For some, the ultimate energy boost is a ginger shot. For others, it’s the invigorating mix of seaside air and exploring new places. Ragakāpa Nature Park serves up just the right kind of energy cocktail—quick, refreshing, and located just 20 km from Riga. It’s perfect for anyone looking for a fulfilling experience on a budget, as entry to the park is free! With seaside air, scenic boardwalks, ancient pine trees, and the charming Jūrmala Open-Air Museum, it’s a recipe for a memorable outing.
So let’s go, explore Ragakāpa nature park together!
Location: Ragkapa Nature Trail
Cost: Free
How to get there: By car
Similar experiences: Riga Ethnographic Open Air Museum, Ventspils Open Air Museum
Note: Make sure you check the working hours of the Jurmala Open Air Museum as it closes relatively early. And if your driving into Jurmala during summer season don’t forget to by the pass for your car.
The Tale of Ancient Pine Trees in Ragakāpa Nature Park
Ragakāpa’s trail is an adventure all its own, winding up and down through the dunes on wooden boardwalks and stairs. Along the way, you’ll be treated to ever-changing views of the forest from various heights. And if all those steps wear you out, plenty of benches await, inviting you to pause and breathe in the salty seaside air.
The true stars of the trail, however, are the trees. Ancient and majestic, yet gnarled and twisted, these pines were originally planted to stabilize the shifting dunes. Over time, they’ve transformed into living sculptures—each one unique, with forms so captivating they could star in a movie about witches.
The Not-So-Secret Ingredient of Ragakāpa Nature Park – Jūrmala Open-Air Museum
As if the beautiful nature trail wasn’t enough, Ragakāpa Nature Park also spoils visitors with a peek into history and the opportunity to learn about the region’s fishing heritage.
Traditional Latvian Homes in Jūrmala Open-Air Museum
Much like the Latvian Ethnographic Open-Air Museum, the Jūrmala Open-Air Museum features traditional Latvian homes with thatched roofs and other farm buildings. Peeking through the window of a small sauna brought back childhood memories of the countryside, where families who didn’t have showers would heat up the sauna every weekend. I remembered sitting in the dim heat, birch twigs in hand, and a wooden tub filled with stove-heated water—a simple yet unforgettable ritual.
But I have drifted too far into nostalgia. Back to the museum!
Fishing Tools and Boats in Jūrmala Open-Air Museum
You can also step into living spaces and rustic workrooms brimming with intriguing, if slightly intimidating, tools. What might look like medieval torture devices to some are actually traditional implements used for crafting boats and other fishing gear.
Outside, the museum grounds reveal even more curiosities: boats resting in the open air, heavy anchors, a whimsical wooden frog sculpture, and a replica of a vintage wheeled bathing cabin—perfect for preserving modesty while enjoying the salty sea. The centerpiece, however, is the historic fishing boat Undīne. In short, this museum is a delightful trove of unique artifacts rarely seen in everyday life.
On our way to the museum, we took the boardwalks of the nature trail, but you might choose to return through the forest paths to change up the scenery.
Thoughts?
I love a mix of nature and history, so I would call this a nice, simple Sunday outing. The trail isn’t too long though, so if you are short on your step count you could walk by the beach or even attempt to reach the mouth of the Lielupe River. And if your adventure falls on a chilly day – don’t forget to bring some hot tea or coffee with you.
Other attractions near Ragkāpa Nature Trail
Lake Kanieris Reed Trail (~30km)
Medams bog trail (~25km)
Other things to see and do in Latvia