if you have seen black beachesChances are no one is that beautiful renisfjaraIcelandic black sand beach Which was crowned the best beach in Europe by TripAdvisor in 2023. It has been a traveler’s delight with its dramatic black sand, towering basalt columns and crashing waves like in a movie. But don’t let its Instagrammable vibes fool you—Renisfjara is as beautiful as it is dangerous!

The biggest reason for it being considered dangerous is its waves. Not your average, “let’s splash around” kind, but gigantic 120-foot giants that can knock you flat and drag you into the icy abyss. Unless you are an excellent swimmer, you are advised to view this beach from a distance.

Another legitimate cause for concern here are “sneaker waves.” They are called so because they appear unexpectedly and take you by surprise. They are larger than regular waves and often travel deeper inland. The steepness of the seabed near the shore creates these rapidly rising swells that can cause you to lose your balance and then pull you away from the beach. The currents here are very dangerous and the cold water can give you hypothermia within minutes.

Additionally, reports state that the cliffs above Reynisfjara are also plagued by loose rocks. Pay attention to your mind while you are here.

A beach with traffic lights?

Reynisfjara is so treacherous, it has its own traffic light system. Yellow light? Stay away from yellow zone. red light? Do not enter the red zone. You should stick to the back shore, where you will get to see all the spectacular views without the risk. Additionally, unlike your average beach day with lifeguards on duty, Reynisfjara has no lifeguards, no coast guard, no rescue missions. you’re on your own. As the tourism website rightly tells visitors not to turn their backs to the sea – “it’s not worth dying for a selfie”.

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