Best beaches in the Baltic countries

Whether you're looking to relax, try water sports, or enjoy the beauty of nature, you'll find the perfect beach along the Baltic Sea.

These countries, with their pristine sandy shores, clear waters, and stunning landscapes, offer a variety of beach destinations. Let's explore some of the best beaches in the Baltic countries. 

Best beaches in Estonia

Paralepa beach

Located in the picturesque and historic town of Haapsalu, Paralepa beach offers a peaceful atmosphere, perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and engaging in various water sports. Visitors can easily reach Paralepa beach via the Lux Express bus from Tallinn to Haapsalu.

Pärnu beach

Pärnu beach, located in the city of Pärnu, features a long and wide sandy shore with plenty of space for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports. Situated near the city center, it is a popular summer destination for both locals and tourists. The beach boasts a promenade lined with numerous cafes, restaurants, and shops. Visitors from other cities can access the beach via the Lux Express bus from Tallinn to Pärnu. The beach is conveniently located close to the city center, within walking distance of hotels and restaurants.

Kuressaare beach

Kuressaare beach, located in the heart of Kuressaare, features a beautiful sandy shore that is a favorite spot for many visitors to the island. Here, you can engage in various water sports and play beach volleyball. The beach is family-friendly, with shallow waters suitable for children and playgrounds to keep them entertained.

Mändjala beach near Kuressaare

Situated on the southern coast of Saaremaa, Mändjala beach is just a short drive from Kuressaare. Visitors can reach Mändjala beach by car or public transport, enjoying the scenic journey through Saaremaa's beautiful nature. It is an ideal spot for kitesurfing and windsurfing, as well as birdwatching. The beach is perfect for enjoying nature and relaxing.

Emajõe city beach in Tartu

Located in the heart of Tartu, Emajõe city beach is a popular spot for swimming. The beach is equipped with toilets, free parking, beach volleyball courts, and scattered swings, slides, and climbing equipment for children. During the summer, lifeguards are present to ensure the safety of swimmers. Nearby, the Lodjakoda offers visitors a chance to explore traditional boat building. Tartu is easily accessible via the Lux Express bus from Tallinn to Tartu.

Lake Tamula in Võru

Lake Tamula boasts a beautiful sandy beach and clean water, making it a pleasant spot for swimming. It is ranked among the top three beaches in Estonia. Walking along the promenade on the lake's shore, you can enjoy views of the Haanja Uplands and Võrumaa forests. From the shore of lake Tamula, you can cross a suspension bridge to Roosisaar, where a prehistoric settlement site was located, indicating that the area has been inhabited for over 5000 years. The Tallinn-Võru bus line provides easy access to Võru bus station, which is just a 20-minute walk from lake Tamula.

Narva-Jõesuu beach

Narva-Jõesuu beach is distinguished by its unique natural environment. The fine sandy beach, bordered by pine forests, is one of Estonia's longest, stretching 9.5 kilometers along the southern coast of the Gulf of Finland. The beachfront wooden promenade features numerous seating and fire pit areas. The beach is equipped with lifeguards, beach volleyball courts, playgrounds for children, changing cabins, and outdoor showers. Narva-Jõesuu beach is located near Narva, a short drive from the Narva bus station.

Sillamäe beach

Sillamäe, a fascinating tourist destination, was a closed area for a long time, inaccessible to ordinary tourists. The city's atmosphere and architecture differ significantly from other Estonian cities, with numerous well-preserved Soviet-era architectural landmarks. The historic promenade connects the city center with the beautiful seashore. The beachfront promenade offers activities for the whole family, including a multi-level observation tower, ball courts, playgrounds, fire pit areas, and an outdoor gym. The Tallinn-Narva bus stops in Sillamäe, making it an easily accessible summer destination.

Pirita beach in Tallinn

Pirita beach is one of the most popular and beautiful beaches in Tallinn. Located in the Pirita district, this sandy beach stretches along the coast, offering a magnificent view of the Baltic Sea. With a peaceful atmosphere and clean water, Pirita beach is a favorite spot for locals to swim, sunbathe, picnic, and stroll along the shore. The nearby Pirita river adds to the charm of the location, creating a pleasant environment for nature lovers and beachgoers alike.

Kakumäe beach in Tallinn

Surrounded by lush pine forests, Kakumäe beach is a tranquil place to relax away from the hustle and bustle of the city. The soft sand of Kakumäe beach is perfect for sunbathing and unwinding. Nearby walking trails and the opportunity to try windsurfing and paddleboarding make this beach an ideal spot for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers.

Lake Harku in Tallinn

Lake Harku is a popular spot for swimming, fishing, and picnicking. Visitors to lake Harku can enjoy a nature-filled escape while still being within the city.

Best beaches in Latvia

Liepāja beach

Liepāja beach has been a popular seaside destination since the 1860s. It offers a wide range of activities for everyone – from kite surfers to those seeking peace and nature, as well as those looking for a relaxing beach holiday. It is a clean swimming spot with easy access for people with special needs. Strong southwest winds may bring amber to the shore, but be cautious not to confuse it with dangerous white phosphorus, which can cause burns. Liepāja beach is accessible via the Lux Express bus from Riga to Liepāja.

Lielais Stropu lake beach in Daugavpils

Lielais Stropu lake in Daugavpils is a popular summer destination, with the main beach boasting a Blue Flag designation. The beach offers a variety of leisure activities, including a lit walking path, bike path, outdoor gym, beach volleyball court, and the summer café "SÅN Beach Club." The beach features a pontoon structure with a promenade, outdoor pool, diving tower, and children's pool. The lake's shallow shore and playgrounds make it perfect for family outings. Active recreation is enhanced by the rental of electric scooters and SUP boards. The beach is easily accessible via the Riga-Daugavpils bus.

Daugavgrīva beach

Daugavgrīva beach is located on the coast of the Gulf of Riga, in Riga itself. It is just a short drive or bus ride from the city center. With its easy access and stunning sea views, it has become a favorite spot for sunbathing, swimming, and relaxing. The beach is also equipped with playgrounds for children, making it a great place for the whole family. During the peak season, the beach can get crowded, but there is plenty of space for everyone. Activities such as kite surfing, windsurfing, and beach volleyball are popular here, and swimming areas are monitored by lifeguards. Nearby cafes and restaurants offer both local and international cuisine. Riga is easily accessible via the Lux Express bus from Tallinn to Riga.

Rīta Buļļi beach

Rīta Buļļi beach is located on the eastern coast of Riga. The long sandy beach is perfect for walks and sunbathing. Beach volleyball, kayaking, and paddleboarding, as well as windsurfing, are popular activities here. Nature trails and picnic areas enhance the outdoor experience. The shallow water and playgrounds make it an ideal spot for spending time with children. After a long day at the beach, you can grab a bite at nearby cafes and restaurants.

Vakarbuļļi beach

Vakarbuļļi beach is located on the western coast of Latvia. Activities such as windsurfing, kite surfing, paddleboarding, beach volleyball, frisbee, and even beach yoga can be enjoyed here. Nature trails allow visitors to enjoy bird songs and observe diverse plant life. The beach is equipped with playgrounds and picnic areas for families.

Vecāķi beach

Vecāķi beach is located in the suburbs of Riga and is known for its peaceful atmosphere. It has a long sandy shore perfect for sunbathing, picnicking, and walking. Popular water activities include kayaking, paddleboarding, and windsurfing. Vecāķi beach is an ideal spot for enjoying sunsets and capturing beautiful natural scenery.

Beaches in Jūrmala

The city of Jūrmala is conveniently located just 25 kilometers from the Latvian capital, Riga, making it easily accessible for both locals and tourists. Jūrmala's location on the coast and its proximity to Riga contribute to its popularity as a beach resort destination.

Majori beach

Located in the heart of Jūrmala, Majori beach is one of the most popular beaches in the area. The fine golden sand is perfect for relaxing and sunbathing. Majori beach has a lively atmosphere, thanks to the many cafes, restaurants, and shops nearby.

Dzintari beach

Dzintari beach is another gem in Jūrmala, known for its beauty, featuring dunes, pine forests, and a clean sandy shore. It is perfect for long walks, jogging, or simply enjoying the peaceful surroundings.

Bulduri beach

Bulduri beach is a family favorite due to its calm atmosphere and child-friendly facilities. The shallow water near the shore is safe for children to swim in, and the beach has playgrounds and picnic areas, making it an excellent spot for families to enjoy quality time together.

Jaunķemeri beach

This beach, located in Kemeri National Park, is known for its beauty and ecological significance. Visitors can explore the diverse flora and fauna of the surrounding wetlands or take a relaxing walk along the wooden boardwalks through the marshes.

Lielupe beach

Lielupe beach is an excellent choice for those seeking a quieter beach experience, away from the crowds. The nearby Lielupe Promenade offers a pleasant stroll and beautiful views of the river.

Best beaches in Lithuania

Green Lakes beach

Located in Verkiai Park in Vilnius, the six magnificent lakes are known for their vibrant green hue, caused by the high concentration of carbonate in the water. The Lux Express bus from Tallinn to Vilnius makes this destination easily accessible. Green Lakes beach offers an escape from the city hustle and a chance to relax in nature.

At Green Lakes beach, you can swim, sunbathe, or explore the nearby forest trails. Lifeguards ensure the safety of visitors, and the beach is equipped with toilets, changing rooms, and showers. Nearby cafes offer convenient dining options without having to leave the beach.

Valakampiai I beach

Valakampiai I beach in Lithuania is a pleasant getaway from the city's hustle, offering a peaceful environment and natural beauty. The beach is ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and beach sports. Lifeguards are present to ensure the safety of swimmers. The beach is equipped with picnic areas, playgrounds, and toilets. The shallow water is perfect for children to play and splash around.

Story article published: 22 July 2024