Breiðavíkurfjara

Westfjords, Iceland
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Breiðavíkurfjara is located in a remote little bay in Iceland’s Westfjords. Unlike many of Iceland’s beaches, the sands here are light tan, giving it an ambience that differs from the rest of the country; in bright weather, it almost looks tropical. By the shore, there is a quaint church and a big hotel, surrounded by green fields. The area is popular with birdwatchers, as the cliffs in the near vicinity, Látrabjarg, are home to over a dozen species of birds, including puffins during the summer months. The bay itself and the sandy cove are exceptionally beautiful, with lots of options for a perfect shot or a scene.

Climate

The weather in the Westfjords is highly variable and very unpredictable. Winters are frigid and snowy, with temperatures frequently falling below freezing, whereas summers are moderately cool, with average temperatures between 10-15°C (50-59°F).  Coastal regions are prone to powerful winds and fog, and rainfall is common throughout the year. The region's fjords, mountains, and coastal cliffs can amplify weather patterns, making Westfjords a place where, within a brief period of time, one can experience everything from calm, sunny days to stormy, foggy conditions.
Data source
Temperature averages

Lighting

The longest day in Iceland is multiple days from May through July when the sun doesn't set. The daylight hours in Iceland on the shortest days of the year are 4-5 hours per day (December to January).
Data source

Accessibility

The beach is 1 km from the main road that leads to Látrabjarg. During winter times, it is necessary to check conditions regarding snow and ice. There is no organized winter service for the road that leads to this location. With permission, you can drive from the hotel to the beach along a sandy road.
Public transportation unavailable
There is no public transportation available in this area
Car recommended
Unchallenging terrain accessible by car
Good phone coverage
Generally good phone coverage without any major interruptions
Not needed
Guide is not needed

Permits

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You need a two-way permit. From the government and from the hotel on-site.
Shooting requires both the permission from the property owner and the local government permit

Basecamp and facilities

Hótel Breiðavík lies within 300 meters from the start of the beach. This would be the best place for basecamp in the vicinity. There is a road which leads to the beach that you could use to drive equipment closer.

Risk factors

Working on the sandy beach can be exhausting and slow down the progress and the workflow. The waves can be treacherous.

Visitors

Although not a popular tourist attraction, the area gets its share of visitors all year-round, summer months being the busiest. There is a hotel on-site, popular with groups and other visitors.

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