Driving straight from Rejkyavik may take up to 3 hrs depending on the weather with no stops along the way. I'd suggest to spend a couple of days along the south coast to get the chance to visit other attractions such as waterfalls, geothermal plants, Lava center etc... it all depends on whats kind of attractions you're looking for. In this area Vik is the biggest center. Take your time and enjoy your trip! you won't be disapponted! if you're intrested i can share my drive on mymaps :-)

Hi there! They are not. Golden Circle "it's a common route between 3 beautiful natural attractions in Iceland; Þingvellir National Park, Geysir geothermal area and Gullfoss waterfall. Instead of driving back and forth the same way, people normally drive a short circle, that's just under 230km (140 miles)." (source: guidetoiceland.is) . The Ring Road in the other hand it's the series of roads (total 1332 km (828 miles)) that goes round the major part of the island, excluding the northwest portion of land. While the Golden Circle can be done in 1-2 days (if the weather is ok), the ring road takes at minimum 7-8 days, if the weather helps. This site below is the main source of information about touring in IS: guidetoiceland.is Besides, always check the weather before taking the road. this other link is a must check (even for short distances) road.is Enjoy Iceland!

Yes it is. Plan to dress warmly and use windproof/waterproof clothing. It will be very windy with the wind coming off the water. There is a great little eatery there to warm up in.

Simonemelo24, As some have already mentioned the wind is more of an issue than the rain. It's quite open, but well worth a visit, just dress appropriately. I notice in this thread the recommendation to visit Vik, which is also a great spot, but you would miss seeing a great display of Columnar basalt formation. If time permits, I would suggest you visit both.

The drive from the main road isn’t long at all, great for family however stay far away from the water!

I was with a pre booked group tour for the whole Island. There may be but you will have to use this site and google.

We hired a private driver/guide. A local guy through a company. He was great! Very very knowledgeable. Takes a couple days to see all the “must see” sites at least.

Suggest you get in touch with safetravel.is website people

Yes...the same. .Reynisfjara is the beach with the huge basalt columns. While facing the water, the sea stacks will be on your left. It is incredibly dramatic and not to be missed. BUT...There is another Black Sand Beach to the left of those. You cannot walk there but you can drive around the huge cliff and then follow the signs to the Black Sand Beach. This less impressive but worth walking about. Less dramatic only relative to the basalt columns. This is the one that is actually named “ Black Sand Beach”. It is below the Icelandair Hotel Vik.

No charge, just park in the (also free) large parking lot and walk.