Explore Latvia · Coast
Beaches and coast in Latvia
Latvia’s coast ranges from the rail-connected resort of Jūrmala to city beaches in Liepāja and Ventspils, Gulf of Riga stops and quieter sections of the Kurzeme shore. The right choice depends on transport, season and how much infrastructure you want.
This guide is independently written and checked against the official sources listed below.
Check before travel
Timetables, opening hours, access rules and event programmes can change. Confirm date-specific details with the official operator or venue.
Easiest coast from Riga
Jūrmala is the simplest beach destination by train, with several stations serving different parts of the long resort city. Saulkrasti is another rail-connected option north of Riga, with a smaller-town feel and coastal walking.
Jūrmala
Best for an easy day trip, resort facilities and a choice of beach areas.
Open guideSaulkrasti
Best for a lower-key coastal stop and White Dune area.
Open guideSources: Visit Jūrmala
West-coast city bases
Liepāja pairs a broad city beach with music, architecture and urban services. Ventspils combines a maintained beach area with a family-oriented city break. Both deserve more than a rushed return trip from Riga.
The quieter Kurzeme coast
The western and north-western coast includes smaller settlements, protected areas and longer gaps between services. It suits a driving or cycling route better than an improvised day trip.
Plan the overnight stop
Confirm accommodation, food and arrival arrangements before leaving the larger towns.
Respect protected areas
Use designated access, parking and camping sites and follow local signs.
Sources: Nature Conservation Agency: Slītere National Park , Nature Conservation Agency: protected areas
Plan a safe beach day
Baltic weather and water conditions can change. Swim only where conditions and local rules permit, supervise children closely and treat dunes as protected landscape rather than open shortcuts.
Check conditions
Use local signs and official beach information on the day.
Pack for wind
A warm layer can be useful even in summer.
Leave room for change
Keep a town, museum or food stop as the poor-weather alternative.
Check the primary information
Official sources and review information
This guide was last reviewed on 25 July 2026. These official tourism, transport, heritage and cultural sources support the practical guidance on this page.
Nature protection
Nature Conservation Agency: protected areas
Official categories and current inventory of protected natural areas in Latvia.
National parks
Nature Conservation Agency: Slītere National Park
Official information about coastal landscapes, habitats and visitor routes.
Coast
Visit Jūrmala
Official resort information for beach areas, transport and current visitor facilities.
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