they’re not alone. Gannets, guillemots, kittiwakes, and other cliff-nesting birds put on a show for anyone willing to look up.
If you’re a birder, this is it. This is paradise. Even if you’re just someone who appreciates nature, the Westmans are worth exploring, binoculars in hand.
Timing is everything. Especially when these birds are only in town for a few months.
Puffins start arriving in May, settling into their cliffside burrows for the summer. By June and July, the colonies are buzzing. Thousands of birds. Nonstop action. It’s peak puffin season.
Come August, they begin to leave, heading back out to sea until next year.
What about the rest? Well, Gannets, razorbills, and fulmars follow their own seasonal rhythms, often arriving and leaving on different schedules. Spring and early summer are your safest bets for variety.
And here’s a bonus—long daylight hours. If you visit between May and August, you’ll get up to 20 hours of daylight. That means more time for birdwatching… and fewer excuses to miss a moment.
The most common and easiest way to reach the Westman Islands (Vestmannaeyjar) is by ferry from Landeyjahöfn on the south coast of Iceland. The ferry, Herjólfur, departs several times a day, and the journey takes approximately 35-45 minutes. So if you’re an international visitor coming from the capital, just look into Iceland Car Rental and drive yourself south to Landeyjahöfn, where you can then catch the ferry.
Let’s be honest—this is why most people come.
Nicknamed “sea parrots” and sometimes “clowns of the sea“, Atlantic puffins are small, awkward flyers with big personalities and even bigger beaks. Puffins spend most of their lives at sea and only come to land to breed.
And the Westman Islands host one of the largest puffin colonies in the world.
From May to August, you’ll find them nesting in burrows high along the cliffs of Heimaey, the main island. If you’re on foot, head to Stórhöfði—a windswept promontory that’s often called the windiest place in Europe. It’s also one of the best spots on Earth to see puffins up close, especially in the early morning or late evening when they’re most active.
Bring a zoom lens or binoculars. And above all, keep your distance. These birds are used to visitors, but they’re still wild. Stick to marked paths, avoid loud noises, and never try to touch or feed them.
Respectful birdwatching keeps the puffins safe—and keeps this place magical for the next person.
Here are some fun facts about puffins:
While puffins steal the spotlight, they’re far from the only feathered stars out here.
Enter the Northern Gannet—sleek, sharp, and built for speed. These birds can dive from over 30 meters high, hitting the water like feathery missiles to snatch fish mid-plunge. Watch them long enough and you’ll see why they’re the daredevils of the sea.
But there’s more. The cliffs and sea stacks around the Westmans are alive with other seabirds. Guillemots cluster in tight groups, kittiwakes scream and circle, and fulmars glide like pros in the heavy wind. Keep an eye out and your bird list can fill up fast.
Two hotspots you shouldn’t miss?
Bring a camera with a good zoom, or just let your eyes soak it all in. There's action in every direction.
Want to escape the crowds? The Westman Islands have plenty of hidden corners where it’s just you, the birds, and the ocean breeze.
Some of the best spots are only reachable by a good hike—or better yet, by boat. Remote cliffs and rocky outcrops away from Heimaey’s main paths offer respite from the crowds. You’ll find quieter puffin colonies, secret gannet nests, and sometimes even seals lounging nearby.
If you're up for an adventure, ask a local about lesser-known trails around the south side of Heimaey. Or book a boat tour that hugs the coastline and sneaks into hidden coves.
Just a heads-up, though: cliffside birdwatching comes with its risks. Stay clear of edges (the ground can be loose and slippery). Wear proper hiking shoes.
Oh, and always watch the weather. Conditions can change fast, and a sunny day can turn misty in minutes.
Find the right spot, though, and you’ll feel like you’re in another world.
If you want to make the most of your trip, go with a local. Seriously.
Westman Islands locals know the rhythms of the birds, the secret spots, and the best times to catch the action. Many offer small group tours—by foot, van, or boat—that get you closer than you ever could on your own. Some even provide high-quality binoculars and scopes.
A few options to look into:
Need gear? You can rent binoculars or spotting scopes from visitor centers on Heimaey. Maps and trail guides are usually available there, too.
Whether you're here for a day or a week, having the right guide—or the right info—can turn a good birdwatching day into an unforgettable one.
The weather here changes fast, the cliffs can get windy, and the birds won’t wait—so come prepared. Here's a quick packing list for a smooth, comfortable birdwatching adventure:
If you’re visiting between late June and early August, bring a light sleeping mask. The near-midnight sun can throw off your body clock.
This plan gives you the best mix: cliffside watching, boat perspectives, and quiet local secrets. Flexible enough to swap in a weather day if needed. Here’s a 10-day itinerary if you have more time.
Morning:
Afternoon:
Evening:
Birds might be the main event, but the Westman Islands have plenty more to offer if you’re sticking around a little longer.
Even if you're here for the birds, don’t miss these little adventures. The Westmans are full of surprises.
Whether you’re here with a backpack and binoculars or planning a cozy weekend escape, Heimaey has some great spots to crash and snack.
The Westman Islands aren’t just a little blip on a map. They’re a full-on experience for anyone who loves wild places and theatrical birds.
Killer cliffs. Endless sky. Seabirds wheeling and diving above crashing waves. It’s a place that sticks with you forever.
Whether you're here to spot puffins up close, catch a glimpse of a gannet mid-dive, or just soak in the salty air, one thing’s for sure—birdwatching here hits differently.
Just remember: this place is special because it’s still wild. Respect the birds. Stick to paths. Travel light and leave no trace.
Lucy Manole is a passionate travel writer and content strategist, with a love for exploring new destinations and uncovering hidden gems around the world. Her travel articles have been featured on platforms like KKday.com, where she shares tips, insights, and inspiration for fellow adventurers.
