Things To Do
in Saulkrasti
Saulkrasti sits on the Baltic coast just northeast of Riga, known for its long sandy beaches and pine forests. The town blends nature with a laid-back seaside vibe, offering fresh seafood and easy coastal walks. In summer the promenade comes alive with families, bikers, and sunsets over the Gulf of Riga, while winter brings a quiet, windswept charm.
It's a convenient base for exploring the Gulf coast and nearby nature parks, with easy access to Riga's cultural highlights.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a refreshing walk along the pristine beaches of Saulkrasti. The soft sands and gentle waves create a serene atmosphere for an early morning meditation or a dip in the Baltic Sea. After a light breakfast at a local café, immerse yourself in the beauty of the shoreline as the sun rises over the horizon.
In the afternoon, visit the nearby Saulkrasti Beach Park where you can take leisurely bike rides or stroll through picturesque trails. Enjoy a packed lunch by the seaside while taking in the tranquil views. Consider renting paddleboards or kayaks for some water activities on the calm waters.
As the sun sets, set out for a seaside dinner at a charming restaurant known for its fresh seafood. Relish the flavors of Latvian cuisine while enjoying panoramic views of the Baltic Sea. End your evening with a sunset walk along the beach, absorbing the peaceful sounds of waves lapping against the shore.
Begin your day with a visit to the local museum, where you can dive into the rich history and culture of Saulkrasti. The museum offers engaging exhibits and artifacts that illustrate the area's past. Afterward, grab a coffee at a nearby café and chat with local residents to learn more about their daily lives.
After lunch, explore the local art scene by visiting galleries that showcase works from both established and emerging artists. This cultural immersion offers a peak into the creative spirit of the region and its connections to the Baltic Sea. Don’t forget to pick up a unique souvenir or two to commemorate your experience.
Wind down your day by attending a traditional Latvian folk music performance if you find one in town. Such events often include dance and historical storytelling that offer a unique insight into Latvian heritage. Reflect on your day over dinner at a cozy tavern, sampling local flavors and perhaps even some local spirits.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🥖Loaf of rye bread | $1-2 |
| ☕Coffee | $2-4 |
| 🚍One-way public transport ticket | $1-2 |
| 🛏Hotel room per night (mid-range) | $70-120 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Coastal scenery and clean beaches
- Relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere
- Reasonably priced compared to Western Europe
- Good base for nature trips from Riga
- Limited nightlife and dining options outside peak season
- Seasonal crowds in summer
- Transport options can be sparse outside town center
- "Sveiks" - Hello (to a male)
- "Sveika" - Hello (to a female)
- "Lūdzu" - Please
- "Paldies" - Thank you
- "Kur ir tualete?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Cik tas maksā?" - How much does this cost?
- "Vai jūs runājat angliski?" - Do you speak English?
- "Es saprotu mazliet latviski." - I understand a little Latvian.
Places to Visit in Saulkrasti
Visit one of these nice places.
Stretch of golden sand with gentle dunes and morning light, ideal for wide-angle beach portraits and seascapes.
Where river meets sea, with reed beds, birds, and pine forests creating layered horizons for landscape photography.
Shaded paths with sun beams filtering through needles; great for atmospheric nature shots and macro photography of flora.
Food in Saulkrasti
Saulkrasti Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Grey peas with bacon, a traditional Latvian dish often enjoyed with rye bread and sour cream, available in many local eateries.
Must-Try!
Smoked sprats, salmon, or eel are common along the coast and worth trying at seaside cafes and fish markets.
Potato pancakes served with sour cream or apple sauce, a staple at Latvian cafes.
Traditional Latvian rye pastry with sweet filling; available in local bakeries and cafés.
Dark Latvian rye bread is a daily staple and pairs perfectly with creamy dairy and seafood.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal market near the coast offering fresh fish, berries, dairy, and baked goods; great for picking up local snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A simple handshake is common; addressing people with 'Sveiks/Sveika' (hello) and 'Paldies' (thank you) is appreciated.
Latvians tend to be reserved; maintain a respectful tone in public places and on transport.
Safety
Tipping in Saulkrasti
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not obligatory; 5-10% is common in restaurants if service is good, or rounding up the bill.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; cash in EUR is common in smaller shops; many places also accept mobile payments.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days with fresh greenery; the coast comes alive with migrating birds; bring light layers and a rain jacket for variable showers.
Warm temperatures, long days, and a lively promenade scene; sun cream, water, and comfortable footwear are essential; water sports opportunities abound.
Crisp air and changing leaves; fewer crowds; great for photography and forest walks; occasional rain.
Cold, windy coastal weather with a stark, windswept beauty; some facilities close; ideal for tranquil coastal photography and cozy cafés.
Saulkrasti at Night
Hiking in Saulkrasti
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Dune and pine forest trails offering sea views and birdwatching opportunities.
Riverside paths with wetlands and occasional deer; ideal for a relaxed hike.
Airports
How to reach Saulkrasti by plane.
Major international hub serving Latvia; about 60-80 km from Saulkrasti, with good road and rail connections.
Estonia's main airport; reachable by longer transfer via road and ferry routes, or via Riga and Tallinn connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group; most residents speak Latvian, with many also speaking Russian and English.
A noticeable presence alongside other minority communities; language preferences vary by generation.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The Baltic winds create good conditions for wind-based water sports in summer near the coast.
Common on wide sandy beaches and resort areas.
Winter sports in the surrounding forests and fields.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Saulkrasti.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are available at most cafes; ask for potatoes, mushrooms, cheese, rye bread dishes, and salads. Some places offer veggie soups and pierogis; ordering in Latvian or English helps.