Latvia Adventures

Things to Do in Kolka: Beaches, Trails & Historic Sites

Kolka, Latvia

Located where the Baltic Sea meets the Gulf of Riga, Kolka is one of Latvia’s most breathtaking spots. This small village in the Slītere National Park offers peaceful nature, endless beaches, and authentic Latvian traditions. Whether you’re a nature lover or just need a quiet escape, Kolka has something for everyone. Here are the best things to do in Kolka that make this place so unique and unforgettable.

1. Stand at Cape Kolka – Where Two Seas Meet

Cape Kolka is Kolka’s most famous attraction and a true natural wonder. Here, the Gulf of Riga and the open Baltic Sea meet dramatically. The strong waves, shifting sands, and salty wind create a wild yet peaceful feeling. You can walk along the tip and watch the sea currents collide. This spot is also popular with photographers and birdwatchers. On sunny days, you might even see Estonia across the water. Among the top things to do in Kolka, standing at Cape Kolka is absolutely unmissable.

What to expect at Cape Kolka:

  • A scenic view where two seas meet

  • A long, peaceful beach walk

  • Perfect photo opportunities

  • Unique energy and wild beauty

2. Hike Through Slītere National Park

Kolka lies inside one of Latvia’s oldest and most beautiful nature parks. Slītere National Park features deep pine forests, blue hills, and secret marshes. Several marked trails start near Kolka, offering both short walks and full-day hikes. You’ll hear birds, find rare plants, and enjoy the fresh, pine-scented air. Look for the nature tower near the Blue Hills trail for an epic forest view. Whether you’re hiking solo or with family, exploring Slītere is one of the most relaxing things to do in Kolka.

Top trails and sights:

  • Blue Hills Nature Trail

  • Mazirbe trail for cultural stops

  • Watchtower for panoramic views

  • Spring flowers and wild berries

3. See Kolka Lighthouse – Latvia’s Only Offshore Beacon

One of the most unique things to do in Kolka is admiring its legendary lighthouse standing in the sea. Kolka Lighthouse, located 5.14 kilometers offshore, is Latvia’s only lighthouse built on an artificial island. This historic structure has guided ships through the dangerous Irbe Strait for over a century. Although visitors cannot access it daily, you can often view it from the coast or join a special event during Slītere Traveler’s Day.

The island beneath the lighthouse was carefully built with fieldstones shipped from Kurzeme and Estonia. Construction started in 1872, and the first temporary light beamed in 1875. A full tower followed, and by 1884, the lighthouse was fully operational. Over the decades, it received upgrades—new fog signals, lenses, and even automation. Since 1979, it has worked without a crew.

Today, the lighthouse still guards one of Latvia’s most dangerous sea zones. Though unreachable most of the year, seeing it from afar is deeply impressive.

Why include Kolka Lighthouse in your trip:

  • It’s Latvia’s only sea-based lighthouse

  • The offshore setting creates amazing photo opportunities

  • You’ll learn about maritime history and old technology

  • Sometimes it opens to the public during events

  • It still ensures safety in the Irbe Strait

4. Walk Along Kolka’s Wild Beach

The beach in Kolka stretches far and remains untouched by mass tourism. Soft sand, driftwood, and calm waves make it perfect for a quiet stroll. Early mornings are magical when fog rises from the water and seabirds fly overhead. In summer, the beach is great for sunbathing, reading, or swimming. During stormy weather, it feels dramatic and cinematic. This wild, open coast is a big reason many fall in love with Kolka. Walking the beach is one of the most peaceful things to do in Kolka.

Beach activities include:

  • Sunrise walks along the shore

  • Swimming during warm summer days

  • Watching sunsets with no crowd

  • Searching for unique driftwood

5. Climb the Birdwatching Tower at Kolka

For nature lovers, visiting the birdwatching tower in Kolka is one of the top things to do. This six-level wooden tower stands 16 meters high and offers a panoramic view of forests and sea. It’s especially popular during bird migration periods in spring and autumn. Thousands of migratory birds pass through or stop here, making it a hotspot for birdwatchers and photographers.

The best times to witness the migration are mid-April and early October. At these times, you can see geese, cranes, and even rare birds flying overhead. Next to the tower, you’ll find the Pine Nature Trail and a free parking area, making it easy to visit. Bring binoculars and patience—you’ll be rewarded with stunning sights.

Whether you’re a seasoned birder or simply curious, this is one of Kolka’s most peaceful and scenic attractions.

What you’ll find at the birdwatching tower:

  • A 6-level wooden structure

  • 16-meter-high viewing platform

  • Ideal birdwatching in April and October

  • Pine forest trails nearby

  • Free parking at the site

6. Visit the Historic Kolka Evangelical Lutheran Church

If you love history, then visiting the Kolka Evangelical Lutheran Church is a must. Built between 1885 and 1886, this stone church holds deep cultural and architectural value. Karl Ludvig Ferdinand von der Osten-Sacken, then owner of Dundaga Manor, laid its foundation. The building was designed by architect Teodors Zeilers and constructed under the guidance of master builder Oto Zīverts.

It features a tall square tower with a polygonal spire and a modest yet elegant interior. Though services stopped in 1969, the church was restored during Latvia’s Awakening period. A 1992 discovery revealed that the church had moved locations three times before settling here in 1833.

One striking feature is the altar piece—donated by artist Helēna Heinrihsone in 1993. It adds modern beauty to the historic space.

Highlights of Kolka Evangelical Lutheran Church:

  • Built in 1885 with historical architecture

  • Restored during Latvia’s Awakening period

  • Unique polygonal spire and rectangular layout

  • Peaceful, modest interior with powerful altar art

  • Coordinates: 57.750598, 22.594034

7. Walk the Scenic Pine Nature Trail in Kolka

Another peaceful thing to do in Kolka is to hike the Pine Nature Trail along the Baltic coast. Located west of Cape Kolka, this 1.2 km trail guides you through a shifting landscape of forest and dunes. You’ll start by crossing seaside dunes, then pass through grey dunes, and finally reach the white dunes near the water.

Tall, weathered pines dominate the trail, many of them exposed after a massive storm in 2005. Their roots and trunks now help stabilize the pre-dune, creating an important habitat for insects, fungi, and rare lichen. This area is perfect for quiet walks and observing nature in detail. Look closely—you might even spot an ant-lion (Myrmeleon formicarius) in the sandy soil.

Remember to stay on marked trails to protect the delicate moss and preserve biodiversity in this fragile coastal zone.

Why visit the Pine Nature Trail:

  • A scenic 1.2 km coastal walk

  • Features unique white and grey dunes

  • Exposed pine trees tell stories of storms

  • Rich with biodiversity, insects, and fungi

  • Peaceful and educational coastal nature experience

8. Discover the Kolka Orthodox Church of the Birth of Christ

Exploring sacred architecture is another great thing to do in Kolka. The Orthodox Church of the Birth of Christ adds deep spiritual and cultural value to the village. Around 1885, many locals embraced Orthodox Christianity, leading to the formation of a parish. By 1890, the only Orthodox church on Latvia’s coast was completed.

Architect Apollons Ēdelsons designed the church, and contractor Voosts carried out the work. Sadly, in 1982, the congregation lost their place of worship and the church was demolished. However, its revival began in 1989, and full restoration finished by 1999. Today, visitors can admire its beautiful fieldstone and red brick design, complete with two traditional onion domes.

The bell, first installed in 1936, continues to symbolize the village’s enduring faith and community.

Why visit the Kolka Orthodox Church:

  • First Orthodox church on Latvia’s coast

  • Originally built in 1890, restored by 1999

  • Designed by Riga architect Apollons Ēdelsons

  • Features onion domes and stone-brick architecture

  • Coordinates: 57.748489, 22.592402

9. Enjoy Outdoor Fun at Recreation Centre “Krogi” in Kolka

If you’re seeking adventure, one of the most exciting things to do in Kolka is visiting Recreation Centre “Krogi.” Open from May to September, this place offers a variety of water and land activities for all ages. You can rent SUP boards or sea kayaks and explore the calm coastal waters at your own pace. For a more guided experience, join one of their sea kayak tours led by an experienced instructor.

Sunrise and sunset paddleboarding trips are especially popular and offer unforgettable views of the Kolka coast. If you prefer dry land, rent a bike and ride along scenic trails in the village or nearby forest.

Prices are affordable, and all equipment is available for kids, teens, and adults alike.

10. Learn Livonian Heritage at the Livonian Community House in Kolka

Another must-visit on your list of things to do in Kolka is the Livonian Community House. Located in the heart of the village, it offers a deep dive into the cultural identity of Northern Kurzeme. You’ll discover traditional Livonian crafts, listen to their rare language, and explore the customs of this coastal nation.

The permanent exhibition “Kolka. Two Seas. One Island. Three Languages.” features valuable items from the Kolka Livonian Union. In addition to the exhibit, visitors can enjoy temporary art and history displays, a small library, and regular cultural events.

The center welcomes everyone. It’s fully accessible for visitors in wheelchairs, parents with strollers, and has a baby changing station.

What you’ll find at the Livonian Community House:

  • Exhibits on Livonian heritage and language

  • “Kolka. Two Seas. One Island. Three Languages” exposition

  • Regular workshops, talks, and seminars

  • Livonian Union’s collection items and rotating exhibitions

Kolka may be small, but it offers deep experiences that refresh your soul and slow down time. From stunning sea views to peaceful forests and rich traditions, every corner tells a story. You won’t find loud crowds or flashy signs here—just nature, culture, and calm. If you’re searching for quiet adventure, Kolka is the place. So pack your walking shoes and camera, and come enjoy the best things to do in Kolka.