The stunning coastline of Latvia stretches for nearly 500 km (310 mi) along the picturesque Baltic Sea, offering visitors a breathtaking array of natural wonders.
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From the dazzling white sand beaches to the rocky shoreline in Vidzeme, the Latvian Coast boasts diverse landscapes, including dunes, steep banks, sandstone formations, and stunning rock formations. The untouched wilderness of this region is a sight to behold, and visitors can explore the many charming fishing villages, bustling port cities, and the renowned Jūrmala resort, all of which contribute to the coast’s enchantment. Whether you want to enjoy water sports, experience the vibrant nightlife, explore cultural landmarks, or savor authentic Latvian cuisine, the Latvian Coast has something for everyone.
Getting to Latvia:
There are different ways to get to Latvia depending on where you’re coming from. You can take a bus or a ferry if you’re from nearby countries like Lithuania, Estonia, or Sweden. But if you’re coming from farther away, flying is your best option. The main airport in Latvia is Riga (RIX) airport, where you can take bus No 22 to get to Riga center or rent a car.
Getting around:
If you want to explore the Latvian coast, renting a car is the best option. You can get around by bus too. However, for the most unique experience, you can explore the coast by bike or on foot. The Baltic Coastal Hiking Trail is a great option for hiking along the coast. It’s part of E9, the long-distance hiking route, and stretches all along the coast. Whether renting a car, bike, or hiking, you’ll surely have a great time exploring everything Latvia offers!
Riga
The stunning capital city of Latvia, located on the Gulf of Riga, is a perfect starting point for exploring The Many Coastal Retreats of Latvia. This city has been recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage site, and its old town is a true gem that should not be missed. As you wander through the narrow cobbled streets, you will come across highlights such as the House of Blackheads, Riga Cathedral, St. Peter’s Church, and the Three Brothers – charming residential houses. Don’t forget to watch for the breathtaking Art Nouveau architecture that can be found throughout the city, especially on Elizabetes iela and Alberta iela (street).
If you’re interested in learning more about the city’s history and culture, there are plenty of museums to choose from. The Museum of the History of Riga and Navigation is a great option, as is the Art Museum Riga Bourse. And if you’re looking to sample some local cuisine, be sure to check out popular spots like Pētergailis restaurant with its unique decor, Folkklubs Ala Pagrabs where they offer events and live music at least five nights a week, or Lido, which is known restaurant and bistro network in Latvia for its Traditional Latvian Cuisine.
For those arriving from abroad, the Riga Airport is the only international airport in Latvia. From there, you can easily take a taxi, or bus or rent a car to explore the beauty of the Latvian Baltic Sea Coast. Also, ferries are coming from Finland and Sweden. (currently suspended).
Whether you’re interested in history, or culture, or simply taking in the stunning architecture and scenery, Riga is an exceptional destination that should not be missed.
Jurmala
The largest resort in all the Baltic States that boasts an array of incredible natural resources – curative mud, mineral waters, pine forest, and 20-kilometer-long sandy beaches with clear shallow waters, making it one of the most beautiful resorts in Latvia. Families will find a plethora of activities to enjoy in Jurmala. For instance, they can spend a day at Līvu Aquapark or the Dzintaru Mežaparks, which offers playgrounds for children of varying ages. The Dzintaru Forest Park also has walking and roller-skating paths, a skatepark, a streetball court, and cafés. Additionally, visitors can take day trips to nearby historic and cultural places like the Rigas old town, the Jurmala Open Air Museum, or The Great Kemeri Bog Trail, which appears mystical during sundown.
It is worth noting that prices in Jurmala tend to be higher than other Latvian beach destinations, especially during peak season which tends to be on all summer.
Ventspils
If you’re traveling with kids, Ventspils is the perfect destination. It’s no wonder why so many families return here year after year – there are endless activities and playgrounds for little ones to enjoy. For example, there’s an adventure park with a ski hill called “Lemberga hūte,” as well as a Water Amusement Park. The Ventspils Creative Centre also boasts a planetarium and observatory; you can even ride on the Ventspils Train.
Ventspils has had a Blue Flag Beach since 1999, meaning the seawater complies with international environmental quality standards, and the beach is fully developed and well-maintained. Additionally, the 28 colorful cows that dot the city (a hint! One of them is located on the Ventspils South Pier) have become a symbol of Ventspils. Be sure not to miss the Livonian Order Castle, which is not only the oldest building in Ventspils but also the oldest medieval fortress in all of Latvia.
If you’re interested in exploring beyond Ventspils, it’s worth noting that there is a ferry from the city to Sweden.
Liepaja
Escape the hustle and bustle of busy European beaches and discover the serene beauty of Liepaja, the third-largest city in Latvia. With its picturesque location on the Baltic Sea shore, Liepaja boasts some of the smoothest white sand you’ll ever see. Take a moment to appreciate the charming wooden villas that are scattered over Liepaja. Our top pick for a relaxing beach vacation in Latvia!
Make sure to stop by Saint Peter’s market to grab some fresh groceries for a delightful picnic in the sprawling Liepaja Seaside Park, which separates the city from the beach and the sea. Soak up the sun on the Blue Flag-certified beach, which stretches for 8 kilometers. For a unique experience, visit Karosta Prison, where you can get a glimpse of life as a prisoner in the former USSR. Another must-visit destination is the Northern Fort, also known as Artillery Battery No. 1, located just 20 minutes from Liepaja. And for an unforgettable sunset, head to the Liepaja Northern Breakwater.
Travel to Liepaja is easy, with daily bus service from Riga and Klaipeda in Lithuania. If you’re coming from Great Britain or Scandinavia, the Lithuanian Palanga (PLQ) airport is conveniently located within an hour’s drive from Liepaja.
Kolka
Slytere National Park is located on the northeastern outskirts of Latvia. The jewel of the park is Kolka Cape (Kolkas rags), where the waters of the Baltic Sea and Rigas Bay meet, surrounded by spectacular views. Kolka Horn is famous not only for its impressive beauty but also for its history. In Soviet times, the army used this archipelago, and some of its villages were completely abandoned. Now Kolka Cape is a great place to relax: white dunes and images of the undulating sea where tourists are a rare sight.
For those wanting to spend a night or two on Kolka Cape, be sure to check Saulesmajas. There, you can rent a cabin by the beach among pine trees overlooking the Baltic Sea. The sunsets there are out of this world.
Saulkrasti
Saulkrasti is located approximately 50 kilometers (31 miles) north of Riga and boasts a stunning 17-kilometer beach (10.5 miles), showcasing a diverse range of landscapes from the singing sand in Lilaste to the stony seashore of Zvejniekciems. For a breathtaking view of the Gulf of Riga, head to the impressive 18-meter-high (59-foot) White Dune, also known as Balta Kapa. Additionally, don’t miss the opportunity to visit the Saulkrasti Bicycle Museum, home to the largest collection of bicycles in the Baltics.
Rocky Coast of Vidzeme
It is a unique place in northern Latvia where sandstone cliffs can be found which can be up to five meters high. The seashore of rocks stretches for about 12 kilometers (7.5 miles) between Tuja and Vitrupe villages. You can get there by car visiting Saulkrasti on the way. Or take a bus from Riga to Tuja village and then hike to Vitrupe visiting places like Kurmrags Lighthouse, the Veczemji cliffs (white sandstone cliffs), and Ežurgas klintis (red sandstone cliffs).
We hope this helped you find the best spots while traveling to The Many Coastal Retreats of Latvia.
