Saulkrasti

A relaxed resort town on the northeastern gulf coast known for the White Dune viewpoint and the scenic Sunset Trail along the shore. Visit for pine-backed beaches, the bicycle museum and easy Riga access.

Things to do

• White Dune viewpoint — Climb the wooden stairways to this towering coastal dune for panoramic views over the Gulf of Riga and the Inčupe river mouth.
• Sunset Trail (Saulrieta taka) — Walk this scenic 3.5 km wooden boardwalk along the forested shoreline, timed perfectly to catch the evening light over the water.
• Bicycle Museum — Explore Latvia's largest collection of historic bicycles, including rare local Ērenpreiss models, in this quirky Saulkrasti museum.
• Relax on the pine-backed beaches — Spread out on the long, quiet sandy beaches fringed by pine forest, ideal for swimming and sunbathing away from Riga's crowds.
• Cycle the coastal paths — Rent a bike and ride the flat forest and shoreline routes connecting Saulkrasti to Zvejniekciems and beyond.
• Take the train from Riga — Hop on the scenic suburban train that runs from Riga to Saulkrasti in about an hour for an easy day trip.
• Visit Zvejniekciems fishing village — Stroll the neighboring fishing community to see boats, nets and the working harbor of the Aģe river.

Food to try

• Smoked fish — Buy freshly smoked flounder, herring or mackerel from local fishermen and roadside stalls, a coastal staple of the Gulf of Riga.
• Grey peas with speck (pelēkie zirņi ar speķi) — Try this hearty Latvian national dish of boiled peas with fried bacon and onion, often served in local taverns.
• Rye bread — Sample dense dark Latvian rūpjmaize, sometimes sweetened, sold in bakeries and served with most meals.
• Fresh Baltic herring — Seek out salted or fried herring dishes reflecting the town's fishing heritage.
• Kvass — Cool off with this traditional fermented rye-bread drink, a popular non-alcoholic Latvian refreshment in summer.

Local customs & good to know

• Come in summer — Saulkrasti is a seasonal resort town that comes alive from June to August, while many services are quiet in the off-season.
• Respect the dunes — Stick to the marked boardwalks and stairs at the White Dune, as the fragile coastal dune ecosystem is protected.
• Enjoy the sunsets — The town's identity centers on its west-facing gulf sunsets, so plan an evening walk on the Sunset Trail.
• Bring cash for small vendors — Local fish stalls and small kiosks may not accept cards, so carry euros for beachside purchases.

Nearby

• Turaida Castle (Vidzeme) — 27 km
• Krimulda Manor and Cable Car (Vidzeme) — 28 km
• Gutmanis Cave (Vidzeme) — 28 km
• Sigulda (Vidzeme) — 29 km