Majori

Description

Look, I’ve been to quite a few beach towns in my time, but Majori hits different. This Latvian coastal gem actually got me hooked the moment I stepped onto its wide, golden beach. What really caught my eye was how the locals have managed to keep that old-world Baltic charm while still giving you all the modern comforts you’d want from a seaside escape.

Walking down Jūras Street, you’ll spot these absolutely gorgeous wooden cottages that’ll make you feel like you’ve time-traveled back to the 1800s. And between you and me, some of these architectural beauties are so perfectly preserved, they could tell stories from two centuries ago. The craftsmanship on these buildings? Honestly mind-blowing.

But here’s the thing – Majori isn’t just about pretty buildings and beach life. The Lielupe River kinda sneaks around the back of town, creating this whole other vibe. It’s way more chill than the seaside, perfect for when you wanna escape the beach crowd. I actually tried canoeing there last summer, and let me tell you, it’s a totally different way to experience the area.

Key Features

• That stunning stretch of Baltic coastline with its signature fine sand (seriously, it’s like walking on powder)
• The historic Dzintari Concert Hall – trust me, catching a summer concert here is something else
• Those incredible 19th and early 20th-century wooden villas that give Jūras Street its character
• The bustling Jomas Street, where you can shop, eat, and people-watch to your heart’s content
• Sports courts right on the beach (beach volleyball, anyone?)
• The peaceful Lielupe River, perfect for water activities
• Jurmala City Museum, where you can geek out on local history
• Some pretty awesome beachfront cafes and restaurants

Best Time to Visit

Okay, real talk – Majori really comes alive during the summer months, from June through August. That’s when you’ll get those gloriously long Baltic days with temps hovering around a comfortable 20-25°C (68-77°F). The beach scene is poppin’, the outdoor cafes are buzzing, and those summer concerts at Dzintari? Pure magic.

But here’s a local secret – September can be absolutely gorgeous. The crowds thin out, the Baltic Sea is still warm enough for a dip (if you’re brave!), and you might catch some pretty spectacular sunsets. Plus, hotel prices drop significantly.

Winter has its own charm, especially when snow blankets those wooden villas, but it gets pretty chilly. Most tourist spots operate on reduced hours, though the local cafes stay cozy and welcoming.

How to Get There

Getting to Majori is actually super straightforward. Most folks fly into Riga International Airport, and from there you’ve got options. The train from Riga Central Station is my go-to – it’s cheap, runs frequently, and takes about 30 minutes. Plus, the train station in Majori is right in the heart of town.

If you’re driving, the A10 highway from Riga will get you there in about 25 minutes, traffic depending. And yeah, there are regular buses too, but honestly, the train is way more convenient.

Tips for Visiting

Alright, here’s the inside scoop from someone who’s spent way too much time here. First off, book your accommodation well in advance if you’re coming in peak season – this place fills up fast, especially on weekends.

The beach gets pretty busy around midday in summer, so do like the locals and head there early morning or late afternoon. And speaking of the beach, bring your own towels and umbrella – rentals can be pricey.

Don’t miss out on trying the local smoked fish – it’s a regional specialty and absolutely delicious. There are several small smokehouses around town where you can get it fresh.

For the best photos of those gorgeous wooden buildings, morning light is your friend. The way the sun hits the intricate details… chef’s kiss!

If you’re into architecture, grab a walking map from the tourist office – they’ve marked all the significant historic buildings, and it’s a great way to explore the quieter streets.

Oh, and a heads up – many restaurants switch to winter menus and hours during the off-season, so it’s worth checking ahead if you’re visiting outside summer months.

Remember to bring cash – while most places accept cards, some of the smaller cafes and shops are old school. And don’t forget to pack a light jacket, even in summer. Those Baltic evenings can get surprisingly chilly!

Location

Places to Stay Near Majori

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